14 Days Surma and Gambella Southern Tours
Tour Overview:
Embark on an unforgettable 14-day cultural and adventure expedition through the lesser-explored southwestern region of Ethiopia. This journey takes you from the highland crater lakes and forests of Wenchi and Woliso, to the heart of Ethiopia’s coffee lands, and into the remote tribal territories of the Surma, Nyangatom, and Anuak peoples. Along the way, explore lush forests, historic landmarks, traditional villages, national parks teeming with wildlife, and experience ancient customs that have withstood the test of time. A truly immersive expedition combining trekking, wildlife safaris, cultural discovery, and raw natural beauty.
Day 1: Drive to Wenchi Crater Lake and Woliso
Depart in the morning for Wenchi Crater Lake via Ambo. Nestled at about 3,000 meters above sea level, Wenchi is famed for its stunning mountainous scenery, natural forests, waterfalls, hot springs, and an island monastery—Cherkos. Enjoy a 3–4 hour scenic trek through this natural paradise, then continue your drive to Woliso.
Day 2: Drive to Jimma
Start your journey toward Jimma (246 km). En route, witness the diverse Oromo culture, Ethiopia’s largest ethnic group, whose heritage and language (Oromoiffa) form a major part of the region’s identity.
Day 3: Drive to Mizan Teferi
After breakfast, drive 240 km to Mizan Teferi, considered the birthplace of coffee. Visit the palace of King Abba Jifar II, an influential ruler of the Gibe Kingdom of Jimma (1878–1932). Then pass through one of Ethiopia’s largest natural forests and tea and coffee plantations.
Day 4: Drive to Kibish
Travel 200 km through lush, tropical rainforests and indigenous landscapes. Visit the Bebeka Coffee Plantation—the oldest and largest in Ethiopia. Continue to Kibish, near the Sudanese border, home to the Anuak people.
Day 5: Explore Suri (Surma) Villages
Spend the day exploring the remote villages of the Suri people. Famous for their elaborate body art, lip plates, and traditional beliefs, the Suri maintain ancient customs. Visit local homes and gain insights into their rituals, including the role of spiritual leaders and rainmakers.
Day 6: Drive to Tulgit
Travel 20 km to Tulgit. Depending on availability, witness the traditional stick-fighting ceremonies—an intense cultural ritual among the Suri, often linked to courtship and social prestige.
Day 7: Drive to Omo National Park
Begin a drive of 115 km through dense tropical forest to Adika, then continue another 65 km to the headquarters of Omo National Park, one of Ethiopia’s most remote and biodiverse reserves.
Day 8: Safari in Omo National Park
Enjoy a full-day safari in Omo Park. Spot large herds of Eland, Elephants, Buffalo, Giraffes, Cheetahs, Lions, Leopards, Burchell’s Zebra, and over 300 bird species in their natural habitat.
Day 9: Visit Nyangatom Tribes and Return to Kibish
Travel back to Kibish with a stop to visit the Nyangatom tribe—semi-nomadic pastoralists known for their scarification traditions and elaborate hairstyles. Learn about their warrior culture and cattle-based livelihood.
Day 10: Drive Back to Mizan Teferi
Begin your return journey to Mizan Teferi, with scenic stops along the way to relax and appreciate the lush western highland landscape.
Day 11: Drive to Gambella
Drive towards Gambella with visits to the Menit, Yem, and Dizi tribes along the way—each with unique languages, customs, and lifestyles.
Day 12: Explore Gambella National Park & Tribes
Explore Gambella National Park, one of Ethiopia’s richest ecosystems. Spot Nile Lechwe, White-Eared Kob, Roan Antelope, Elephant, and endemic birds like the Shoebill. Meet the Nuer and Anuak tribes, who practice intricate body scarification and live in harmony with the wetlands.
Day 13: Drive to Nekemte
Drive to Nekemte through indigenous forests and fertile farmland. Observe rural Ethiopian life and enjoy the tranquil beauty of Western Ethiopia’s natural scenery.
Day 14: Return to Addis Ababa
Conclude your journey with a drive back to Addis Ababa. Along the way, stop at villages of the Shoea and Wolega Oromo tribes to gain final insights into local culture and traditions.
