Our Story
We Don't Just Show You Ethiopia.
We Help You Feel It.
Discover Simien Tours was born from a simple belief: that travel should change you. For 15 years, we've been guiding travelers through the most extraordinary landscapes on Earth — and watching them leave as different people.
15+
Years of Experience
1,200+
Happy Travelers
50+
Tour Packages
6
Countries Covered
4.9★
Average Rating
98%
Satisfaction Rate
"I grew up watching the gelada baboons from my window. I wanted the world to see what I saw."
— Sahlie Beza, Founder
Our Story
Born in the Highlands.
Built on Passion.
Discover Simien Tours was founded by Sahlie Beza, a native of the Amhara highlands who grew up watching gelada baboons graze outside his window and trekking the Simien escarpments before he could drive.
In 2009, Sahlie led his first official trek — six travelers, seven days, and a journey that changed everyone involved. Word spread. More travelers came. A company was born.
Today, Discover Simien Tours is a team of passionate local experts who have collectively spent thousands of days in the field — guiding, learning, and building relationships with the communities that make Ethiopia extraordinary.
We are not a booking platform. We are not a travel agency. We are guides who happen to run a company — and that difference shows in everything we do.
Our Journey
15 Years in the Making
The Beginning
Sahlie Beza leads his first official trek through the Simien Mountains. 6 travelers. 7 days. A life-changing experience for everyone involved.
Growing Roots
Word of mouth brings the first international clients. The team grows to 5 guides. The first custom itinerary is designed for a family from Germany.
East Africa Expansion
We extend our expertise to Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The first multi-country East Africa expedition is completed successfully.
Recognition
Certified by the Ethiopian Tourism Board. Joined ATTA. Received our first TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence.
Responsible Tourism
Launched our community fund — 40% of guide fees now go directly to highland communities. Carbon-neutral operations certified.
Today
1,200+ travelers served. 4.9★ average rating. 50+ tour packages. Still guided by the same passion that started it all in 2009.
Why Choose Us
What Makes Us Different
There are many tour operators in Ethiopia. Here's why 1,200+ travelers chose us — and why 98% say they would again.
Born Here
Our founder and guides grew up in the regions we operate. This is not a job — it is home. That depth of local knowledge is irreplaceable.
Truly Custom
Every itinerary is designed from scratch for each traveler. We do not sell fixed packages — we build journeys around you.
Safety Record
Zero serious incidents in 15 years. Certified mountain rescue guides. Emergency oxygen on all high-altitude treks. Satellite communication in remote areas.
Always Reachable
WhatsApp, email, phone — we respond within 2 hours. During your trip, your guide is available 24/7. You are never alone.
Ethical Tourism
40% of guide fees go directly to local communities. We work with family-owned lodges. We leave places better than we found them.
Proven Results
4.9 stars from 1,200+ verified reviews. 98% satisfaction rate. 35% of our clients are repeat travelers or referrals.
What We Stand For
Our Values
These are not corporate values written by a committee. They are the principles that guide every decision we make.
Authentic Experiences
We design journeys that go beyond tourist trails — into real communities, real landscapes, and real moments that stay with you forever.
Your Safety First
Every trek, every expedition, every journey is planned with safety as the non-negotiable foundation. Certified guides, emergency protocols, satellite communication.
Local Expertise
We are Ethiopian. We grew up here. We know every trail, every family, every season. That knowledge is something no foreign operator can replicate.
Responsible Tourism
We give back to the communities we visit. 40% of our guide fees go directly to local families. We leave places better than we found them.
Personalized Service
No two travelers are the same. Every itinerary we design is built around you — your pace, your interests, your budget, your dream.
Honest Communication
We tell you exactly what to expect — the challenges, the rewards, the realities. No surprises. No hidden costs. Just honest guidance.
The People Behind Your Journey
Meet Our Team
Real people. Real expertise. Real passion for Ethiopia and East Africa.
Sahlie Beza
Founder & Lead Guide
Born in the Simien Mountains. Has guided over 800 treks across Ethiopia and East Africa. Speaks Amharic, English, and French.
Mellese Beza
Operations Director
Manages all logistics, partnerships, and quality control. Ensures every trip runs flawlessly from first inquiry to final farewell.
Melashu Tilahun
Senior Mountain Guide
Certified mountain guide with expertise in high-altitude trekking. Has summited Ras Dashen over 200 times.
Our full team includes 20+ certified guides across Ethiopia and East Africa.
Meet Your GuideTrust & Credentials
Licensed. Certified. Trusted.
Ethiopian Tourism Board
Licensed tour operator
ATTA Member
African Travel & Tourism Association
Responsible Travel
Certified ethical operator
Mountain Rescue
Certified first aid & rescue
Traveler Stories
What Our Travelers Say
"Discover Simien Tours is the real deal. Sahlie has been guiding in these mountains his entire life. The knowledge, the care, the attention to detail — nothing compares."
Sarah Mitchell
USA · March 2026
Simien Mountains Trek
"I have used many tour operators across Africa. Discover Simien Tours is in a completely different league. Professional, personal, and genuinely passionate about Ethiopia."
Thomas Keller
Germany · January 2026
Danakil Expedition
"From the first email to the final goodbye, every interaction was warm, professional, and reassuring. I felt completely safe and completely cared for throughout."
Amelia Rodriguez
UK · November 2025
Lalibela & Gondar Tour
Our Commitment
Travel That Gives Back
We believe tourism should benefit the places and people it touches. That's not a marketing statement — it's how we've operated since day one.
40% to Communities
Forty percent of all guide fees go directly to highland communities through our community fund.
Carbon-Neutral Operations
We offset all vehicle emissions and encourage low-impact travel wherever possible.
Local Partnerships
We work exclusively with family-owned lodges, local restaurants, and community-run campsites.
Education Support
We fund school supplies and educational materials for children in the communities we visit.
$180,000+
contributed to local communities since 2022
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Travel?
Let's Build Your Perfect Journey.
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