The Semien mountains are a must for all those interested in wildlife, scenery and spectacular landscapes, the Park has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. however, due to serious population declines of the characteristic native species, in 1996 it was also added to the List of World Heritage Sites in danger.

Having high elevation and gorgeous scenery, Ethiopia is said to be the ‘Roof of Africa’. Trekking in Semien Mountains of Ethiopia makes walking seem like flying through beauty.

The Simiens are the most rugged mountains on the African continent, their natural beauty concurs the hearts of every visitor to this remote and unique national park

The Simien Mountains Massif is one of the major highlands of Africa, rising to the highest point in Ethiopia, Ras Dejen (4,620m), which is the fourth highest peak in the continent. Although in Africa, and not too far from the equator, snow and ice appear on the highest points, and night temperatures often fall below zero.

The Simien Mountains, north of Gondar, provide an excellent trekking area with a good infrastructure of equipment provision and guide facilities in place.

This park has spectacular views and a large variety of wildlife, including baboons, ibexes, Ethiopian wolves and birds of prey such as the rare lammergeyer, a huge vulture. The park is made up of a rocky massif, which slopes down to grasslands - the massif is cut by streams and gorges. The national park has three general botanical regions. The lower slopes have been cultivated and grazed, while the alpine regions (up to 3600m) are forested. The higher lands are mountain grasslands with fescue grasses as well as heathers, splendid Red Hot Pokers and Giant Lobelia. The park was created primarily to protect the Walia Ibex, a type of wild goat, and over 1000 are said to live in the park. Also in the park are families of the Gelada Baboon and the rare Simien fox. The Simien fox, although named after the mountains, is rarely seen by the visitor. Over 50 species of birds have been reported in the Simien mountains.

Access to the park is from Debareq, 101km from Gondar, where riding and pack animals may be hired.

organized tours are trekking, mountain climbing and horse riding tours to the Simien mountains.

look for tour package including the Semien mountains

Return from Semien mountains to ethiopian attractions

Return from Semien mountains to tour-to-ethiopia