FAQs

• Do I need a Visa?

  Yes, as of Febuary 2014, nationals of the following countries can get a singe entry tourist visa on arrival at Addis Ababa or Dire Dawa International airport:
  Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, India, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Luxembourg, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Democratic people's Republic of Korea (northern Korea), Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea (south Korea), the Russian Federation, Slovakia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States of America.
  Otherwise, you must get a visa prior to arrival. Please contact yor local embassy for more information: UK , USA

• Do I need vaccines and medicine?

  It is recommended you have up to date vaccines for Hepatatis A, Polio and Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Diphtheria, Meningcoccal and tetanus. Malaria is low-risk in the highlands, but you should consult your doctor before travelling. Click here for further advice.

• What clothes should I bring?

  • Good hiking boots with ankle support
  • Comfortable sandals
  • Warm jacket and jumper
  • Hat, scarf and gloves
  • Waterproofs (the rainy season is from June to September)
  
  

• Will I suffer from altitude sickness?

  We recommend you spend time a few days at 2000m+ before the trek to help you acclimatise. The route has been designed to ascend a little each day to reduce your chances of getting altitude sickness. However it can affect anyone, causing hedaches and diziness . You should consult your doctor if you suffer from health problems such as asthma or high blood pressure.

• What is the weather like?

  Temperatures drop at higher altitude. Days are usually hot and sunny (bring a hat and wear suncream). Night temperatures can drop to below freezing so warm clothes are vital. The coldest months are December and January. The wettest months are July and August

• How tough is the trekking?

  We will have mules to carry your the equipment. Expect to walk around 7 hours a day. The ascent of Ras Dashen will be challenging, but you will have a week to build up your fitness.

• What wildlife might I see?

  • Gelada Baboons
  • Walia Ibex
  • Ethiopian Wolf
  • Thick billed Raven
  • Lammergeier vultures
  • Redbuck deer
  • Augur Buzzard
  
  

• Is it safe to drink the water?

  You should not drink untreated water. However bottled water is widely and cheaply available.

• Will anyone speak English?

  Your guide will speak English. The locals are very friendly and will make an effort to understand you and be understood.

• Should I bring cash?

  Yes, credit cards are not accepted in the mountains! The currency of Ethiopia is the Birr . Remember to exchange your money before the trek. Once you have paid for the trek, you will only need a small ammount of money if you wish to buy souvenirs for locals and markets.

• Where will I sleep?

  The first and last few days will be in hotels. After this you will be camping. We will provide and carry all the equipment.

Please get in contact if you have any other questions