9 Days Omo Valley Cultural Tours
Tour Code: EDT-05-OV
Uncover the living traditions of Ethiopia’s southern tribes on this immersive 9-day cultural journey through the Omo Valley. Begin in the bustling capital of Addis Ababa before flying south to Arba Minch and continuing overland into the heart of tribal Ethiopia.



9 Days Omo Valley Cultural Tours
9
Days
Overview
This unforgettable tour offers deep cultural insight into one of the most diverse regions in Africa. From boat trips on Lake Chamo to market days in Key Afar and Dimeka, and from the intricate terracing of Konso to the elaborately painted Karo tribespeople along the Omo River—every moment reveals something unique.
You’ll stay in comfortable lodges and hotels, travel with expert local guides, and return home with not just photos, but memories of shared moments and stories from Ethiopia’s ancient yet living cultures.
Itinerary
Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours greets all travelers upon arrival—regardless of time. Morning arrivals may begin sightseeing after hotel check-in, while afternoon or evening arrivals begin the tour the following day.
Arrive in Addis Ababa and transfer to your 4-star hotel in the heart of the city. After settling in, enjoy a delicious welcome dinner at the hotel and rest up for the journey ahead.
Explore the capital’s rich heritage with visits to the National Museum—home of the famous hominid fossil “Lucy”—and the Ethnological Museum, housed in Haile Selassie’s former palace. Visit the majestic Holy Trinity Cathedral, then head up to Entoto Mountain for sweeping views of the city and a glimpse into Emperor Menelik II’s early palace grounds. In the evening, enjoy a vibrant welcome dinner with live cultural music and dance at the renowned Yod Abyssinia cultural house.
Catch a morning flight to Arba Minch. After lunch at your lodge, drive up into the Gughe Mountains to visit the Dorze people, famed for their beehive-shaped houses and skilled cotton weaving. Return to Arba Minch in time to relax and enjoy your beautiful lodge surroundings.
Begin the day with a scenic boat ride on Lake Chamo to see the "crocodile market" and hippo pods. Then head south to Jinka, passing through the colorful towns of Weyto and Key Afar—each known for their bustling tribal markets, held on Sundays and Thursdays respectively.
Drive into Mago National Park to visit the Mursi people, known for their lip and ear plate adornments—a striking symbol of identity. Continue onward to Turmi, stopping in Dimeka to experience one of the region’s most vibrant tribal markets. In the evening, witness the traditional Evangadi dance of the Hamer people.
Take a day trip to the villages of Murulle, Kolcho, and Dus on the banks of the Omo River. Meet the Karo tribe—renowned for their ceremonial body painting and ornate decorations. Learn about their way of life, ceremonies, and stories passed down through generations. Return to Turmi for the night.
Travel northward to the Konso highlands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its unique stone-walled villages and centuries-old terracing techniques. The Konso are also famous for their Waka totems and deeply rooted ancestral traditions. After exploring the village and enjoying locally grown coffee, continue on to Arba Minch.
After breakfast, fly back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, relax at your hotel or explore local markets for last-minute shopping. In the evening, enjoy a festive farewell dinner with traditional cuisine and cultural performances at one of Addis Ababa’s top cultural restaurants.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out. You will be transferred to Bole International Airport for your international departure.
Book Your Trip Now
Ready to connect with Ethiopia’s most vibrant and ancient cultures? Reserve your place today. * Trip code: EDT-05-OV
- 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
~2500 meters
Best Season
September – March
Tour Type
Cultural, Tribal, History
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included
Language
English (other languages on request)
Fitness Level
Easy to Moderate
Minimum Age
5
Maximum Age
70