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Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
6 Days Ras Dashen Trek
Climb the highest peak in Ethiopia through the Simien Mountains
About The Tour
6 Days Ras Dashen Trek: Simien Mountains to the Roof of Ethiopia
Climb the highest peak in Ethiopia through the Simien Mountains
Overview
Ras Dashen, at 4,550 metres, is the highest mountain in Ethiopia. This 6 day trek crosses the Simien Mountains National Park along the escarpment, past Geech, Imet Gogo and Chenek, then over the Bwahit pass and down to the village of Ambiko for the climb to the summit.
The trek starts with a flight from Addis Ababa to Gondar. It is a camping trek, with tents, a cook and mules to carry the gear, plus a park scout and an experienced mountain guide. The summit day is long but not technical, and the route gives you several days above 3,500 metres to acclimatise first.
Duration
6 Days (5 Nights)
Suggested Accommodations
- Sankaber, Geech, Chenek and Ambiko: campsites (tents, mattresses, cook and mules provided)
- Gondar, if you stay after the trek: Goha Hotel or Haile Resort Gondar
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Fly to Gondar, Drive to Sankaber
Morning flight from Addis Ababa to Gondar. Drive to Debark (about 2.5 hours) to collect your scout, then on to Sankaber. Afternoon acclimatisation walk along the escarpment edge, with herds of geladas. Overnight at Sankaber camp.
Day 2: Sankaber to Geech
Trek from Sankaber to Geech, about 5 to 6 hours, past the Jinbar waterfall and up through giant lobelias to the Geech plateau at about 3,600 metres. Overnight at Geech camp.
Day 3: Geech to Chenek via Imet Gogo
Early walk to Imet Gogo at about 3,926 metres for wide views over the escarpment, then follow the cliff edge to Chenek, about 7 to 8 hours in all. Chenek is the best area for walia ibex and lammergeier vultures. Overnight at Chenek camp.
Day 4: Chenek to Ambiko over the Bwahit Pass
Climb to the Bwahit pass at about 4,200 metres, then descend into the Mesheha river valley and up to the village of Ambiko, about 6 to 7 hours. Overnight at Ambiko camp, the base for Ras Dashen.
Day 5: Ras Dashen Summit
Very early start for the climb to the summit of Ras Dashen at 4,550 metres, the roof of Ethiopia. The last section is a scramble over rocks, with views across the Simien range. Return to Ambiko, about 8 to 10 hours in total. Overnight at Ambiko camp.
Day 6: Walk Out and Drive to Gondar
Short walk from Ambiko to the road, where your vehicle meets you for the long drive back over the mountains through Chenek and Debark to Gondar. Depending on road conditions and the flight schedule, take the evening flight to Addis Ababa or stay the night in Gondar and fly the next morning.
Travel Advice
Current travel advice (October 2026): the UK and US governments currently advise against all travel to the Amhara region, which includes Lalibela, Gondar, Bahir Dar and the Simien Mountains. Check your own government’s latest advice and make sure your travel insurance covers you before you book. We follow the situation on the ground every day, run this route only when we judge it safe, and will talk to you about other dates or another itinerary if conditions change.
Price and Booking
Price: on request. This tour runs as a private trip on any date you choose. The price depends on group size, hotel level and season, so we quote each trip individually. Tell us your dates and number of travellers and we reply within 2 hours, with a full itinerary and quote within 24 hours.
Tip on domestic flights: if you fly into Ethiopia on Ethiopian Airlines, you can usually get large discounts on domestic flights. Book them on the same booking reference or send us your ticket and we book them for you.
Get a free quote or message us on WhatsApp +251 988 111 222.
What Is Included
- Private 4×4 vehicle with fuel and driver for all road transfers
- Experienced English speaking mountain guide
- Simien Mountains park entrance, scout and park guide
- Camping equipment (tents and mattresses), cook and mules
- All meals during the trek
- Airport transfers in Gondar
- Bottled water in the vehicle
Not Included
- International flights and Ethiopian visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Flights between Addis Ababa and Gondar
- Hotel in Gondar after the trek, if needed
- Sleeping bag (available to hire)
- Drinks, tips and personal expenses
Best Time to Go
October to March is the best time to climb Ras Dashen, with dry weather and clear views. Nights at Ambiko and Chenek are cold, often below freezing from December to February. July and August have heavy rain and cloud.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fit do I need to be?
You should be comfortable walking 6 to 8 hours a day for several days. The summit day is long and at high altitude, so regular hiking before the trip helps a lot.
Do I need climbing experience?
No. There is no rope work. The last part to the summit is a scramble over rocks, which your guide helps you through.
What about altitude sickness?
The route spends three days above 3,000 metres before the summit, which helps you acclimatise. Walk slowly, drink plenty of water and tell your guide if you feel unwell.
Is there camping on this trek?
Yes. Ras Dashen is a camping trek, as there are no lodges near Ambiko. We provide tents, mattresses, a cook and mules.
Tour Languages
Amharic, English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish. Please inform us of your preferred language when booking.
Note: The itinerary can be customized based on your preferences and time availability.
Booking Form
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