Countries Visited: Ethiopia
Essential Information
Trip Profile
10 days point-to-point walking with full porterage. Altitude maximum 4543m, average 3300m. Grade C.
Accommodation
9 nights camping, 4 nights hotels.
Food
All breakfasts, 12 lunches and 11 dinners included.
Reality Check
This is a strenuous trek with several days spent close to or above 4,000 metres.
There are a number of long days including the optional ascent of Ras Dashen, at 4,543m the highest mountain in Ethiopia; this involves 1,300m of ascent and descent in one day. There is also a lot of ascent and descent on many of the other days, and some fairly exposed rough trails.
We do not suggest that you attempt this trek unless you are confident of your ability. The total cumulative amount of ascent is 6,500m, and the descent is 7,650m.
There are 10 days walking with full porterage, and the trip is graded C (this is at the tougher end of the C grade scale though). On the October departures there is the possibility of some river crossings.
The trails in the Simien Mountains are generally well marked and the landmarks are distinctive. We will be walking for about 6-7 hours a day (although on 4 days as much as 10-12 hours) and the terrain can be quite tough in places. Much of the trek is in remote areas.
If you suffer from vertigo, you may want to carefully consider this trip before booking. There are steep drops in the Simien Mountains, which is what makes the scenery so spectacular. There is never an occasion when you need walk close to the edge of the cliffs so if you are happy to stand back you should not be discomforted in any way.
Normal group size and age
Normally 7 to 18, plus leader and local staff. Minimum age 18.
Icons explained
The vast majority of Exodus adventures are adult group holidays. Groups are always small in size. We strongly believe that this adherence to small groups means a better experience for all; more time with your guide, less waiting around and a reduced impact on the communities and environments visited.
Each group is generally made up of like-minded travellers - with singles, couples and friends all joining in together.
All these trips are suitable for single travellers, but if you prefer to travel with clients booking individually, please
see our Solo Departures page.
Fitness is important and you may have to improve yours before departure. Most treks at this grade compare to extended walking in mountainous terrain such as the Lakes of Snowdonia, but usually at significantly higher altitudes; climate and remoteness can also play a part. Previous trekking experience is desirable, but not vital if you are confident of your physical condition.
Walking & Trekking: Trips are wholly trekking-focused or simply include a significant number of walking days during the itinerary.
Wildlife: Trips may be wholly wildlife focused, or contain an element of wildlife viewing within a less specific itinerary.
Wilderness: Visit the deserts, jungles, plateaux, tundra and mountains of all seven continents, including Antarctica.
Culture: Let Exodus show you a different side to many of the world's greatest cultural attractions.
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