For several years we have wanted to trek in the Simien Mountains. Once we began cycling in Ethiopia, we could make that dream come true. In the company of two other cyclists, we set off on a 3-day journey across the Roof of Africa. Along the way we encountered several groups of the famed Gelada monkeys, as well as several other species unique to the Ethiopian Highlands. And it all had the backdrop of stunning mountains, rugged cliffs, and heart-pounding ascents reaching more than 4,000 m (13,350 ft) into the sky.

Our days in Sudan came to an end with a quick, 2-day run through the eastern edge of Dinder National Park to the border with Ethiopia. As we discovered, border areas between African countries can have an air of danger. We encountered a protest, illegal woodcutting, mangled roads, and some sketchy customs officials at the border crossing.