Omo Valley Ethiopia Tribal Photography Expedition – 9 Days

Tour Overview:

Experience the vibrant and ancient cultures of Southern Ethiopia on this immersive 9-day tour through the legendary Omo Valley. From the bustling capital of Addis Ababa to the remote tribal villages near the Kenyan border, this journey offers deep insight into the diverse ethnic groups of Ethiopia. Meet the Dorze, Ari, Mursi, Hamer, Karo, Dassanech, Turkana, Yangatom, and Arbore tribes – each with their unique customs, attire, languages, and traditions. Witness colorful markets, intricate body art, traditional dances, and pastoral lifestyles as you travel through one of Africa’s last great tribal frontiers.

Tour Highlights:

  • View the ancient hominid fossil “Lucy” at the National Museum in Addis Ababa

  • Cruise across Lake Chamo to spot crocodiles, hippos, and birdlife

  • Explore the weaving culture of the Dorze people and their beehive-shaped huts

  • Visit the Ari and Mursi tribes, known for body adornments and clay lip plates

  • Witness vibrant tribal markets in Turmi and Dimeka

  • Explore the body-painted Karo tribe along the Omo River

  • Meet the Dassanech and Turkana tribes near the Kenyan border

  • Discover the unique appearance and crafts of the Arbore and Yangatom tribes

  • Enjoy authentic cultural interaction in one of Africa’s most diverse regions

Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrive in Addis Ababa

Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, you’ll be greeted by our team and transferred to the Harmony Hotel. After a relaxing morning and lunch at the hotel, begin your tour with visits to:

  • National Museum: Home to the 3.6-million-year-old fossil “Lucy”

  • Ethnological Museum at Addis Ababa University

  • Holy Trinity Cathedral
    End the day with a scenic drive up Mount Entoto (10,500 ft), offering panoramic views of Addis Ababa.

  • Overnight: Harmony Hotel

  • Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Fly to Arba Minch – Lake Chamo & Dorze Village

Fly to Arba Minch, the “City of Forty Springs.” Upon arrival, transfer to Paradise Lodge.

  • Take a boat trip on Lake Chamo to view Africa’s largest crocodiles, hippos, and diverse birdlife

  • After lunch, visit the Dorze tribe known for their towering beehive-shaped huts and fine weaving traditions

  • Learn about their unique terracing methods used in hillside farming

  • Overnight: Paradise Lodge

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Arba Minch – Jinka (Capital of Omo Valley)

After breakfast, drive to Jinka with stops along the way to visit:

  • Ari tribal village

  • Jinka Ethnographic Museum: A great introduction to the cultures of the Omo Valley

  • Overnight: Hotel in Jinka

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Jinka – Mago National Park – Mursi Tribe – Turmi

Depart early for Mago National Park to visit the Mursi tribe, known for their iconic lip plates and elaborate scarification.

  • Drive through the scenic Omo Valley to Turmi, stopping en route at Dimeka market and visiting the Banna tribe

  • Overnight: Lodge in Turmi

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Karo Tribe Village & Market Day in Turmi

Morning drive to Murulle along the Omo River to visit the Karo tribe, renowned for their intricate body painting and dramatic hairstyles.

  • Return to Turmi for lunch

  • In the afternoon, explore Turmi’s local market, where the Hamer, Kara, and Banna tribes gather for trade and interaction

  • Overnight: Lodge in Turmi

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Omo River Delta – Dassanech & Turkana Tribes

Drive toward the Kenyan border and cross the Omo River to visit the Dassanech tribe, known for their elaborate hairstyles and environmental adaptability.

  • Continue to the Ethiopian side of Lake Turkana to meet the Turkana tribe

  • Return to Turmi in the evening

  • Overnight: Lodge in Turmi

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Yangatom & Hamer Tribes

Visit the Yangatom tribe, one of the less-visited groups in the Omo Valley, and photograph their village and way of life.

  • Return to Turmi for lunch

  • In the afternoon, visit a Hamer village to experience their unique cultural practices, hairstyles, and traditional dances

  • Overnight: Lodge in Turmi

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Turmi – Arbore Tribe – Arba Minch

Wake up early to enjoy the sunrise over Turmi and walk around the lodge.

  • Drive back to Arba Minch, stopping en route to visit the Arbore tribe

    • Known for black head coverings, colorful beaded jewelry, and beautiful body painting

    • Their wealth is traditionally measured in cattle

  • Overnight: Hotel in Arba Minch

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Fly to Addis Ababa – City Tour – Departure

Fly back to Addis Ababa. Depending on your flight schedule:

  • Visit the National Museum (if missed on Day 1)

  • Enjoy a scenic drive up to Mount Entoto

  • Enjoy a farewell dinner with traditional Ethiopian music and dance at a cultural restaurant

  • Evening transfer to Bole International Airport for your international departure

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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