Two Ethiopias, one unforgettable adventure!
Places filled 9/14
This journey will take you Ethiopia into the heart of two completely different but equally stunning worlds. On one side, the majestic mountains of the Simien Mountains, Ethiopia's highest peak, Ras Dashen (4550 m), deep ravines and rare mountainous nature, on the other hand Danakil Valley – one of the hottest, wildest and most surreal places on Earth, where volcanic power and salt fields create a landscape like from another planet. As a bonus, Christmas and New Year's Eve in warm and exotic Africa!
The Ethiopian adventure is suitable for both advanced hikers and beginners, an "all-inclusive" active vacation that shows the country from many sides.
Ethiopia's Simien Mountains and Danakil Valley invite you to explore one of Africa's most dramatic and diverse landscapes. This is the perfect opportunity experience heights of over 4000 meters views safely and at a leisurely pace, without any previous mountain hiking experience. Everything is thought out and organized for you: transport including domestic flights, meals, overnight stays and daily logistics. On hiking days we only move with a light daypack and no technical equipment or special preparation is required. You just have to show up and allow yourself to experience.
Ethiopia is a land where Africa shows itself at its most authentic and surprising. Here, ancient cultures, dramatic landscapes and rare nature meet in a way that offers the joy of discovery for both experienced mountaineers and those taking their first steps in the African mountains. High plateaus, deep canyons and expansive views create the ideal environment for hiking, while local hospitality and peaceful pace of life make the trip safe and enjoyable even for beginners. Ethiopia is not just a destination – it is an introduction to the diversity of Africa, which inspires, broadens the worldview and leaves you wanting to come back.
In the mountains we will stay in tents and stay with locals, in the cities we will enjoy the luxury of hotels. begins and ends in the capital Addis Ababa and the entire itinerary included transportation (including domestic flights), accommodation and most meals are already included in the tour priceJust come here!
Overview - short & sweet
Goal: climb to Ethiopia's highest peak, Ras Dashen (4550 m)
Dates: 20.12.2026-02.01.2027 (flight time added)
Starting point of the trip: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (flight tickets not included in the price)
Activity: mountain hiking
Accommodation: hotels in cities, tents in the mountains
Adventure guides: Marko Aasa (language skills: Estonian, English, Russian)
Technical difficulty level: 1/5 (no special technical equipment or independent orienteering skills required)
Physical difficulty: 3/5 (moderate effort in mountainous terrain over 4000 m)
Group size: min 6, max 14
TOUR PRICE:
Early bird (until 12.04.2026) — €2690
Standard Registration (13.04.2026-10.09.2026) — €2960
Late Registration (from 11.09.2026) — €3290
NB! Elamus+ community members get a 5–10% discount. Read more and check your discount eligibility. community members page.
👉 SEE EQUIPMENT LIST HERE 👈
Travel cost
Price includes
Trip organization and on-site guidance with extensive mountain and hiking experience Elamus+ by the adventure locomotive
Services of a local English-speaking guide
All overnight stays (tents in the mountains, hotels in cities)
All domestic flights, including Addis Ababa - Gondar - Addis Ababa and Addis Ababa - Semera - Addis Ababa
On-site transport in a minibus (and other associated transport costs)
Breakfast, lunch and dinner on each day of the trip
Breakfasts on other travel days
Mountain permits, national park fees
Stylish Elamus+ designed sports shirt
Group pharmacy (including high-altitude medications, blood oxygen meter, etc.)
Elamus+ mountaineering preparation package worth €350:
access to online mountaineering webinars;
A sample training plan and workbook for mountain hikers
a personal 30-minute online call with the tour guide, upon request;
winter mountaineering training before the trip*;
summer mountaineering training before the trip*.
*Held once a year — participation depends on the time of registration. Trainings take place in Estonia.
Price does not include
Flight tickets to Addis Ababa (prices with checked baggage starting at €900*)
Ethiopia visa (60 USD)
Transportation from the airport to the hotel (taxi one way about 20 USD)
Insurance (travel insurance and MANDATORY suitable for altitudes of 4000+ m) mountain insurance)
Personal hiking equipment
Tips for local helpers
Drinks and snacks
Dinners and lunches off the mountain
Unscheduled excursions, transportation, etc. (or if you want to do something extra)
*Ask the adventure operators for more information about suitable flights.
