Day 1: Addis Ababa to Jinka
Fly from Addis Ababa to Jinka. Upon arrival, meet your guide and head to your hotel for check-in. After a short break, visit the Aari tribe in a village near Jinka. Learn about their agricultural lifestyle, pottery making, and traditional foods like Enjera and Arake. If your visit falls on a market day, explore a colourful local market in Jinka or nearby towns.
Day 2: Jinka to Turmi
After breakfast, drive to Turmi, home to the Hamar tribe. On the way, visit the Mursi tribe near Keyafer, known for their lip plates and body scarification. Also, meet the Banna tribe in a local market or remote village. Depending on availability, witness a ceremonial event like the Bull Jumping or Evangadi Dancing Ceremony.
Day 3: Turmi to Omo Rate and Back
Drive to Omo Rate, the southern border with Kenya, and cross the Omo River by local dugout canoe. Walk to a Dassanech village to interact with the tribe. Return to Turmi for lunch. In the late afternoon, visit a Hamar village near Turmi and enjoy traditional coffee inside a hut. On market days, explore the local market and possibly witness a Hamar ceremonial event.
Day 4: Turmi to Kara Korcho Village and Back
Drive to Korcho village to meet the Kara/Karo tribe, known for their elaborate body and face painting. Interact with the people and learn about their culture. Return to Turmi for lunch and continue experiencing a tribal market or ceremonial event if available.
Day 5: Turmi to Konso
Drive to Konso, visiting the Arbore tribe on the way. Learn about the Konso people’s unique terracing skills and ancient villages, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover the wooden statues or totems called “waka” erected for heroes and chiefs.
Day 6: Konso to Arba Minch
Drive to Arba Minch, passing by the two largest rift valley lakes, Lake Abaya and Lake Chamo. Enjoy a boat trip on Lake Chamo to see crocodiles, hippos, and lake birds. After lunch, visit Dorze Village, known for its elephant-shaped bamboo houses and sophisticated weaving techniques.
Day 7: Arba Minch to Yirga Alem
Relax at Haile Resort, overlooking Lake Chamo and Lake Abaya. Then, drive to Yirga Alem to visit the Sidama people’s village. Spend a peaceful night at Aregash Lodge, the nicest lodge in Southern Ethiopia.
Day 8: Yirga Alem to Hawassa and Return to Addis Ababa
After breakfast, drive to Hawassa for your afternoon flight back to Addis Ababa.
