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We've given each of our tours a comfort rating and a tour pace, walking or cycling grade to give you a general idea about the level of activity on each tour and the standard of accommodation you will be staying in at the end of your day's adventure.
Often you'll stay in different styles of accommodation during your tour; so we make an average rating across the entire tour. For more information on where you'll stay each night, please refer to the day by day tour itinerary.
Back to topThe infrastructure of Ethiopia in terms of transport and accommodation is in a formative stage. Domestic flight schedules can change at short notice which may result in a variation to the day-to-day itinerary detailed below. The availability of hot water in the hotels is usually limited. Power cuts are common. Campsites are very simple in the Simien Mountains. The final trek route may vary depending on local weather and trail conditions. We stay at some government hotels which at times can be commandeered by government officials at short notice this means that night stops may vary as a result.
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The following excursions and/or activities are usually available and may be arranged locally. Estimated costs are provided below for guidance only, are on a per person basis unless shown otherwise, and may depend on the number of participants. Prices quoted are correct as of the date these trip notes were originally issued but may change at any time due to currency fluctuations.
Back to topAddis Ababa - National museum £3.00.
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Local Crew: Although entirely voluntary, tipping is a recognized part of life in this region of the world. Some local staff will look to members of the group for personal recognition of particular services provided. In order to make things easier for you, the Tour Leaders may organise a group’s tips kitty and if this is the case, they will account for it throughout the tour.
Back to topAccordingly, you should allow US$80 for tipping of local drivers, guides, muleteers and for any miscellaneous tipping of hotel staff.
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Tour Leader: At your discretion you might also consider tipping your Tour Leader in appreciation of the efficiency and service you receive.
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Local Currency: Ethiopia: Ethiopian Birr.
Recommended Currency for Exchange: It is advisable to take your spending money in Sterling, Euros or US Dollars cash (high denomination notes usually get better exchange rates). Please note that any pre-2002 or torn US Dollar bills will not accepted in Ethiopia. Please keep any receipts as you may be able to change back any unused local currency.
Where to Exchange: Your Tour leader will advise you.
ATM Availability: Very Limited.
Credit Card Acceptance: Limited.
Travellers Cheques: Very difficult to exchange and are not recommended.
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Up-to-date information on global exchange rates can be obtained at www.oanda.com
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| UK | Ethiopia | |
|---|---|---|
| Tea/Coffee | £1.50 | £0.50 |
| Soft Drink | £1.50 | £0.50 |
| Bottled Water | £1.50 | £0.50 |
| Bottle of Beer | £3.50 | £1.00 |
| 2 Course Meal* | £15.00 | £3.50 |
| 3 Course Meal** | £20.00 | £6.00 |
| Bottle of Wine | £14.50 | £15.00 |
| Breakfast | £5.00 |
*Cheap local fare in a small cafe or restaurant.
**Typical food in a simple, reasonably comfortable mid-range restaurant.
It is a condition of joining any of our tours that you must have valid travel insurance. It must indicate that you have cover for (at least) medical expenses and emergency repatriation in the event of illness or injury. We also strongly recommend your policy includes cancellation protection as all deposit paid are non-refundable.
If you require travel insurance for your tour, Explore Worldwide is an appointed representative of Campbell Irvine Limited, who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services authority. Our travel insurance policy is specially tailored to the needs of the adventure traveller and will cover you for any included activity on any Explore trip. You can either purchase this at the time of booking or call us 0844 499 0901 after you have booked.
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Visas for British citizens can either be obtained before departure or upon arrival, although this often changes at very short notice and you should check the latest advice with your embassy. Be also aware that you might have to queue for a long time on arrival in Ethiopia.
If you decide to apply for a visa before departure, please note that a single entry visa will be valid for 30 days from the date of issue and this will require you to submit a visa application no more than two weeks prior to departure. If, for convenience, you require a longer application period we would suggest that you apply for a multiple entry visa valid for 3 months.
Visas are available through the Embassy or through Explore’s recommended visa service, Visa Swift www.visaswift.com/explore.aspx. All nationalities should consult the relevant consulate.
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All visa information is subject to change. You should confirm all visa related issues with the relevant Embassy prior to departure.
Back to topAn International Certificate of Vaccination against yellow fever is required. We recommend protection against malaria, hepatitis A, diphtheria, tetanus, typhoid and polio. Although the risk is low you may also consider immunisation against rabies and meningococcal meningitis. Consult your travel clinic for latest advice on different prophylaxis available against Malaria.
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The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS and NaTHNaC links at http://www.explore.co.uk/Travelhealth/ and from your local healthcare provider.
Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed before departure.
