Duration
13-Day
Accra, Ethiopia
Experience Ethiopia's vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes on this 13-day Cultural & Natural Odyssey. Journey through ancient cities, rock-hewn churches, and scenic highlands. Explore the Simien Mountains' dramatic peaks, the mystical monasteries of Lake Tana, and the living traditions of the Omo Valley. From timeless history to diverse tribes and spectacular nature, this tour offers an immersive adventure through Ethiopia's cultural heart and natural wonders.
Plan snapshot
Duration
13-Day
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa (City)
Via Awasa (City), Arba Minch (City), Konso (Cultural Village)
Country & park
Ethiopia
Style
Safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
10 years
Activities
Getting around: minivan & air transfer
Accommodation
Swiss Inn Nexus Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Meals
Breakfast Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Rates
USD
Before booking
Quote flow
This budget tour uses lodges and resorts.
This tour will be organized exclusively for you. However, wildlife viewing activities are run by the lodges/camps and will be shared with others.
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Solo travelers can book this private tour.
The minimum age for this tour is 10 years.
Day 1
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 2-3
Mid-range resort in Awasa (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 4
Budget hotel in Arba Minch (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 5
Mid-range lodge in Konso (Cultural Village) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 6
Mid-range lodge in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 7-8
Budget hotel in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 9
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 10-11
Budget hotel in Lalibela (Town) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 12
Budget hotel in Axum (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 13
(No accommodation)
Breakfast Included
Tour step
You'll be collected from the airport. Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1
Arrive in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s vibrant capital. After airport pickup, transfer to your hotel and relax. In the afternoon, explore the city’s highlights including the National Museum, home to Lucy’s fossil, and the Ethnological Museum, showcasing Ethiopia’s diverse cultures. Stroll through Merkato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets. Enjoy your first Ethiopian dinner, sampling traditional dishes like injera and doro wat, while absorbing the city’s lively atmosphere. Overnight in Addis Ababa. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
After breakfast, drive south to Hawassa, a scenic city on Lake Hawassa. En route, stop at Abiyata-Shala National Park to observe ostriches, antelopes, and striking landscapes. Walk around the lakes and enjoy photo opportunities, and if time allows, visit natural hot springs. Arrive in Hawassa in the late afternoon. Explore the lake shore, watch fishermen at work, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings as the sun sets over the Rift Valley. Overnight in Hawassa. Mid-range resort located in Awasa (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
After breakfast, drive to Yirgalem to visit a local coffee farm. Participate in a traditional coffee ceremony and learn about Ethiopian coffee cultivation from planting to roasting. Explore nearby Sidama villages and observe locals preparing kocho from false banana trees. Discover traditional farming practices, food preparation, and cultural rituals. Return to Hawassa in the afternoon and enjoy a relaxing walk along the lake shore, spotting endemic birds and soaking in the tranquil scenery. Overnight in Hawassa. Mid-range resort located in Awasa (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4
Drive to Arba Minch, passing scenic highlands and valleys. Stop in Chencha to visit the Dorze people, known for their tall beehive-shaped bamboo huts, colorful weaving, and traditional crafts. Learn about their food and alcohol preparation, including honey and banana-based drinks. Explore the village, observing daily life, community practices, and weaving techniques. Take in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains before continuing to Arba Minch for overnight stay. Budget hotel located in Arba Minch (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5
Drive to Konso, stopping at Lake Chamo for a boat trip among crocodiles and hippos. Arrive in Konso and visit the UNESCO-listed terraced villages, famed for their stone-walled farms, intricate rituals, and hardworking communities. Walk through the village, interact with locals, and witness traditional life, from farming to crafts. Capture stunning photographs of the terraced landscapes and ceremonial sites. Overnight in Konso, immersed in the rich cultural heritage of southern Ethiopia. Mid-range lodge located in Konso (Cultural Village) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 6
Drive toward Turmi, visiting the Nyangatom tribe near the South Sudan border. Observe their distinct attire, colorful necklaces, and traditional customs. Continue to the Hamar region and explore a Hamar village and market, learning about ceremonial practices, hairstyles, and stick-fighting rituals. Engage with the locals and experience their vibrant culture firsthand. Spend the evening in Turmi, enjoying the lively tribal atmosphere and preparing for further Omo Valley exploration. Overnight in Turmi. Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 7
Early in the morning you depart from Turmi with your guide and vehicle and drive to the villages of the Erbore tribe. On arrival you are welcomed by the community and observe their daily life including traditional huts farming activities and local customs. Your guide explains the Erbore culture social structure and their close relationship with the natural environment. Afterward you continue to visit the Bena tribe known for their colorful clothing detailed beadwork and traditional body painting. You observe children walking with sticks as part of daily routines and traditional games and may witness body painting practices that are central to Bena identity. The visit offers an authentic cultural experience and good photo opportunities while respecting local traditions. In the afternoon you drive back to Jinka the main town of the area. The evening is free to relax enjoy dinner and reflect on the rich tribal encounters of the day. Overnight in Jinka at NASA Hotel. Budget hotel located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 8
Early in the morning after breakfast at your hotel in Jinka you depart for the Mursi tribe villages. The Mursi are well-known in the Omo Valley for their lip plates and body decorations. Your guide introduces you to the community, explaining their customs, social structure, and the meaning of traditional ornaments. You will see women with lip plates and men with scarification patterns and observe daily activities such as cattle herding and small-scale farming. This is a chance to interact respectfully and take photos while learning about their way of life. In the afternoon you visit the Ari tribe villages, mainly farmers known for colorful clothing. You see farms, huts, and communal areas and learn about their farming practices and social traditions before driving back to Jinka for overnight stay. Budget hotel located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 9
