Tribes, Mountains, and Caves: The Ultimate Southern Ethiopian Adventure

Overview

The ultimate 13-day Ethiopian adventure, packed with dramatic mountains, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable cultural encounters. We journey from the high-altitude Bale Mountains to the sculptural Sof Omar Caves, culminating in the Omo Valley to experience the world's most extraordinary tribal cultures, with a chance to witness the iconic Bull-Jumping Ceremony.

Tour Highlights

Detailed Itinerary

0

Evening Flight to Addis

Depart from Heathrow on an evening flight to Addis Ababa.

1

Flight to Goba and Arrival

After a brief stop in Addis, we take an onward flight to Goba, the hub for the Bale Mountains. We meet our expert drivers and check into the peaceful Wabe Shabele Hotel for recovery time.

2

Senetti Plateau and Ethiopian Wolf Search

Drive high onto the alpine Senetti Plateau to search for the beautiful, rare Ethiopian Wolf amid giant lobelia. In the afternoon, we enter the National Park to find Mountain Nyala, Menelik’s Bushbuck, and warthogs.

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3

Sof Omar River Caves Exploration

We descend to the east for a visit to the magical and unexpectedly sculptural Sof Omar river caves, an impressive natural wonder often attended by Vervet monkeys and rock hyrax. We return to Goba in the afternoon.

4

Drive to Hawassa

A substantial drive through picturesque mountain scenery and wildlife habitats brings us to Hawassa. We enjoy a wander along the lakeside for colourful birdlife and sunset views on our one evening here.

5

Travel to Arba Minch

We continue south to Arba Minch, the gateway to the tribal south, where we stay at the Ezana Hotel, overlooking the stunning Lakes Chamo and Abaya. The changing landscape offers constant photo opportunities.

6

Banna Tribe and Jinka

A fascinating drive via Karat-Konso (lunch at a hilltop hotel) takes us deep into the south. We visit a welcoming Banna tribe village before arriving in Jinka, our simple base for two nights.

7

Mursi and Ari Tribes

Early start for the isolated Mago National Park to meet the Mursi people, known for their lip plates, where we receive a respectful welcome. We return to Jinka for lunch, followed by a village visit to the Ari tribe in the nearby woodlands.

8

Travel to Turmi and Hamer Tribe

Our journey takes us to Turmi, the center of the colourful Hamer tribal culture. After check-in at Turmi Lodge, we spend the afternoon with our guide in a village with the famously beautiful and welcoming Hamer people.

9

Karo Tribe and Turmi Market

Morning trip to the territory of the Kara tribe, who specialize in extraordinary white body painting, located high over the Omo River. The afternoon features a small but memorable market in Turmi, perfect for souvenirs.

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10

Flexible Day / Road Trip Back

This day is kept flexible to accommodate any movements required to see the Bull-Jumping ceremony or to visit yet another of the region's diverse tribes.

11

Northward Journey and Markets

With a non-flying day in the schedule, we continue moving northwards to Jinka, ensuring we are in position for the flight tomorrow. We may enjoy more village surroundings or catch a local tribal market at Dimeka.

12

Flight to Addis Ababa and Farewell Dinner

A morning flight takes us back to the capital. We'll have time for souvenir shopping and a farewell drink at the luxurious Sheraton Hotel before a final dinner.

13

Daytime Flight Home

Take a daytime flight back to London, carrying extraordinary memories of the mountains and tribes of southern Ethiopia.