Geech to Chenek

A demanding day’s walk, out along the superb ridge towards Imet Gogo, then dropping to a valley-bottom escarpment cliff-top, before a long climb, to Inatye (4,070m) on the high escarpment top. Then a marvellous descent just behind the escarpment edge to the roadside campsite at Chenek.

The first hour or so from Geech follows the route along the beautiful and idiosyncratic spit of land towards Imet Gogo, rather than, as some books suggest, dropping south-east from Geech across the river then following the road round to Chenek. 

Veer off right and traverse steadily downwards to the cutback right below Imet Gogo, the last stretch dropping steeply through lichen-dripping giant heather. Marvel at the vast, sheer cliffs below Imet Gogo.

Then it is climb time, a big one, some 500m to Inatye at 4,070m. Apparently, even locals find it tough, although it would actually be straightforward were it not for the altitude. Ascend through beautiful giant heather, with glades and dapples of warm sunshine. Emerge gradually into the rocky grassland above, climbing slowly through lavishly beautiful scenery towards the final platform at Inatye. Amazing views all around.

A long,  gorgeous descent behind the sawn-off escarpment rim takes you to Chenek. Spend a while on the short-cropped grasslands of the summit plateau, then drop off into a marvellous traverse-descent around the back of the rim, catching glimpses out north-west across the ridges and rough farmlands far below. 

The campsites and shacks of Chenek appear some way off and a long way down: it is a long and in places steep descent, then a final plod up the road to site near the road.

This walk could be a day walk from Anya Meda on the road south-west of Geech, but would be demanding, with a long climb to Geech before beginning the route described here, which is usually walked as part of the 5 day trek.

See our Simien Mts page for more photos and information, including practicalities.