Simien and Bale Mountains

The Gelada Monkeys is the symbol of the Simien Mountains. Endemic to Ethiopia, these monkeys are known as ‘bleeding heart monkeys’ due to the distinct heart-shaped print on their chests. The Gelada’s in the Simiens are accustomed to humans, so you can stand amongst them as they roam and play around the plateaus.

Near the Chennek campsite in the Simiens, you have the best chances of spotting the Walia Ibex – another endemic species to Ethiopia. Walia Ibex are a threatened species, with population numbers only in the hundreds. Unlike the Gelada Monkeys, you have to be lucky to spot these beasts roaming the mountains (and it helps if you’re visiting on a clear day!).

Alongside the Gelada and Walia, the Simiens are home to a variety of birdlife, including raptors, Lammergeyer, and thick-billed ravens. The elusive and endemic Ethiopian Wolf also roams these highlands, but sightings in the Simiens are very rare.

The Bale Mountains is the best place to find the Ethiopian Wolf, an endemic canid that is best found in the Sanetti Plateau at 4000 meters in the Bale Mountains. Sightings here are quite common, but of course never guaranteed.

The Bale Mountains are one of Ethiopia’s best wildlife destinations in terms of accessibility and wildlife densities. You’ll find baboons, Bale and Colobus monkeys, chameleons and warthogs. Lions, hyenas and leopards also roam the forests, but sightings are extremely rare.