![The road from Debark to Simien Mountains Nationanl Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002103.2nBtHbFh.EthiopiaJan091354.jpg) The road from Debark to Simien Mountains Nationanl Park |
![Hut near the park entrance](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002105.ww4BYk60.EthiopiaJan091357.jpg) Hut near the park entrance |
![Welcome - Simen Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002106.OnVSQUfm.EthiopiaJan091360.jpg) Welcome - Simen Mountains National Park |
![It is strictly forbidden to drive inside the park from 6 am to 6 pm](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002107.dfjIc58N.EthiopiaJan091361.jpg) It is strictly forbidden to drive inside the park from 6 am to 6 pm |
![Gate to Simien Mountain National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002108.XOXYRJB3.EthiopiaJan091362.jpg) Gate to Simien Mountain National Park |
![Permit inspection - only on the way in](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002111.Qpnac9yM.EthiopiaJan091363.jpg) Permit inspection - only on the way in |
![Western end of Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002112.B96BykJe.EthiopiaJan091365.jpg) Western end of Simien Mountains National Park |
![Simien Lodge - the Highest Lodge in Africa - 3260m (10700ft)](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002180.oyyx6KVA.EthiopiaJan091609.jpg) Simien Lodge - the Highest Lodge in Africa - 3260m (10700ft) |
![Simien Lodge](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002113.YqbVo2Kr.EthiopiaJan091369.jpg) Simien Lodge |
![Thick-billed Raven, Simien Lodge](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002114.qJO3R5lm.EthiopiaJan091374.jpg) Thick-billed Raven, Simien Lodge |
![Keith with our armed scout and English-speaking guide](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002115.qAnfJvnb.EthiopiaJan091375.jpg) Keith with our armed scout and English-speaking guide |
![Me with the armed scout and guide](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109351446.NLtNwlWC.IMG_2297.jpg) Me with the armed scout and guide |
![Buyit Ras, 3230m, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002116.ah92iEd6.EthiopiaJan091379.jpg) Buyit Ras, 3230m, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Keith, near the Simien Lodge](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109351447.BkyKP6ae.IMG_2303.jpg) Keith, near the Simien Lodge |
![Buyit Ras viewpoint, Simien Mountains](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002117.MroU3AVx.EthiopiaJan091382.jpg) Buyit Ras viewpoint, Simien Mountains |
![Keith on the edge during our first short trek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002118.Zr6J4zZd.EthiopiaJan091383.jpg) Keith on the edge during our first short trek |
![Keith along the Northern Escarpment, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109351448.kp82nX9G.IMG_2304.jpg) Keith along the Northern Escarpment, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Me sitting on a branch at the edge of a cliff](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002119.HEdRoziP.EthiopiaJan091387.jpg) Me sitting on a branch at the edge of a cliff |
![Me, on the edge, Simien Mountains](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109351449.3UcfonOF.IMG_2307.jpg) Me, on the edge, Simien Mountains |
![Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002121.4hgkCN5S.EthiopiaJan091390.jpg) Simien Mountains National Park |
![On the afternoon of our arrival we hiked from the lodge along the northern escarpment for several hours](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002122.2AUjJMIt.EthiopiaJan091392.jpg) On the afternoon of our arrival we hiked from the lodge along the northern escarpment for several hours |
![Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002123.GlByg7W6.EthiopiaJan091399.jpg) Simien Mountains National Park |
![Abyssinian Rose (Rosa abyssinica) Simien Mountains](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002124.CakCunCW.EthiopiaJan091405.jpg) Abyssinian Rose (Rosa abyssinica) Simien Mountains |
![Keith, Simien Mountains](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002126.uIg54zLg.EthiopiaJan091406.jpg) Keith, Simien Mountains |
![Keith, Simien Mountains](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109351450.PzObwYXv.IMG_2314.jpg) Keith, Simien Mountains |
![Don't Jump!](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109351451.5NdyPBbK.IMG_2315.jpg) Don't Jump! |
![Northern Escarpment, Simien Mountains](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002127.5Fz1fpk6.EthiopiaJan091408.jpg) Northern Escarpment, Simien Mountains |
![Panorama of the Northern Escarpment, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/g1/93/329493/2/109002128.U3yTOjmi.jpg) Panorama of the Northern Escarpment, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Northern Escarpment, Simien Mountains](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002129.gONnCGPF.EthiopiaJan091415.jpg) Northern Escarpment, Simien Mountains |
![Some people liken the Simiens to the Grand Canyon...](https://a4.pbase.com/g1/93/329493/2/109002130.gmm1twJZ.jpg) Some people liken the Simiens to the Grand Canyon... |
![Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002132.30UpysQx.EthiopiaJan091423.jpg) Simien Mountains National Park |
![Road leading deeper into the park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002135.CcMfuJ1y.EthiopiaJan091430.jpg) Road leading deeper into the park |
![We hoped to get a lift to the top of the next peak to start the following day's trek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002137.CDZ55U9C.EthiopiaJan091431.jpg) We hoped to get a lift to the top of the next peak to start the following day's trek |
![Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002138.0LQOGfGm.EthiopiaJan091434.jpg) Simien Mountains National Park |
![Male Gelada Baboon, Simien Mts](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002139.qWr8vLwj.EthiopiaJan091442.jpg) Male Gelada Baboon, Simien Mts |
![Although called baboons, the Gelada are actually monkies](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002141.tIiIAJ6F.EthiopiaJan091459.jpg) Although called baboons, the Gelada are actually monkies |
![The Gelada grazing](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002140.bcSdTDp1.EthiopiaJan091444.jpg) The Gelada grazing |
![Keith with a troop of Gelada grazing in the shade](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002142.9EgQGOMs.EthiopiaJan091462.jpg) Keith with a troop of Gelada grazing in the shade |
![Gelada, Simien Mountains](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002143.JVe73uZ6.EthiopiaJan091471.jpg) Gelada, Simien Mountains |
![Female Gelada scratching her ankle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002145.AT8uEy6R.EthiopiaJan091490.jpg) Female Gelada scratching her ankle |
![...and now the other side...](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002146.WgPiSGLI.EthiopiaJan091493.jpg) ...and now the other side... |
