9-Day Northern & Southern Ethiopia Culture & Adventure

• You'll be collected from the airport.
• Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Arrival in Jinka and Drive to Turmi

Arrive at Addis Ababa’s Bole International Airport and take a domestic flight to Jinka, gateway to Ethiopia’s South Omo Valley. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by your driver and guide before beginning the scenic drive to Turmi. Along the way, stop to visit the Banna community, known for their colorful attire, body decorations, and rich traditions. Depending on the time of arrival, you may also enjoy a beautiful sunset at a nearby village, offering the chance to immerse yourself in the rhythms of daily life and experience the warm hospitality of the community. Dinner and overnight stay at Emerald Lodge in Turmi.

Main Destination:

Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)

Accommodation:

Emerald Lodge Turmi

• Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)

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+10 Photos

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Karo and Hamer Tribes Exploration

After breakfast, set out on a scenic drive to the Karo people's village along the banks of the Omo River. The Karo are celebrated for their striking body and face paintings, created using natural pigments in intricate patterns that reflect beauty, identity, and cultural pride. Take time to observe their way of life, admire the artistry, and interact with community members. Return to Turmi for lunch before continuing to meet the Hamer people, one of the most renowned people of the Omo Valley. If the occasion allows, witness the extraordinary bull-jumping ceremony, an age-old rite of passage for young men, accompanied by dancing, singing, and the rhythmic sounds of traditional instruments. This unforgettable day offers deep insight into the cultural richness of southern Ethiopia. Overnight stay at Emerald Lodge in Turmi.

Main Destination:

Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)

Accommodation:

Emerald Lodge Turmi

• Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Visit Turmi Market and Ari People

Begin the day with a visit to Turmi’s bustling local market (if open), where colorful stalls, traditional handicrafts, and lively interactions provide a glimpse into everyday life in the Omo Valley. Then drive back to Jinka, pausing along the route to explore other markets that may be in session, offering further opportunities to experience the vibrant trading culture of the region. In the afternoon, meet the Ari people, one of the largest people in the Omo Valley, and discover their traditions, farming practices, and unique way of life. Conclude the day with an overnight stay at Nasa Hotel in Jinka.

Main Destination:

Jinka (Lower Omo Valley)

Accommodation:

Nasa Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Mursi People & Addis Ababa Cultural Highlights

Start the day with an early drive through Mago National Park, enjoying the diverse landscapes and wildlife along the way, before arriving at the village of the Mursi people, known for their striking lip plates and unique cultural traditions. After this remarkable encounter, return to Jinka for a short flight back to Addis Ababa. In the afternoon, explore the National Museum of Ethiopia, home to the world-famous fossil ‘Lucy’ and an impressive collection of artifacts that trace the nation’s long history. Conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay at Jano International Hotel.

Main Destination:

Addis Ababa (City)

Accommodation:

Jano Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Lalibela Rock-Hewn Churches

Fly to the legendary town of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Ethiopia’s most spiritual destinations. Here you will explore its extraordinary rock-hewn churches, carved into the ground and connected by a labyrinth of tunnels and passageways. Begin with the most iconic of them all, marveling at the intricate details, symbolic architecture, and deep spiritual significance that continue to inspire pilgrims from across the world. Take time to absorb the tranquil atmosphere and learn about the history behind these “New Jerusalem” monuments. In the evening, enjoy sweeping sunset views over the rugged highlands and the historic town before settling in for dinner and an overnight stay at Sora Lodge Lalibela.

Main Destination:

Lalibela (Town)

Accommodation:

Sora Lodge Lalibela

• Mid-range hotel located in Lalibela (Town)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Scenic Road Trip to Semera

Embark on a scenic road journey from Lalibela to Semera, traversing diverse landscapes that shift from rugged highlands to rolling plains. Along the way, stop for lunch and enjoy traditional Ethiopian coffee at local villages, experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the communities you pass. Take time to admire the changing scenery, capture photographs, and learn about local life and customs. Conclude the day with an overnight stay at the comfortable Ardi Ethiopia Hotel in Semera.

Main Destination:

Semera (Town)

Accommodation:

Ardi Ethiopia Hotel

• Mid-range hotel

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Afdera Salt Lake & Erta Ale Volcano

Depart Semera for an adventurous desert journey to Afdera, where the striking salt lake shimmers under the sun and natural hot springs provide a unique experience. After enjoying lunch amidst this otherworldly landscape, continue your drive toward the surroundings of Erta Ale, one of Ethiopia’s most dramatic volcanic regions. Witness the unique desert scenery, look out for local wildlife along the way, and take in the raw beauty of the volcanic landscape. As night falls, camp near Erta Ale under a sky full of stars, creating an unforgettable adventure in one of Ethiopia’s most remote and awe-inspiring areas.

Main Destination:

Erta Ale Volcano (Danakil Depression)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Dallol Volcanic Landscapes & Hamedela Sunset

Drive to the surreal landscapes of Dallol, famous for its vivid volcanic formations, steaming hot springs, and rainbow-hued mineral deposits. Wander through this extraordinary area, marveling at the natural colors and otherworldly terrain. Afterward, continue to Hamedela, where you can watch a stunning sunset over the expansive salt lake, capturing breathtaking photographs. Conclude the day with an overnight camping experience at Hamedela, surrounded by the unique beauty of the Danakil Depression.

Main Destination:

Danakil Depression (Highlight)

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Sunrise at Salt Lake & Departure

Begin the day by witnessing a spectacular sunrise over the shimmering salt lake, with the early light illuminating the colorful lava formations nearby. Take time to explore the unique terrain and capture memorable photographs. Afterwards, drive back to Semera for a domestic flight to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, freshen up at the Jano Hotel day room before heading out for an evening of shopping and a farewell dinner, savoring local cuisine and reflecting on your unforgettable journey through Ethiopia. Finally, transfer to Bole International Airport for your departure.

Main Destination:

Semera (Town)

Accommodation:

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

• Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
• You'll be dropped off at the airport.