Physical Requirements
What to expect:
1
2
3
4
5
Moderately Strenuous
Pacing
- 5 locations in 16 days
- 3 internal flights
Physical requirements
- Not appropriate for travelers using wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids
- You must be able to walk 3 miles unassisted and participate in 3-6 hours of physical activities each day at very high altitudes; some hikes will be challenging, with frequent uneven steps, so travelers are advised to bring walking sticks.
- Day 6 activities in Lalibela include walking on uneven grounds, eroded and slippery stairs, and poorly illuminated entryways to churches; expect to walk on some challenging irregular, large steps with no handrails
- Day 7 activities in Lalibela include an uphill walk over steep terrain with multiple stairs at an altitude of about 10,000 feet; expect to walk on some challenging irregular, large steps with no handrails.
- Day 13 includes a full-day nature trek in Simien Mountains National Park at an altitude of 10,000 feet on steep, slippery pathways.
- Not appropriate for travelers in need of CPAP machines
- We reserve the right for Trip Experience Leaders to restrict participation, or in some circumstances send travelers home, if their limitations impact the group's experience
- You may encounter animals on this trip. We make every effort to keep these encounters safe, however animals may behave unpredictably or dangerously at times. Please use caution when interacting with animals on this trip: Keep a safe distance, stay alert, and respect the animals
Altitude
- Most days are at altitudes between 8,000-11,000 feet
- 6 full days at altitudes between 10,000-11,000 feet (4 days in Lalibela & 2 in Simien National Park)
- Altitude medication will not be available for purchase in Addis Ababa; travelers are advised to discuss with a healthcare professional about altitude precautions before traveling on this trip.
Climate
- The weather varies greatly in Ethiopia and is dependent on elevation. When traveling from one area to another, temperatures can shift from 60°F to 95°F in a matter of hours. Due to its high altitude, temperatures in Addis Ababa and other northern Ethiopian cities are cool throughout the year, even during the hottest months (March-May) when daytime temperatures rarely exceed the mid 70s°F. Temperatures drop quickly once the sun goes down and morning frost is common.
Terrain & Transportation
- Traveling on unpaved, winding roads during overland transfers; walking on rough steep, slippery trails that do not have handrails; climbing many high stone steps; gravelly paths with several ascents & descents
- Agility and balance are required for walking to and from activity sites
Accommodations & Facilities
- We spend 15 nights in hotels and lodges, all of which feature private baths
- Hotel rooms are not of the same standard as in the U.S. and offer simple amenities
Other
- Please keep in mind that poverty is common in some areas, so you may notice lower living standards during visits to local villages and schools.
- Please be advised that monocular devices and binoculars are banned in Ethiopia. Violations will result in the item being confiscated, and possible detainment. Travelers taking the optional pre-trip extension to Kenya should leave these items at home to avoid complications when arriving in Ethiopia.