Trekking the roof of Africa

Usually known as 'The Roof of Africa', Ethiopia is a trekking paradise full of astonishing landscapes, breathtaking views und unique flora and fauna. Ethiopia has an elevated central plateau varying in height between 2,000 and 3,000 meters. In the north and centre of the country there are some 25 mountains whose peaks rise over 4,000 meters and some of the world's deepest canyons.

Organizing Trekking is one of our specialities

Our tours offer superb wilderness trekking and lead to the main National Parks, the nicest areas and to the most striking viewing points, as well as to thoroughly unspoiled and rarely visited sites. Enjoy the truly varied scenery, dramatic cliffs and escarpments with plenty of opportunity to spot endemic wildlife, flora and fauna. Besides the trek, you'll delve into Ethiopia's ancient culture and traditions and experience the friendly hospitality of the local people.

The Simien and Bale Mountains as well as Meqdela are the best known and most spectacular sites for keen trekkers. Less known, but not less imposing is Mount Chilalo, the Arba Gugu area in Arsi, and the Chercher Mountains in Harerghe. Trekking can also be arranged within the cultural areas of the Surma people, around the Danakil Depression among the Afar people and around Lalibela with its rock-hewn churches.

Best time for Trekking

is the drier season between October and May, after the rainy season. Also, the rainy season has its own attractions. The plant life is particularly lush and it is the time of colorful flowering vegetation. During June, July and August afternoon showers occur practically every day, but this should not keep you away as the weather is warm and rains usually sets in after midday, which leaves enough time for trekking.

Trekking in Ethiopia does not involve being super-fit. The terrain is usually steep for only short periods and there are mules and donkeys available to carry the luggage. We provide the whole camping equipment (tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, towels, pillows, blankets and all cooking utensils) and our well-trained cook prepares delicious meals while camping.

What to bring for the trip

As the weather in the mountains tends to be unpredictable warm, fast-drying clothes is a must: strong shoes, pullover, warm jacket, wind- and rainwear. Best are lightweight fabrics that can be worn as layers. To avoid sunburn a hat and sun blocker are essential. You will also need water purifying tablets, torches, and a daypack for the daily needs, as the main luggage is transported by the pack animals and will only be opened in camp. Do not forget a camera or video, plenty of films and eventually binoculars. (batteries cannot be charged on the trek)

Find a packing list under:Things to consider

Mountain biking in ethiopia

The beautiful landscapes and the peaceful environment are favorable conditions for mountain biking in Ethiopia. African Adventure Tours organizes a unique and truly rewarding biking holiday. Our cycling tour includes the spectacular ride either to Bale Mountains or to the Rift Valley region. It can also be arranged following the great historic route of Ethiopia.

Biking in Ethiopia is mostly along paved and gravel roads, crossing mountains and through undulating landscapes. Most of the time clients ride their bike, but there are also places where you are driven in the car in case of exhaustion, long distances or road conditions.

Taking the riding distances into consideration we arranged camping days on our biking trips. Our cook prepares delicious meals while camping. Join one of our biking tours and enjoy an Ethiopian outdoor experience

Refer to: Trekking Tours

Covering an area of 2200 km2 Bale Mountains National Park is the largest remaining alpine habitat on the African continent. Founded in 1970, the Park contains the biggest continuous area of Afro-alpine vegetation (~1000 km2, circa 17.5% of all Afro-alpine vegetation) and a large proportion of moist tropical forest.
Bale Mountains National Park offers opportunities for unsurpassed mountain walking, horse trekking, scenic driving and chances to view many of Ethiopia's endemic mammals, in particular Ethiopian Wolves, Simien Foxes, Menelik's Bushbucks and Mountain Nyalas.

Birds such as the Thick-billed Raven, Wattled Ibis, Blue-winged Goose, Rouget's Rail, etc. can easily be seen in the Park. Bale is the southern-most breeding population of Golden Eagles, Wattled Cranes and has a large breeding population of Bearded Vultures. The wetlands and forests of Bale are the source of major rivers which provide a significant proportion of the perennial water supply to approximately 10 million people in South-eastern Ethiopia and Somalia.