There are three ways to stay in the Simien Mountains: a lodge inside the national park, a hotel in the town of Debark, or a community lodge or campsite on a trek. Here is how they compare, and who each one suits.
Staying inside the national park
Simien Lodge is inside Simien Mountains National Park, 6 km past the Sawre park gate and about 22 km from Debark. It stands at the start of the escarpment, where the farmland on the road from Debark gives way to cliffs and views that stretch for hundreds of kilometres.
Gelada troops are often right outside your door in the morning, and by sunset most of them have retreated over the escarpment edge for the night. Walia ibex, jackals and, with luck, the Ethiopian wolf live further into the park (wildlife).
Less time on the road
The park is open from 6am to 6pm, and driving inside it between sunset and sunrise isn’t allowed. Park staff can refuse entry after dark, even to guests with a booking. If you stay outside the park, every day has to be planned around these hours.
Inside the park you are already there when the day starts: walks and treks to Sankaber, Gich and Chenek begin at the lodge, and you can be out watching gelada within minutes. Park tickets are still bought at the park office in Debark, on the way in (park information).
Your options compared
Combining them
Many trekkers stay at the lodge before or after a trek and leave spare luggage in the lodge store while they walk. See the rooms and current rates or how to book.