![Dusing oestrus, the red patch on the chest will brighten](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002147.TT9itV1S.EthiopiaJan091494.jpg) Dusing oestrus, the red patch on the chest will brighten |
![Gelada - Theropithecus gelada](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002148.mEMvvsbr.EthiopiaJan091499.jpg) Gelada - Theropithecus gelada |
![Researchers named one dominant male like this Chewbaca](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002150.NXX5fKWI.EthiopiaJan091505.jpg) Researchers named one dominant male like this "Chewbaca" |
![The Gelada were totally undisturbed by our presence](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002153.Cnjdx0c7.EthiopiaJan091510.jpg) The Gelada were totally undisturbed by our presence |
![Gelada with amazing eyes munching on grass](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002154.EtcnY9gx.EthiopiaJan091522.jpg) Gelada with amazing eyes munching on grass |
![Gelada infant riding its mother's back](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002155.sF8CZWSL.EthiopiaJan091531.jpg) Gelada infant riding its mother's back |
![Gelada baby clinging on for the ride](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002156.sTHdYSlw.EthiopiaJan091543.jpg) Gelada baby clinging on for the ride |
![The dominant male of this group](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002157.dWSH01TF.EthiopiaJan091551.jpg) The dominant male of this group |
![Excuse me, mom....](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002159.KnFkgUmX.EthiopiaJan091561.jpg) Excuse me, mom.... |
![EthiopiaJan09 1480.jpg](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002144.i7aZJyG3.EthiopiaJan091480.jpg) EthiopiaJan09 1480.jpg |
![Looking back to tomorrow's starting point](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002160.iiSlnIaM.EthiopiaJan091566.jpg) Looking back to tomorrow's starting point |
![View east towards Geech camp in the distance](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002162.Tz89Jqq8.EthiopiaJan091575.jpg) View east towards Geech camp in the distance |
![Panorama atop Buyit Ras](https://a4.pbase.com/g1/93/329493/2/109002164.C7VchPOe.jpg) Panorama atop Buyit Ras |
![Evening in the Simiens](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002165.awj3IrhF.EthiopiaJan091583.jpg) Evening in the Simiens |
![Buyit Ras, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002166.7zuqn18B.EthiopiaJan091584.jpg) Buyit Ras, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Back at Simien Lodge after a 3 hour round-trip hike](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002167.7vABQGlK.EthiopiaJan091585.jpg) Back at Simien Lodge after a 3 hour round-trip hike |
![Simien Lodge](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002168.lI0rEwxU.EthiopiaJan091586.jpg) Simien Lodge |
![Simien Lodge](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002170.2tjFfwTL.EthiopiaJan091589.jpg) Simien Lodge |
![Simien Lodge](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002171.JJmA4u3j.EthiopiaJan091590.jpg) Simien Lodge |
![Simien Lodge](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002173.y3HzvbA2.EthiopiaJan091592.jpg) Simien Lodge |
![Simien Lodge](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002174.TO59GK0Q.EthiopiaJan091593.jpg) Simien Lodge |
![Sundowner, Simien Lodge](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002175.HCoXSlGB.EthiopiaJan091601.jpg) Sundowner, Simien Lodge |
![Simien Sunset](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002176.pcu7ESpi.EthiopiaJan091603.jpg) Simien Sunset |
![Sunset from Simien Lodge](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002177.1ExzT8Dr.EthiopiaJan091605.jpg) Sunset from Simien Lodge |
![Early morning the next day](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109002179.HnuEySti.EthiopiaJan091608.jpg) Early morning the next day |
![Site of our evening sundowners behind the Simien Lodge](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018518.NyS8tGSt.EthiopiaJan091612.jpg) Site of our evening sundowners behind the Simien Lodge |
![Bright morning, Simien Lodge](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018510.uGw0PaJd.EthiopiaJan091610.jpg) Bright morning, Simien Lodge |
![We had to beg for a lift since our vehicle didn't stay with us](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018516.RB42GmpF.EthiopiaJan091611.jpg) We had to beg for a lift since our vehicle didn't stay with us |
![Keith helped push-start this van securing us a lift a few miles down the road to our starting point](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109351453.uxPJhQeJ.IMG_2362.jpg) Keith helped push-start this van securing us a lift a few miles down the road to our starting point |
![The previous day we hiked along the distant cliffs of of Buyit Ras](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018519.OMlPQvkA.EthiopiaJan091613.jpg) The previous day we hiked along the distant cliffs of of Buyit Ras |
![Looking east along the northern escarpment](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018520.GmmNFqVL.EthiopiaJan091616.jpg) Looking east along the northern escarpment |
![The park is still inhabited by villagers.](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018522.YiEX5zeP.EthiopiaJan091618.jpg) The park is still inhabited by villagers. |
![When the park was established in 1969 there were only a few hundred villagers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018524.H2D55ofO.EthiopiaJan091620.jpg) When the park was established in 1969 there were only a few hundred villagers |
![Today, there are tens of thousands of villagers, placing the park on the UNESCO's endangered list](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018521.stSPVuqZ.EthiopiaJan091617.jpg) Today, there are tens of thousands of villagers, placing the park on the UNESCO's endangered list |
![Keith and the guide and scout](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109351454.jzVUZdaB.IMG_2374.jpg) Keith and the guide and scout |
![Me, on the edge](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018526.e1wBdoQN.EthiopiaJan091622.jpg) Me, on the edge |
![I hate the hat but the sun is strong at these high altitudes only 13 degrees north of the equator](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018528.JDeTthm1.EthiopiaJan091624.jpg) I hate the hat but the sun is strong at these high altitudes only 13 degrees north of the equator |
![Armed scouts are required](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018530.XT3unnwv.EthiopiaJan091627.jpg) Armed scouts are required |
![Me, hiking along the ridge with the Gelada](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109351452.5AFI58Vy.IMG_2355.jpg) Me, hiking along the ridge with the Gelada |
![We came across Gelada soon after the start of our trek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018531.dsEJlPJC.EthiopiaJan091629.jpg) We came across Gelada soon after the start of our trek |
![Gelada coming towards us](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018533.KnKTFLlb.EthiopiaJan091630.jpg) Gelada coming towards us |