Registering for the tour
Before registering, please read travel conditions. To secure your place on the trip, a deposit (20%) must be paid within 3 business days of receiving the confirmation and invoice by email. If there are less than 30 days left until the trip, the total cost must be paid after receiving the corresponding invoice (100%). Read more: frequently asked questions ja package tour information sheet.
NB! We recommend taking out travel disruption insurance immediately after paying the advance invoice so that longer-term health problems are also covered!
Schedule and activities
Day 1 (20.12) - Moderately long flight to near the equator
Arrange your flights so that you arrive in Addis Ababa on December 20.12. The first day is for getting to know each other - when everyone is there, we'll sit down at a local restaurant, get to know each other, the itinerary, and the Ethiopian food culture.
We are staying at a hotel.
Day 2 (21.12) - acclimatization begins
Early in the morning, we begin our journey to the north of Ethiopia. The flight from Addis Ababa to Gondar offers views of the mountainous landscape, which gives us a taste of what lies ahead. From Gondar, we head to the Debark - Simien Mountains National Park gate. Here we meet our local guide, park ranger and porters and finalize our permits.
The road then leads into the national park until we reach the Sankaberi campsite. In the afternoon we take our first short walk along the cliff edge – the air is cooler, the views are expansive and on the way we often encounter gelada baboons, who seem to welcome us to their home landscape. The evening is spent in the tent camp, the sunset paints the mountains golden and the adventure truly begins.
Overnight stay: tent camp in Sankaberi
Catering: lunch and dinner
Day 3 (22.12) - first full day of hiking
We have arrived at the morning of our first full day of hiking, when we begin our journey even further from civilization. The trail runs along a dramatic cliff edge, from where views open up to deep valleys and seemingly endless high plateaus. Step by step, the body gets used to the altitude and the mind to the rhythm of the African mountains.
Along the way we encounter herds of gelada baboons again, hear the sounds of birds in the mountain breeze, and see plants that are only found at these heights. When we reach Geech Camp, there is time to rest, drink tea, and let the views settle in – here the everyday world begins to be left far behind.
Distance: ~10 km (4–5 hours)
Overnight stay: tent camp in Geech
Catering: breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 4 (23.12) - Simien Mountains in their full beauty
This day offers some of the most iconic views of the Simien Mountains. We climb to the Imet Gogo or Inatye viewpoint, where a breathtaking panorama opens up - deep gorges, misty valleys and mountain ranges disappearing into the distance.
The hike continues across the open highlands towards Chenek. The silence is profound and the nature is raw and beautiful. Bald eagles often circle the sky and skilled mountain goats can be spotted on the rocky slopes. By evening we reach Chenek camp, where the altitude and solitude give the feeling of a real mountain expedition.
Distance: ~12 km (6–7 hours)
Overnight stay: tent camp in Chenek
Catering: breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 5 (24.12) - to the foothills of Ras Dashen
The hike takes us deeper and deeper into the heart of the Simien Mountains. The terrain becomes rougher, the trails rockier, and the views more dramatic. It’s a day where you feel like a true traveler – far from cities and comforts.
Ambiko Camp is located at the foot of Ras Dashen, and there is a sense of anticipation for the upcoming summit climb. In the evening, when the sun disappears behind the mountains, if you are lucky, you may also spot the rare Ethiopian wolf in the vast grassland.
Distance: ~10 km (5–6 hours)
Overnight stay: Tent camp in Ambiko
Catering: breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 6 (25.12) - Ras Dashen summit day
An early wake-up call and one of the most anticipated days of the trek begins. Ras Dashen (4550 m) is the highest peak in Ethiopia and reaching it is both a physical and mental challenge. Step by step we move higher, the views become more expansive and the air thinner.
At the top you will see that you are standing on the roof of Africa, you cannot go any higher on the horizon. After enjoying the moment, the descent back to Ambiko begins. The evening will be spent celebrating the achievement according to African customs.
