6-Days Omo-Valley Cultural Tour (A)

Short Information of the Tour.

Tour Code: AETT-0J6 Cultural and Photography Tour Program of Southern Ethiopia

Attraction: Cultural, History, Religion, Tribes, Nomads, Nature, Adventure, Scenery and Wildlife

Duration: 6 Days

Transportation: Surface Drive, and Boat Ride

Time: Throughout the Year

Short Summary:

The Mago National Park is home to seven of the tribes of the Omo Valley. This is a good destination if you want to meet these fascinating people, and begin to understand the way they live and work as an integral cog in the ecosystem. With good access to the people, as well as large markets that are open to visitors, this is a fantastic way to explore the oldest culture in the world.

The Dorze tribe have a rich weaving tradition. Formerly warriors, today they make a living by weaving and farming. They are a large community living north of Addis Ababa, producing some of the finest colourful woven cotton. With a rich musical tradition, the polyphonic multi-part vocals of the Dorze feature complex use of a number of elements of rhythm and melody which can also be found in Western music. of Any disputes which may arise within the group are settled by the tribe elders.

Living along the Lower Omo River, the Karo tribe is one of rich, cultural rituals with the people who are known for their chalk painted bodies and amazing head-dresses. They have a ritual which signifies their passage into adulthood called the ‘Pilla’ where the adolescent boys have to jump over a number of oxen without falling to become men. With a population of around 1,000, annual flooding of the river is important to the survival of the tribe as they rely on the rich silt to grow their crops of sorghum, maize and beans.

This Omo Valley private tour package allows you to visit most of the famous Omo Valley tribes authentically and uniquely. We also offer 6-day Omo Valley tours from Addis Ababa and Arba Minch. Book this trip package and experience life with the Omo Valley tribes such as Mursi, Banna, Hamar, Karo (Kara), and Dassanech tribes.

You will also visit tribal markets such as Keyafer, Dimeka, Turmi, or Alduba Markets. You may get the chance to attend the Hamar Bull Jumping Ceremony (optional) or the Evangadi Dancing Ceremony of the Hamar and the Banna (Bana) tribes.

Day 1 : Fly Addis Ababa to Jinka (Baco) – Drive to Turmi (Hamar Tribe)

Our driver pick us from Jinka airport and continue driving 130km to Turmi town. On the way, we will visit a village of the Banna tribe and Hamar village or attend the available ceremonial events (Optional).

Overnight: Hotel in Turmi

Day 2 : Drive from Turmi to Omo Rate and Visit the Dassanech people – Return back to Turmi

Drive 70km south to meet with the Dassanech people. The word Dassanech means people of the delta. They are unique people whose livelihood interlay depends on the Omo River. Return to Turmi for lunch. We may also see the Bull Jumping Ceremony (Optional).

Today, we will visit the Turmi market where the Hamar, Karo tribes come all together to buy, sell and exchange their products.

Overnight: Hotel in Turmi

Day 3 : Drive from Turmi to Karo tribe village and visit the Kara people – Continue to Jinka via Turmi

Drive 65km west of Turmi and meet the Kara (Karo) tribe famous for body and facial paintings. They live in a beautiful village by the shore of the Omo River. You will meet the kara people and visit a family who will prepare a traditional coffee ceremony in their house. You will have the chance to discuss with the family and get a genuine connection with the people. In the afternoon, head to Jinka 128 km from Turmi.

Today, on the way, we will also be able to visit the biggest market of Omo valley Dimeka.

Overnight: Hotel in Jinka

Day 4 : Visit Mursi People by driving through the Mago National Park – Continue to Konso Via Jinka

Drive some 50km through the Mago National Park to meet face to face with the most famous Mursi tribe. The Mursi are popular for lip plates. They also do extensive body scarification. You will return to Jinka for lunch and continue the 140km drive on an asphalt road to Konso.

Overnight: Hotel in Konso

Day 5 : Drive from Konso to Arbaminch – Visit the Dorze Village – Arba Minch

On the morning of this day, you will visit Konso village UNESCO world heritage site. You will discover the ancient wall or fortress of the Konso village, the community houses (Mora), and generation poles. You will also visit the Konso chief’s compound and meet him at his traditional palace. You will visit his ancestral graveyard inside the forest by walking for about 20 minutes one way. Continue to Arba Minch for lunch and prosed to Dorze peoples village located on top of the Guge Mountain at an altitude of 2400 meters. You will enjoy the traditional doze food made from the False Banana (Enset) plant, and experience the traditional techniques of weaving and making pottery.

Overnight: Hotel in Arba Minch

Day 6 : Boat Trip on Lake Chamo – Fly from Arba Minch to Addis Ababa

After breakfast, you will drive 10km to Lake Chamo and go on a boat trip to see Crocodiles, Hippos, and some birdlife at the so-called Crocodile Market. You will return back to Arba Minch and head to the airport before or after lunchtime to cache your flight back to Addis Ababa.