Arrival in Addis Ababa and Sightseeing

National Museum of Ethiopia - This museum showcases Ethiopia’s artistic heritage. It features numerous valuable archaeological artifacts, including the fossilized remains of early hominids, most notably “Lucy,” the partial skeleton of an Australopithecus afarensis.

Mount Entoto - Enjoy a breathtaking view of Addis Ababa.
The summit is the highest point on this mountain, offering a stunning view of the capital city. According to legend, Emperor Menelik II and Empress Taitu first saw Addis Ababa from here and chose it as the nation’s capital. The mountain provides a spectacular view of the city nestled at its base.

St. George’s Cathedral - Situated at the northern end of Churchill Road, this Orthodox cathedral is renowned for its distinctive octagonal design. Created by Sebastiano Castagna and built by Italian prisoners of war defeated at Adwa in 1896, it was named St. George because the church’s ark was present at the battle of Adwa, where Ethiopians triumphed over the Italians. The cathedral was destroyed by Italian Fascists in 1937 but was rebuilt by the Emperor after liberation in 1941.

MERKATO - The largest open market in Africa.
Spanning several square miles, Mercato hosts over 7,000 businesses and approximately 15,000 people, making it the largest open-air market in Africa. The market’s main products include coffee, building materials, clothing, vegetables, spices, and other locally grown agricultural goods. Additionally, there is an intriguing and vibrant recycling market that can be explored on foot with a guide.

Addis Ababa to Arbaminch

Arba Minch - Discover the natural beauty of Arbaminch with a one-hour tour of its renowned 40 Springs. Start at the scenic viewpoint to admire the lush greenery and vibrant waters, while a guide shares insights about the springs’ significance and local folklore. Walk along the shaded paths, enjoy the refreshing atmosphere, and appreciate the unique flora and fauna. This brief excursion offers a delightful escape into nature, ideal for those seeking a quick yet enriching experience.

Dorze Village - A one-hour drive uphill to Chencha leads to the Dorze, a small segment of the Omotic language group in southern Ethiopia. Formerly warriors, they now engage in farming and weaving for their livelihood. Their weaving success is remarkable, and the Dorze name is synonymous with the finest woven cotton cloth. Each impressive Dorze bamboo house features a small garden surrounded by enset (false banana plantation), spice beds, cabbage, and tobacco (the Dorze are avid smokers). The main house is a tall, up to twelve meters, beehive-shaped structure with an aristocratic ‘nose,’ serving as a reception room for guests, usually furnished with two benches. The vaulted ceiling and walls of the spacious and airy houses are elegantly thatched with enset, forming a smooth and steep unbroken dome.

Arbaminch to Konso to Turmi

Konso - On the way to Turmi, visit Konso, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Ethiopia. Konso is famous for its stone-walled villages and cultural landscape, particularly recognized for their communal sustainable terrace system.

Turmi - Then, travel from Jinka to Turmi, home to the Hamer people.
The Hamer are a well-known tribe in the Omo Valley, especially for their women’s striking hairstyles, and are considered the friendliest tribe in the Omo Valley, Ethiopia.

Excursion to Desanch (Omo River)

Dimeka Town - Visit one of the Turmi villages today to learn about and experience their lifestyle, housing, music, coffee, and more. If it’s Saturday, market day, you will also visit Dimeka.

Turmi to Karo to Jinka

Jinka to Mago National Park to Ari Village

Mago National Park - Take a day trip to Mago National Park to visit the Mursi settlement. The Mursi are one of Ethiopia’s more unique ethnic groups. Their homes are made of straw leaves and are quite low. The women enjoy adorning their earlobes and dramatically enlarged lower lips with terracotta.

Jinka - The Ari are the most populous group in the middle Omo Valley. Women wear skirts made from Enset, a tree resembling a banana, and are skilled in pottery.

Jinka to Addis Ababa + International Departure

Addis Ababa - Afterward, you will be taken to Jinka Airport for your flight to Addis Ababa. In the evening, enjoy a folkloric dinner to witness the dances of Ethiopia’s diverse ethnic groups and sample a variety of traditional dishes. The customary coffee ceremony will also be held. Later, you will be transported to the airport for your departure.

• Dinner
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Breakfast
• All fees and/or taxes

Embark on a seven-day exploration of Ethiopia’s Omo Valley to delve into its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Enjoy a seamless hotel pickup before setting off on an adventure that encompasses everything: the highlights of Addis Ababa, the wildlife of Lake Chamo, the unique beehive-shaped huts of Dorze village, the Mursi village in Mago National Park, the UNESCO heritage site of Konso village, and more. This unforgettable journey includes delicious complimentary meals, six nights of accommodation, the expertise of a knowledgeable local guide, and comfortable transportation.

Omo Valley Tours specializes in distinctive, locally-led tribal and ethnic experiences, focusing exclusively on the Omo region in southern Ethiopia. The operator will help you uncover the most ethnically diverse cultures, traditions, and ceremonial events, including visits to the most remote areas of the Omo Valley.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.