![Large male Gelada along the escarpment](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018535.wiNK4b61.EthiopiaJan091631.jpg) Large male Gelada along the escarpment |
![Tree on the edge](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018537.B9ZYkHkn.EthiopiaJan091632.jpg) Tree on the edge |
![Gelada walking along the escarpment, Simien Mts](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018538.oROxMry6.EthiopiaJan091635.jpg) Gelada walking along the escarpment, Simien Mts |
![Gelada appreciating his warm coat in the wind](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018540.K0yV1vtm.EthiopiaJan091636.jpg) Gelada appreciating his warm coat in the wind |
![Two young Gelada walking along the edge](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018541.DlvLmcbX.EthiopiaJan091637.jpg) Two young Gelada walking along the edge |
![Morning grooming](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018542.KC3gtKdc.EthiopiaJan091639.jpg) Morning grooming |
![Gelada foraging under a small bush](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018543.A9sIemwZ.EthiopiaJan091644.jpg) Gelada foraging under a small bush |
![Northern escarpment, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018544.FwMIc8Wf.EthiopiaJan091645.jpg) Northern escarpment, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Mother and baby Gelada, Simien Mountains](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018545.ntNFGJ60.EthiopiaJan091647.jpg) Mother and baby Gelada, Simien Mountains |
![Mother and baby Gelada, Simien Mountains](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018546.G94weviS.EthiopiaJan091649.jpg) Mother and baby Gelada, Simien Mountains |
![Gelada, Simien Mountains](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018547.rws59yhu.EthiopiaJan091651.jpg) Gelada, Simien Mountains |
![Gelada grazing](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018548.qz3nh4jK.EthiopiaJan091654.jpg) Gelada grazing |
![A pair of serious looking female Geladas](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018549.uprwyyaY.EthiopiaJan091657.jpg) A pair of serious looking female Geladas |
![Young Gelada sitting on the edge of the cliff](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018552.HsSbxdCB.EthiopiaJan091664.jpg) Young Gelada sitting on the edge of the cliff |
![Young Gelada raising his foot](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018553.mQF2jwyp.EthiopiaJan091665.jpg) Young Gelada raising his foot |
![Gelada Baboons on the cliff, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109351456.XpLjQZaQ.IMG_2392.jpg) Gelada Baboons on the cliff, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Young Gelada scampering along the steep cliff face](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109351457.2jsP7rf0.IMG_2401.jpg) Young Gelada scampering along the steep cliff face |
![Gelada grooming](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109351459.EOggvpZi.IMG_2405.jpg) Gelada grooming |
![Two Geladas behind a rock](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018554.AekbddgL.EthiopiaJan091666.jpg) Two Geladas behind a rock |
![Gelada morning routine - grooming](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018556.UA5zikQ3.EthiopiaJan091667.jpg) Gelada morning routine - grooming |
![Geladas - Simien Mountains](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018557.7wzimvVH.EthiopiaJan091668.jpg) Geladas - Simien Mountains |
![A Gelada smile](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018558.eMpm2OsT.EthiopiaJan091670.jpg) A Gelada smile |
![Wow that's ugly! Gelada grimacing](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018559.UmvVIJu3.EthiopiaJan091672.jpg) Wow that's ugly! Gelada grimacing |
![Gelada grooming, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018560.WVnuydsS.EthiopiaJan091673.jpg) Gelada grooming, Simien Mountains National Park |
![A Gelada passes behind me](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109351455.JdHiMpIf.IMG_2377.jpg) A Gelada passes behind me |
![A large band of 100 or so Gelada with the park road, Simien Mountains](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018561.lTR8yCjz.EthiopiaJan091675.jpg) A large band of 100 or so Gelada with the park road, Simien Mountains |
![Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018562.NbI2oL6x.EthiopiaJan091677.jpg) Simien Mountains National Park |
![Paorama looking north towards the rugged lowlands](https://a4.pbase.com/g1/93/329493/2/109018563.YtFF20WG.jpg) Paorama looking north towards the rugged lowlands |
![Northern Escarpment, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018564.tZWBKXBG.EthiopiaJan091681.jpg) Northern Escarpment, Simien Mountains National Park |
![We soon encountered another large group of Gelada](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018565.uMQUvuaf.EthiopiaJan091690.jpg) We soon encountered another large group of Gelada |
![Gelada grooming](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018566.3iJ1Ncr6.EthiopiaJan091691.jpg) Gelada grooming |
![Gelada grooming near the edge](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018567.tSXuQY5g.EthiopiaJan091699.jpg) Gelada grooming near the edge |
![Gelada and the Northern Escarpment, Simien Mts](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018568.kaMvudPH.EthiopiaJan091701.jpg) Gelada and the Northern Escarpment, Simien Mts |
![Park road leading to the east](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018569.Vf377T3Y.EthiopiaJan091702.jpg) Park road leading to the east |
![Large male Gelada](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018571.o5PJGjor.EthiopiaJan091703.jpg) Large male Gelada |
![A large male Gelada yawning](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018572.8uXYw1lY.EthiopiaJan091706.jpg) A large male Gelada yawning |
![My what big teeth you have!](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018573.ItJs3fXT.EthiopiaJan091706a.jpg) My what big teeth you have! |
![University of Michigan Gelada Research Project (UMGRP)](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018574.oXQPIkUr.EthiopiaJan091707.jpg) University of Michigan Gelada Research Project (UMGRP) |
![Uncommon sight - a Gelada in a tree](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018575.VqJGtr4k.EthiopiaJan091709.jpg) Uncommon sight - a Gelada in a tree |
![Large group of Gelada grooming](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018576.GHQueZI5.EthiopiaJan091710.jpg) Large group of Gelada grooming |
![The escarpment trail rejoins the park road for a short distance](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018578.Zf4pzNLK.EthiopiaJan091712.jpg) The escarpment trail rejoins the park road for a short distance |
![Park Road, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018579.f6Us5885.EthiopiaJan091713.jpg) Park Road, Simien Mountains National Park |
![View of prominent pinnacles to the north of the Simiens](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018580.kABMFbtf.EthiopiaJan091718.jpg) View of prominent pinnacles to the north of the Simiens |
