Trekking for kids

Trek

Trekking for Kids offers a unique and impactful opportunity to experience the hidden gem of Africa; Ethiopia. Get to know this fascinating country by trekking through the Simien Mountains in northern Ethiopia, visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and working with a local children’s home.

The Simien Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1978, presents perhaps the most inspiring scenery in Africa with over 20 mountains reaching over 13,000 feet. The landscape, often called the "chess pieces of the Gods," as one writer described them, is a dramatic tableau of plateaus, peaks, valleys and gorges. River valleys stretch miles in every direction, and trekkers experience rural villages and peoples struggling to eek out an existence in a harsh yet beautiful landscape.

The trek route crosses rivers, climbs mountains, and passes through valleys of mud huts and the gathering places of baboons, ibex, and other rare African wildlife. Encountering and interacting with rural Ethiopians along the trail will be a highlight of this adventure; combined with the scenery, it's sure to be a trip to remember. Visits to other historic and impressive sites will be included such as the "Camelot" of Africa, Gondar, and Lalibela, the location of the renowned rock-hewn churches, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

A TFK trip leader and a team of local guides will lead us on this fantastic journey. We will hike for 5-7 hours a day, carrying a daypack and sleeping in tents along the way. We require that all Trekkers be in good physical condition. Trekkers must be able to hike for several hours non-stop, carrying a 10-15 pound daypack. It’s important that a good physical conditioning program be undertaken at least two months before departure.

Orphanage

Prior to the trek we will spend 4 days working to make improvements on the residence of a local orphanage. In addition, we will spend time with the children doing art projects, games, and other activities. The time we spend with these children will make our time in Ethiopia unforgettable.

Please contact Tricia Donaldson, Director of Operations, for more information.

Expedition Costs

Group Size: maximum of 18 Trekkers (minimum 12)

November 10-21, 2016 (Please note: dates listed are the arrival and departure dates to/from Addis Ababa)

Price for Expedition: $2850

Fundraising Commitment: min. $1000 (tax-deductible donations for orphanage projects)

Included • TFK in-country guides
• 5 day fully-supported, guided Trek with local trekking company (you only carry a daypack)
• Domestic flights
• 4 nights tent accommodation on Trek
• 7 nights hotel (double or triple occupancy)
• All meals, except several (see itinerary)
• All ground transportation, including airport pick-ups and drop-offs
• All in-country flights (to Gondar and Lalibela)
• Trekking and camping permits
• Entrance fees and guided tour in Lalibela
• All tips for local trekking team (this is not usually included in other tour companies trip costs but we feel it is important to ensure our local help is tipped well so you don't need to worry about it later)
• Group travel insurance
• Activities and work projects at orphanage
• TFK t-shirts and luggage tags

Not Included • Airfare to Addis Ababa
• Ethiopia Visa
• Several meals
• Alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, bottled water or personal expenses

Expedition Requirements

• 18 years+
• Good health
• Physically fit
• Willing to raise minimum $1000 for orphanage

3 Step Process

1. Apply • Fill out the online application
• Pay $500 deposit ($50 non-refundable)

2. Prepare • Read Information and Fundraising Packet from TFK
• Start a training regimen if not already exercising regularly
• Fundraise for orphanage projects
• Gather all necessary gear for the Trek
• Pay remaining Expedition fees
• Arrange flights

3. Experience • Arrive in-country and meet your TFK group leaders and fellow Trekkers.
• Enjoy a trip of a lifetime!

We are committed to supporting you every step of the way, both before and during your Expedition.

Click here to read about TFK’s Registration and Cancellation Policies.

Expedition Dates for Ethiopia 2016: Simien Mountains Trek

November 10-21, 2016 (Please note: dates listed are the arrival and departure dates to/from Addis Ababa

Download Schedule here.

Gear List

coming soon

Background Information

Fundraising Resources

After signing up for an Expedition, Trekkers receive a Fundraising Kit, and access to the Trekker Resource Center, with online tips and tools to help you succeed.

TFK Brochures • brief version of the website in printed form
• great introduction to TFK for your donors

Personal Fundraising Page
• solicit donations on your page
• set fundraising goals
• track progress in real time
• upload photos
• post messages to donors

Other Resources • Ideas for raising your $1000 minimum
• form letters to help you get started
• fundraising logs
• receipts and forms
• orphanage project flyer

Contact our Director of Operations, Tricia Donaldson, for more information.