The Full Ethiopia Trekking Packing List

Simien trekking is simple in concept — walk, camp, walk — but the packing list has some non-negotiables driven by altitude. Nights above 3,500 metres drop below freezing; afternoons at 3,000 metres can be t-shirt warm. You're dressing for both, in one bag.

Base layer, fleece or wool mid-layer, warm down or synthetic puffer, and a waterproof shell. Trekking trousers that roll into shorts, warm hat, gloves and a buff. Two pairs of sturdy, already broken-in boots and a second pair of trail shoes for camp. Dry-season days are short on mud but the rain season demands waterproof trousers.

Camp gear is included in our treks — tent, sleeping mats and mule transport — but bring your own sleeping bag rated to at least -5°C and, if you want hotel-standard nights, a liner. Altitude sun is fierce: SPF 50, a wide hat and sunglasses that don't fall off when you're leaning into a viewing point.

Headlamp, power bank, water bottle or hydration pack (2 litres of mineral water is provided daily), electrolyte sachets, wet wipes, blister plasters, basic personal first aid, and a small daypack for camera or layers. Leave at home: tents, cooking pots and anything electric that needs a wall socket, because camps have none.

If your route continues to the Danakil — it often does — the same duffel must suddenly hold long-sleeve desert shirts, a sand-proof buff, dust goggles and a headlamp for the night walk onto Erta Ale. Pack your trek kit in a soft duffel and your desert layer on top; our guides run this logistics every week.