![English-speaking guides are optional](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018581.l5a89Iyl.EthiopiaJan091719.jpg) English-speaking guides are optional |
![Grasshopper, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018582.kjmLvyls.EthiopiaJan091720.jpg) Grasshopper, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Looking farther east along the Northern Escarpment](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018583.Y3pKza45.EthiopiaJan091721.jpg) Looking farther east along the Northern Escarpment |
![Near where the klipspringer disappeared](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018584.Xf0Qgda8.EthiopiaJan091722.jpg) Near where the klipspringer disappeared |
![The camp at Sankaber is just a bit farther](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018585.f64J8Up2.EthiopiaJan091725.jpg) The camp at Sankaber is just a bit farther |
![Me, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109351460.f5U9Djs0.IMG_2412.jpg) Me, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Sankaber camp](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018586.MkwBLzJ7.EthiopiaJan091727.jpg) Sankaber camp |
![We stopped for lunch on that rocky cliff](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018587.ZU36oRch.EthiopiaJan091728.jpg) We stopped for lunch on that rocky cliff |
![Panoramic view just west of Sankaber camp](https://a4.pbase.com/g1/93/329493/2/109018588.v96ZZibw.jpg) Panoramic view just west of Sankaber camp |
![Lunch time panorama](https://a4.pbase.com/g1/93/329493/2/109018835.qqU919RF.jpg) Lunch time panorama |
![A few farms can be spotted beneath the escarpment](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018836.5p2q6Cfg.EthiopiaJan091744.jpg) A few farms can be spotted beneath the escarpment |
![The trail descends to rejoin the park road](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018837.Mx6cSDgP.EthiopiaJan091746.jpg) The trail descends to rejoin the park road |
![The park road leading to Sankaber, Simien Mountains](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018838.NZZ8EtkU.EthiopiaJan091748.jpg) The park road leading to Sankaber, Simien Mountains |
![Red flowering bushes, Simien Mountains](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018839.yYPkl1qD.EthiopiaJan091750.jpg) Red flowering bushes, Simien Mountains |
![Red flowering bushes, Simien Mountains](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018840.IBMPkiv8.EthiopiaJan091757.jpg) Red flowering bushes, Simien Mountains |
![The south side of the Simien Mountains just west of Sankaber](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018841.sroFxr6J.EthiopiaJan091758.jpg) The south side of the Simien Mountains just west of Sankaber |
![To cut down on backtracking to the lodge we looped back on a portion of the park road](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018842.3iQ9cB6X.EthiopiaJan091759.jpg) To cut down on backtracking to the lodge we looped back on a portion of the park road |
![...which was a very dusty proposition...](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018843.4b9gwujM.EthiopiaJan091760.jpg) ...which was a very dusty proposition... |
![Panorama with Simien Lodge in the distant west seen from 13.2222N/38.026177E](https://a4.pbase.com/g1/93/329493/2/109018844.UEohgXD0.jpg) Panorama with Simien Lodge in the distant west seen from 13.2222N/38.026177E |
![Farmer we came across during my avoid backtracking shortcut](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018845.h8cOAV80.EthiopiaJan091765.jpg) Farmer we came across during my avoid backtracking shortcut |
![Threshing with a team of four white horses, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018846.mP6XLzb0.EthiopiaJan091767.jpg) Threshing with a team of four white horses, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Cutting across a valley to avoid a large loop in the road](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018847.r6ppc4mW.EthiopiaJan091768.jpg) Cutting across a valley to avoid a large loop in the road |
![Gelada heading to a small stream in the valley we crossed](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018848.RqWGLhMe.EthiopiaJan091770.jpg) Gelada heading to a small stream in the valley we crossed |
![Valley, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018849.G3TRk36h.EthiopiaJan091772.jpg) Valley, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Panoramic view of the valley we cut across](https://a4.pbase.com/g1/93/329493/2/109018850.63DLvltO.jpg) Panoramic view of the valley we cut across |
![EthiopiaJan09 1777.jpg](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018851.JUwXI3Nk.EthiopiaJan091777.jpg) EthiopiaJan09 1777.jpg |
![Thatched hut of farmers living inside Simien National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018852.7lNXWLy8.EthiopiaJan091780.jpg) Thatched hut of farmers living inside Simien National Park |
![The authorities are having great difficulty resettling the growing population outside the park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018853.1mrEAoJ3.EthiopiaJan091781.jpg) The authorities are having great difficulty resettling the growing population outside the park |
![Thatched hut, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018854.Ljblmu17.EthiopiaJan091782.jpg) Thatched hut, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Back at the point where we started that morning 5 1/2 hours earlier](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018855.TPMWgmvz.EthiopiaJan091784.jpg) Back at the point where we started that morning 5 1/2 hours earlier |
![Taking a break before tackling the last hour and a half back to the lodge](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018856.OquZnskr.EthiopiaJan091785.jpg) Taking a break before tackling the last hour and a half back to the lodge |
![Panorama of Northern Escarpment, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/g1/93/329493/2/109018857.I1iGOTFg.jpg) Panorama of Northern Escarpment, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Passing a troop of Gelada](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018858.YA4XjfBB.EthiopiaJan091794.jpg) Passing a troop of Gelada |
![Speckled Pigeon, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018859.r7cseJdi.EthiopiaJan091797.jpg) Speckled Pigeon, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Panorama from Simien Lodge late afternoon](https://a4.pbase.com/g1/93/329493/2/109018860.hdqMDkjx.jpg) Panorama from Simien Lodge late afternoon |
![Simien Lodge](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018861.VQafZk7R.EthiopiaJan091801.jpg) Simien Lodge |
![Gouder - Red wine of Ethiopia](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018863.ShwtFx7R.EthiopiaJan091802.jpg) Gouder - Red wine of Ethiopia |
![It can't be that bad...it got an award from the DDR!](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018864.rtaJQrNb.EthiopiaJan091804.jpg) It can't be that bad...it got an award from the DDR! |
