Itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrival in Jinka and Drive to Turmi

   • Arrive at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport and board a domestic flight to Jinka, the gateway to Ethiopia’s South Omo Valley.

   • Meet your local guide and driver for a brief orientation before beginning the scenic drive to Turmi.

   • Stop to visit the Banna tribe and learn about their striking body decorations, elaborate hairstyles, and vibrant traditions.

   • Pause at a nearby village to enjoy the sunset and experience the welcoming atmosphere of the community.

   Conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay at Emerald Lodge in Turmi.

2. Day 2: Karo and Hamer Tribes Exploration

   • Begin the day with a scenic drive to the Karo tribe’s village along the Omo River.

   • Observe the artistry of their intricate face and body paintings created with natural pigments.

   • Return to Turmi for lunch and proceed to meet the Hamer people, renowned for their deep-rooted cultural traditions.

   • Witness the bull-jumping ceremony if it coincides with your visit, accompanied by music, dancing, and singing.

   Spend the night at Emerald Lodge in Turmi.

3. Day 3: Visit Turmi Market and Ari People

   • Explore Turmi’s bustling local market if it is open, observing colorful stalls and vibrant local interactions.

   • Drive back to Jinka, stopping at markets along the way to experience the region’s trading culture.

   • In the afternoon, meet the Ari people and learn about their farming practices, craftsmanship, and unique way of life.

   Stay overnight at Nasa Hotel in Jinka.

4. Day 4: Mursi People and Addis Ababa Cultural Highlights

   • Drive through Mago National Park to the village of the Mursi people, known for their cultural traditions and distinctive lip plates.

   • Return to Jinka for your domestic flight back to Addis Ababa.

   • Visit the National Museum of Ethiopia to see the famous fossil “Lucy” and explore artifacts that narrate the country’s rich history.

   Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at Jano International Hotel.

5. Day 5: Explore Lalibela Rock-Hewn Churches

   • Fly to Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and spiritual destination.

   • Explore the extraordinary rock-hewn churches carved into the ground and connected by tunnels and passageways.

   • Learn about the history, symbolism, and spiritual importance of these monuments.

   • Admire the sunset over the rugged highlands before dinner and an overnight stay at Sora Lodge Lalibela.

6. Day 6: Scenic Road Trip to Semera

   • Embark on a scenic road journey from Lalibela to Semera, passing through rugged highlands and open plains.

   • Stop at villages along the way to enjoy lunch, traditional coffee, and insights into local customs.

   • Capture photographs of the shifting landscapes during the drive.

   Spend the night at Ardi Ethiopia Hotel in Semera.

7. Day 7: Afdera Salt Lake and Erta Ale Volcano

   • Drive to Afdera to witness the shimmering salt lake and soak in the natural hot springs.

   • Have lunch in this remote setting before continuing toward Erta Ale, Ethiopia’s active volcano.

   • Hike to the volcano’s rim to view the molten lava lake and experience the dramatic volcanic scenery.

   Camp near Erta Ale under a starlit desert sky.

8. Day 8: Dallol Volcanic Landscapes and Hamedela Sunset

   • Travel to the otherworldly landscapes of Dallol, featuring vivid volcanic formations, colorful mineral deposits, and steaming hot springs.

   • Explore and photograph the surreal terrain of the Danakil Depression.

   • Continue to Hamedela for a stunning sunset over the expansive salt lake.

   Camp overnight in Hamedela, surrounded by the region’s striking scenery.

9. Day 9: Sunrise at Salt Lake and Departure

   • Witness the sunrise over the salt lake, capturing the vibrant colors of the landscape.

   • Explore the terrain one final time before driving back to Semera.

   • Take a domestic flight to Addis Ababa and freshen up at Jano Hotel day room.

   • Enjoy shopping and a farewell dinner featuring local cuisine.

   • Transfer to Bole International Airport for your international departure.