Back to topWe strongly recommend that you check your government’s travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination: safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs, including advice re: the legality of and local attitudes towards same-sex relationships. For UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office Advice follow the link at http://www.explore.co.uk/Traveladvice/
Back to topTo enjoy any trek such as the exciting Simien Mountains Trek it is essential to be in shape before you arrive. It is not wise to regard a trek as a means of getting into shape or losing excess weight. Start a programme of conditioning well before departure – in fact as soon as you book – and be aware that short walks on the flat do little to prepare you for the gradients involved on this trek. Running, hill walking and other more active sports are suitable.
Back to topThis trip to the Simien Mountains features more mountain walking than many of our other holidays. For this reason we feel that it is of value to provide this extra information sheet to help you prepare for your trip. If you are in any doubt about the suitability of the trip you have booked, call us now. It stands to reason that the better your mental and physical preparation the more you will enjoy yourself.
Back to topNote on Altitude: In the Simien Mountains trekking is strenuous with 6-8 hrs a day walking on average, at altitudes of 3,000- 4,500m, though there are some longer days (including the ascent of Ras Dashen, 4,543m). There is very little flat walking involved. We cover approx 65 miles, ascend 7460m and descend 6880m. Your leader will ensure that during your stay in the mountains you acclimatise enough before an ascent of Ras Dashen. At altitude you will find yourself moving slower than usual, but this gives an excellent opportunity to admire the spectacular views. Please be aware when trekking over 3000m there is a possibility of altitude sickness.
Insurance: Please ensure that your insurance policy covers you to the altitude indicated before you come on tour. If you have Explore insurance you will be covered to this altitude.
Medical Examination: You should visit your GP and specifically mention the maximum altitude the trek reaches, i.e. 4543m. Bear in mind that the final trek to the summit is optional, and can be omitted if so wished.
Back to topGradient Chart
Ethiopia is generally pleasant and warm, but varies with altitude. The long rains usually arrive mid-June to early September and the short rains between mid-February and April although this pattern has been completely erratic in recent times. After the rains, the highlands of northern Ethiopia are usually green and thus particularly scenic. The temperature all year round rarely falls below 18°C. Night-time temperatures in the mountains can be cold and can drop below freezing at higher altitude. There is a strong risk of sunburn at high altitude in Ethiopia.
Back to topSeasonal weather patterns can be unpredictable. For up-to-date information on the weather worldwide please visit www.bbc.co.uk/weather.
Back to topUnfortunately it does occasionally happen that luggage does not always reach its destination on the same flight as its owner, or possibly it may be damaged in transit. If you are unlucky enough for this to occur, it is important that you file a PIR (Property Irregularity Report) with the airline before leaving the airport. This is essential when you come to make a claim either against the airline or from your travel insurance company
Back to topFor an exclusively designed Explore Trek Bag, follow the relevant link at www.nomadtravel.co.uk/explore
Back to topA kitbag/barrel bag carried by mules on trek, a stuff-sack to store surplus belongings while on trek and a daysac. Maximum weight on trek 15kg/33 lbs. Pack mules are used to carry equipment, food and most personal gear. Pack heavy/dense items into your kitbag.
Back to topTrek Kit Bag Before leaving Gondar there is plenty of time to re-sort luggage into what you need on trek and what can be left in Gondar. Think about what you are taking on trek (remember your sleeping bag) and then think how big your kit bag needs to be. An ex-army type can usually be obtained cheaply. A nylon or canvas bag with a zip along the top is also suitable. Whatever you choose, it must be strong, as porters are not very gentle with baggage. Soft luggage is preferable! Framed rucksacks are unsuitable. The weight limit for the bag and its contents is 15kg but you will probably find that you do not need this much. Please note there are occasional opportunities to hand wash clothing whilst on the trek. For an exclusively designed Explore Trek Bag, follow the relevant link at www.nomadtravel.co.uk/explore
Small Rucksack/Daysac During the course of a trekking day, you do not have access to the luggage that is being carried for you by the porters. In any mountain region the weather can change rapidly and you must be equipped for this eventuality. Your daysac should, therefore, be large enough to carry the following: waterproofs, sweater, long trousers (if walking in shorts), warm hat and gloves, sun hat, sun cream, water bottle (at least 2litre), tissues and your packed lunch. Most people normally find that this adds up to about 2 to 3kg. Camera equipment can be heavy so think carefully when deciding what to take. Other optional items in a daysac might be binoculars, a diary or a book to read at lunch time. It is usually more comfortable to carry a slightly larger pack that is not full than to carry a small pack that is overfull or with ‘bits’ tied on the outside. Something between 20 and 25 litres capacity is probably the most suitable. A shoulder bag is not a practical alternative.
Plastic Bags If you pack your gear in plastic bags inside your kit bag they will stay dry in case of rain. It will also be easier for you to sort through. Remember, the less you have to unpack in the evening, the less you have to repack each morning! A bin liner to pack inside your daysac is also a good idea.
