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Photo: Florian Fell, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Ethiopia · East Africa · Mountains

Simien Mountains

Dramatic escarpments with gelada monkeys and Ethiopian wolves.

Best timeOct to Mar
Ideal stay3 to 5 nights
GatewayGondar
Month by month
  1. JAnuary (good)
  2. FEbruary (good)
  3. MArch (good)
  4. APril
  5. MAy
  6. JUne
  7. JUly
  8. AUgust
  9. SEptember
  10. OCtober (good)
  11. NOvember (good)
  12. DEcember (good)

Travel advice: some regions are off-limits. Check your government’s advice for the exact areas before you book.

The Simien Mountains have jagged peaks and sheer drops, home to gelada monkeys that graze in huge troops and the rare walia ibex. Trek for several days with a scout.

GeladaEthiopian wolf

Highlights

  • Gelada troops
  • Walia ibex
  • Multi-day treks
  • Ras Dashen

Wildlife to look for

Where to stay

Simien Lodge or camping with a trekking crew.

Getting there

Drive about 2.5 hours from Gondar to the park HQ at Debark.

Tips

  • A park scout is required.
  • Nights are cold at altitude.
  • Check current advice for the Amhara region before booking.

Best time to visit

Oct to Mar. See where to go in Africa in October and our guide to the best time to visit Africa.

Travel advice: Parts of the country are off-limits under most government travel advice. Check your government’s advice before booking.

Plan your stay

Hotels on Booking.com Tours on GetYourGuide Tours on Viator

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Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Simien Mountains?

Oct to Mar. A park scout is required.

How long should I spend at Simien Mountains?

3 to 5 nights.

How do I get to Simien Mountains?

Drive about 2.5 hours from Gondar to the park HQ at Debark.

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