Trekking and Camping Tours in Ethiopia with Sycamore Ethiopia Tours
Trekking and camping in Ethiopia provide a rare and rewarding way to experience the country’s diverse geography, ancient highlands, and traditional lifestyles. Sycamore Ethiopia Tours offers expertly guided trekking and camping tours in Ethiopia, designed for travelers looking to go beyond standard travel and connect with nature, culture, and local communities.
One of our most sought-after trekking destinations is Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its jagged cliffs, deep valleys, and unique wildlife such as the Walia ibex, Gelada baboon, and the endangered Ethiopian wolf. Our trekking packages range from 2-day introductory hikes to longer expeditions, with full camping equipment and professional support.
In the southeast, the Bale Mountains offer another incredible trekking experience. The Sanetti Plateau, Harenna Forest, and alpine meadows create a habitat for rare species and stunning scenery. This region is ideal for eco-tourists and wildlife enthusiasts.
For travelers interested in combining physical adventure with cultural discovery, we organize hiking and camping trips in the Gheralta Mountains of Tigray, where participants ascend to ancient rock-hewn churches like Abune Yemata Guh and Maryam Korkor. The dramatic sandstone cliffs offer unforgettable views and spiritual depth.
For the most extreme adventure seekers, our Danakil Depression tours include trekking across salt plains and camping at the base of the active Erta Ale Volcano, with views of its lava lake glowing under the night sky.
All tours include private transport, trained local guides, camping gear, meals, and mule support when needed. Whether you are seeking wilderness trekking, mountain camping, or cultural hiking, Sycamore Ethiopia Tours provides safe, well-organized, and meaningful experiences across Ethiopia.
Begin your journey through Ethiopia’s wild beauty—one step at a time.
Day 1. Addis – Mekelle -Adigrat -Sagren – Siheta Guesthouse
Our journey begins in Mekelle, where we drive towards Adigrat, passing through the historic town of Wukro. Along the way, we take a short break in Adigrat town to explore the area and purchase any necessary items for the trekking adventure ahead.
In the afternoon, we continue towards Sagren, the starting point of our two to three-hour trek through the breathtaking landscapes of Tigray’s highlands. The trek offers an immersive experience, featuring stunning mountain views, rock-hewn formations, and interactions with the local communities.
As the sun sets, we arrive at the Siheta Community Guesthouse, a serene and authentic accommodation run by the local community. Here, you will experience warm Tigrayan hospitality, enjoy a traditional meal, and rest under the star-lit sky, preparing for the next day’s adventure.
Day 2; Siheta -Guhgot
Embark on a five-hour trek to Guhgot Community Guesthouse, passing through breathtaking landscapes and experiencing the raw beauty of Tigray’s highlands. Along the way, visit Giorgis Debri, a stunning rock-hewn church known for its ancient architecture and spiritual significance.
Upon arrival at the guesthouse, enjoy a well-earned traditional lunch while soaking in the surrounding scenery. In the afternoon, continue exploring with a visit to Eyesus Guhgot, another remarkable rock-hewn church that showcases the region’s rich religious heritage. As the day winds down, settle in for a peaceful overnight stay at Guhgot Community Guesthouse, where you’ll experience authentic Tigrayan hospitality and a tranquil mountain atmosphere.
Day 3 ; Guahgot -Shimbreiti
After breakfast, embark on a five-hour trek to Shimbreiti Community Guesthouse, passing through stunning landscapes and unique rock formations. Along the way, discover a beautiful tunnel and a hidden rock-hewn church, adding to the adventure. Upon arrival at the guesthouse, enjoy a traditional lunch and take some time to relax.
In the afternoon, explore the nearby plateau, where you may be lucky enough to spot endemic Gelada baboons in their natural habitat. As the day comes to an end, unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings with an overnight stay at Shimbreiti Community Guesthouse, offering an authentic and immersive experience in the heart of Tigray’s highlands.
Day 4 ; Shimbreiti – Gheralta
Following breakfast, embark on a two-hour walk to reach your waiting vehicle, which will take you on a one-hour scenic drive to Hawzien, a vibrant town in the heart of Tigray’s Gheralta region.
Upon arrival, check into your hotel and prepare for an unforgettable visit to Abune Yemata Guh, one of Ethiopia’s most awe-inspiring rock-hewn churches, dramatically perched on a towering cliff. The adventure includes a thrilling ascent, breathtaking panoramic views, and a chance to admire ancient frescoes that have stood the test of time. As the day winds down, return to Hawzien for a relaxing evening and an overnight stay at a Vision hotel.
Day 5. Gheralta mountains -Mekelle- Addis Ababa
Start the morning with a hike to Mariam Korkor and Daniel Korkor, two of Tigray’s most impressive rock-hewn churches, offering breathtaking views of the Gheralta mountains. After exploring these ancient sites, descend and drive back to Mekelle in the afternoon. From there, catch your afternoon flight to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s bustling capital, marking the end of an unforgettable journey through the historic landscapes of Tigray.
Day 1: Addis Ababa – Flight to Mekelle – Gheralta via Wukro and Al Nejashi
Upon arrival in Mekelle, your Tigray adventure begins with a scenic drive toward the Gheralta Mountains. En route, visit Wukro Cherkos Church, one of the finest semi-monolithic churches in the region, and the Al Nejashi Mosque, considered the first Islamic mosque in Africa. After lunch, continue to the base of the Gheralta Mountains.
In the late afternoon, begin your sunset hike to Mariam Korkor and Daniel Korkor Churches, perched high on the cliffs. Enjoy panoramic views before overnighting at a local lodge or campsite near Gheralta.
