Short Southern Ethiopia Tour to Omo Valley

Explore Southern Ethiopia with a 6-day tour through Arba Minch, Konso, and the Southern Omo Valley. Visit indigenous ethnic groups like the Hamar, Karo, Ari and Mursi. One of our responsible guides will lead you through the villages and markets to show you the different cultures. Being a short tour, it can be easily booked as an extension to another trip.
Embark on a 6-day culturally immersive journey through Southern Ethiopia, beginning with the rich landscapes of Arba Minch. Explore the vibrant culture of the Konso people and witness their sustainable agricultural practices. Head deeper into the Omo Valley, visiting the remote Turmi and Jinka towns to interact with indigenous ethnic group such as the Hamar, Mursi, and Karo. This carefully curated tour not only brings you close to nature but also emphasizes responsible travel, with a focus on empowering local communities and preserving cultural heritage.
Tour Code: CU55
Operator: SimienEcoTours
Gallery
Itinerary & In/Exclusions
Day 1
Arrival to Arba Minch – Lake Chamo & wildlife explorationFlight time: 1.5 h
Travel time: 1 h; 50 km
Start your eco-friendly Southern Ethiopia tour in Arba Minch, a picturesque town surrounded by lush forests and known for its two beautiful lakes—Lake Abaya and Lake Chamo. Upon arrival, you will check into your eco-friendly accommodation, offering stunning views of the Rift Valley. In the afternoon, take a boat trip on Lake Chamo to observe crocodiles, hippos, and birdlife in their natural habitat. Enjoy the serenity of the landscape as the sun sets over the water, marking the perfect start to your journey.
Meals: B/L/D
Accommodation: Paradise Lodge
https://www.paradiselodgeethiopia.com
or similar, Arba Minch
Day 2
Discover Konso’s UNESCO cultural heritage and sustainable farmingTravel time: 5:30h; 90 km
After breakfast, Visit the UNESCO-listed Konso Cultural Landscape to explore terraced hills, sustainable farming practices, and traditional Wakas statues. This region is a testament to the sustainable farming practices of the Konso people. You will learn about their intricate irrigation systems and unique social organization, gaining insights into how they have thrived in a challenging environment. After exploring Konso, you’ll return to Arba Minch, where you can relax by the lakeside and reflect on the day's cultural immersion.
Meals: B/L/D
paradise Lodge
https://www.paradiselodgeethiopia.com
or similar, Arba Minch
Day 3
Drive to Turmi – heart of the southern Omo ValleyTravel time: 4 h; 280 km
Today, you will embark on a scenic drive to Turmi, located deep in the Omo Valley, home to the indigenous Hamar people. Turmi is known for its vibrant cultural festivals and traditions. Upon arrival, you’ll have the chance to visit a local village, where you’ll witness daily life and may even see the unique bull-jumping ceremony (doesn’t happen often), a rite of passage for young men in the Hamar tribe. This day offers a deep dive into the traditions and customs of one of Ethiopia’s most fascinating indigenous groups.
Meals: B/L/D
Accommodation: Buska Lodge
https://www.buskalodge.com
or similar, Turmi
Day 4
Explore Turmi – Visit Karo & Dassanech in the Omo ValleyTravel time: 3.5 h; 100 km
Today, you will further immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Omo Valley by visiting nearby tribal villages such as the Karo and Dassanech. The Karo people are renowned for their body painting and intricate scarification, which they use to enhance their beauty and social status. Meanwhile, the Dassanech ethnic group, who live near the Omo River, maintain a semi-nomadic lifestyle. Your guide will provide deep insights into the cultural significance of their practices, making this an unforgettable day of learning and interaction.
Meals: B/L/D
Accommodation Buska Lodge https://www.buskalodge.com
or similar, Turmi
Day 5
Explore Turmi – Visit Karo & Dassanech Tribes in the Omo ValleyTravel: 3 h; 150 km
Today’s adventure takes you to Jinka, where you will meet the Mursi people, one of the most iconic tribes in the Omo Valley. The Mursi women are known for wearing large lip plates, which symbolize beauty and social status. You’ll have the opportunity to respectfully interact with the Mursi community, learning about their unique customs and way of life. In the afternoon, visit the South Omo Research Center to gain further insights into the rich diversity of cultures in the Omo Valley.
Meals: B/L/D
Accommodation: Eco Omo Lodge https://www.eco-omo.com
or similar, Jinka
Day 6
Flight to Addis Ababa – end of Southern Ethiopia Omo Valley TourFlight time: 1 h;
On the final day of your Southern Ethiopia tour, you will board a flight back to Addis Ababa. Spend your time reflecting on the breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and authentic encounters you’ve had along the way. Once back in Addis, you can choose to explore the bustling capital city or simply unwind after your cultural journey through the Omo Valley.
Meals: B/L/D
Accommodation: -
Included
Our services include:- All domestic flights in Ethiopia with Ethiopian Airlines in tourist class (extra of €80 if the international flight is not booked with Ethiopian Airlines)
- All accommodations in double rooms with private toilet/shower in hotels or lodges; supplement for single room €140
- All transfers and travels in Ethiopia with private car
- Full board (1 drink per meal included, alcoholic drinks excluded)
- All entrance fees and permissions at tourist attractions, churches, museums and national parks
- All persons for safety and security (when prescribed)
- All tips for meals
- All (mandatory) local guides in the single destinations
- Experienced SimienEcoTours tour guide (fluently English & Amharic speaking)
Excluded
Our services do not include:- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa in Ethiopia
- Alcoholic drinks
- Tipping
- Photo and video fees (if any)
- All extras and personal expenditures
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