How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Excellent. The first time I have had a tour leader who is not from the country I was visiting, however the combination of the leader plus Ethiopian guide worked well. Our tour leader was very capable and obviously 'at home' in the outdoors.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

Excellent. The first time I have had a tour leader who is not from the country I was visiting, however the combination of the leader plus Ethiopian guide worked well. Our tour leader was very capable and obviously 'at home' in the outdoors.

In terms of culture I would recommend you book an additional day or two to go and visit the rock churches of Lalibella. I didn't and I regret not doing so. In terms of the trek I would recommend carrying (and wearing) trek sandals for use when wading through the rivers. I didn't and my feet were very bruised.

 

Do you have anything else to add?

On all of these treks I am amazed at the variety and wholesomeness of the meals made for us by the cook. This trek was no exception. Excellent food.

 

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

He was efficient.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

Check the weather.

Do you have anything else to add?

The holiday would have been alright had it not rained as much.

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Irwin was a star.  He was drafted in at short notice to cover the usual tour leader but had clearly done his homework!

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

Be prepared for the fleas ;) The trekking isn't as hard as the brochure says. And ask the guides to have the same food they do at dinner time - yum!

Do you have anything else to add?

It would have been nice to branch off the same track that Exodus and KE Adventure take too...

Fantastic scenery in November.  Lots of plants in bloom and the hills/mountains are green. You'll see many Gelada baboons - they will come very close to you so you can watch and hear them grazing on grass.  The walking is not especially hard - just many hours every day at high altitude. Many opportunities to see local people working in fields and walking on the trails.  Nights were very cold, so bring a good sleeping bag and a hat/cap to sleep in.  Your camera batteries can get drained by cold, so consider putting them in your sleeping bag to keep them warm.  You may also want to bring ear plugs because some camp sites can be noisy. There are not many flat camp sites so I'd bring a good sleeping mat.  You'll need lots of baby wipes to wash/wipe with since there are no showers during the trek.  Bring a water bottle that can be filled with hot water at night - then you can use it to warm your sleeping bag and keep you warm at night.  I've post pictures at:  https://picasaweb.google.com/tacomalois/EthiopiaNovember2010?feat=email#. Fantastic experience! (ES - 1st November 2010)