Omo Valley Tours 7 Days
Tour Overview
Discover the rich cultural mosaic of Ethiopia’s southern Omo Valley on this immersive 7-day journey. This region is home to some of Africa’s most fascinating and diverse tribal communities, including the Mursi, Hamar, Ari, Konso, and Dassanech peoples. Travel through lush highlands, vibrant markets, and remote villages to witness unique customs, traditions, and daily life. This tour blends cultural encounters, scenic drives, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites for an unforgettable Ethiopian experience.
Day 1 Arrive in Addis Ababa
Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy a relaxed morning followed by lunch at the hotel.
In the afternoon, begin your Addis Ababa city tour with a visit to the National Museum, home to the famous 3.2-million-year-old fossil “Lucy.” Continue to the Ethnological Museum at Addis Ababa University for insight into Ethiopia’s diverse cultures, then visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral. End the day with a scenic drive to Mount Entoto, offering panoramic views of the city at 3,200 meters above sea level.
Day 2 Addis Ababa to Arba Minch
After breakfast, drive to Arba Minch via the scenic Butajira route. Along the way, stop at Tiya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient stone stelae. Continue to the highland village of the Dorze people, known for their distinctive beehive-shaped houses and traditional weaving.
Arrive in Arba Minch and check into your hotel.
Day 3 Arba Minch to Turmi
Begin an early morning drive to Turmi, passing through Key Afer, where you may have the chance to experience its vibrant tribal market (held on Thursdays) or the Dimeka market (held on Saturdays), depending on your travel day. These markets offer a unique glimpse into the culture of the Hamar tribe and other Omo Valley groups.
Day 4 Turmi to Omorate and Return
After breakfast, drive to Omorate to visit the Dassanech tribe, known for their semi-nomadic lifestyle and unique traditions. Cross the Omo River by traditional wooden canoe to reach the village, providing an authentic cultural experience. After your visit, return to Turmi for the night.
Day 5 Turmi to Jinka via Ari Village
After breakfast, depart for Jinka, with a stop to visit an Ari village—a group known for their pottery and cultural richness. You will also have the opportunity to visit the local South Omo Research Center Museum to learn more about the tribes of the region.
Day 6 Jinka to Mursi Village and Return to Arba Minch
Today, take an early morning drive to the remote Mursi village, where you’ll meet the iconic Mursi women who wear lip plates—a rare and powerful cultural tradition. After the visit, drive back to Arba Minch, passing through Konso, another UNESCO-recognized site known for its terraced agriculture and cultural heritage.
Day 7 Arba Minch to Addis Ababa
Return to Addis Ababa by flight or surface, depending on your preference and schedule. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the city’s best traditional restaurants, featuring live Ethiopian music and cultural dance performances.
Later, transfer to the airport for your departure.