Simien Mountains Biosphere Reserve

The Simien Mountains, in the region of Ethiopia, stand out as a captivating and environmentally significant area within the country's boundaries. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978 for its terrains and diverse wildlife populations, this locale received status as a biosphere reserve, in 2017 aimed at safeguarding its exceptional ecosystems and cultural value while also advancing sustainable growth initiatives.

The Simien Mountains National Park stands out for its peaks and deep valleys that attract hikers and nature lovers alike. Its renowned peak, Ras Dashen rising 4 550 meters above sea level is not Ethiopia's peak but also one of the tallest, in Africa.

The park hosts endangered animals, like the Walia ibex – a species of wild goat exclusively living in the Simien Mountains region.The Ethiopian wolf and the gelada baboon, a primate that feeds on grass, are also residents of this area.

The Simien Mountains hold significance not for their wildlife but for their contributions to the local culture and agriculture scene. Local farmers have been utilizing the terraces etched into the mountainsides for generations with the region hosting villages where ancient farming techniques are still practiced.