Sankaber Campsite — Simien Mountains National Park

Sankaber is the first established camp inside the park boundary, roughly 12km east of the Debark gate at around 3,200m elevation. It’s the standard first-night stop for anyone traversing the Simien high road toward Ras Dashen. Expect a basic but functional setup: stone-walled ranger station, pit latrines, water from a nearby stream (treat it), and tent pitches on grassy terraced ground. The escarpment drops away to the west and the views of the Rift Valley lowlands are legitimately jaw-dropping at golden hour. Rangers camp here too, which adds a level of security.

Access is along the main Simien park track east of Debark — rough gravel and rock, high-clearance minimum, 4WD strongly recommended in wet season (June–September). Park entry fees and mandatory scout/ranger fees are collected at the Debark gate before you reach Sankaber. Budget a full day from Debark if you’re combining the drive with wildlife stops. Gelada baboons are reliably present around camp — don’t leave food unsecured.

Escarpment edge camp at 3,200m