Duration
14-Day
Mago National Park, Ethiopia
Fourteen days exploring southern Ethiopia: Addis Ababa sights, Rift Valley lakes and birdlife, Nechisar and Lake Chamo boat trips, and immersive visits with Dorze, Konso, Hamer, Arbore, Kara, Nyangatom, Mursi and Bodi communities -- with chances to see market life and traditional ceremonies. Return flight from Jinka to Addis Ababa.
Plan snapshot
Duration
14-Day
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa
Via Debre Libanos Monastery, Awasa (City), Arba Minch (City)
Country & park
Ethiopia / Mago National Park
Style
Mid-range safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
1 years
Activities
nature hikes/walks & boat trip
Accommodation
Jano Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
Meals
All Meals Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Rates
USD
Before booking
Quote flow
This mid-range tour uses lodges and hotels.
This tour will be organized exclusively for you and won't 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 1 year.
Day 1-2
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 3
Budget hotel in Awasa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 4-5
Mid-range hotel in Arba Minch (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 6
Mid-range lodge in Konso (Cultural Village) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 7-10
Mid-range lodge in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 11
Budget hotel in Lower Omo Valley (Cultural Village) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 12
Budget hotel in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 13
Budget hotel in Lower Omo Valley (Cultural Village) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 14
(No accommodation)
All Meals 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. Begin your introduction to Ethiopia at the National Museum of Ethiopia to see “Lucy,” the 3.2‑million‑year‑old fossil that transformed our understanding of human history. Continue to Holy Trinity Cathedral to explore its striking architecture and important national memorials. Head up to Entoto Mountain for panoramic views over Addis Ababa and the surrounding highlands. Finish the day wandering through Mercato, Africa’s largest open‑air market, where thousands of vendors sell spices, textiles and handicrafts — a true feast for the senses. Overnight in Addis Ababa. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 2
Addis Ababa → Debre Libanos → Return to Addis We will meet you at your hotel and drive north through the cool forests and ridgelines of Mount Entoto. After about two hours you will arrive at Debre Libanos Monastery, founded in the 13th century by Saint Tekle Haymanot. Visit the monastery museum with its ancient Bible manuscripts and religious crosses, explore the church interior and see the founder’s tomb. Take a short 10‑minute hike to the prayer cave associated with Saint Tekle Haymanot. Continue to the Portuguese Bridge overlooking the Blue Nile Gorge for dramatic landscapes and chances to see endemic Gelada baboons and birdlife. Return to Addis Ababa for the night. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 3
Addis Ababa → Ziway → Abijatta–Shalla → Awassa (Hawassa) Depart Addis Ababa and descend into the Great Rift Valley. Stop at Lake Ziway to admire abundant birdlife, then visit Abijatta–Shalla National Park where flamingos and other alkaline‑lake species gather. Continue to Awassa, a picturesque lakeside city. Explore the bustling fish market and take a relaxing boat trip on Lake Awassa to spot hippos and colorful waterbirds. Stroll the lakeshore at sunset. Overnight in Awassa. Budget hotel located in Awasa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 4
After breakfast depart Awassa and drive south through the spectacular Rift Valley, passing rolling terraced farmland, dramatic escarpments and pockets of highland forest. Along the route stop at scenic viewpoints for photos and short walks to stretch legs and speak with local farmers tending enset, maize and sorghum. Enjoy a riverside or roadside picnic lunch at a scenic spot if the schedule allows. Arrive in Arba Minch in the mid to late afternoon and take an orientation walk through town to visit the lively market, the palm‑lined streets and viewpoints overlooking the twin lakes of Abaya and Chamo. Learn about local crafts and try traditional coffee at a neighborhood café before settling into your hotel for dinner and overnight. Mid-range hotel located in Arba Minch (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 5
Begin the day with a short drive to Nechisar National Park and the famed Forty Springs, where clear freshwater emerges from the ground to form tranquil pools and wetland channels. Take a guided jungle walk through shady riverine forest, looking for endemic birds, butterflies and small mammals; if weather and conditions permit, cool off with a swim in one of the natural pools. Continue to Lake Chamo for a motorboat trip across calm waters to observe Nile crocodiles sunning on the banks, pods of hippos and flocks of waterbirds including herons and egrets. After returning to Arba Minch, drive up into the Gughe Mountains to visit a Dorze village. Spend time with local families, admire the intricately woven textiles and giant beehive huts, learn about traditional beekeeping and watch a weaving demonstration. Return to Arba Minch for dinner and overnight, with time to reflect on the day’s wildlife and cultural encounters. Mid-range hotel located in Arba Minch (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 6
Rise early for a morning boat trip on Lake Chamo when animal activity is at its peak; a quiet dawn ride increases chances of close hippo and crocodile sightings and superb bird photography. After the boat trip and breakfast, head south toward Konso across varied Rift Valley landscapes. On arrival enjoy a leisurely lunch and then explore the Konso Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its dramatic terraced agriculture, stone walls and carved wooden “generation poles” that commemorate family lineage and social history. Walk among the terraces with a local guide to learn about erosion control, indigenous farming techniques and the symbolic art and architecture of the Konso people. Visit the royal compound, meet community elders and learn about local governance and rituals. Overnight in or near Konso. Mid-range lodge located in Konso (Cultural Village) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 7
