New Expedition From Undiscovered People – 10 Days
Tour Overview:
Explore one of Ethiopia’s most culturally rich and least-visited regions on this 10-day expedition through western Ethiopia. From the historic monasteries of Lake Tana and the power of the Blue Nile Falls to the intimate encounters with unique ethnic groups such as the Agew, Gumze, Berta, Mao, Komo, and the recently discovered Ganzo people—this tour offers a rare look into untouched traditions and lifestyles. Expect scenic drives, colorful markets, cultural immersion, camping experiences, and encounters with ancient and modern Ethiopia.
Tour Highlights:
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Discover Lake Tana’s historic island monasteries and the breathtaking Blue Nile Falls
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Visit the ancient Debre Libanos Monastery and Portuguese Bridge
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Explore the colorful local markets of the Agew, Gumze, and Berta people
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Camp by Zengena Lake and meet traditional gold miners of Sherkole
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Encounter the rare and newly documented Ganzo tribe, one of Ethiopia’s least-known ethnic groups
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Trek volcanic landscapes, visit sacred mosques, and immerse in tribal cultures
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Conclude with a festive dinner and traditional dance performance in Addis Ababa
Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa
Meet your guide at Bole International Airport and transfer to your hotel. After rest, enjoy an afternoon city tour including the National Museum or Holy Trinity Cathedral.
Overnight: Hotel in Addis Ababa
Day 2: Addis Ababa – Bahir Dar via Debre Libanos
Drive north to visit Debre Libanos Monastery, the Portuguese Bridge, and the dramatic Jamma River Gorge. Continue across the Blue Nile Gorge to Bahir Dar.
Overnight: Hotel in Bahir Dar
Day 3: Bahir Dar – Blue Nile Falls & Lake Tana Monasteries
Morning visit to the stunning Blue Nile Falls. Afternoon boat excursion on Lake Tana to visit Ura Kidane Mehret, Zeghie Peninsula monasteries, and Asua Mariam.
Overnight: Hotel in Bahir Dar
Day 4: Bahir Dar – Agew & Gumze Market Exploration – Zengena Lake
Drive to Kossober to visit the Gojam and Agew markets. Continue to Chagni and Mandura to explore vibrant markets of the Gumze people.
Overnight: Camping near Zengena Lake
Day 5: Zengena Lake – Dahans Baguna – Shinasha (Agew Village)
Morning visit to the Gumze and Agew market at Dahans Baguna. Then explore traditional Agew villages en route to the Blue Nile.
Overnight: Camping at Shinasha (Agew village)
Day 6: Shinasha – Blue Nile & Berta Gold Miners – Asosa
Visit Guba/Mankush village and see remnants of Dej Asmach Jemal’s palace. Continue to Janga for views of the Blue Nile (“Sirba Abay”), and Sherkole to witness traditional gold mining by the Berta people.
Overnight: Camping at Mango Campground (Asosa)
Day 7: Borderlands Exploration – Gold Market – Ganzo Tribe Village
Morning drive to Kumruk for permits, then visit salt and gold markets around Fametsere. Afternoon visit to Bambasi’s market to see Oromo, Mao, and Komo tribes. Evening highlight: visit the rare Ganzo tribe, engage in their traditions, and share a meal and dance.
Overnight: Camping at Ye’amsera (Tongo region)
Day 8: Ye’amsera – Trek & Return to Asosa
Morning return visit to Ganzo village. Optional short trek in Inzi for stunning landscape views.
Overnight: Mango Campground in Asosa
Day 9: Asosa – Nekemte
Scenic drive to Nekemte with stops to observe rural life and Wollo resettlements.
Overnight: Hotel in Nekemte
Day 10: Nekemte – Addis Ababa & Departure
Drive back to Addis Ababa. Afternoon visit to Merkato (Africa’s largest open-air market). Farewell traditional dinner with dance show. Evening transfer to the airport for departure.
Includes:
- Airport transfers and road transport by private car
- Full board, including mineral water.
- Full camping equipment including tents, mattresses and sleeping bags for camping and trekking.
- Recommended to bring your own sleeping bag.
- Fees for entrances, local guides, compulsory scouts/ security personnel for activities mentioned in the itinerary.
- All government taxes for the services included in the tour price
Excludes:
- Additional food and drinks
- Personal expenses
- Souvenirs
