First time in Ethiopia/Africa and straight to six days of trekking in the Simien Mountains. The scenery was breathtaking from Debark to Sankaber, Geech and Chenek campsites and as it was the rainy season (tail end), the landscape was green, all the way to the craggy summits of the national park (we scaled Mt. Bwahit at 4300 m). A lot of human habitation within the park, which was a surprise.
During the trek, we saw a lot of vultures, Ethiopian wolves and the Walia Ibex, the latter two critically endangered. Also observed the Gelada Baboon.
Accommodation including toilet facilities were basic and relatively clean, in the lodges at various campsites. And food was ok, a lot of vegetables and grain.
We had an EXCELLENT guide in the bubbly Samuel Kassab from his company Hike Ethiopia. He set a comfortable pace and watched over us through the journeying. And he went the extra mile to assist us with Ethiopian Airlines (pleasant flights with them too) with some unconnected luggage. The team he put together (chef, porter and scout/guard) to support us also met our expectations; they were helpful and when it was time to relax, quite engaging.
Other than Simien, the World Heritage Sites in Gonder and Lalibela were interesting, though I think more conservation could be done and better interpretive guides for visitors would add depth to these places. Hotels recommended on Trip Advisor generally confirmed most of the reviews - don't expect good finishings but everything was clean, the hot water worked and the internet via wifi was available albeit spotty and finally service courteous and hospitable.
Would I visit again? Yes. And here's another pitch for Hike Ethiopia - why? Because Samuel's service is EXCELLENT. Drop me a note if you want to communicate further.
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