Back to topWalking Boots Probably the trickiest part of all. We strongly recommend walking in good boots. Trainers, tennis shoes or shoes of a similar ilk simply do not give the ankle support afforded by a decent pair of boots. Many people now trek in the lighter weight Goretex or leather boots They have the advantage that they take little breaking in. The slightly heavier traditional leather walking boots are also good. Avoid the types often found in high street shoe shops which are simply cheap trainers with a higher canvas side sewn on – they give little support and will probably not last the trek. Above all, your boots must be well broken in and comfortable. We do not recommend borrowing or renting boots. It is a good idea to carry your boots in your hand luggage on international flights or wear them – should your luggage be delayed, your well broken in boots are the one thing which will be irreplaceable. Gaiters are useful to keep snow and/or scree out of your boots.
Trainers or Trekking sandals Useful around the villages and when travelling.
Socks It is best to wear a pair of liner socks under a pair of fairly thick loop stitch socks. This helps to protect your feet against blisters. Avoid nylon socks, they are abrasive, don’t breathe well and can cause blisters.
Jacket After sunset, temperatures can fall below freezing. A very warm jacket is the most convenient way of keeping warm when the temperature drops.
Waterproofs Breathable waterproofs made from material such as Goretex not only protects against rain and wind but also stops you from overheating. They ‘breathe’ and avoid condensation that you will experience from nylon waterproofs.
Long Trousers For everyday walking, light cotton trousers are the most suitable. Jeans are not recommended as they are often difficult to walk in over longer distances and become cumbersome when wet.
Thick sweater/fleece jacket A thick sweater or fleece jacket is necessary as nights can be very cold at altitude. Make sure that your waterproof jacket is loose enough to wear over your sweater or fleece.
Track suit Comfortable around the villages and much more practical (and warmer) to sleep in than pyjamas. Alternatively, thermal underwear is good.
Shorts Shorts can be very comfortable to walk in but you must carry long trousers with you in case you get either sunburned or cold! Follow your tour leaders advice on local sensitivities to wearing shorts during the trek.
Gloves Especially useful in the morning and in the evening at higher altitudes. Also bring a scarf to cover your face from the dust during the day and a warm hat/balaclava.
Swimwear for swimming opportunities during the trek
Back to topAll cooking and kitchen gear.
Tents and Mess tents.
Mattresses will be provided
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Sleeping Bag As you do not carry it yourself this may be down or synthetic, but it must be 4-season (temperature –10°C to –5°C). A cotton liner helps to keep your bag clean.
Sleeping Mat Regular sleeping mats will be provided but if you would prefer an inflatable thermarest style you will need to bring your own.
Walking Stick/Pole Walking sticks and poles are recommended.
Water Bottle Water along the trail must never be considered as drinkable. Take at least a 2 litre personal water bottle, preferably insulated. A personal supply of water purification tablets/drops is also essential. Powdered fruit juice can be used to disguise the taste. Energy snacks, including chocolate and sweets, are also recommended whilst on trek.
Sunglasses/Snow Goggles A good pair of sunglasses are essential for protection against UV rays and glare at high altitudes.
Sun Hat, High Factor Sun Cream/Block & Lip Salve Choose a high factor suncream (Factor 15 or more) to protect your skin against the sun at high altitudes. A combination sunblock/ lipsalve is ideal for facial protection.
Torch/Batteries/Bulb A small torch is essential for finding things at night. Often a head torch is useful for the early ascent to the summit. Remember to bring some spare batteries.
Toiletries Keep heavy cosmetics to a minimum. Essentials are toothbrush/paste, soap (preferably biodegradable), small towel, small nail brush. ‘Wet Wipes’ are great for a quick clean up, so bring a pack of those (nonperfumed to avoid rashes!).
Personal First Aid Kit On each trek a first aid kit is carried but you should have your own blister kit, supply of plasters, aspirin and other essentials. Please do not give medicines to local people without consulting the tour leader.
Back to topFor an exclusively designed Explore Medical Kit, visit www.nomadtravel.co.uk/explore
Back to topThen we suggest you contact Nomad Travel, our equipment partner, who specialise in kitting people out for adventurous travel. You receive a special 10% discount in-store or online. Visit one of their stores, phone 0845 260 0044, or visit their website www.nomadtravel.co.uk/explore for further information.
Back to topFasting Days
During the 55 days preceding Easter and 40 days preceding Christmas (Genna), Orthodox Christians in Ethiopia abstain from eating animal products. During this time, therefore, local restaurants predominantly serve vegetarian food, though meat is usually available in some larger establishments.
Back to topIn Ethiopia video recorders are not permitted at some sights and at those where they are, charges vary between US$10 and US$20 per visit.
Back to topFor comprehensive information regarding voltages and plug types in use in the countries visited, follow the relevant link at http://www.explore.co.uk/Traveladvice/
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