Travel Itinerary
Day 1: Gondar to Sankaber (3,250m)
Drive from Gondar to the park headquarters in Debark for permits before heading into the National Park. Your first day is an easy introductory hike along the northern escarpment, providing impressive views of the lowlands. You will encounter Gelada baboons before arriving at the Sankaber campsite.
Day 2: Sankaber to Gich (3,600m)
Follow the northern escarpment eastward, crossing the Kaba Valley to reach the Gich Abyss. Marvel at the 500m Jinbar Waterfall before stopping for lunch at the river. We then ascend through barley fields to the remote Gich village and its campsite, finishing with a sunset hike to Kedadit.
Day 3: Gich to Chennek (3,600m)
Traverse high pastures filled with Giant Lobelia to reach the towering cliffs of Imet Gogo. After taking in the views, descend into the Jinbar River Valley and climb to the summit of Inatye (4,070m). Finally, descend to Chennek, where you can often see Walia Ibex grazing near the camp at dusk.
Day 4: Chennek to Ambiko (3,200m)
Ascend eastwards to the Buwahit Pass (4,200m) for views of the Ras Dashen range. From the viewpoint, descend steeply into the Menesha River valley, passing through local villages before reaching the Ambiko campsite to prepare for tomorrow’s summit attempt.
Day 5: Ambiko to Ras Dashen Summit (4,533m)
A pre-dawn start begins your 1,000m ascent to the roof of Ethiopia. Trek through Afroalpine meadows and navigate a final rocky scramble to reach the peak of Ras Dashen. Enjoy unparalleled views in every direction before descending back to Ambiko for a well-earned rest.
Day 6: Ambiko to Chiro Leba to Gondar
Retrace your steps back toward Chiro Leba, enjoying a final look at the western escarpment of the park. Your vehicle will meet you there for the return drive to Gondar, marking the end of your high-altitude expedition.