![Keith with two American girls we ran into trekking - who were also at the Circle Hotel in Gondar for Obama's inauguration](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018865.N42D4RYJ.EthiopiaJan091806.jpg) Keith with two American girls we ran into trekking - who were also at the Circle Hotel in Gondar for Obama's inauguration |
![The two Americans with an Australian guy who was looking for a lift to Axum](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018866.aV7xDv0U.EthiopiaJan091808.jpg) The two Americans with an Australian guy who was looking for a lift to Axum |
![Our American and Australian friends](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109351461.imxYhBUx.IMG_2427.jpg) Our American and Australian friends |
![Another African sunset, Simien Lodge](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018867.pcPayIli.EthiopiaJan091809.jpg) Another African sunset, Simien Lodge |
![I must admit...it was too cold at night for me to get enthoused about stargazing](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018868.dm1B925H.EthiopiaJan091810.jpg) I must admit...it was too cold at night for me to get enthoused about stargazing |
![The bar and fireside lounge, Simien Lodge](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018869.te08T7X0.EthiopiaJan091811.jpg) The bar and fireside lounge, Simien Lodge |
![Sinner at Simien Lodge](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018870.SU5parfc.EthiopiaJan091812.jpg) Sinner at Simien Lodge |
![Morning of our second full day in the Simiens](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018871.khVwP05J.EthiopiaJan091813.jpg) Morning of our second full day in the Simiens |
![We hired a minivan today to take us to Chenek and the viewpoint at Mount Bwahit](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018872.pAHxlhXg.EthiopiaJan091818.jpg) We hired a minivan today to take us to Chenek and the viewpoint at Mount Bwahit |
![Passing our turnaround point from the day before](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018873.BBbD4olu.EthiopiaJan091821.jpg) Passing our turnaround point from the day before |
![Large domestic herd within park boundaries](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018874.FED4fppv.EthiopiaJan091827.jpg) Large domestic herd within park boundaries |
![Valley leading south from the park road](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018875.GSTXJ5Xa.EthiopiaJan091829.jpg) Valley leading south from the park road |
![The park road cut into the side of the mountain headed to Chenek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018876.JYqamjRl.EthiopiaJan091830.jpg) The park road cut into the side of the mountain headed to Chenek |
![Looking down into a heavily farmed valley](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018877.5Hwb18jC.EthiopiaJan091831.jpg) Looking down into a heavily farmed valley |
![Dozens of native thatched rondavels among terraced fields within the park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018879.uNF06yeN.EthiopiaJan091832.jpg) Dozens of native thatched rondavels among terraced fields within the park |
![Main park road, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018880.X3Yns1xG.EthiopiaJan091835.jpg) Main park road, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Domesticated sheep, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018881.Y8xxW3yJ.EthiopiaJan091836.jpg) Domesticated sheep, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Sheep along side the park road](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018882.cFIyMwnC.EthiopiaJan091837.jpg) Sheep along side the park road |
![Giant Lobelia - distinctive plants we first encountered approaching Chenek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018883.DCYejKPu.EthiopiaJan091838.jpg) Giant Lobelia - distinctive plants we first encountered approaching Chenek |
![Lobelia rhynchopetalum](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018884.gQTNg0Di.EthiopiaJan091839.jpg) Lobelia rhynchopetalum |
![Giant Lobelia - very palm looking](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018885.UqduPEuP.EthiopiaJan091840.jpg) Giant Lobelia - very palm looking |
![Giant Lobelia in bloom (right)](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018886.jV2ai8Zc.EthiopiaJan091841.jpg) Giant Lobelia in bloom (right) |
![Construction along the park road near Chenek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018887.YWGcZELN.EthiopiaJan091842.jpg) Construction along the park road near Chenek |
![Giant Lobelia - Lobelia rhynchopetalum](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018888.lyGCptUJ.EthiopiaJan091844.jpg) Giant Lobelia - Lobelia rhynchopetalum |
![The start of our morning hike at Chenek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018889.jZp7wid5.EthiopiaJan091847.jpg) The start of our morning hike at Chenek |
![I'd been wanting to do this shot for a while...](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018890.FrVTQvVL.EthiopiaJan091849.jpg) I'd been wanting to do this shot for a while... |
![Me with the scout's AK-47](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018891.zInCNvyA.EthiopiaJan091849a.jpg) Me with the scout's AK-47 |
![Stunning view from a cut in rock to the steep cliffs of Imet Gogo and Inatye](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018892.A3P6HYB8.EthiopiaJan091850.jpg) Stunning view from a cut in rock to the steep cliffs of Imet Gogo and Inatye |
![Inatye, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018893.QSFda3rx.EthiopiaJan091851.jpg) Inatye, Simien Mountains National Park |
![This is one of the most impressive views in an impressive park](https://a4.pbase.com/g1/93/329493/2/109018894.SxT1mCdF.jpg) This is one of the most impressive views in an impressive park |
![Keith looking over the edge at a sheer drop off](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109018895.mFbSc5Rs.EthiopiaJan091855.jpg) Keith looking over the edge at a sheer drop off |
![Panorama from the big hole in the cliff west of Chenek](https://a4.pbase.com/g3/93/329493/2/109018896.dhz8H0VG.jpg) Panorama from the big hole in the cliff west of Chenek |
![View north from Chenek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019180.8O3Rn1de.EthiopiaJan091863.jpg) View north from Chenek |
![Inatye and Imet Gogo](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019181.tsRkBCED.EthiopiaJan091864.jpg) Inatye and Imet Gogo |
![Forest of Giant Lobelia, Simien National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019182.KLy4Vz5M.EthiopiaJan091865.jpg) Forest of Giant Lobelia, Simien National Park |
![Panorama near Chenek of Inatye and Imet Gogo, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/g1/93/329493/2/109019184.jXRCeDqZ.jpg) Panorama near Chenek of Inatye and Imet Gogo, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Stunning landscape, worth the journey](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019185.XbJ2Anq1.EthiopiaJan091873.jpg) Stunning landscape, worth the journey |
