The South and Omo Valley

10 days

Surface

Easy

Discover Ethiopian Tribal Culture in Omo Valley and explore the Great Rift Valley with its lakes and its wilderness area. You will observe many tribes with different traditions and ways of life : Mursi, Konso, Hamer, Benna, Karo, Erbore, Bumi, Omorate, Tsemay, Ari… who have preserved intact their culture and old customs. You will visit villages and lively markets which are meeting places for people from different ethnic groups and from mile around. You will have also the time in order to meet the charming Ethiopian people who live in the Omo Valley and the Great Rift Valley. You will also appreciate sceneries, beautiful nature and animals in the Great Rift Valley and in the Omo Valley.

This 10-day cultural and adventure tour through southern Ethiopia takes you on a journey through the stunning landscapes of the Great Rift Valley, visits to unique tribal communities, and explorations of historical sites.

The tour begins in Addis Ababa, where you’ll explore the city's rich history at landmarks such as the Trinity Cathedral, National Museum, Ethnological Museum, and the bustling Mercato. A scenic drive to Devre Zeit and Langano follows, with a trek on Zakula Mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic views.

From Langano, the adventure continues to Arbaminch, where you’ll visit the Alaba painting house village and experience the culture of the Dorze people, known for their bee-hive shaped huts and vibrant weaving products. A boat trip on Lake Chamo awaits, surrounded by the stunning Nech Sar National Park, where crocodiles and hippos can be observed.

Next, you’ll explore Konso, known for its unique cultural practices and the famous rock formation called "New York". Journeying to Mago National Park and Jinka, you’ll meet the Mursi tribe, renowned for their distinctive lip plates. This leg of the trip also includes visits to local markets, showcasing the vibrant traditions of the Benna, Tsemay, and Ari tribes.

Continuing to Turmi, you’ll encounter the Hamer, Karo, and Bome tribes, with opportunities to witness traditional ceremonies like the Hamer Bull jumping. Visits to Omo Rate offer a glimpse into the life of the Dessanech people near the Kenyan border.

The tour then takes you to Yirga Alem, crossing the coffee-rich Sidama region, with a visit to Dila steles and local coffee processing experiences. In Awasa, you’ll explore the bustling fish market before moving on to Woliso.

The adventure concludes at the breathtaking Wonchi Crater Lake, where a four-hour trek around the scenic lake provides a fitting finale to this unforgettable journey. Back in Addis Ababa, you’ll enjoy free time for shopping and a traditional farewell dinner with cultural dance performances, leaving you with memories of Ethiopia’s vibrant heritage and breathtaking landscapes.

This tour is a perfect blend of cultural immersion, adventure, and natural beauty, showcasing the best of southern Ethiopia’s rich history and diverse communities.

Lake Langano
Arbaminch (Erbore, Dorze Tribes…)
Konso

The people, the traditions, the landscapes—every moment in the Omo Valley felt unique and special.

Rachel S., Italy

Other Tours

Start Planning Your Journey

Don’t wait any longer – your dream journey to Ethiopia awaits! Whether you seek thrilling adventures, cultural discoveries, or serene landscapes, we’re here to craft the perfect experience just for you.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.