A haven for trekkers, birders, primate fanatics and scenery buffs alike. Compared to the Bale Mountains, the Simiens are relatively easy to reach, just a couple hours’ drive from Gondar. Even though access is easy, I still recommend spending at least one night, two if time allows. I won’t send travelers for a day visit, it is far too rushed, the altitude gain too significant and you would most certainly miss the magical morning and evening hours in the mountains. Sawtooth peaks fall into valleys so deep they just appear to fade away. The calling card of the Simiens is the endemic Gelada baboon. This primate isn’t actually a baboon, but a monkey, and it sports one of wildlife’s best hairstyles. Its signature krimp and relaxed attitude towards visitors makes it highly photogenic. To date, no permits or time constraints are applied to visits with the gelada, this is likely to change as soon as tourism increases and with it infractions, but for now, I advise that my travelers rise very early, cough down a fried egg and some toast chased with a cup of coffee and hit the trails. The dawn breaks the fog and it retreats into the valleys, as you set out on the pathway skirting the cliffs. This short morning hike isn’t for the faint of heart, but the views are spellbinding and can be more immediately dramatic than those in Bale (remember Bale is made up mostly of a massive plateau). When you reach the Gelada they’ll be relaxed and preening each other, while searching for grubs in the grass. Make yourself cozy and it’s best to sit on the ground at eye level with these creatures. They tend not to spook and are endlessly entertaining. Most travelers do with a full day or two in the park visiting the baboon troops and hiking on the most accessible trails. Should you want to extend your stay and trek I can provide fully supported, high quality trekking guides and kit. Just ask. It’s said that you can trek all the way from the Simiens to Axum. Maybe in my next life...