![If we had another day, the trek to Imet Gogo and Geech looked very worthwhile](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019188.3Red1C0Q.EthiopiaJan091876.jpg) If we had another day, the trek to Imet Gogo and Geech looked very worthwhile |
![Looking west from Chenek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019190.3sxqSkOa.EthiopiaJan091879.jpg) Looking west from Chenek |
![The trail to Geech goes up that way](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019193.zLiqLBPZ.EthiopiaJan091880.jpg) The trail to Geech goes up that way |
![This part of the Simiens blew away what we had seen earlier](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019195.Rx0iSKNT.EthiopiaJan091881.jpg) This part of the Simiens blew away what we had seen earlier |
![Northern Escarpment, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109351462.kEcZxYkg.IMG_2456.jpg) Northern Escarpment, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Chenek, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019197.AQnzoKy4.EthiopiaJan091883.jpg) Chenek, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Park ranger hut at Chenek, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019199.F44z2hNk.EthiopiaJan091886.jpg) Park ranger hut at Chenek, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Park ranger hut at Chenek, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019201.2Z499qK3.EthiopiaJan091887.jpg) Park ranger hut at Chenek, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Park ranger hut at Chenek, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019204.flvyO4kx.EthiopiaJan091888.jpg) Park ranger hut at Chenek, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Ethiopian license plate (Addis Ababa)](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019207.HFbwAGpi.EthiopiaJan091889.jpg) Ethiopian license plate (Addis Ababa) |
![Land Cruiser belonging to Ethiopian Rift Valley Safaris](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019209.Li90NOrf.EthiopiaJan091890.jpg) Land Cruiser belonging to Ethiopian Rift Valley Safaris |
![Ethiopiain Rift Valley Safaris Land Cruiser at Chenek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019210.K5KwMroe.EthiopiaJan091891.jpg) Ethiopiain Rift Valley Safaris Land Cruiser at Chenek |
![The cliffs around Chenek are prime habitat for the Walia Ibex](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019211.s559KEzV.EthiopiaJan091892.jpg) The cliffs around Chenek are prime habitat for the Walia Ibex |
![The road to Axum leads past those formations but from here that's a long drive to cover that short distance](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019212.0rgJjRKX.EthiopiaJan091894.jpg) The road to Axum leads past those formations but from here that's a long drive to cover that short distance |
![The ranger camp at Chenek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019213.pGVzY7BB.EthiopiaJan091895.jpg) The ranger camp at Chenek |
![Tree on the escarpment, Chenek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019214.jkxRxOY1.EthiopiaJan091896.jpg) Tree on the escarpment, Chenek |
![Giant Lobelia, Chenek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019215.AulUQDh8.EthiopiaJan091899.jpg) Giant Lobelia, Chenek |
![Remove nothing from the park except your foot-prints](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019216.ufcSVjdl.EthiopiaJan091901.jpg) "Remove nothing from the park except your foot-prints" |
![Looking for Walia Ibex along the cliffs at Chenek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019217.6hcZem7M.EthiopiaJan091902.jpg) Looking for Walia Ibex along the cliffs at Chenek |
![Even if we don't see Ibex this panorama is worth the journey](https://a4.pbase.com/g1/93/329493/2/109019218.riHBSqGU.jpg) Even if we don't see Ibex this panorama is worth the journey |
![View north from Chenek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019219.hw5qpaqZ.EthiopiaJan091918.jpg) View north from Chenek |
![We're in luck....Walia Ibex - Capra walie](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019222.VQLjm4np.EthiopiaJan091929.jpg) We're in luck....Walia Ibex - Capra walie |
![No relation to palm trees....](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019220.vqhHQCE2.EthiopiaJan091919.jpg) No relation to palm trees.... |
![Walia Ibex, an Ethiopian endemic of which only several hundred remain](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019221.ddd7F9bd.EthiopiaJan091924.jpg) Walia Ibex, an Ethiopian endemic of which only several hundred remain |
![Walia Ibex congregate around Chenek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019223.CKU9w7BW.EthiopiaJan091930.jpg) Walia Ibex congregate around Chenek |
![Walia Ibex near the Chenek campsite, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019224.zcaKksvL.EthiopiaJan091932.jpg) Walia Ibex near the Chenek campsite, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Walia Ibex habitat ranges from 2500 to 4500m](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019225.a3VYnD89.EthiopiaJan091936.jpg) Walia Ibex habitat ranges from 2500 to 4500m |
![The Walia Ibex seem well acclimated to humans](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019226.pdkhh0YX.EthiopiaJan091939.jpg) The Walia Ibex seem well acclimated to humans |
![Imet Gogo, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019227.VGLL0NM1.EthiopiaJan091942.jpg) Imet Gogo, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Little Brown Bird](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019228.ytVLN8wi.EthiopiaJan091954.jpg) Little Brown Bird |
![A second group of Walia Ibex, also near Chenek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019229.k6jwfN6B.EthiopiaJan091956.jpg) A second group of Walia Ibex, also near Chenek |
![Walia Ibex, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019230.Is5ArE4P.EthiopiaJan091957.jpg) Walia Ibex, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Walia Ibex, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019231.KqHjLWpR.EthiopiaJan091959.jpg) Walia Ibex, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Ethiopians living within the Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019232.JW3OsOaL.EthiopiaJan091960.jpg) Ethiopians living within the Simien Mountains National Park |
![Ethiopians living within the Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019233.LyepFvVT.EthiopiaJan091962.jpg) Ethiopians living within the Simien Mountains National Park |
![The Ibex can be difficult to spot](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019234.J1fKZL9Z.EthiopiaJan091963.jpg) The Ibex can be difficult to spot |
