Birhan Asmamaw
I was born in 1983 in Debark where the headquarters office of Simien Mountains National park is found and speak fluent English and the official language of Ethiopia (Amharic). I was certified in accounting after a short-term training and worked in a Micro-Finance as an accountant for two years then joined a college and studied law in Diploma then later went to the university for another study in Economics finally joined Gondar University for a master's degree in Management. Regarding the tourism industry I am interested in, have been working in it for the last 10 + years, for the first 5 years, I used to guide in the mountains, particularly in the Simien Mountains then established an ecotourism business collaborating with friends.
Furthermore, I infrequently guided tourists to different destinations which enabled me to know them in person and learn a lot about the diversified cultures, history, and nature of the country.
Having received different opportunities in the industry I was able to visit a few countries in Europe such as Germany, Switzerland, and France.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
""Trekking and hiking tours, adventure, cultural tours, historical tours, coffee tours, birdwatching, outdoor activities, UNESCO Biosphere Reserves. everything in between or a combination of them all!’’"
How did you get involved in travel?
"After completed my high school I was looking for a job as I came from a poor family, luckily I got an opportunity to accompany a foreign to the mountains for free and then my interest turned into such a fascinating field as a result of this I couldn’t say longer in an office work just quit the job and became a local guide in the Simien Mountains where I worked for more than 7 years hiking."
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"My unique experience which I never forget is what happened to me while I used to guide in the mountains very often and once I had two big groups for longer days (10) respectively and I was able to manage the first group and completed safely and begun a new one 16 people then I got sick in my 17th after my knees got dry and got stuck, I was compelled to be on the mule the last three days. "
Featured trips & expertise
Ethiopia's Northern Historical Route - 10 Days
Drive through the Simien Mountains and visit four UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Sites, along with the other main highlights of the classic historical northern route, like Bahir Dar, Gondar, Axum, and Lalibela. At night, enjoy a stay in the highest hotel in Africa, the Simien Lodge.
Best of Ethiopia - 8 Days
During this eight-day exploration of Ethiopia, you'll discover ancient history, endless landscapes, artistic riches, and delicious cuisine. Starting in Addis Ababa, you'll meet 'Lucy', one of the oldest human skeletons found on earth. Traveling further afield, explore the incredible churches at Lalibela and the remains of millennia-old kingdoms at Axum and Gondar. Visit Simien Mountains National Park, with some of the highest peaks in Africa. You'll soon understand why Ethiopia is nicknamed the 'Land of Origins'.
Birdwatching in Ethiopia - 14 Days
In recent years, Ethiopia has become one of Africa’s leading birding destinations. Its bird life represents an interesting mixture of East and West African, migrant and some unusual endemic components.
Climb Ras Dashen, Ethiopia's Highest Peak - 12 Days
Explore the Simien Mountains and climb Ras Dashen, the highest peak in Ethiopia. You'll also have the chance to visit the capital city of Addis Ababa and the historic palaces of Gondar, making for an itinerary that combines both the cultural and natural highlights of Ethiopia.
Short Trip to Ethiopia's North: 5-Day Itinerary
Whether you have an extended stopover or simply want to add some sightseeing to your business trip in Addis Ababa, this is the ideal tour if your time in Ethiopia is limited. This itinerary includes Bahir Dar and Lalibela, two of the main destinations on the country's classic northern route. On your day of driving and domestic flights between the historic cities, you'll be able to admire the dramatic landscape of Ethiopia's highlands.
When is the Best Time of Year to Visit Ethiopia?
Most parts of Ethiopia experience two main climate seasons - a dry season (October - May) and a rainy season (June - August). However, differences in altitude tend to add a number of variations, both in terms of temperatures and rainfall. Lowland areas usually see hotter temperatures than the Highland regions, which cover a great portion of Ethiopia. Here, weather conditions are noticeably cooler and there are also generally higher levels of rainfall to be expected.