Geladas on the Roof of Africa

Geladas on the Roof of Africa: High above the clouds on Ethiopia’s dramatic Simien Mountains—often called the “Roof of Africa”—a remarkable primate thrives in one of the most breathtaking landscapes on the continent. The gelada, sometimes known as the “bleeding-heart monkey” because of the distinctive red patch on its chest, is the only grass-eating primate in the world and one of Africa’s most charismatic species. Found nowhere else on Earth, these social, expressive, and highly intelligent primates roam the rugged highlands in large herds, grazing peacefully along sheer cliffs that drop into mist-filled valleys. Travellers who visit the Simiens experience the rare privilege of walking alongside geladas at close but respectful distances, observing their intricate social interactions—grooming, foraging, playful chases, and the deep-chested calls that echo across the mountain escarpments.