14 days and 13 night to the south west and omo valley
Explore the heart of Ethiopia on this 14-day adventure, beginning in Addis Ababa with visits to iconic sites like the National Museum and the vibrant Mercato market. Journey southward through the UNESCO-listed Tiya stelae and the ancient villages of the Gurage, then immerse in coffee culture in Jimma. Experience the stunning wildlife of Chebera Churchura National Park, followed by the diverse habitats of Maze National Park and scenic lakes of Arba Minch. Visit the traditional Dorze and Konso villages, engage with local tribes in Jinka, and uncover the cultural richness of the Omo Valley, including encounters with the Mursi, Hamar, and Karo tribes. Conclude this remarkable journey with a scenic return to Arba Minch, leaving with unforgettable memories of Ethiopia’s landscapes, wildlife, and people.
Arrive in Addis Ababa: Begin by visiting the National Museum (home to the fossil "Lucy") and the Ethnological Museum.
Mercato: Tour one of Africa’s largest open-air markets to experience the vibrant local commerce.
Overnight in Addis Ababa.
Tiya Stelae: Drive south from Addis Ababa (about 1.5 hours) to explore the Tiya UNESCO World Heritage site with its mysterious stelae.
Ancient Artifacts: Melka Kunture is one of the most significant prehistoric sites in Ethiopia Afternoon
Village Walk: Walk around the village to explore traditional Gurage houses, farms, and terraces. Engage with artisans showcasing weaving and basket-making, and see the communal areas where villagers gather.
Overnight hotel
Morning: Depart from Wolkite, stopping at scenic points along the Gibe River. Take short breaks for photos and refreshments.
Midday: Stop at a coffee plantation near Shebe or Yebu for a coffee tour and tasting.
Afternoon: Arrive in Jimma and explore the Jimma Museum and Abba Jifar Palace to learn about the historical significance of the Jimma Kingdom.
Evening: Dinner in Jimma town and overnight stay in Jimma.
Early Morning: Depart from Jimma towards Chebera Churchura National Park. The drive is about 4-5 hours (180 km) on a mix of paved and gravel roads, so an early start is recommended.
Arrival at Chebera Churchura: Check in with park authorities and arrange for a guide. A guide is essential for navigating the park’s rugged terrain and ensuring safety around wildlife.
Afternoon Safari: Begin with an introductory safari hike or drive in the park. Chebera Churchura is known for elephants, buffalo, hippos, and various antelope species.
Overnight: Camp at designated camping areas within the park or stay in basic lodges outside the park, if available. Camping offers the best immersion in the park’s wilderness.
Morning Game Drive: Embark on a morning safari to catch sight of early morning wildlife. You may see herds of elephants, buffalo, warthogs, and different types of primates like baboons and colobus monkeys.
Picnic Lunch in the Park: Enjoy a picnic-style lunch at a scenic spot within the park. This is a great time to take in the surroundings and relax.
Afternoon Hike or Game Drive: Choose another wildlife viewing activity in the afternoon. Chebera Churchura also has various bird species, so bird watchers will find plenty to enjoy.
Overnight: overnight lodge
This route combines natural beauty with a chance to explore rural Ethiopian culture, making it an enjoyable journey through Ethiopia’s southern highlands. Wolayta Sodo offers a welcoming stop with a range of amenities, and from there, you can plan your next destinations in southern Ethiopia.
4WD Vehicle: This route includes sections of gravel roads, especially near Chebera Churchura and Chida, so a 4WD vehicle is highly recommended.
Overnight hotel
Early Morning Drive: Depart Wolayta Sodo early to maximize your time at Maze National Park.
Maze National Park Visit: This park is known for its diverse wildlife, including the endemic Swayne’s hartebeest, as well as buffalo, various antelope species, and even crocodiles along the Maze River. The park also offers beautiful savanna landscapes, which are great for bird-watching and photography
Arrival in Arba Minch: Arrive in Arba Minch by late afternoon or early evening. Arba Minch is known for its two Rift Valley lakes, Lake Chamo and Lake Abaya
Overnight hotel
Morning Boat Trip on Lake Chamo: Enjoy a boat ride to see Nile crocodiles, hippos, and a variety of bird species.
Dorze Village: Visit the Dorze people, known for their tall woven huts and vibrant weaving traditions.
Overnight in Arba Minch.
Konso Village: Drive to Konso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to learn about the unique terraced agriculture, cultural practices, and wakas (wooden grave markers).
Cultural Experience: Meet local artisans and learn about Konso’s rich heritage.
Overnight in Konso.
Alduba Market: Head towards Jinka, stopping en route at Alduba, a market famous for bringing together the Banna, Ari, and sometimes Hamar tribes.
Explore the Market: Enjoy the colorful market day (held on Tuesdays), where locals gather to trade livestock, textiles, and crafts.
Drive to Jinka: Continue to Jinka (approximately 2 hours from Alduba).
Overnight in Jinka.
Visit the Mursi Tribe: Head to Mago National Park to visit the Mursi people, known for their lip plates and unique customs.
Return to Jinka: After visiting the Mursi, return to Jinka to relax.
Overnight in Jinka.
Dimeka Market: Travel to Dimeka, where the Hamar people gather for one of the most famous tribal markets (held on Tuesdays and Saturdays).
Market Experience: This is an excellent opportunity to interact with the Hamar tribe and explore their traditions and handicrafts.
Drive to Turmi: Continue to Turmi, the main hub for visiting local tribes (approximately 1 hour from Dimeka).
Overnight in Turmi.
Omorate: Travel to Omorate, near the Omo River, to visit the Dassanech tribe. You may cross the river in a traditional wooden canoe to reach their village.
Visit Karo Tribe: Return towards Turmi and visit the Karo tribe, known for their striking body and face painting.
Overnight in Turmi.
Drive to Arba Minch: A long drive but scenic, allowing for stops and breaks along the way (approximately 6-7 hours).
Relax in Arba Minch: Enjoy the lakeside views
Overnight in Arba Minch.