Distance: ~14 km (7–8 hours)
Overnight stay: Tent camp in Ambiko
Catering: breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 7 (26.12) - Descent towards civilization
The descent begins, but the views are completely different now. The mountains that used to tower ahead now open up from a new angle. The pace is calmer and there is time to notice the details – the changing light, the gust of wind rustling the grass, the silence of the mountains.
Upon arrival at Chenek Camp, the afternoon is reserved for rest and recovery.
Distance: ~10 km (4–5 hours)
Overnight stay: tent camp in Chenek
Catering: breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 8 (27.12) - back to Gondar
In the morning we say goodbye to the Simien Mountains. The drive to Debark and then to Gondar takes us back to civilization. After several days in tents, the hotel feels especially comfortable and the evening is dedicated to rest and sharing impressions.
Overnight stay: hotel in Gondar
Catering: breakfast and lunch
Day 9 (28.12) - the charms of the capital
Flight from Gondar to Addis Ababa. The day passes peacefully – time to rest and gather energy for the next, completely different adventure.
Day 10 (29.12) - From the heights to below the sea level
Early in the morning we fly to Semera and meet the local Danakil team. 4×4 SUVs take us into the heart of the Danakil Valley – the landscape quickly becomes dry, harsh and almost inhospitable.
On the way we see the salt caravans of the Afar people and in the evening we walk on the salt fields. We spend the night under the open sky - the heat, the stars and the silence create a completely new African experience.
Overnight stay: open camp in Hamedela
Catering: lunch, dinner
Day 11 (30.12) - one more volcano is never too much
Early in the morning we visit Dallol – one of the hottest places on Earth. Colorful sulfur fields, salt crystals and boiling springs create a surreal sight.
In the afternoon we drive to Erta Ale and begin the climb to the crater rim. As darkness falls, we will be greeted by an active lava lake – one of nature’s most powerful and memorable moments.
Overnight stay: simple tent camp near Erta Ale
Catering: breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 12 (31.12) - welcoming the new year in Addis Ababa
In the morning we descend from the volcano and drive back to Semera. A flight to Addis Ababa concludes our adventure in nature. During the day we can relax a bit at the hotel or in the city before a festive New Year's Eve dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant.
Overnight stay: hotel in Addis Ababa
Catering: breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 13 (01.01) - Cultural Day in the Capital
Culture Day is like an acclimatization for returning to everyday life. We get to know the local city life and lifestyle, observe local customs and the everyday activities of the local residents, so that we too can soon take steps towards home.
Day 14 (02.01) - home!
Pack up and let's go!
NB! There may be minor changes to the schedule and planned activities - for example, due to weather and conditions or passenger requests.
About Ethiopia
Ethiopia is a diverse and historically rich country in eastern Africa, known for its unique culture and natural contrasts. Mountains alternate with canyons and volcanic plains, and lush savannas provide a home for fauna found nowhere else.
Ethiopia is also culturally rich – customs and traditions have often remained almost unchanged over time. At the same time, the way of life is traditional and big cities like Addis Ababa offer more modern amenities, while in rural areas life is simpler and more closely tied to daily rituals and customs stemming from agriculture.
Population: Approximately 129–130 million people, making Ethiopia one of the most populous countries in Africa.
Currency and exchange rates: the official currency of the country is Ethiopian Birr (ETB), divided into 100 centimes. Today it is 1 euro ≈ 180–182 ETB
Language: the official language is Amharic language, which is still used by a large part of the population, but in addition it is possible to hear many different ethnic languages (e.g. Oromo, Tigrinya, etc.).
Visa required: Estonian citizens must apply for a tourist visa and it can be issued as an e-visa (60 USD).
Practical information and advice for a December hike in Ethiopia:
🌤 December is one in Ethiopia the best hiking months: prevails dry season, it rarely rains. Daily temperatures: in the high mountains and in the north approx. 15–22°C, in lower areas and the Danakil region, it may rise to 30–40°C. Nights can be cool in the mountains (below 10°C).
💧 Water and food:tap wateris not drinkable. Only bottled water or purified water should be used.. The local food is delicious but spicy, with a strong emphasis on vegetarianism.
🩺 Recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A and B, tetanus, in some cases yellow fever.