After breakfast at your hotel in Jinka, you are transferred to the airport for your domestic flight to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, you are met by your guide and transferred to your hotel in the capital city. The day is free to rest after the Omo Valley adventure or to explore Addis Ababa at your own pace. You may choose to visit local markets, enjoy Ethiopian coffee at a traditional coffee, or stroll through the city’s streets to experience its vibrant culture and history. Overnight in Addis Ababa. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 10
After an early breakfast, you are transferred to the airport for your flight to Lalibela, the city of rock-hewn churches and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Upon arrival, meet your guide and begin your tour of the first group of churches. You explore the remarkable cluster of eleven medieval rock-cut churches, marveling at their unique architecture, carved from solid rock, and the intricate details reflecting Ethiopia’s rich Christian heritage. Learn about their spiritual significance, the history of King Lalibela, and the religious ceremonies still held today. Enjoy time for photography and quiet reflection. In the evening, transfer to your hotel in Lalibela for overnight stay. Budget hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 11
After breakfast, continue exploring Lalibela with a visit to the second group of rock-hewn churches. Discover the remarkable architecture, intricate carvings, and the spiritual significance of these historic sites. In the afternoon, drive to Asheton Maryam Monastery, perched on a hilltop overlooking the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a short hike to the monastery, take in panoramic views, and learn about its religious importance. Return to your hotel in Lalibela in the evening for overnight stay. Budget hotel located in Lalibela (Town) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 12
After an early breakfast at your hotel in Lalibela, you are transferred to the airport for your domestic flight to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, you connect with your onward flight to Axum. Upon arrival in Axum, meet your guide and begin exploring this ancient city, the former capital of the Axumite Empire. Visit key historical and religious sites, including the Church of St. Mary of Zion, believed to house the Ark of the Covenant, and the famous obelisks, royal tombs, and ancient ruins. Learn about Axum’s rich history and significance in Ethiopian Christianity. Overnight in Axum. Budget hotel located in Axum (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 13
After breakfast, continue exploring Axum’s remaining churches, archaeological sites, and local markets. Discover ancient inscriptions, religious relics, and historical architecture, reflecting the legacy of the Axumite Empire. Capture final memories of this culturally and historically rich region before transferring to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa, end of the trip. Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Tour step
Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost. You'll be dropped off at the airport.
Park fees (For non-residents)
All activities (Unless labeled as optional)
All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)
A professional driver/guide
All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)
All flights during the tour
All Taxes/VAT
Roundtrip airport transfer
Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Drinking water (On all days)
International flights (From/to home)
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Some meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Offered by
Omo Valley Experience Tours is a leader in providing travellers with authentic Ethiopian adventures. With high-end 4x4 vehicles, fluent English, and extensive
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
1-5 employees (Founded in 2016)
Tour Types
Budget camping tours where clients assist with camp chores
Destinations
Ethiopia
Traveler feedback
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5Robel was the most generous and knowledgeable person for this trip. Most of all he helped us access local knowledge and humor in a very relaxed way and gave many insights into the cultures and religion and history of this amazing awesome inspiring country. He was more than ready to try unplanned drives. An excellent driver and very caring and very well organized.
Robert Logie · Australia
My two female friends and I, spent an absolutely incredible month traveling around Ethiopia, and having Robel with us for the entire journey made all the difference. He shared his beautiful country with such passion, warmth, and deep knowledge that every single day felt exciting, meaningful, and special. Robel was consistently professional, reliable, and genuinely caring, and we always felt completely safe, comfortable, and wonderfully looked after. His kindness, fantastic sense of humor, and remarkable attention to detail truly elevated our experience and made the trip unforgettable. We honestly couldn’t have imagined a better tour guide, and I would recommend Robel with the highest enthusiasm to anyone looking for an amazing, authentic, and memorable travel experience.
Vasiliki · United Kingdom
We went to fish market and l had a wonderful time. Robel was very attentive and made sure l was comfortable being around the animal's and that l felt safe first, he made feel as though l was his number one priority which is quite rare, having traveled all over the world. He is definitely one of a kind. Thank you again Robel and l wish that everyone that comes on your tours will have similar experiences. Love Kehindi &Taiwo ❤️ 💙
Kehindi · Jamaica
Omo Valley Experience Tours company with Robel leading, fulfilled our dream above expectation, to visit the ethiopian south tribes. 10 days vip service, covered 10 tribes, 4 amazing ceremonies and several national parks on the way to Addis Ababa. Robel was flexible enough and patient to listen to our needs and to full fill all our wishes in this trip in pleasant way. Full tour days, good hotels & meals, new private jeep with nice driver named Denis and good local tour guides. Couldn’t ask better.
Niza · Israel
Practical answers
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
This tour is offered in US dollars (USD).
This tour accepts children who are 10 years and older.
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Swiss Inn Nexus Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included. Meals: Breakfast Included
This tour starts and ends in Addis Ababa
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Operator policy
This tour is offered by Omo Valley Experience Tours, not SafariBookings.
This operator reserves the right to change rates advertised on SafariBookings.
If you request changes to this tour, the advertised rates will likely change.
Rates include a fixed budget for flights during this tour. If flights cost more, your quote will reflect this.
The exact order, contents and rates of this tour are subject to availability.
If an accommodation is fully booked, the operator will suggest a comparable alternative.
This tour is subject to the terms & conditions of Omo Valley Experience Tours.
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