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$550/
Per PersonOverview
Simien Mountains National Park is one of Ethiopia’s most stunning natural attractions, known for its dramatic highland scenery, jagged peaks, deep valleys, and diverse wildlife. The park is home to several endemic species, such as the Gelada baboon, the Ethiopian wolf, and the Walia ibex. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its unique landscapes and ecological significance. The highest peak, Ras Dashen, is the fourth-highest mountain in Africa, standing at 4,550 meters above sea level.
Itinerary
A 3-day tour of Gondar and the Simien Mountains offers a fantastic blend of history and breathtaking natural beauty. This itinerary is designed to give you a good taste of both, while acknowledging the travel times involved
Day 1: Arrival in Gondar & Imperial City Exploration
Morning: Arrive at Gondar Airport (GDQ). Transfer to your hotel in Gondar.
Late Morning/Afternoon: Begin your exploration of Gondar, once the imperial capital of Ethiopia. Visit Fasil Ghebbi (Royal Enclosure), a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the impressive 17th-century castles and palaces built by Emperor Fasiladas and his successors. Continue to Fasiladas’ Bath, a large bathing pool used for the annual Timkat (Epiphany) festival, set within a beautiful walled compound. Visit Debre Berhan Selassie Church, renowned for its stunning interior adorned with vibrant murals, especially its ceiling depicting hundreds of angels’ faces.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight in Gondar.
Day 2: Gondar to Simien Mountains National Park (Sankaber)
Morning: After breakfast, drive to Debark (approximately 2 hours), the gateway town and headquarters of the Simien Mountains National Park. Here, you’ll finalize park entry formalities, pick up your mandatory scout, and a local guide.
Late Morning/Afternoon: Continue your drive into the park to Sankaber (approx. 1.5-2 hours from Debark).
Late Afternoon: Enjoy your first experience of the Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a gentle walk around the Sankaber area, absorbing the breathtaking panoramic views of the dramatic escarpment and deep valleys. This is an excellent spot to observe large troops of Gelada Baboons.
Evening: Dinner and overnight in Simien Mountains (e.g., Simien Lodge or Sankaber camp if opting for camping).
Day 3: Simien Mountains Exploration & Departure
Morning: Wake up early to enjoy the sunrise over the majestic peaks.
Embark on a short trek (e.g., 2-3 hours) from Sankaber towards the Jinbar Waterfall viewpoint. This hike offers incredible scenery, chances to spot more Gelada Baboons, and possibly other endemic wildlife like the Klipspringer. Enjoy the sweeping vistas from various viewpoints.
Late Morning/Mid-day: After your hike, drive back out of the park, through Debark, and continue to Gondar.
Afternoon: Arrive in Gondar. Have lunch.
Departure: Transfer to Gondar Airport (GDQ) for your onward flight (e.g., back to Addis Ababa or another destination).
Total Cost: $550 pp
Inclusions
⦁ Transportation
⦁ All ground transfers, including:
⦁ Gondar Airport pick-up and drop-off
⦁ Private vehicle for Gondar city tour
⦁ Gondar to Debark and into the Simien Mountains
⦁ Fuel, driver allowance, and all road tolls
⦁ Accommodation
⦁ 2 nights’ accommodation (shared twin/double room):
⦁ 1 night in Gondar (mid-range hotel such as Goha Hotel or similar)
⦁ 1 night in Simien Mountains (Simien Lodge or Sankaber camping, depending on preference)
⦁ Meals
⦁ Full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the tour
⦁ Bottled water throughout the trip
⦁ Entrance and Permits
⦁ Simien Mountains National Park entrance fee
⦁ Scout and local guide services (mandatory for the park)
⦁ Entrance fees for all Gondar historical sites:
⦁ Royal Enclosure (Fasil Ghebbi)
⦁ Debre Berhan Selassie Church
⦁ Fasilidas’ Bath
⦁ Guides
⦁ Professional English-speaking local guide in Gondar
⦁ Park guide and armed scout in the Simien Mountains
⦁ All Government Taxes and Service Charges
Exclusions
⦁ Flights
⦁ Domestic or international airfare (e.g., Addis Ababa to Gondar and return)
⦁ Porter Fees (if camping)
⦁ Optional porter service for carrying bags during hikes (required if camping)
⦁ Single Room Supplement
⦁ Additional cost for single room occupancy
⦁ Tips and Gratuities
⦁ For guides, drivers, and scouts (recommended but not obligatory)
⦁ Personal Items
⦁ Trekking gear, hiking shoes, personal medications, and snacks
⦁ Travel Insurance
⦁ Guests are expected to arrange their own travel, health, and evacuation insurance
⦁ Camera/Video Fees
⦁ Occasionally charged at some heritage sites or viewpoints
⦁ Alcoholic Beverages and Soft Drinks
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