Simien National Park, Ethiopia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Simien National Park, Ethiopia? If you're planning to go to Simien National Park, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

  1. When to go to Simien National Park
  2. Important essentials for Simien National Park
  3. Activities for Simien National Park
  4. Simien National Park in January: weather and what to pack
  5. Simien National Park in February: weather and what to pack
  6. Simien National Park in March: weather and what to pack
  7. Simien National Park in April: weather and what to pack
  8. Simien National Park in May: weather and what to pack
  9. Simien National Park in June: weather and what to pack
  10. Simien National Park in July: weather and what to pack
  11. Simien National Park in August: weather and what to pack
  12. Simien National Park in September: weather and what to pack
  13. Simien National Park in October: weather and what to pack
  14. Simien National Park in November: weather and what to pack
  15. Simien National Park in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to Simien National Park, Ethiopia

Based on the climate and weather in Simien National Park, Ethiopia, the best time to go is March. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Simien National Park, Ethiopia

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Simien National Park, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Simien National Park, Ethiopia by month

January

If you are traveling to Simien National Park in January, you will notice that it dry with little rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C). There is frost once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ethiopia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Simien National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and G. Take care to get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

February

February dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost occasionally. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ethiopia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Simien National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and G. Take care to pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

March

Traveling to Simien National Park in March, you will notice that it dry with little rain. Expect it to rain occasionally. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ethiopia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Simien National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and G. It's important that you pick the correct type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

April

Traveling to Simien National Park in April, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ethiopia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Simien National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and G. Take care to find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

May

If you go to Simien National Park in May, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain regularly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ethiopia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Simien National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and G. Make sure to find the correct kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

June

June is mild. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ethiopia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Simien National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and G. It's important that you find the right type. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

July

If you are traveling to Simien National Park in July, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ethiopia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Simien National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and G. Make sure to choose the right type. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

August

August in this region is mild. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ethiopia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Simien National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and G. Check that you find the right type. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

September

If you are traveling to Simien National Park in September, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ethiopia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Simien National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and G. Take care to find the necessary kind. Most adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

October

October in Simien National Park is mild. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ethiopia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Simien National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and G. Take care to pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

November

Traveling to Simien National Park in November, you will notice that it dry with little rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ethiopia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Simien National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and G. Be careful to get the right type. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

December

December for Simien National Park dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ethiopia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Simien National Park may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and G. Be sure to find the correct kind. Many adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

What to do in Simien National Park, Ethiopia

Simien National Park, located in northern Ethiopia, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning landscapes, exotic wildlife, and unique geological formations. It is home to several of the highest peaks in Ethiopia, including Ras Dashen, which stands at 4,550 meters, making it the fourth tallest mountain in Africa. Simien National Park offers breathtaking scenery, a rich cultural heritage, and wildlife sightings that will give visitors an unforgettable experience.

1. Ras Dashen

Ras Dashen is the highest point in Ethiopia, and one of the most iconic landmarks in the Simien Mountains. For hiking enthusiasts, it is an excellent adventure to conquer, as it becomes increasingly challenging as you climb to the summit. The viewpoint from the peak offers a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape, and on clear days, you can even see the border with Eritrea.

2. Gelada Baboons

Gelada Baboons, also known as "bleeding-heart baboons," are one of the most fascinating animals you will find in the Simien National Park. These baboons are unique in that they exclusively live in the highlands and are found nowhere else in the world. They're also the last surviving species of primates with an actual mane. Visitors can watch them roam and engage in their social relationships, such as grooming, playing, and even showing their bright red chest patches, the cause of the name "bleeding-heart baboons."

3. Chennek Wildlife Reserve

The Chennek wildlife reserve is one of the most significant attractions in Simien National Park. The wildlife reserve is a sanctuary for endangered species and a variety of wildlife. Once in the reserve, you are likely to encounter several endemic species that are found only in Ethiopia. Some of the wildlife species to watch include the Simien fox, mountain Nyala, and the Walia ibex.

4. Tissisat Falls

The Tissisat falls is the most significant waterfall in Ethiopia, and it is found in the Simien Mountains. This waterfall plunges close to 1,400 feet, creating a tremendous cascade of white water plunging into the valley below. It is possible to walk to the edge of the waterfall to see the water thundering down while getting soaked by the mist. The waterfall is open to visitors all year round, so you can plan a visit at any time of the year.

5. Bwahit Peak

Bwahit Peak is one of the highest peaks in Simien National Park. Did you know that Bwahit peak is over 4,500 meters above sea level! It is also one of the few peaks that can be climbed without technical climbing gear. The trek to Bwahit peak is one of the most rewarding hikes as it will offer you some of the best panoramic views from the summit.

In conclusion, Simien National Park is a fantastic destination for nature lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and adventurers. Its unique landscape, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage make it an ideal destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable experience. It's a great place to explore, relax and get lost in the beauty of nature. So why not make a plan today and experience all the amazing attractions this national park has to offer?

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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