Hiking Ethiopia:
The Simien Mountains
February 2012
Mr. Bokat, my mandatory armed guard. Normally works as a farmer.
I had a great swim here.
Everyone in the villages was a farmer.
At Ethiopia's highest point: 4600 m. (15,000 ft).
I tented out each night (it was cold) and prepared my own food except when passing villages, which had very good meals.
There were fantastic birds, none of which I could really photograph since my smartphone disintegrated after years of travail.
Giant lobelias
All villages had houses where you could have coffee roasted and ground to your order.
On the left, behind his head, are eucalyptus trees. Imported from Australia in the late 19th century, they are now the only trees commonly growing around the villages after deforestation.
Wildlife seen: Gelada baboons, bearded vultures, thick-billed ravens, wattled ibis and hawks.
Itinerary: Solo hike of 10 days with armed guard. Approx. 170 kms (105 miles). Highest elevation: 4600 m. (15,000 ft).
Started at Debark town – Gich camp – Chenek camp – Ambiko village – Ras Dejen peak – Soha village – Mekarebya village – ended at Adi Arkay town.