A Journey Into Ethiopia’s Living Cultural Museum
Travel to the heart of southern Ethiopia and explore the legendary Omo Valley, one of the most culturally diverse regions in Africa. Home to over a dozen indigenous tribes, the Omo Valley offers a rare opportunity to experience age-old customs, striking body adornments, and vibrant ceremonies that have remained unchanged for centuries.
Tour Highlights
- Visit the Mursi, Hamar, Karo, Dassanech, and Ari tribes
- Witness traditional ceremonies and unique body art practices
- Explore weekly tribal markets and remote villages
- Scenic drives through the Great Rift Valley
- Guided cultural interactions with expert local interpreters
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa
- Arrive at Bole International Airport and meet your local guide
- City tour (time permitting): National Museum, Holy Trinity Cathedral
- Welcome dinner with cultural music and dance
Overnight: Hotel in Addis Ababa
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Addis Ababa – Arba Minch
- Drive or fly to Arba Minch, gateway to the south
- Stop at the Rift Valley Lakes en route
- Visit the Dorze people known for their beehive-shaped huts and weaving skills
Overnight: Lodge in Arba Minch
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Arba Minch – Konso – Jinka
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Konso village
- Continue to Jinka, stopping at villages and scenic viewpoints
- Brief visit to the South Omo Research Center (time permitting)
Overnight: Lodge in Jinka
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Jinka – Mursi Village – Turmi
- Morning excursion to meet the Mursi tribe, famous for women’s lip plates and elaborate scarification
- Cross the Mago National Park to Turmi, home of the Hamar people
- Attend a Hamar village visit or a possible bull-jumping ceremony (based on timing)
Overnight: Lodge in Turmi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Turmi – Dassanech Tribe – Turmi
- Drive to Omorate, near the Omo River
- Visit the Dassanech people, known for their resilience and river-based lifestyle
- Return to Turmi and relax or explore a local market (depending on the day)
Overnight: Lodge in Turmi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Turmi – Karo Tribe – Arba Minch
- Morning visit to the Karo tribe in Korcho village, overlooking the Omo River
- Admire their intricate body painting and artistic traditions
- Return to Arba Minch with scenic views and stops along the way
Overnight: Lodge in Arba Minch
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Arba Minch – Addis Ababa – Departure
- Return to Addis Ababa by flight or vehicle
- Free time for shopping or optional spa visit
- Farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant
- Airport transfer for departure or extend your stay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tour Includes
- Professional English-speaking guide and local interpreters
- All transportation (4x4 vehicles for off-road routes)
- Domestic flights (if included in package)
- Quality accommodations and all meals listed
- Park entrance fees and village contributions
Not Included
- International flights
- Tips, souvenirs, and personal expenses
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
Responsible Travel Notice
We conduct all visits with cultural sensitivity and respect. Photography is allowed with permission, and we encourage genuine, low-impact engagement with communities.
Explore a world untouched by time.
Book your Omo Valley Tribal Tour today and step into living history.