Welcome to Simien Mountains National Park!
We hope you enjoy your stay. You can help preserve this incredible environment by following a few simple travel guidelines. These will protect the park, support local communities, and ensure your safety.
Visitor Code of Conduct: Golden Rules of Tourism
1. Safety First
- Stay on designated trails and avoid risky areas.
- Follow your guide’s instructions at all times.
2. Respect Others
- Be considerate of other visitors, park staff, and local communities.
- Ask for permission before taking photographs and avoid paying for them.
3. Park Fees & Rules
- Pay your park fees only at official sites and keep your stamped receipt.
- Drive carefully, stay on tracks, and give wildlife the right of way.
4. Protect Nature
- Do not disturb wildlife—observe from a distance and keep noise to a minimum.
- Avoid bringing in exotic plants or animals.
- Stay on marked trails to prevent damage to vegetation.
5. Leave No Trace
- Take all litter with you and dispose of it properly.
- Use designated toilets or bury waste at least 50m from water sources.
- Use biodegradable soaps and avoid polluting water bodies.
6. Responsible Camping & Fire Use
- Camp only in designated areas.
- Be extremely cautious with fires, cigarettes, and matches.
7. Ethical Tourism
- Do not hand out gifts, money, or water bottles to individuals—this encourages begging. If you want to donate, email info@simienmountain.org.
- Follow official service rates (e.g., horse hire) to avoid disputes.
8. Shopping & Tipping
- Buy everyday handicrafts, but avoid purchasing family heirlooms.
- Tipping is appreciated but not required. A small tip for drivers (5 birr) or 10-40% for guides is a good guideline.
By following these simple guidelines, you help protect Simien Mountains National Park for future generations. Enjoy your visit!