Simien Mountains National Park is a crown jewel of Ethiopian nature and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the northern highlands, it is one of the most dramatic landscapes in Africa. Towering escarpments, deep valleys, and jagged peaks make it a paradise for trekkers, nature lovers, and photographers.
The park’s centerpiece is Ras Dashen, Ethiopia’s highest peak at 4,550 meters. The Simiens were formed by ancient volcanic activity and carved by time and erosion into their current majestic forms.
The park is home to a remarkable array of endemic wildlife, including:
- Walia ibex: A rare mountain goat found nowhere else on Earth
- Gelada baboon: A grass-eating primate known for its lion-like mane and expressive social behaviors
- Ethiopian wolf: One of the world’s most endangered canids
- Lammergeier (bearded vulture): With its 3-meter wingspan, this striking bird plays a key role in the ecosystem
The flora of the park is equally diverse, from alpine meadows to Afro-montane forests with towering lobelia plants and Erica trees. Soils in the region are highly varied, adding to the ecological richness.
Local communities, predominantly from the Amhara ethnic group, have farmed and grazed livestock in the highlands for generations. Ancient monasteries and oral traditions speak of hermits, saints, and mystical connections to the land.
Fikad Endale, your lead guide, was born and raised near the park. With over a decade of experience leading treks, he combines local knowledge, international training, and a deep passion for sharing the magic of the Simien Mountains.
The park has undergone a remarkable conservation journey:
- 1966: Designated a national park
- 1978: Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- 1996–2017: Classified as endangered due to habitat loss and population pressures
- 2017: Removed from the endangered list thanks to collaborative conservation efforts involving NGOs, local communities, and the Ethiopian government