Omo valley

Day 1

Depart south from Addis Ababa via Butajira. Visit the UNESCO-listed Tiya stelae field, the rock-hewn church of Adadi Maryam, and the prehistoric tool-making site of Melka Kunture. Continue your scenic journey into the Great Rift Valley toward Awassa for your overnight stay.

Day 2

After breakfast, explore Awassa’s vibrant fish market along the lakefront. Then head south into the highlands to visit the Dorze people, known for their towering woven huts and masterful cotton weaving traditions. Enjoy a cultural village walk and—if timed right—visit the Dorze or Chencha market. Overnight in a Dorze eco-hut or continue to Arba Minch for the night.

Dorze homes resemble woven beehives—towering and ingeniously designed.

Day 3

Take in a bustling Dorze or Chencha market depending on the day, then descend to Arba Minch. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Chamo to witness basking crocodiles, hippos, and numerous bird species at the famous “Crocodile Market.” Overnight at hotel or lodge in Arba Minch.

Day 4

Travel through the Weyto Valley and visit the Tsemai village (market days Saturday) and Erbore communities before arriving in Turmi—home of the Hamer people. In the evening, enjoy traditional night dancing known as Evangadi under the stars. Overnight in Turmi hotel or lodge.

Day 5

Take a day trip to Omorate near the Omo River. Cross by local boat to visit the Dassenech tribe and explore their unique traditions. Return to Turmi and, if timed right, visit a Hamer village and experience the iconic bull-jumping rite of passage. Overnight in Turmi.

Day 6

Depart for Jinka, stopping in Dimeka and Key Afar. If your visit aligns with market days (Tuesdays and Saturdays), witness one of the most colorful gatherings in the valley—where Hamer, Benna, and Karo communities trade goods and stories. Overnight in Jinka hotel or lodge.

Day 7

Morning drive through Mago National Park to visit the Mursi tribe—famous for their large lip plates and body scarification. In the afternoon, visit the South Omo Museum or take a scenic hike to a local Ari village to learn about farming and coffee traditions. Overnight in Jinka.

Day 8

Drive to Konso, stopping in Key Afar for the Thursday market where Benna and Tsemai communities gather. In Konso, explore UNESCO-recognized stone terracing systems and visit the Konso cultural museum, home to wooden waka statues. Time permitting, visit the towering earth spires of the “New York” formations. Overnight in Konso lodge.

Day 9

Journey north to Lake Langano. On the way, stop at Senkele Wildlife Sanctuary to spot Swayne’s hartebeest, endemic to Ethiopia. Arrive at Langano for lakeside relaxation and overnight at a resort or eco-lodge.

Day 10

Enjoy a morning swim or birdwatching at Lake Langano before heading back to Addis Ababa. En route, explore Abiatta-Shala National Park, where flamingos flourish near soda lakes and deep volcanic formations shape the landscape. Arrive in Addis in the evening.

End of Tour.

*Itinerary may adjust to align with regional market days for a richer cultural experience.