"12-Day South Omo & North Expedition: Explore Ethiopia’s Culture, Wilderness, and Wonders"
|12 Days, 12 Destinations |Starts from Arba Minch
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Best price guaranteed
No booking fees
Earn €20 in travel credits
Duration

12 days

Max Group Size

15

Departure Type

Guaranteed

Guiding Method

Fully guided

Physical level

moderate

Operated In

Age Requirement

8 - 90 Ages

Tour Overview

Experience the Best of Ethiopia: Southern & Northern Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Ethiopia’s vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history. Travel south to the Omo Valley, where diverse indigenous tribes preserve ancient traditions, and witness their unique way of life. Then, head north to explore Ethiopia’s historical treasures, including the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, the castles of Gondar, and the stunning landscapes of the Simien Mountains. This tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and history, making it an experience of a lifetime!


Food & CulinaryLuxury ToursSafariWildlifeSolo TravelSightseeingWalking TourReligiousRoad TourBase jumpingDailyCampingFamilyHiking & TrekkingExplorerAdventureAccessible ToursBoat

Route

Starts from

Arba Minch

Ends in

Bole Addis Ababa International Airport

Tour route map

Highlights

Cultural Immersion in the Omo Valley: Visit the Hamar, Mursi, Karo, and Dasenech tribes, experiencing their unique traditions, body decorations, and ceremonies. Lake Chamo Boat Safari: Spot crocodiles, hippos, and diverse birdlife. Dorze Village Exploration: Discover traditional bamboo houses and taste local Kotcho bread. istoric Wonders of the North: Explore Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches, Gondar’s royal castles, and the ancient city of Axum.

Itinerary

Early mooring having a breakfast and fly to Arba minch up on your arrival transfer to your hotel l.  Later Drive to Arba Minch via Dorze Village, known for unique bamboo houses and false banana cultivation. Overnight at Tourist Hotel.

Morning boat trip on Lake Chamo to see crocodiles, hippos, and birds. Drive to Turmi, visiting the Konso tribe village. Overnight at Emerald Lodge.

Cross the Omo River by wooden boat to visit the Dasenach tribe. Afternoon visit to the Hamer tribe, with a chance to witness a Bull Jumping ceremony. Overnight at Emerald Lodge.

Visit the Karo tribe, famous for body decorations. Continue to Jinka, stopping at a Mursi village, known for women’s lip plates. Overnight at Nasa Hotel.

Fly to Bahir Dar via Addis. Take a boat trip on Lake Tana to visit island monasteries. Afternoon excursion to Tis Abay Waterfall if time permits. Overnight at Jacaranda Hotel.

Drive to Gondar and visit the Royal Enclosure, Debre Berhan Selassie Church, and other historic sites. Overnight at Haile resort.

Begin your journey in Debark with a quick stop at the park headquarters for permits and a briefing. Drive to Buyit Ras and start your scenic hike to Sankaber. Enjoy stunning views of jagged cliffs and spot Gelada baboons along the way. Overnight camping.

After breakfast, hike to the impressive Jinbar Waterfall, one of the park’s most iconic sights. Along the trail, enjoy panoramic views and rich wildlife. Return to Sankaber and drive back to Debark, wrapping up a memorable two-day escape into Ethiopia’s natural wonder.  Back to Gondar and overnight Haile resort 

Fly to Lalibela and explore the first group of magnificent rock-hewn churches.  Afternoon visit to the second group of rock-hewn churches, including the iconic Bete Giorgis. Overnight at Top Twelve  Hotel.

Fly to Addis Ababa. City tour including the Ethnographic Museum, Trinity Cathedral, Entoto Hills, and Merkato. Overnight Damat  in Addis Ababa.

Fly to Axum. Explore Stelae Field, St. Mary of Zion Cathedral, Queen of Sheba’s Palace, and royal tombs. Overnight at Yared Zema International Hotel.

Fly back Addis Ababa and have a farewell dinner and ready for your departure 

Trip includes

Included

Hotel and Lodge 
HotelResort

All Domestics Flight

Guiding Method
Fully guided

breakfast , lunch and Dinner 

4d4 Car with fuel

PlaneBoatLocal TransportPrivate Vehicle

Things to Know Before You Travel to South Omo Valley & Northern Ethiopia

 

1. Travel Documents & Visa

 

Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.

