limalimo lodge
ETHIOPIA
PERSONALITIES
Photographers. Wildlife lovers. Bird enthusiasts. Hikers.
MOMENTS
True Ethiopian wilderness. Breath-taking views. Wildlife found nowhere else on earth. Greeting the day at a 3000 meters altitude. Sunsets by the campfire. Starry nights. The serenity of the mountains.
BEST VISITING MONTHS
The best time to visit is during the dry season, which typically falls between October and March. During this period, the weather is more stable, and the Simien Mountains offer clear, unobstructed views. It's an ideal time for trekking and exploring the stunning landscapes of the Simien Mountains National Park, as well as experiencing the local culture and wildlife. The months of October to March offer pleasant daytime temperatures, making it comfortable for outdoor activities, and are generally considered the peak tourist season. However, keep in mind that nights can be quite cold at higher altitudes, so it's advisable to pack accordingly for cooler evenings.
COST
WHY STAY
Limalimo Lodge, nestled within Ethiopia's breathtaking Simien Mountains National Park, offers a boutique experience in the heart of eastern Africa. Set against a breathtaking backdrop of rugged cliffs and verdant valleys, this secluded lodge speaks to travelers seeking a unique and immersive wilderness experience. With 14 well-appointed rooms set amidst the stunning landscape, Limalimo provides a gateway to explore the unique flora and fauna of the Simien Mountains.
Limalimo combines traditional Ethiopian architecture with modern comforts, providing guests with a haven after days filled with exploration. Designed to be one with nature, the lodge was built using local and natural materials that seamlessly integrate into the surrounding environment. The structures are not imposing or obtrusive, with low-lying buildings that avoid disrupting the natural vistas. The use of wood and stone, as well as traditional thatched roofs, not only blends with the landscape but also reflects the local architectural style. This approach allows guests to immerse themselves in the park's scenic beauty while minimizing Limalimo’s visual impact.
The communal spaces, including the bar, the restaurant, and the terrace, offer incredible panoramic views of the Simien escarpment. Large windows and open spaces allow guests to connect with nature even when indoors, and providing an ideal spot for wildlife spotting, with eagles, vultures, Gelada monkeys, klipspringers, jackals, and leopards often in your eyesight.
While there is no guest internet access at Limalimo Lodge, guests are encouraged to immerse themselves in the mountains and the lodge's serene atmosphere.
WHY WANDER
Limalimo Lodge, nestled in the heart of the stunning Simien Mountains National Park, offers a gateway to one of the world's most breathtaking landscapes. This UNESCO-listed park boasts jagged mountain peaks, dramatic escarpments, and deep valleys that reveal awe-inspiring views of the rugged lowlands below. Among the incredible biodiversity, it is the chance to witness Ethiopia's unique wildlife that makes this lodge truly remarkable.
Limalimo's location provides opportunities to observe the Gelada monkey, the Walia Ibex, and the Ethiopian wolf – all of which are endemic to this region. Leopards, various antelopes, and hyenas add to the park's rich wildlife tapestry, while over 180 bird species, five of which are exclusive to this area, grace the skies.
Various day hikes originating from the lodge lead through diverse and lush flora, including African Juniper trees, olive trees, and Ethiopian acacia trees. As you traverse the park's escarpments and gorge sides, you'll encounter cliff-hanging trees, clematis creepers, heather, and vibrant wildflowers. Some noteworthy routes that commence from the lodge include the Limalimo viewpoint to Princess Stop, where Queen Elizabeth II once visited, and the challenging hike to Ras Amba, known for its spectacular ridge-to-ridge views and encounters with Gelada monkeys. For those with more time, exploring further within the Simien Mountain range unveils the park's various campsites, each offering unique landscapes and wildlife interactions. From Sankaber, which provides prime Gelada monkey viewing, to the high plateau of Gich campsite with its stunning sunset vistas, the Simien Mountains promise an unforgettable hiking experience. With the highest campsite, Chennek, perched at 3,926m, you may spot the elusive Walia ibex and even the Ethiopian Wolf. The base camp of Ambiko serves as a starting point for the climb up Ras Dejen, Ethiopia's highest peak.
And as you head to the lowlands, Sona offers a serene campsite to enjoy breathtaking sunsets. Mekarebya welcomes you with a warmer climate and a chance to connect with the local villagers, while the final stop at Mulit, surrounded by donkeys, cows, goats, and sheep, is an idyllic conclusion to your trek.
Cultural experiences are also a highlight, with visits to local villages, encounters with the Amhara people, and a chance to learn about their traditions. Guests can further engage with the surroundings through birdwatching, stargazing, or simply relaxing on the lodge's terrace, taking in the panoramic views.
INDULGE IN
Limalimo Lodge offers a unique and diverse culinary experience that showcases the flavors of the region. Guests can savor a variety of Ethiopian and international dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Some of the culinary highlights include traditional Ethiopian dishes such as injera (spongy sourdough flatbread) served with an assortment of flavorful stews and salads.
Limalimo Lodge emphasizes the use of fresh, locally grown produce and ingredients. This not only supports the local community but also ensures that guests experience the authentic tastes of the region.
GETTING THERE
Fly into Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia, following a a domestic flight to Gondar. Limalimo Lodge is located about 3-4 hours from Gondar, and can arrange the journey
WILD INITIATIVES
In addition to promoting sustainable tourism within the Simien Mountains National Park, Limalimo underscores the vital role of responsible tourism in supporting conservation and preserving this unique and precious environment. The lodge actively collaborates with neighboring communities, ensuring they reap the benefits of tourism, with most of the staff hailing from the local area. This engagement not only supports the local community but also underscores the significance of maintaining the park's natural beauty to sustain visitor flows and the region's unique ecosystem.
*Images property of LimaLimo + Natasha Sweeney