Ethiopia is both breathtaking and extraordinary, a country perched on a high plateau in a region known as the Horn of Africa. This land of striking natural beauty, isolated by its geographical features for centuries, has culture and traditions which date back over 3 000 years. Long known as Abyssinia, it stands between the cultures of the Mediterranean and the tribal people of the African heartland who inhabit areas that boast the origins of humankind. The rich history of the country dates back to the Queen of Sheba and is visible today in ancient tombs, rock-hewn churches and colourful festivals. The "Historic Route" north of Addis Ababa will take you to these ancient areas.
The vast Simien Mountains constitute one of Africa's largest ranges and several of the continent's highest peaks are here. One, Mt Ras Dashen, is Africa's 4th highest (for those keen on summiting Ras Dashen please see our 11 day Simien Mountain Ras Dashen Ascent trip). Mule trekking is the way to get around much of the Simien National Park, as terrain is challenging. Views over the valleys and mountains from some high-lying vantage points are awe-inspiring. Commencing at the Sankabar campsite, the mule trek covers the most impressive part of the trip in terms of scenery. As Gondar has the closest airport to the mountains, you will have chance to explore the castles there. |
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The trip is run by local guides, with food, tents and camp equipment, mules, porters and equipment, transport to and from the mountain, supplied by our local operator. You have the option of riding or hiking on this trip - the majority of people combine a bit of mule riding with walking.
Includes: Addis Ababa meet and greet service and airport assistance, domestic flights Addis Ababa-Axum-Lalibela-Gondar-Bahir Dar-Addis Ababa, all ground transportation, accommodation in hotels for 7 nights on a bed and breakfast basis, camping for 4 nights including cook and all meals, full camping equipment including good quality tents, mattresses and eating utensils, excursions to sites of interest as per itinerary, entrance fees for all sites, services of an English speaking guide, scout, park and camping fees in the Simien Mountains National Park, mules and mule handlers, porterage.
Excludes: International airfares to/from Addis Ababa and any associated airport taxes, airport tax on domestic flights, drinks, gratuities, travel insurance, health requirements, visas, all items of a personal nature and any service not specified.
Important Note:
All prices are subject to change due to airfare increases or any other unforeseen circumstance.
ITINERARY:
Day 1 - (Daily departures) Arrive at Bole International Airport, Addis Ababa, where you are met and assisted by our experienced, English speaking agents. Transfer to the Axum Hotel, or similar, for overnight on a bed and breakfast basis.
Day 2 -
Early morning transfer to the airport for your flight to Axum, the holiest sanctuary, and oldest capital, of Ethiopia. After settling into your hotel depart on a city tour including a visit to the ancient stelae (obelisks) and the national museum - widely rated as Ethiopia's best. In the afternoon visit the ruins of the Palace of the legendary Queen of Sheba and the tombs of ancient Axumite kings and queens. It's worth visiting some of the local shops in Axum for exquisite locally made clothing and jewellery. Overnight at the Remhai Hotel, or similar, on a bed and breakfast basis.
Day 3 -
After breakfast you will be taken to the airport for your flight to Lalibela, famous for its rock-hewn churches dating back 600 years. This is the most important stop on the historical route and from the air the 11 churches, carved into the rugged mountainside, present an awesome spectacle. Afternoon excursion to the most spectacular of the churches. Overnight stay at the Lal Hotel, or similar, on a bed and breakfast basis.
Day 4 -
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Gondar. In the afternoon a city tour of Gondar including a visit to the Royal Compound, where enchanting 17th century castles stand. Overnight at the Goha Hotel, or similar, on a bed and breakfast basis.
Day 5 -
Drive from Gondar to Sankaber where mules, mule handlers, permits and guides will join us. Trek to Geech Camp - 3 660 metres (5 hours). The trek passes through the last of the cultivated areas and then into the true Afro-alpine zone, where giant lobelias stand like sentinels presiding over the unworldly landscape. You should see troops of the Gelada baboon (endemic). Birds include Rueppell's griffons, choughs and lammergeiers. Organised camping overnight including all meals.
Day 6 - Acclimatisation walk/mule trek from Geech camp to Imet Gogo - 3 990 metres, with spectacular views down the escarpment. In the afternoon trek to the two peaks - Sah'a and Kedadit. Chance of spotting the rare Wahlia Ibex (endemic), plus many endemic birds. Return to Geech camp for overnight camping including all meals.
Day 7 - Walk/mule trekking from Geech camp to Chenek, one of the most beautiful sites in the mountains. A wonderful trekking day with excellent views. Overnight camping at Chenek camp including all meals.
Day 8 -
Return trek from Chenek to Sankaber or Ambara camp. Overnight including all meals.
Day 9 - Board vehicle at Sankaber for the drive to Gondar (4 hours). Overnight at the Goha Hotel, or similar, on a bed and breakfast basis.
Day 10 -
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Bahir Dar on Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile. The afternoon is spent visiting isolated monasteries by boat. There is good birding in the lush forest surrounding much of the lake. Overnight at the Papyrus Hotel, or similar, on a bed and breakfast basis.
Day 11 -
An early morning excursion to the thundering Blue Nile Falls. Along the walk to the falls, birding is excellent. Continue to the airport for your flight to Addis Ababa. The rest of the day enjoy a city tour of Addis Ababa. Overnight at the Axum Hotel on a bed and breakfast basis.
Day 12 -
Transfer to Bole International Airport where your tour ends.
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