Omo Valley (Arba Minch, Jinka, Tumri, Omorate & Mursi) Tours – 7 Days
Tour Overview:
This immersive 7-day journey through southern Ethiopia offers an extraordinary look into the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. From the bustling capital of Addis Ababa to the remote tribal villages of the Omo Valley, you’ll engage with ancient traditions, vibrant markets, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Highlights include meeting the Mursi, Hamer, and Dassanech peoples, crossing the Omo River, and enjoying scenic landscapes, crater lakes, and national parks.
Tour Highlights:
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Visit the National Museum to see the famous 3.2-million-year-old fossil “Lucy”
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Explore traditional tribal cultures including the Mursi, Hamer, Dassanech, and Dorze
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Discover UNESCO-listed Tiya Stele Field
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Boat ride across the Omo River to meet the Dassanech people
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Market visits in Key Afer or Dimeka (depending on day)
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Stunning views from Mount Entoto and crater lakes near Debre Zeit
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Traditional farewell dinner with Ethiopian music and dance
Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa
Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, our representative will welcome you and transfer you to Harmony Hotel. Enjoy a relaxing morning followed by lunch at the hotel.
In the afternoon, explore Addis Ababa’s major historical sites:
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National Museum (home to “Lucy”)
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Ethnological Museum at Addis Ababa University
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Holy Trinity Cathedral
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Scenic drive to Mount Entoto for panoramic city views
Overnight: Harmony Hotel (L, D)
Day 2: Addis Ababa – Arba Minch (via Butajira)
After breakfast, drive south via the Butajira route. En route visits include:
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Tiya Stele Field (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
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Dorze village, known for unique beehive-shaped houses and weaving culture
Enjoy the lush scenery as you continue toward Arba Minch.
Overnight: Paradise Lodge, Arba Minch
Day 3: Arba Minch – Turmi
Early morning departure to Turmi. On market days (Thursdays/Saturdays), stop at the colorful Key Afer or Dimeka markets, rich with tribal trade and culture.
In Turmi, experience the Hamer people, known for their body adornments and traditional dances.
Overnight: Buska Lodge, Turmi
Day 4: Turmi – Omorate – Turmi
After breakfast, drive to Omorate, cross the Omo River by traditional boat, and visit the Dassanech (Geleb) people.
Return to Turmi for a visit to the local market (if open) and enjoy the rest of the day exploring.
Overnight: Buska Lodge, Turmi
Day 4: Turmi – Omorate – Turmi
After breakfast, drive to Omorate, cross the Omo River by traditional boat, and visit the Dassanech (Geleb) people.
Return to Turmi for a visit to the local market (if open) and enjoy the rest of the day exploring.
Overnight: Buska Lodge, Turmi
Day 5: Turmi – Jinka – Mursi Village – Jinka
After breakfast, head to Jinka and continue into Mago National Park to visit the Mursi tribe, known for their iconic lip plates and body scarification.
Return to Jinka in the evening.
Overnight: Jinka Resort
Day 6: Jinka – Arba Minch
After breakfast, begin your drive back to Arba Minch. En route, enjoy more scenic views and possibly revisit cultural markets depending on timing.
Overnight: Paradise Lodge, Arba Minch
Day 7: Arba Minch – Addis Ababa – Departure
Drive back to Addis Ababa with photo stops en route.
Visit the scenic crater lakes of Debre Zeit (Bishoftu) before arriving in the capital.
In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the city’s best traditional restaurants, complete with live Ethiopian music and dance.
Transfer to the airport for your international 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
