Start your journey with a scenic drive up Mount Entoto for sweeping views over Addis Ababa. Descend into the city to visit the National Museum, home of the famous early hominid fossil “Lucy.” Continue to the grand Holy Trinity Cathedral, built during WWII, and the Ethnographic Museum housed within Haile Selassie’s former palace. End the day at Merkato, the largest open-air market in East Africa.

Depart early and drive through the southern highlands via Butajira, Hossana, and Sodo—an area rich in archaeological and cultural landmarks. En route, visit the prehistoric site of Melka Kunture and the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Tiya. After a long but scenic day, arrive in Arba Minch, a lush town overlooking Lakes Abaya and Chamo. Check into your lodge, situated atop a hill with stunning lake views.

Travel south through the terraced hills of Konso, a UNESCO-listed site renowned for its unique agricultural practices and wooden grave totems. Continue past the Weyto River, a haven for birdlife, and pass through Key Afar—a vibrant tribal market town (market on Thursdays). Arrive in Jinka, the gateway to Mago National Park.

Venture into Mago National Park to visit the Mursi tribe, known for their lip plates, scarification, and distinct cultural practices. The drive through the park may offer wildlife sightings, including gazelles, buffalo, and birds. Return to Jinka in the afternoon for relaxation or a visit to the South Omo Research Centre and museum.

Head south toward Turmi, stopping in the towns of Key Afar (market day Thursday) and Dimeka (market days Tuesday and Saturday), where you may encounter Bena, Ari, and Hamer communities. Arrive in Turmi, the cultural heart of the Hamer people, known for their rich traditions and vibrant dances.

Cross the Omo River to visit the Karo villages of Dus, Korcho, and Murulle. The Karo are known for their intricate body painting and ceremonial decorations. Enjoy stunning river views and photographic opportunities before returning to Turmi.

Journey further into the Omo River region, passing Kangate to reach villages inhabited by the Bume and Galeb tribes. Cross the river in a local boat to experience daily life in remote settlements. Return to Turmi in the evening.

Spend the day among the Hamer people, exploring their villages and learning about their way of life. If the timing is right, witness a traditional bull-jumping ceremony—a rite of passage for young men—or the Evangadi, a traditional Hamer night dance. Visit the lively market at Dimeka or Turmi depending on the day.

Begin the return journey north, passing Chew Bahir and driving through the Erbore and Tsemay tribal regions. Arrive in Arba Minch by late afternoon and enjoy the peaceful lake views from your lodge.

Depart Arba Minch and detour to Chencha to visit the Dorze people, known for their striking bamboo homes and traditional weaving. Continue north through Wolaita Sodo and arrive in Hawassa, a peaceful lakeside town. Spend the evening at the beautiful Haile Resort, founded by legendary runner Haile Gebrselassie.

Start the morning with a visit to the fish market on Lake Hawassa—an excellent birdwatching spot. Enjoy a traditional breakfast and then drive back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, enjoy time for shopping or relaxing before a festive farewell dinner at Yod Abyssinia cultural restaurant. Later, transfer to the airport for your evening international departure.