Debark is the small highland town at the foot of the Simien Mountains that serves as the gateway to the national park. Most trekkers arrive here from Gondar — a three-hour drive on a good road — and spend a night before beginning the trek the following morning. Debark has a handful of guesthouses, basic restaurants, and the national park headquarters where permits, guides, and scouts are organised.
The park offices in Debark handle all booking formalities. A licensed guide is mandatory, and an armed scout must accompany all trekking groups — both are organised here, with fees set by the park. Mule rental for luggage is also arranged in Debark; given the altitude and multi-day distances, using a mule significantly improves the trekking experience. Stock up on food and supplies in Debark before heading into the park — there are no shops within the park itself. The town sits at about 2,900 metres elevation; arriving from Gondar (around 2,100m) gives the body a night to begin adjusting before the real altitude of the trek begins.