 

Most nationalities can obtain a tourist visa online (e-visa) or on arrival at Bole International Airport.

 

 

2. Health & Safety

 

Yellow fever vaccination may be required if you're arriving from certain countries.

 

Consult your doctor about vaccinations (e.g., Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Malaria prevention for the Omo Valley).

 

Carry basic first aid and any personal medications.

 

 

3. Climate & Clothing

 

Ethiopia’s climate varies: pack for both warm and cool weather.

 

The Omo Valley is hot and dusty – bring light, breathable clothing, sun protection, and a hat.

 

Northern highlands can be cooler, especially in the evenings – pack layers or a jacket.

 

Modest clothing is advised when visiting churches or rural communities.

 

 

4. Currency & Payments

 

The local currency is the Ethiopian Birr (ETB).

 

Cash is preferred in most areas, especially in the Omo Valley.

 

ATMs are available in cities like Addis Ababa and Bahir Dar, but rare in remote areas.

 

 

5. Cultural Sensitivity

 

South Omo is home to unique and diverse tribes; always ask before taking photos.

 

Respect local customs and traditions.

 

Remove shoes and hats when entering churches and religious sites.

 

 

6. Connectivity

 

Wi-Fi and mobile coverage are available in cities, but limited or unavailable in remote areas.

 

Consider purchasing a local SIM card (e.g., Ethio Telecom) if you need connectivity.

 

 

7. Packing Essentials

 

Sunscreen, insect repellent, reusable water bottle, power bank, flashlight/headlamp, hand sanitizer, and tissues.

 

A camera with extra batteries and memory cards for photography lovers.

 

 

8. Electricity

 

Ethiopia uses 220V with Type C, E, and F outlets. Bring a universal adapter.

 

 

9. Food & Water

 

Stick to bottled or filtered water.

 

Ethiopian food is flavorful and often spicy; vegetarian options are widely available.

 

Be cautious with street food to avoid stomach issues.

 

 

10. Photography & Drones

 

Drones require a permit from the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority.

 

In some tribal areas, photography may require permission or a small fee.

Excluded

Things to Know Before You Travel to South Omo Valley & Northern Ethiopia

 

1. Travel Documents & Visa

 

Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.

 

Most nationalities can obtain a tourist visa online (e-visa) or on arrival at Bole International Airport.

 

 

2. Health & Safety

 

Yellow fever vaccination may be required if you're arriving from certain countries.

 

Consult your doctor about vaccinations (e.g., Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Malaria prevention for the Omo Valley).

 

Carry basic first aid and any personal medications.

 

 

3. Climate & Clothing

 

Ethiopia’s climate varies: pack for both warm and cool weather.

 

The Omo Valley is hot and dusty – bring light, breathable clothing, sun protection, and a hat.

 

Northern highlands can be cooler, especially in the evenings – pack layers or a jacket.

 

Modest clothing is advised when visiting churches or rural communities.

 

 

4. Currency & Payments

 

The local currency is the Ethiopian Birr (ETB).

 

Cash is preferred in most areas, especially in the Omo Valley.

 

ATMs are available in cities like Addis Ababa and Bahir Dar, but rare in remote areas.

 

 

5. Cultural Sensitivity

 

South Omo is home to unique and diverse tribes; always ask before taking photos.

 

Respect local customs and traditions.

 

Remove shoes and hats when entering churches and religious sites.

 

 

6. Connectivity

 

Wi-Fi and mobile coverage are available in cities, but limited or unavailable in remote areas.

 

Consider purchasing a local SIM card (e.g., Ethio Telecom) if you need connectivity.

 

 

7. Packing Essentials

 

Sunscreen, insect repellent, reusable water bottle, power bank, flashlight/headlamp, hand sanitizer, and tissues.

 

A camera with extra batteries and memory cards for photography lovers.

 

 

8. Electricity

 

Ethiopia uses 220V with Type C, E, and F outlets. Bring a universal adapter.

 

 

9. Food & Water

 

Stick to bottled or filtered water.

 

Ethiopian food is flavorful and often spicy; vegetarian options are widely available.

 

Be cautious with street food to avoid stomach issues.

 

 

10. Photography & Drones

 

Drones require a permit from the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority.

 

In some tribal areas, photography may require permission or a small fee.

Spa

personal expanse 

Tips 

laundry service, shopping

Availability

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