Founder & Lead Guide

Trek Ethiopia with the man who calls these mountains home.

As a boy growing up in the shadow of the Simiens, I watched travelers pass through my village and knew I held the key to showing them the Ethiopia I loved. That’s still what drives every trek we run today.

Hello — I’m Tesema, but my friends call me Tevan. I am the founder and lead guide of Simien Ethio Tours.

Our Story

From local roots to unforgettable journeys.

What began as showing visitors around my hometown grew into a passion for sharing the authentic soul of Ethiopia — from the misty peaks of the Simiens to the ancient churches of Lalibela. Simien Ethio Tours is fully authorized to operate as a professional travel agency, bringing travelers from around the world to experience the real Ethiopia.

Our mission is simple: journeys that are meaningful for travelers seeking genuine connection, responsible in how they support local communities, and unforgettable through personalized service and local insight. We believe the best trips feel like exploring with a knowledgeable friend — not following a scheduled tour.

Our Official License Guarantees

  • Full legal compliance with Ethiopian tourism regulations
  • Your safety and comfort as our legal responsibility
  • Transparent and trustworthy operations
  • Money that stays in the local community — supporting families around Gondar and the Simien Mountains
—National Qualification Certificate, Level IV: (Advanced Professional), Ministry of Labor and Skills — valid through October 2028
—100% locally owned: Licensed by the Amhara National Regional State Trade and Market Development Bureau
—Personally leads treks: Not a booking agent who hands you off to strangers

Why Travel With Us?



We don’t just show you places — we introduce you to our home.

Our team consists of local guides born and raised in Northern Ethiopia around Gondar and the Simien Mountains. We know the hidden trails, the best viewpoints, and the families who’ll welcome you in for a traditional coffee ceremony.

Small Groups, Big Experiences

We intentionally keep our groups small — 2 to 10 people — because:

  • You get personalized attention from your guide
  • We can adapt if you want to spend more time somewhere
  • It creates a family-like atmosphere, not a tourist herd

More Than Just Sightseeing

On our tours you’re not a spectator — you’re a guest in our world. You’ll:

  • Learn how to roast coffee the traditional way
  • Hear stories passed down through generations
  • Support local families and community projects

    Reliability Meets Authenticity

    Authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences — without compromising on:

    • Safety — certified guides and well-maintained equipment
    • Comfort — clean accommodations and reliable transportation
    • Value — transparent pricing with no hidden costs
      What Makes Us Different

      Most companies say “professional.” Here’s what that looks like.

      A real breakfast menu

      Fresh-cooked, high-altitude fuel — not a granola bar.

      A proper camping setup

      Clean tents, organized gear, set up before you arrive.

      The team behind the trek

      Guide, cook, and scout — the people actually on the trail with you.

      From TripAdvisor & Google

      What travelers say after trekking with us.