A walk in the Simien Mountains
North Ethiopia is studded with mountains. In a rough triangle forged by Gonder, Lalibella and Axsum lies a barren mountain range that has played host to kings, bandits, monks and freedom fighters.
The Simien Mountains National Park sits at its Southern edge and offers the most dramatic views and the loftiest peaks. Throughout the park runs a ridge trail that probably offers the greatest view to km ratio in the world. Through five days trekking we rarely strayed out of view of the terrifying 1000m drops to the lowlands below - Lowlands is a relative concept in Northern Ethiopia. The Simien Mountain National Park sits at an altitude between 3000 and 4500m, and the lowlands below are at an alpine 2000m.
The photographs below were captured during the dry season, if you visit in Sep - November after the rains, you can expect crisp greens and haze free views. The incredible wildlife is a feature year-round.
And now, I need at least three showers to wash off the dust...
The first of many incredible views.
Sunset at Sankaber Camp
We took coffee in Geech village, expecting the usual tourist exploitative photo opportunity we were amazed to be able to simply sit, drink coffee and attempt to communicate with the lovely family living in this simple hut. the family slept in the hut on a platform above their livestock, It didn't feel like anything had changed in over 500 years.
Our scout Adem, a friendly smile, an incredible story and a very old rifle!
One of many incredible sunsets
The drop!
The birdlife is incredible, eagles, vultures and ravens soar over the peaks. this is a tawny eagle that watched over Geech Camp.
Gelada Baboons are unique to Ethiopia and common in the park.
A Wallia Ibex. Unique to the Ethiopian highlands. This Ibex strolled unperturbed through the final campsite at Cheneck. (the trail we took follows the ridge in the background)
At the peak of Mount Buahit at 4,437m
