Destination: Southern Ethiopia
Tour Code: KENA-OMO-005
Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Start/End: Addis Ababa → Jinka → Turmi → Addis Ababa
Best Time to Travel: All year round (ideal: September to March)
🧭 Introduction
The Omo Valley in Southern Ethiopia is one of the most culturally diverse and fascinating regions in Africa. Home to more than a dozen distinct indigenous tribes, this area offers a rare and authentic look into ancient lifestyles, customs, and rituals that have been preserved for centuries. On this 5-day journey, immerse yourself in the daily life of communities such as the Hamar, Mursi, Karo, and Dassanech tribes — known for their body painting, scarification, lip plates, and bull-jumping ceremonies.
This cultural adventure is perfect for travelers seeking meaningful interactions, raw beauty, and deep cultural insights.
🗺️ Tour Overview
| Day | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Addis Ababa → Jinka (Flight) | Fly to Jinka, visit the South Omo Museum |
| 2 | Jinka → Mursi Village → Turmi | Visit the Mursi Tribe in Mago NP, Hamar Tribe |
| 3 | Turmi → Karo Tribe → Dimeka Market | Karo Tribe visit, scenic Omo River views |
| 4 | Turmi → Dassanech Village → Jinka | Dassanech culture & return to Jinka |
| 5 | Jinka → Addis Ababa (Flight) | Fly back to Addis, souvenir shopping |
📅 Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Fly Addis Ababa to Jinka – South Omo Museum Visit
- Morning flight to Jinka.
- Afternoon visit to the South Omo Museum for a cultural orientation.
- Visit Ari village to observe local crafts and lifestyle.
- Overnight: Jinka Lodge or similar.
Day 2: Jinka – Mursi Tribe – Turmi
- Drive to Mago National Park to visit the Mursi Tribe, famous for lip plates and body markings.
- Continue to Turmi, home of the Hamar Tribe.
- If lucky, attend a bull-jumping ceremony (rite of passage).
- Overnight: Turmi Lodge or similar.
Day 3: Turmi – Karo Tribe – Dimeka Market
- Drive to the Karo Tribe village along the Omo River; known for elaborate body paint.
- Visit Dimeka Market (if market day).
- Return to Turmi for cultural dancing or optional activities.
- Overnight: Turmi Lodge.
Day 4: Turmi – Dassanech Tribe – Jinka
- An early visit to Dassanech Village near Omo River.
- Return drive to Jinka with scenic stops and photography.
- Overnight: Jinka Lodge.
Day 5: Fly Jinka to Addis Ababa – Departure
- Morning flight back to Addis Ababa.
- Optional souvenir shopping or coffee tasting.
- End of tour.
✅ Included in the Package
- 4 nights accommodation in eco-lodges/hotels
- All entrance & community fees
- Professional English-speaking guide
- 4WD transportation with driver
- Airport transfers
- Daily meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Bottled water throughout the trip
❌ Not Included
- International flights
- Travel Insurance
- Alcoholic beverages and personal expenses
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Camera/video fees in some villages
- Any services not mentioned in the inclusion list
💰 Price
Starting from:
$950 USD per person (based on 2 people sharing)
Group discounts are available. Single supplement applies. Price may vary depending on travel season and domestic flight rates.
📌 Additional Notes
- Some tribal ceremonies depend on seasonal or spontaneous occasions.
- Respectful photography and cultural sensitivity are required.
- Local market days vary (best on Tuesdays and Saturdays).
