7 Days cultural exploration of the Omo Valley and Surma

The journey begins with a morning domestic flight from Addis Ababa to Arba Minch. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by your local guide and transferred to the highland village of the Dorze people, who are renowned for their impressive beehive-shaped houses and exceptional weaving traditions. During your visit, you will experience a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, providing insight into daily life and social customs. The day concludes with relaxation and an overnight stay at a comfortable lodge in Arba Minch. Overnight: Eco Omo Lodge, Arba Minch.

After breakfast, enjoy a scenic boat excursion on Lake Chamo, home to large crocodiles, hippos, and abundant birdlife. The journey continues to Konso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its stone terracing, sustainable agricultural systems, and distinctive wooden grave markers known as waka. You will also explore Nechisar National Park. In the afternoon, drive south to Turmi, the cultural center of the Hamar people and a key base for exploring the Lower Omo Valley. Overnight: Emerald Lodge, Turmi.

Today's excursion takes you south to Omorate, where you will cross the Omo River by traditional wooden canoe. On the opposite bank, visit the Dassanech people, known for their resilience and unique adaptation to the riverine environment. After returning to Turmi, spend time with the Hamar community, observing their daily activities and village life. In the evening, enjoy Evangadi dancing, a lively cultural gathering, and, if scheduled, witness the traditional bull-jumping ceremony, a significant rite of passage for young Hamar men. Overnight Emerald Lodge, Turmi.

An early departure takes you to a Kara village, either Dus or Korcho, located along the Omo River. After crossing the river, the journey continues through Nyangatom territory, passing through Kangaten and Tulgit. This route offers remote landscapes and a genuine sense of exploration. By evening, you will arrive in the Surma region, reaching the town of Kibish. Overnight camping

This full day is dedicated to immersive cultural experiences with the Surma people, one of Ethiopia’s most visually distinctive and traditionally preserved communities. Activities include observing traditional body painting, lip plate customs, cattle herding, and daily village life. If available, guests may attend a Donga stick-fighting ceremony, an important cultural event symbolizing strength and honor. The surrounding landscapes provide exceptional opportunities for photography and cultural learning.
Overnight Camping in the Surma area.

Depart the Surma region and travel through the green highlands of western Ethiopia. The route passes through Bebeka and Mizan Teferi, areas known for coffee plantations, forest reserves, and cultural diversity. In the late afternoon or early evening, you will arrive in Jinka, the administrative and cultural hub of the Omo Valley. Overnight: Eco Omo Lodge, Jinka.

After an early breakfast, transfer to Jinka Airport for your domestic flight back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, the tour concludes. Guests may connect with their international departure after a farewell dinner.