![Walia Ibex, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019235.EdtGpQWO.EthiopiaJan091965.jpg) Walia Ibex, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Walia Ibex, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019237.jmSQAFgW.EthiopiaJan091967.jpg) Walia Ibex, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Walia Ibex, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019239.HAlbsC6e.EthiopiaJan091972.jpg) Walia Ibex, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Walia Ibex, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019242.KlHs1Iaf.EthiopiaJan091975.jpg) Walia Ibex, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Walia Ibex, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019244.eknPhLCh.EthiopiaJan091978.jpg) Walia Ibex, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Walia Ibex, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019245.SiVg4Jo4.EthiopiaJan091980.jpg) Walia Ibex, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Walia Ibex passing where Keith was waiting](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109351463.AX1uUNVL.IMG_2488.jpg) Walia Ibex passing where Keith was waiting |
![Walia Ibex](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109351464.LfUgLfBj.IMG_2490.jpg) Walia Ibex |
![Giant Labelia in bloom](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019246.HdCGOXTY.EthiopiaJan091983.jpg) Giant Labelia in bloom |
![Looking back towards Chenek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019247.DX98ycGV.EthiopiaJan091984.jpg) Looking back towards Chenek |
![We continued by van farther east along the park road](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019248.ZSYgEnKU.EthiopiaJan091985.jpg) We continued by van farther east along the park road |
![Simien National Park road from Chenek up Mount Bwahit](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019249.ZNHLDHtw.EthiopiaJan091986.jpg) Simien National Park road from Chenek up Mount Bwahit |
![Switchbacks climbing up from Chenek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019250.RaNNjjuV.EthiopiaJan091990.jpg) Switchbacks climbing up from Chenek |
![I'm glad we're not walking this part....](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019251.OT8lCjAN.EthiopiaJan091992.jpg) I'm glad we're not walking this part.... |
![Switchbacks leading up Mount Bwahit, Simien Mountain National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019252.m44muBe8.EthiopiaJan091993.jpg) Switchbacks leading up Mount Bwahit, Simien Mountain National Park |
![The bus station for people who live in the beyond the eastern escarpment](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019253.4Bneflf8.EthiopiaJan091994.jpg) The "bus station" for people who live in the beyond the eastern escarpment |
![Until the road is completed into the valley below Ras Dashen, they have to walk here to catch a truck to Debark](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019254.luwo3erh.EthiopiaJan091995.jpg) Until the road is completed into the valley below Ras Dashen, they have to walk here to catch a truck to Debark |
![The van we hired for the day, $125](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019255.iT3dFsMJ.EthiopiaJan091996.jpg) The van we hired for the day, $125 |
![Even here at this high altitude, near 4200m, there are Gelada](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019256.B7tWlpwD.EthiopiaJan091998.jpg) Even here at this high altitude, near 4200m, there are Gelada |
![Gelada with the impressive switchbacks of the park road, Simien Mts](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019257.hsTUf4Ki.EthiopiaJan091999.jpg) Gelada with the impressive switchbacks of the park road, Simien Mts |
![Galada mother carrying a youngster](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019258.bboIVYTD.EthiopiaJan092000.jpg) Galada mother carrying a youngster |
![Gelada high on the slopes of Mount Bwahit](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019259.lM1w2ygB.EthiopiaJan092001.jpg) Gelada high on the slopes of Mount Bwahit |
![Did I mention I'm glad we didn't have to walk that....](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019605.1JLdDx5T.EthiopiaJan092002.jpg) Did I mention I'm glad we didn't have to walk that.... |
![Giant Labelia at 4200m](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019608.EiqugqQT.EthiopiaJan092003.jpg) Giant Labelia at 4200m |
![Mount Bwahit, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019610.I9z8SagZ.EthiopiaJan092004.jpg) Mount Bwahit, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Mount Bwahit - 4430m (14,534ft)](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019612.OvLmWYRF.EthiopiaJan092005.jpg) Mount Bwahit - 4430m (14,534ft) |
![Keith surveying the landscape](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019613.QBsCGuCu.EthiopiaJan092006.jpg) Keith surveying the landscape |
![Keith as Lewis and Clark](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109351465.SqIEYjaI.IMG_2498.jpg) Keith as "Lewis and Clark" |
![Me and Keith with the Ras Dashen Escarpment](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109351467.NLZmkmY5.IMG_2499.jpg) Me and Keith with the Ras Dashen Escarpment |
![Looking across to Ras Dashen, 4554m (14,990ft)](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019615.D7qYOiAi.EthiopiaJan092007.jpg) Looking across to Ras Dashen, 4554m (14,990ft) |
![Panorama of Ras Dashen, the highest mountain in Ethiopia](https://a4.pbase.com/g1/93/329493/2/109019617.bnnqmMB4.jpg) Panorama of Ras Dashen, the highest mountain in Ethiopia |
![Panorama from the Bwahit viewpoint](https://a4.pbase.com/g1/93/329493/2/109019618.X8RIBflo.jpg) Panorama from the Bwahit viewpoint |
![Keith with Ras Dashen, Simien Mts.](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019620.jcmuKVnE.EthiopiaJan092024.jpg) Keith with Ras Dashen, Simien Mts. |
![300 degree panorama, Mt. Bwahit, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/g1/93/329493/2/109019622.39Uw2nYB.jpg) 300 degree panorama, Mt. Bwahit, Simien Mountains National Park |
![The road which continues past Mount Bwahit towards Ras Dashen](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019624.GXcqYXlz.EthiopiaJan092039.jpg) The "road" which continues past Mount Bwahit towards Ras Dashen |
![The park road circling Mount Bwahit is being improved....](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019626.F6a78iGK.EthiopiaJan092040.jpg) The park road circling Mount Bwahit is being improved.... |
![Ice at 4200m, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019627.UC5zIc7o.EthiopiaJan092044.jpg) Ice at 4200m, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Back at the bus station](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019629.cnXLZtJ7.EthiopiaJan092046.jpg) Back at the "bus station" |
![If you book a car, make sure the extension past Chenek is included....](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019631.ImyrATNC.EthiopiaJan092047.jpg) If you book a car, make sure the extension past Chenek is included.... |
![Giant Labelia in bloom with Imet Gogo in the distance](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019632.UyD7RliI.EthiopiaJan092051.jpg) Giant Labelia in bloom with Imet Gogo in the distance |
![Giant Labelia in bloom with Imet Gogo in the distance](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019634.G0FuU5hr.EthiopiaJan092052.jpg) Giant Labelia in bloom with Imet Gogo in the distance |
