Tribes of Omo Valley
Discover the incredible number of different ethnic groups in and around the Omo Valley. Explore their villages, learn about local customs and wander through bustling markets.
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Day 1: Addis Ababa – Jinka
Transfer to Addis Ababa Airport for your flight to Jinka. On arrival visit the South Omo Research Centre and museum which focuses on the various ethnic groups living in South Omo. You also visit a Yetnebersh village to watch how the Ari distil their own liquor from sorghum, garlic and maize.
Hotel: Eco Omo Lodge
Day 2: Jinka – Turmi
This morning head into Mago National Park on the east bank of the River Omo, home to a wide range of ethnic groups. Visit a Mursi village and learn something of their unique habits including lip plates and large decorative ear plugs. En route to Turmi there will be a stop in a Bena village to visit the Beshada people who are adorned with clay and wear impressive headdresses. Afterwards continue to Turmi, home of the proud Hamar tribe. If your visit falls on a Saturday there is an opportunity to wander around the colourful Saturday Dimeka market, where tribes travel for miles to trade.
Hotel: Buska Lodge, 2 nights
Day 3: Turmi
Following breakfast drive and cross the Omo River and visit the Bume tribe who are renowned as great warriors. They are also specialised crocodile hunters using harpoons from a dugout canoe. Cross back over the Omo River and drive to the village of Kolcho to visit the Karo tribes who are considered the masters of body painting when preparing for a dance, feast or celebration.
Day 4: Turmi – Arba Minch
This morning after breakfast drive to Arba Minch. En route you will view the beautiful terraced agricultural fields of the Konso people who are well known for their intricately terraced hillsides, fine woven materials, and the carved totems with which they decorate their graves. This afternoon enjoy a boat trip on Lake Chamo for an opportunity to spot hippos and Nile crocodiles.
Hotel: Haile Arba Minch Resort
Day 5: Arba Minch – Addis Ababa
This morning drive up into the hills to visit to the village of Chencha, home to the Dorze who are renowned cotton weavers whose tall beehive-shaped dwellings are among the most distinctive traditional structures to be seen anywhere in Africa. Their weavings and the shama cloth produced around Chencha is considered to be the finest in Ethiopia. Transfer to Arba Minch Airport your departure flight back to Addis Ababa where tonight you will have a wonderful cultural evening at a local Restaurant. Witness a performance displaying some of the country’s many diverse cultural dances and costumes, and enjoy a traditional meal with a drink of Tej, a type of wine made from Honey.
Hotel: Sheraton Addis Ababa
Day 6: Depart Addis Ababa
This morning transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
Note: We recommend that this journey commences on a Friday to take advantage of a local market visit on Day 2. Departures on alternate days will not include market visits as detailed above and alternate activities will be included. Ask your Travel Specialists for more details.
2020 Dates & Prices | Twin Share | Solo Traveller |
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Departs daily from Addis Ababa | Price on Application | Price on Application |
Inclusions | |
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Meals: | 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners |
Transport: | Airport transfers & air-conditioned vehicle |
Flights: | Air Ticket: Addis Ababa - Jinka / Arba Minch - Addis Ababa |
Accommodation: | 5 nights accommodation |
Guide: | Local Experienced Guides |
Entrance Fees & Touring: | Entrance fees & activities as per itinerary |
* Tour departure dates are subject to availability at time of booking.
* Prices and itinerary are correct at time of publication and are subject to change without notice.