Omo Valley Safari

Safari Information

• Departure; Scheduled and tailor-made departure dates
• Duration; 10 Days / 9 Nights
• Lodging; Lodges
• Group Size; Minimum 1
• Note: Travel insurance is compulsory for all safaris

Embark on a 10-Day Ethiopian Safari Adventure Blending Cultural Richness, Wildlife Wonders, and Breathtaking Landscapes

This 10-day Ethiopian safari offers a meticulously crafted itinerary that invites you to explore the rich tapestry of the country’s diverse cultures, awe-inspiring landscapes, and remarkable wildlife. With stops at UNESCO World Heritage Sites, vibrant local markets, and encounters with iconic tribes like the Hamer and Mursi, this journey promises a rare glimpse into Ethiopia’s vibrant heritage. Along the way, you’ll stay in a mix of comfortable lodges and charming rustic accommodations, all designed to provide you with authentic and unforgettable experiences.

From leisurely boat cruises on Lake Chamo, where crocodiles and wildlife abound, to the serene beauty of Lake Langano and its nearby reserves, this safari provides the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Highlights include visiting the world-renowned Dassenech and Konso villages, wandering through lush national parks, and marveling at Ethiopia’s innovative agricultural terraces. Whether you’re weaving through bustling markets or soaking in the tranquility of the wilderness, this itinerary ensures a well-rounded, deeply immersive experience that celebrates both Ethiopia’s natural splendor and its cultural richness.

Day 1: Awassa

• Departing Addis Ababa we head South via Butajira.
• We take in a few archaeological sites along the way, including Tiya (ancient stelae field a "UNESCO" World Heritage Site), Adadi Maryam (a rock church similar to Lalibela) and Melka Kunture (pre-historic tool-making site).
• Awassa is our final stop of the day.
• Overnight in Awassa at Haile Resort/Tadesse Enjory Hotel/Pinna Hotel.

Day 2: Dorze

• After breakfast, we visit Lake Awassa and the fish market.
• From Lake Awassa we drive to Dorze (set in the highlands above the town of Arba Minch).
• The people of Dorze are renowned for their beehive-like houses and their fine cotton weaving.
• A village tour is on the cards and a visit to the local market (should it be open).
• Overnight in Dorze in traditional Dorze hut (shared toilet facilities) or continue to Arba Minch for overnight at Paradise Lodge/Tourist Hotel/camping at Wabe Shabelle Hotel.

Day 3: Lake Chamo

• Breakfast and a short walk around we head off for the town of Arba Minch.
• An afternoon boat trip on Lake Chamo and a visit to the "Crocodile Market" is on the cards.
• Overnight in Arba Minch at Paradise Lodge/Tourist Hotel/camping at Wabe Shabelle Hotel.

Day 4: Turmi

• Depart from Arba Minch after breakfast we head for the town of Turmi (arriving in the afternoon).
• Along the way, we stop in the village of Weyto (home to the Tsemai tribe).
• Continuing on from Weyto we head through the Weyto Valley to Erbore for a brief photography stop.
• Finally, we arrive at Turmi, home of the Hamer tribe.
• Traditional night dancing of the Hamer tribe is a must for all.
• Overnight in Turmi at Buska Lodge/Evangadi Lodge/camping at Keske Campsite.

Day 5: Turmi

• A morning trip to visit the Dassenech tribe in the town of Omorate.
• From Omorate we cross the Omo River (by boat) and enter a Dassenech village.
• Returning to Turmi in the afternoon, a chance to visit the local Hamer village is on the cards.
• If there is Jumping of the Bulls traditional Hamer coming-of-age ceremony, that will be visited.
• Overnight in Turmi at Buska Lodge/Evangadi Lodge/camping at Keske Campsite.

Day 6: Jinka

• Departing for the Jinka area we travel through the towns of Dimeka and Key Afar.
• Dimeka offers one of the most colourful markets in the area and is visited by many tribes, including Hamer, Benna and Karo.
• Overnight in Jinka at Eco Omo Lodge/Orit Hotel/Goh Hotel.

Day 7: Jinka

• A morning drive through the Mago National Park awaits and onto a village of the Mursi tribe.
• The Mursi people are known for their lower lip and earlobe plates.
• Returning to Jinka in the afternoon.
• We visit the South Omo Museum & Research Center to learn more about the local tribes.
• Or alternatively, hike in the surrounding hills to visit a local Ari village.
• Overnight in Jinka at Eco Omo Lodge/Orit Hotel/Goh Hotel.

Day 8: Konso

• After breakfast, we leave Jinka behind and head for to the town of Konso.
• Along the way, we stop off in Key Afar where we witness the Benna and Tsemai tribes trading goods.
• Arriving in Konso in the afternoon.
• Konso people are well known for their wooden statues (wakas), which are erected in honour of dead heroes.
• Konso people are also interestingly known for their innovative agricultural terracing.
• Time permitting, you can also visit the “natural New York Village”, named after the tall sand formations resembling skyscrapers.
• Overnight in Konso at Kanta Lodge (tukul)/Kanta Lodge (standard room)/Strawberry Fields Ecolodge.

Day 9: Lake Langano

• Lake Langano is our destination today.
• En route, we stop off at the Senkele Wildlife Sanctuary (famed for its endemic Swayne’s Hartebeest).
• Overnight at Lake Langano at Bishangari Lodge/Sabana Beach Resort/Wenney Ecolodge/Abule Bassumo Hotel.

Day 10: Addis Ababa - Safari Ends

• A stunning morning swim in Lake Langano awaits before we head off for Addis Ababa.
• On the way to Addis Ababa, there is the chance of stopping off at Abiatta-Shala National Park (time-dependent).
• Abiatta-Shala National Park offers up two interesting lakes;
• Lake Shala, with its deep blue waters, is the deepest lake in Ethiopia at 236m.
• Lake Abiatta is a soda lake at which thousands of flamingos can be seen at various times of the year.