6 Days Omo Valley Cultural Tours
Tour Code: EDT-05-OC
Step deep into the heart of southern Ethiopia, where centuries-old traditions, tribal rituals, and vibrant cultures await. This 6-day overland adventure explores the incredible Omo Valley, home to more than a dozen indigenous tribes, each with their own language, customs, and stunning body adornments.



6 Days Omo Valley Cultural Tours
6
Days
Overview
This 6-day cultural expedition through southern Ethiopia is a rare opportunity to witness some of Africa’s last remaining traditional societies. Starting in Addis Ababa, you’ll travel south through scenic landscapes, stopping at major cultural landmarks like the Tiya stelae, and tribal heartlands including Turmi, Konso, and Jinka. Each day brings rich, eye-opening encounters with local people, stunning scenery, and unique tribal ceremonies.
Designed for adventurous travelers who seek authentic experiences, this tour blends natural beauty with deep cultural immersion—perfect for photographers, anthropologists, and anyone curious about the diversity of humanity.
Itinerary
Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours will greet you upon arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, regardless of your flight time. Morning arrivals can begin sightseeing the same day, while later arrivals will start fresh the next morning.
You’ll be welcomed and transferred to your hotel in the capital. After refreshing, start your sightseeing tour with a drive to Mount Entoto for panoramic views of the city. Visit the National Museum, home to ancient artifacts and the famous 3.2-million-year-old fossil, Lucy. Explore the grand Holy Trinity Cathedral, then tour the Ethnographic Museum, formerly Emperor Haile Selassie’s palace. Finish your day at Merkato, Africa’s largest open-air market.
After breakfast, drive south through the Great Rift Valley. Stop at Tiya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its ancient stelae engraved with mysterious symbols. Continue to Wolayta Sodo for lunch, then drive to Arba Minch, a lakeside town nestled between two major Rift Valley lakes.
Take a morning boat ride on Lake Chamo to visit the “Crocodile Market,” where you may see massive crocs, hippos, and numerous bird species. Then head up to the Gughe Mountains to explore the Dorze village, known for their beehive-shaped huts and vibrant weaving culture. After lunch, drive to Konso, a fortified village famous for its terracing and UNESCO cultural status.
Begin the day with a visit to Konso Village, recognized for its stone-walled settlements and waka totems. Learn about their agriculture, coffee, and clan system. Continue to the Bana tribe, a semi-nomadic pastoralist group known for elaborate hairstyles and clay headdresses. Proceed to Turmi, the heartland of the Hamer people.
Today you'll drive to Omorate, crossing the Omo River by dugout canoe to meet the Dassenech tribe, also known as the "People of the Delta." Explore their riverbank settlements and learn about their fishing and cattle-herding traditions. Return to Turmi for lunch, then drive north to Jinka, gateway to Mago National Park.
Early morning excursion into Mago National Park to visit the Mursi tribe, known for their dramatic lip plates and body painting. Return to Jinka for lunch, then stop by the Ari village, the largest tribe in the Omo Valley, skilled in pottery and agriculture. In the afternoon, fly back to Addis Ababa.
Wrap up your journey with a traditional Ethiopian cultural dinner, complete with local dishes, tribal dance performances, and a coffee ceremony. After dinner, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your international departure.
Book Your Trip Now
Ready to explore Ethiopia’s tribal heartlands? Fill out the form below and our team will contact you with tour pricing, availability, and full booking instructions. * Trip code: EDT-05-OC
- Best Price Guaranteed
- No Booking Fees
- Professional Local Guide
Transportation Type
Domestic Flights + Private Vehicle
Accommodation
Eco-lodges & 3-Star Hotels
Departure from
Addis Ababa
Maximum Altitude
~2,600 meters (Entoto Hills)
Best Season
September – April
Tour Type
Cultural, Anthropology, Indigenous Tribes
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included
Language
English (other languages on request)
Fitness Level
Moderate – Some walking in rural villages
Minimum Age
12
Maximum Age
70