Ethiopia’s Omo Valley is one of the most culturally diverse regions in all of Africa, a land where tribal traditions still take precedent over anything else and where modernity is still kept largely at bay. On this trip we head into the villages of the various tribes that make up this kaleidoscope of ethnicity, including the Mursi, Karo, Hamer and Konso, learning about their complex customs and experiencing a way of life very far removed from the rest of Ethiopia. Where possible we try to visit local markets, one of the best ways to experience life in the Omo Valley. This is a cultural discovery that can rarely be equalled, visiting some of the most remote people in the world, and to spend time among them is an amazing privilege.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrive Addis Ababa] Arrive in Addis Ababa and transfer to hotel. This afternoon visit some of the capital’s key sights including the Entoto Mountains, with great views over the city, the National Museum, St George’s Cathedral and the Merkato, reputedly the biggest open air market in Africa. Overnight Ghion Hotel or similar.
Day 2 – Drive to Rift Valley Lakes] Drive to the Rift Valley lakes of Shala, Abyata and Langano, admiring wonderful views and many birds, including pelicans, flamingoes and more. Then relax at the Sabanna Beach Resort, secluded in a natural paradise on the shore of Lake Langano and near to Munessa Forest. Possibility of trekking, bird-watching, horse-riding, boat excursions, cycling and more. Overnight Sabanna Beach Resort or similar. (BLD)
Day 3 – Villages of the Rift Valley] Continue our journey south meeting the Wolayta people as we go, passing through little visited villages and admiring spectacular green hills, to Arba Minch. Overnight Paradise Lodge or similar. (BLD)
Day 4 – Visit Chencha] Morning drive to Chencha, to see the Dorze people, with their unique culture, houses and traditions. In the afternoon we take a boat trip to view the crocodiles on Lake Chamo. Overnight Paradise Lodge or similar. (BLD)
Day 5 – Tsemay Market and Jinka] Continue to Jinka, admiring the Derase, Tsemay, Ari and Benna people. Stop at the village market of Tsemay and meet the Arbore people. Overnight Jinka Resort or similar. (BLD)
Day 6 – Mago National Park] Travel to Mago National park and visit the Mursi people, renowned for their practice of extending their lips with plates. Overnight Jinka Resort or similar. (BLD)
Day 7 – Jinka to Turmi] Drive to Turmi, through the lands of the very colourful Hamer, Karo and Dassanech people, with a stop at Dimeka village, where there is an interesting market. Overnight Evangadi Lodge (Bungalows or camping depending upon availability). (BLD)
Day 8 – Karo People] Continue on our journey and visit the Karo people, known for their body decoration and scarification. We then visit the villages of the Hamer people. Overnight Evangadi Lodge (Bungalows or camping depending upon availability). (BLD)
Day 9 – Turmi to Arba Minch] Drive to Arba Minch, visiting the villages of the Erbore and Konso people. Overnight Paradise Lodge or similar. (BLD)
Day 10 – Arba Minch to Addis Ababa] Morning drive back to Addis Ababa. There is free time for any last minute souvenir shopping, before the evening meal with traditional dancers. Overnight Ghion Hotel or similar. (BLD)
Day 11 – Addis Ababa] This morning you will be transferred to the airport, for your flight home. (B)
Price Includes All accommodation based on twin/double share All transport (4WD vehicles throughout) and transfers Meals as listed above Park entrance fees An English speaking guide
Price does not include International flights Travel insurance Drinks Visa Single Supplement
Departure Dates 20 March 2010, 16 October 2010, 30 April 2011, 15 October 2011 --------------------------------------------------------
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Our trip was wonderful- The staff in Angola met all of our expectations and went above and beyond- a special thanks to Ray who met us at airport, got us started on our trip, entertained us at the Flamigo Lodge and met us again on our return to Lumabgo and took us to airport for our departure to Namibia