🧭 Local customs and behavior: Ethiopia is conservative society, where you should dress modestly (especially in villages and near churches). When photographing people, you should always to ask permission, but in general the locals are very friendly and hospitable.
💰 Money and practical matters: Cash is still important, especially outside Addis Ababa, and card payment options are limited. They can also be slow or intermittent internet and mobile communications.
Interesting facts:
🦴The first humans in the world lived in Ethiopia. In 1972, paleoanthropologists found 3,2 million year old human skeleton, which was named Lucy after the music that played at the scientists' base (The Beatles' "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds")
🏳️ Ethiopia has never been colonized, which is why it has been the only independent country in Africa for centuries.
☕ Ethiopia is birthplace of coffee: The coffee bean was discovered by a goatherd who noticed the exuberant energy level of a goat that had eaten his coffee bean.
🗓️ Ethiopia uses its own calendar (about 7-8 years behind the Gregorian calendar) and their day starts at 6 am, not midnight. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to local time when purchasing bus tickets, for example.
🥇 First African Olympic champion comes from Ethiopia: Abebe Bikila won the first marathon gold in 1960 and did it barefoot. Four years later he won gold in the same event in Tokyo and at the finish line he admitted that the distance was too short, he would have liked to run at least 10 km more
Don't worry, let's do it!
How physically fit do I need to be to reach the peak?
Due to the individual characteristics and sports preferences of people, it is difficult to provide uniform indicators for assessing good physical fitness. To give some examples, a person with an active lifestyle can do aerobic physical work for at least an hour in a row. It is important that your body can work with a higher heart rate than usual and your leg muscles can push you up a hill several hundred meters. Mental endurance during long, intense activities (self-motivation, dividing the journey into segments, walking in silence with your thoughts) is at least as important.
Wait, we're climbing volcanoes?! Don't they erupt?
No, none of the volcanoes we climb are scheduled to erupt next year. However, if there are any unexpected unpleasant surprises, we will find another volcano to climb. There are plenty of them in Ethiopia, so no need to worry!
I've never hiked in the mountains before, but I'd really like to go! Is this trip for me?
Since it is not a technically difficult challenge, the trip is also suitable for very novice mountain hikers who have an active lifestyle and are not afraid of physical exertion. If in doubt, contact the adventure guide and let's discuss it!
What kind of mountain insurance do I need for this trip?
Swedbank's hazardous activity insurance and Austrian Alpine Club membership are well suited for this trip. You won't have to worry about insurance anymore.
Okay, I registered. Now what?
Well, theoretically you could just vanish into thin air and appear on a plane. That's possible, but we highly recommend taking part in preparatory events — it's part of the fun. We organize preparatory hiking training, give advice on suitable insurance and equipment, where to rent cheaply, what to train for, etc. We will definitely review the equipment you have collected just before the start of the trip and send reminders about important things.
Read more also frequently asked questions.
Travel documents and footnotes
The participant is responsible for the validity and condition of their travel documents. For this trip you will need:
passport and visa (e-visa, which costs 60 USD);
sports insurance suitable for mountain hiking (read more on the FAQ page). A suitable sports insurance policy must be carried and is a prerequisite for participating in the mountain hike;
travel insurance. NB! Take out insurance immediately after registering for the trip to ensure that you can get back any expenses incurred (for example, any advance payment) in the event of an unexpected event..
Plan your trip early and start training for it. We will organize several trial trips, training sessions and recommend training plans beforehand. It would be a shame if the peak was only behind the physique. Also a good opportunity to get in shape. ;)
Summits are not guaranteed. As you might expect, weather is king in the mountains. So it is entirely possible that weather or dangerous conditions will prevent us from even attempting the summit. Nevertheless, it will definitely be an awesome experience!
Although at the end of the day everyone is still responsible for their own actions and consequences, we do our best to mitigate the risks associated with mountaineering. As a result, the group leader has the right to make ongoing decisions about the competence of the participants, the suitability of their equipment, physical/mental capacity, etc. and, if necessary, for example, to prohibit participation on summit day if it endangers the health of the group or the participant themselves. Hopefully, of course, there will be no need for this.
Read also travel conditions.
Contact
adventure guide:
Marko Aasa
Phone : 5615 3084
Email: marko@elamuspluss.ee