![Giant Labelia in bloom with Imet Gogo in the distance](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019635.DnOGQh9f.EthiopiaJan092053.jpg) Giant Labelia in bloom with Imet Gogo in the distance |
![Looking down 600m below....](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019637.Ml3RKl8k.EthiopiaJan092054.jpg) Looking down 600m below.... |
![The park road near its high point below Mount Bwahit](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019640.a4Phsr7u.EthiopiaJan092056.jpg) The park road near its high point below Mount Bwahit |
![180 degree panorama from the park road, Mount Bwahit, looking towards Chenek and Imet Gogo](https://a4.pbase.com/g1/93/329493/2/109019641.4VtcQTOJ.jpg) 180 degree panorama from the park road, Mount Bwahit, looking towards Chenek and Imet Gogo |
![Imet Gogo from Mount Bwahit, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019643.UvZPGQYT.EthiopiaJan092063.jpg) Imet Gogo from Mount Bwahit, Simien Mountains National Park |
![The serpentine park road leading from Mt Bwahit to Chenek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019644.6WZoFOR2.EthiopiaJan092064.jpg) The serpentine park road leading from Mt Bwahit to Chenek |
![300 degree panorama from Mt Bwahit](https://a4.pbase.com/g1/93/329493/2/109019647.hrPZd2iU.jpg) 300 degree panorama from Mt Bwahit |
![Giant Labelia and Imet Gogo, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019650.1OLbitFL.EthiopiaJan092078.jpg) Giant Labelia and Imet Gogo, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Back by the bus station.....](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019654.p3aT1iQT.EthiopiaJan092079.jpg) Back by the bus station..... |
![Another brief Walia Ibex encounter](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019655.ygfdD93w.EthiopiaJan092084.jpg) Another brief Walia Ibex encounter |
![A large village with farmland below the cliffs of Chenek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019657.2V0tFs12.EthiopiaJan092089.jpg) A large village with farmland below the cliffs of Chenek |
![A large village with farmland below the cliffs of Chenek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019659.eG0Kkwb4.EthiopiaJan092090.jpg) A large village with farmland below the cliffs of Chenek |
![A large village with farmland below the cliffs of Chenek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019661.n9yUPJeF.EthiopiaJan092091.jpg) A large village with farmland below the cliffs of Chenek |
![Chenek, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019663.DJE9FG7P.EthiopiaJan092094.jpg) Chenek, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Amewalca Primary School, Chenek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019665.y9egBkT8.EthiopiaJan092098.jpg) Amewalca Primary School, Chenek |
![Walia Ibex, Chenek](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019666.x4I8PCVt.EthiopiaJan092100.jpg) Walia Ibex, Chenek |
![That's the mountain we just drove up, Mt. Bwahit](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019667.2vXvWS56.EthiopiaJan092101.jpg) That's the mountain we just drove up, Mt. Bwahit |
![Chenek, alt 3620m, 58 km from Debark](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019668.Audrgypd.EthiopiaJan092102.jpg) Chenek, alt 3620m, 58 km from Debark |
![The Geech Abyss can't be appreciated from the park road](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019669.RMslrrBw.EthiopiaJan092104.jpg) The Geech Abyss can't be appreciated from the park road |
![Geech Abyss, Simien Mountains](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019670.Fl5TcD8B.EthiopiaJan092105.jpg) Geech Abyss, Simien Mountains |
![Geech Abyss from the park road, Simien Mountains](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019673.NCM3HefT.EthiopiaJan092106.jpg) Geech Abyss from the park road, Simien Mountains |
![Golden jackal (Canis aureus) Simien Mountains, Ethiopia](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019674.Vt0n4FeD.EthiopiaJan092107.jpg) Golden jackal (Canis aureus) Simien Mountains, Ethiopia |
![We didn't manage to spot the rare Ethiopian wolf](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019675.lyXNjSCs.EthiopiaJan092110.jpg) We didn't manage to spot the rare Ethiopian wolf |
![Back to the scenery](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019676.1ZaN9Slc.EthiopiaJan092115.jpg) Back to the scenery |
![Panorama from the park road above the Geech Abyss](https://a4.pbase.com/g3/93/329493/2/109019677.UoicEP4n.jpg) Panorama from the park road above the Geech Abyss |
![I'd call that Pyramid Peak or something like that](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019678.8A7DUUGr.EthiopiaJan092120.jpg) I'd call that Pyramid Peak or something like that |
![The waterfall can't be seen from here](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019679.o4NeWe5q.EthiopiaJan092121.jpg) The waterfall can't be seen from here |
![Waterfall - must be amazing in the wet season](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019681.MqL8PzYu.EthiopiaJan092125.jpg) Waterfall - must be amazing in the wet season |
![Jin Bahir River plunges 800m into the Geech Abyss](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019682.zLUHI73x.EthiopiaJan092128.jpg) Jin Bahir River plunges 800m into the Geech Abyss |
![Waterfall viewpoint](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019684.Dt5BA1Px.EthiopiaJan092129.jpg) Waterfall viewpoint |
![Me on the edge, Geech Abyss](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109351468.9iFNoX4O.IMG_2515.jpg) Me on the edge, Geech Abyss |
![Panorama of the Geech Abyss and waterfall](https://a4.pbase.com/g3/93/329493/2/109019685.YyXubYph.jpg) Panorama of the Geech Abyss and waterfall |
![Geech Abyss, Simien Mountains National Park](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019686.CV9c1jLm.EthiopiaJan092136.jpg) Geech Abyss, Simien Mountains National Park |
![Hemprich's Hornbill (?), Simien Mountains](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019687.mC2KfIWk.EthiopiaJan092140.jpg) Hemprich's Hornbill (?), Simien Mountains |
![Hemprich's Hornbill (?), Simien Mountains](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019688.4pt94GTH.EthiopiaJan092141.jpg) Hemprich's Hornbill (?), Simien Mountains |
![Back at the lodge at the end of the day](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019689.7mX6yuvk.EthiopiaJan092143.jpg) Back at the lodge at the end of the day |
![Our 3rd Simien Mountain sunset](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019690.UFZySRaZ.EthiopiaJan092144.jpg) Our 3rd Simien Mountain sunset |
![Our 3rd Simien Mountain sunset](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019691.dQHlAUCj.EthiopiaJan092146.jpg) Our 3rd Simien Mountain sunset |
![The driver from Gondar is back to take us to Axum](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019692.UZRBtgyy.EthiopiaJan092147.jpg) The driver from Gondar is back to take us to Axum |
![Shadow of the Land Cruiser in the early morning](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/109019693.TXAlK4wx.EthiopiaJan092148.jpg) Shadow of the Land Cruiser in the early morning |