Best of the Omo Valley

Departure - ADD
Return - ADD
  • Duration 9 Days

Tour Plan

Embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Ethiopia’s Omo Valley, a region renowned for its rich culture and stunning landscapes. This 9-day photographic expedition will immerse you in the vibrant traditions of diverse tribes, including the Hamar, Karo, and Erbore. Capture striking portraits as you interact with local communities, explore breathtaking natural beauty, and experience the warm hospitality of Ethiopia. Each day is crafted to provide ample opportunities for stunning photography, cultural exchange, and adventure in one of the world’s most unique destinations.

Day 1

Arrive Addis Ababa

Arrive at Bole International Airport, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Welcome to Ethiopia! Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by your local tour leader and transferred to your Tulip Hotel.

Addis Ababa, founded in 1886 by Menelik II, is situated at 2,500 meters (8000 ft.) above sea level. It is the 5th highest capital city in the world. The city enjoys an excellent climate year-round, with an average temperature of 25 °C (77°F). Addis Ababa is a pleasant city with wide avenues of jacarandas, interesting museums, and one of the largest open-air markets in Africa, known as the “Mercato”.

The rest of the day, relax in your comfortable hotel and get ready for the unique adventure awaiting you.

Overnight: Hotel

Day 2

Addis Ababa to Jinka

We will have a nice breakfast in the morning, then a pre-tour briefing when we will share all the necessary information for the photo trip to the Omo Valley, one of the most remote places on the planet.
After the pre-tour briefing, we will meet our driver for the transfer to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport for our 60-minute flight to Jinka.
Upon arrival at Jinka airport, you will meet with your drivers and drive to your hotel to check in and refresh. Jinka is home to the Ari people, and the town is known to be a gateway to the Omo Valley.
You will spend the rest of the day preparing for your exciting photographic tour ahead.

Overnight: Hotel

Day 3

Jinka – Mursi - Dus

The third day begins with a drive to the Mursi village, renowned for the striking lip plates worn by its women. Your morning will be spent immersing yourself in the daily life of the Mursi people, capturing photographs that showcase their unique lifestyle and customs. After a meaningful half day of cultural exchange, you will return to Jinka for lunch. 

After having lunch, you will head to Dus Village, home to the vibrant Kara Tribes. You will be arriving late afternoon. In the evening, you will enjoy a luxurious camping experience, complete with comfortable tents featuring showers, bathrooms, electricity, and fridges. The best camping chefs will prepare delicious meals, ensuring that you have a delightful culinary experience while surrounded by nature. After a fulfilling day of cultural exploration, you can relax under the stars at your luxury campsite.

Overnight: Camping

Day 4

Kara

Today will be dedicated to the Karo people, known for their intricate body painting and vibrant cultural expressions. You will spend the day engaging with the community, learning about their customs, and photographing their traditional attire and daily life.
In the evening, you will enjoy a luxurious camping experience, complete with comfortable tents featuring showers, bathrooms, electricity, and fridges. The best camping chefs will prepare delicious meals, ensuring a delightful culinary experience while surrounded by nature. After a fulfilling day of cultural exploration, you can relax under the stars at your luxury campsite.

Overnight: Camping

Day 5

Kara – Turmi

This morning, we will use our last opportunity to take some photographs in Kara. Later on, we will pack up camp and drive to Turmi village, home to the beautiful nomadic Hamer tribes living beside the Keske River. The Hamer display an elaborate and diverse selection of body decorations. They are also identifiable for their high cheekbones, custom of elaborate beads, cowries, and leather, and thick copper necklaces. The Hamar women are striking with their beautiful, colorful beaded skins, ornate necklaces, and metal bangles around their wrists and ankles. We hope to arrive at the lodge for lunch and be in time to visit a Hamer village with good light for photography.

Overnight: Hotel

Day 6

Turmi

Today, you will spend the morning in Turmi, taking more photographs of the beautiful Hamer tribes, and you will have the opportunity to further learn about their unique lifestyle.

After lunch, you will depart from Turmi for a scenic drive to Erbore, which is approximately 35 kilometers away. This journey will take around an hour, offering glimpses of the beautiful landscapes typical of the region. Upon arrival in Erbore, you will spend the afternoon learning about the local culture. The Erbore people, known for their distinct traditions and vibrant attire, will welcome you with open arms. You will have the opportunity to interact with the community, observe their daily activities, and photograph their unique way of life. After a fulfilling afternoon of culture and photography, you will return to Turmi in the evening, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s experiences.

Overnight: Hotel

Day 7

Turmi – Omorate

Today, you will embark on another exciting adventure, this time to visit the Dasenech tribe. The drive from Turmi to the Dasenech settlement is approximately 40 kilometers and will take about an hour. The Dasenech are renowned for their rich cultural practices and unique settlements, which provide excellent opportunities for photography. Upon arrival, you will engage with the tribe, learning about their customs, social structure, and daily life. You will have the chance to photograph their traditional dances, unique hairstyles, and the stunning landscapes surrounding their community.

Overnight: Camping in Omorate

Day 8

Omorate

Today, you will spend another exciting day with the Dasenech, which will provide valuable insights into the Dasenech way of life and allow you to document their culture through your lens. After a day filled with learning and photography, you will return to your campsite in the evening.

Overnight: Camping in Omorate

Day 9

Drive Omorate – Jinka / Fly Back to Addis

After enjoying a hearty breakfast at your campsite, you will make your final preparations for your journey to Jinka. Departing in the morning, you will embark on a scenic drive of approximately 180 kilometers, which will take about three hours. As you travel, you will pass through picturesque landscapes, including terraced fields and rolling hills, providing a final opportunity for photography.
Upon arrival in Jinka, you will head directly to the Jinka Airport. Ensure that you have all your belongings and any last-minute souvenirs packed as you prepare for your journey home.

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