The Living South: 10 Days of Ethiopia’s Cultures, Wildlife & Rift Valley Wonders
About
Few journeys on Earth match the richness of Southern Ethiopia. Over 10 days, Dejene Ethiopia Tours takes you from the savanna plains of Awash National Park to the UNESCO-listed Konso terraces and the culturally rich Omo Valley.
Experience tribal life, wildlife, and dramatic landscapes that feel untouched by time. Witness lip-plate traditions of the Mursi, elaborate hairstyles and bull-jumping rites of the Hamer, and intricate body painting of the Karo. Glide across Rift Valley lakes, explore highland terraces, and meet communities whose traditions span millennia.
Travel comfortably in 4×4 vehicles, stay in top eco-lodges, and enjoy expert guides who blend cultural insight with respect. This expedition is not just sightseeing — it’s a full immersion into the living soul of Ethiopia.
Addis Ababa • Awash NP • Rift Valley Lakes • Arba Minch • Konso • Jinka • Turmi • Omorate
- Domestic flights (Addis → Arba Minch / Jinka → Addis)
- Accommodation in handpicked lodges & resorts
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Private 4×4 vehicles with driver-guide
- Park, village, and heritage site entry fees
- Boat trips (Ziway, Chamo, Omo Rivers)
- Airport transfers
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Alcoholic beverages & personal expenses
- Optional ceremonies (bull-jumping, dances – paid locally)
- Tips for guides/drivers
- Activity level: Moderate (walking, light trekking, game drives)
- Cultural sensitivity required in tribal regions
- Photography etiquette guidance provided
- Suitable for culture, wildlife, and adventure travelers
- Booking recommended well in advance
Itinerary
Day 1 — Arrival in Addis Ababa
Airport welcome → city tour: National Museum, Holy Trinity Cathedral, Mount Entoto viewpoints
Cultural dinner with music & dance
Overnight: Golden Tulip / Hilton
Day 2 — Safari in Awash National Park
Game drives spotting oryx, baboons, Soemmerring’s gazelle, warthogs, and 400+ bird species
Visit Awash River Falls
Overnight: Awash Falls Lodge
Day 3 — Rift Valley Lakes: Ziway & Langano
Boat trip on Lake Ziway → pelicans, jacanas, island monasteries
Lake Langano: birdwatching, kayaking, or relaxing
Overnight: Sabana Beach Resort
Day 4 — Flight to Arba Minch & Dorze Village
Visit Dorze people → weaving demonstration & traditional bread tasting
Overnight: Paradise Lodge / Haile Resort
Day 5 — Lake Chamo & Nech Sar National Park
Boat safari → hippos, pelicans, crocodiles
Game drive in Nech Sar National Park → zebras, gazelles
Overnight: Paradise Lodge / Haile Resort
Day 6 — Arba Minch → Konso → Jinka
Visit Konso terraces → meet the Konso King
Continue through Ari villages to Jinka
Overnight: Eco-Omo Lodge
Day 7 — Mursi Tribe in Mago National Park
Meet Mursi tribe → observe lip-plate traditions & stick-fighting rituals
Visit South Omo Research Center & Museum
Overnight: Eco-Omo Lodge
Day 8 — Jinka → Turmi: Hamer People
Hamer village visit → elaborate hairstyles & beadwork
Witness bull-jumping ceremony (if scheduled)
Overnight: Buska Lodge
Day 9 — Dassanech & Karo Tribes
Boat crossing Omo River → meet Dassanech
Visit Murulle → Karo body painting traditions
Overnight: Buska Lodge
Day 10 — Return to Addis Ababa
Flight back to Addis → souvenir shopping → farewell cultural dinner
Transfer to Bole International Airport
Customer Reviews
For - 10 Days
- Best Price Guaranteed
- No Booking Fees
- Professional Local Guide
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