Ethiopia is a country that can attract many different kinds of people. For those seeking myths and legends, they will find many to whet their appetite with. For those seeking culture, culinary treats and connections to a different society, they will find those as well. Some however come for the mesmerizing landscape and wildlife, and that too they will find. One such area they will more than likely be visiting to find it, is the Simien Mountains in Northern Ethiopia.
The Simien Mountains are home to primeval forests, misty peaks, foreign plants and exotic creatures. After taking one step in them, you will feel that you’ve entered a paradise coming straight from the land of dreams.
The Simien Mountain massif were created over 40 million years ago by violent volcanic eruptions, and over the last thousand years the jagged pinnacles, deep ravines and volcanic plugs have been shaped by erosion. With altitudes peeking above 4500 meters above sea level, it’s a landscape you won’t soon forget. The range is called the ‘roof of Africa’, and once you see it you will know why. It is Ethiopia’s highest peak. If you have the energy, are in shape and have the know-how, you can even climb to the peek. You will definitely want to check out the incredible views from the observation points at Gidir Got and lmet Gogo in the heart of the Park though, because from there you will get to see the entire landscape in a way no other places can offer.
During your trek throughout the escarpments, meadows and lowlands, you will see plants called giant lobelias which grow to 3m in height, steep cliffs, plunging waterfalls and rocky turrets. There are poker plants and cactus, and groves of aloe vera. The vibrantly coloured plants will brighten up your life, including the yellow canola flowers and feathery green tef. It’s not just the plant life that will catch your attention either, but the wildlife as well.
As you travel throughout the Simien Mountains you will spot vultures, ravens, baboons, wolves and ibex. You will also get to see the silver-maned geladas, which can only be found in the Simiens. These acrobatic monkeys are joyful in nature and a pleasure to watch. You can even get close to them, within a few meters, if you are lucky. If you spot the Ethiopian wolf, or the Simien fox though, you can count yourself lucky, since they are extremely rare to see. Sightings of the rare Klipspringer and bushbuck are also possible.
If you decide to go for a trip to the Simien Mountains, you may want to check it out at the end of the rainy season in October, when the land is green and wildflowers are blooming. If you prefer to wait until the dry season though, when it is ideal for hiking, it’s from December to March.
The Simien Mountains are a dream come true. Don’t just take our word for it though, see it for yourself. Once you do, you will quickly see why it’s considered paradise on Earth.