Day 2: Hike to Abune Yemata Guh – Drive to Adigrat
After breakfast, start a thrilling hike and vertical ascent to the world-famous Abune Yemata Guh Church, known for its breathtaking location and ancient frescoes. The hike takes approximately 2–3 hours round trip and includes a steep rock face climb—rewarded by spiritual ambience and cliffside views. After descending, enjoy a traditional Tigrayan lunch at the base. Then continue your drive north to Adigrat, a highland city close to the Eritrean border. Overnight at a hotel in Adigrat.
Day 3: Adigrat – Yeha Temple – Axum via Adwa Mountains
Depart from Adigrat and journey west toward Axum, the cradle of Ethiopian civilization. On the way, stop at the Temple of Yeha, Ethiopia’s oldest standing structure dating back over 2,500 years. This pre-Aksumite temple reflects South Arabian influence and offers a glimpse into Ethiopia’s ancient religious roots. Continue through the legendary Adwa Mountains, where Ethiopia famously defeated the Italian invasion in 1896. Arrive in Axum and relax for the evening.
Day 4: Full-Day Axum City Tour
Spend the day exploring the ancient capital of the Axumite Empire. Highlights include the famed Axum obelisks, Queen of Sheba’s palace ruins, St. Mary of Zion Church (home of the Ark of the Covenant according to tradition), and the royal tombs. Axum’s rich history, dating back to the 1st century AD, offers an immersive cultural and archaeological experience. Overnight in Axum.
Day 5: Axum – Morning Flight to Addis Ababa
This morning, transfer to the airport for your return flight to Addis Ababa, concluding your unforgettable journey through Northern Ethiopia. Optional Addis Ababa city tour or departure transfer arranged upon request.
Day 1: Gondar to Simien Mountains – Trek from Debark to Sankaber
Your adventure begins with a morning drive from Gondar to Debark, the gateway to the Simien Mountains National Park. After registering at the park headquarters and meeting your guide, scout, and cooks, you’ll continue to the park entrance. From here, embark on a scenic 3-4 hour trek to Sankaber (3,250m), your first campsite. Along the trail, enjoy panoramic views of the escarpments, highland plateaus, and deep valleys. You may spot the endemic Gelada baboons foraging in large troops. Overnight camping at Sankaber under the stars.
Day 2: Trek from Sankaber to Geech Camp
After breakfast, begin a 5-6 hour trek through stunning landscapes with dramatic drops and breathtaking views. En route, visit the spectacular Jinbar Waterfall, cascading into a deep gorge—a perfect photography spot. The trail continues through Afro-alpine meadows where you may encounter klipspringers, bushbucks, and various bird species, including the bearded vulture (lammergeier). Arrive at Geech Camp (3,600m) by late afternoon and enjoy the peaceful surroundings as the sun sets over the mountains.
Day 3: Day Hike from Geech to Imet Gogo Viewpoint and back
Today is a rewarding full-day trek to one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Simien Mountains: Imet Gogo (3,926m). This trail offers panoramic views of vast canyons, jagged peaks, and sweeping landscapes that stretch beyond the horizon. You’ll have a picnic lunch near the viewpoint before returning to Geech Camp. Keep your eyes open for the Ethiopian wolf or walia ibex in the higher elevations, though they are rare. This day offers the best photographic opportunities in the park.
Day 4: Trek from Geech to Sankaber and Return to Gondar
After an early breakfast, begin your return trek from Geech to Sankaber, enjoying a different perspective of the highlands. Your driver will meet you at the park entrance for the drive back to Gondar, arriving in the late afternoon. Optional stop in Debark for a quick local lunch or coffee. This marks the end of your incredible Simien Mountains trekking experience with memories to last a lifetime.
4-Day Bale Mountains Tour – By Flight and Surface Travel
Day 1: Addis Ababa to Dinsho (via Robe by flight or surface drive)
Your journey begins with either a morning flight from Addis Ababa to Robe Airport or an overland drive through scenic towns such as Shashamene and Dodola. Upon arrival, you’ll head to Dinsho, the headquarters of Bale Mountains National Park. Here, you’ll enjoy a relaxing nature walk and spot endemic wildlife like the Mountain Nyala, Menelik’s Bushbuck, and various highland birds. Settle into your lodge surrounded by fresh mountain air and stunning landscapes as you prepare for the adventures ahead.
Day 2: Sanetti Plateau and Tulu Dimtu Exploration
After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to the stunning Sanetti Plateau, one of Africa’s highest roads at over 4,000 meters. This Afro-alpine ecosystem offers the best chance to see the Ethiopian wolf, the world’s rarest canid, along with giant mole rats and raptors. You’ll also ascend to Tulu Dimtu, Ethiopia’s second-highest peak at 4,377 meters, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Bale highlands. In the afternoon, descend to Goba for overnight stay in a comfortable hotel.
Day 3: Harenna Forest and Cultural Experience
Today, journey deep into the Harenna Forest, one of Ethiopia’s last remaining cloud forests and a stark contrast to the alpine scenery of the previous day. This lush green wilderness is home to black-and-white colobus monkeys, endemic birds, and unique plant life.
Enjoy a gentle hike beneath towering trees draped in moss and visit traditional Oromo villages for an optional cultural interaction. Return to Goba in the evening to relax and reflect on your diverse experiences.
Day 4: Return to Addis Ababa (by flight or surface)
On the final day, depending on your chosen travel mode, you will either take a morning flight from Robe to Addis Ababa or drive back via the scenic southern highlands. En route, enjoy Ethiopia’s beautiful countryside, local markets, and warm hospitality. The tour concludes upon arrival in Addis Ababa, with drop-off at your hotel or the airport.