After breakfast depart Konso and drive toward Alduba (Dimeka), timing your arrival to coincide with the bustling weekly market. Spend the morning immersed in market life where Tsemay, Hamer and Benna traders converge to barter livestock, produce, pottery and beadwork. Observe local bargaining styles, sample street snacks and photograph colorful costumes and headwear—always asking permission before photographing individuals. After the market explore nearby craft stalls and perhaps meet a local guide who can explain tribal customs and accessories. In the afternoon continue to Turmi, arriving in time for a relaxed evening and overnight stay, preparing for several full days of cultural visits. Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 8
Following breakfast set out for a day trip to Arbore village at the northern edge of Mount Buska. The journey offers scenic views of acacia‑dotted plains and small settlements. Upon arrival meet Arbore families and learn about their distinctive social customs, traditional hairstyles, beadwork and seasonal ceremonies. Walk through the village to see huts constructed from tree branches and papyrus, observe daily activities such as pottery or millet processing, and participate in a cultural exchange where appropriate—sharing small gifts like soap or beads is appreciated. After spending time with the community and taking guided walks in the surrounding area, return to Turmi (round trip approximately four hours) for dinner and overnight. Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 9
Depart early for Kara Village on the east bank of the Omo River to meet Kara families known for elaborate body and face painting using ochre and charcoal. Learn about the meanings behind patterns and pigments, and observe daily life along the riverbank. Return to Turmi for lunch, then in the afternoon visit a Hamer village where you may witness the famous bull‑jumping ceremony if it is taking place; this rite of passage is an intense and symbolic event involving family, song and dance. If the ceremony is not scheduled, you will still experience Hamer hospitality, watch Evangadi and other dances, meet artisans, and learn about jewelry, hair styling and cattle culture. Respectful photography and following your guide’s instructions are essential. Overnight in Turmi. Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 10
In the morning make further visits to Arbore families and nearby hamlets to deepen your understanding of local life. Later drive toward Omorate on the banks of the Omo River to meet Dassanech communities who practice fishing, pastoralism and unique riverine customs. Important: Omorate is a border town—bring your passport and any required travel documents as immigration officers may request to see them. Engage in guided village walks, observe river fishing techniques and learn about traditional attire and body markings. Return to Turmi in the evening, with time to rest after a culturally rich day. Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 11
Depart very early for excursions into the Nyangatom (also called Bume or Bumi) area to meet people renowned for their adaptability and riverine livelihoods. Spend the morning meeting families, observing hunting and fishing techniques where safe and permitted, and learning about the Nyangatom social structure and seasonal movement patterns. After a midday break, return toward Key Afer and then continue the drive to Jinka—approximately three hours—through changing landscapes of scrubland and low hills. Arrive in Jinka in the late afternoon, check into your lodge and enjoy an evening briefing about the following day’s excursions. Overnight in Jinka. Budget hotel located in Lower Omo Valley (Cultural Village) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 12
After breakfast set out for a day trip to Mago National Park and neighboring Mursi villages. Meet Mursi families and learn about striking cultural practices such as lip plates, scarification, and body painting, while your guide explains their historical and social context. Walk the surrounding plains with a local guide to observe cattle herding, sorghum fields and the dramatic Omo Valley scenery. Visit viewpoints and community spaces, always following local protocols for respectful interaction and photography. Return to Jinka late afternoon for dinner and overnight. Budget hotel located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 13
Travel to meet the Bodi (Meen) people whose lives center on cattle and seasonal ceremonies. If timing aligns, experience parts of the Kael ceremony—a communal event where men attempt to gain weight using milk and blood as part of a ritual competition—observing with sensitivity and guidance from your local host. Whether or not the full ceremony occurs, you will meet families, learn about cattle management, taste traditional foods, and gain insight into Bodi cosmology and social customs. Return to Jinka for overnight. Budget hotel located in Lower Omo Valley (Cultural Village) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 14
Begin the day with a visit to the Jinka Cultural Museum to review artifacts and deepen your understanding of the Omo Valley peoples. Afterwards transfer to Jinka airport for your flight to Addis Ababa. On arrival in Addis the tour concludes; assistance with onward transfers can be arranged. Carry memories, photos, and new cultural perspectives from an intense and rewarding two‑week journey through southern Ethiopia. All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
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)
Drinks (As specified in the day-by-day section)
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
Offered by
Discover Simien Tour is one of the premier tour companies in Ethiopia, founded by a dynamic team of young and energetic tourism professionals. Led by Sahlie Beza, a seasoned tour guide with years of experience, our company is dedicated to providing exceptional travel experiences that showcase the rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality of Ethiopia.
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
5-10 employees (Founded in 2019)
Tour Types
Luxury tours that, when possible, use accommodations owned and operated by them
Destinations
Djibouti, Ethiopia
Traveler feedback
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5Sensational. Breathtaking views. The staff is one of the highlights of the tour.
Raphael · Brazil
Fantastic day with an absolutely knowledgeable guide - Gondar is full of magic!
Janoa · Hungary
We just completed a 12 day Ultimative Ethiopian Wildlife Adventure with Discover Simien Tour and it was truly unforgettable from start to finish. From the very first day, our guide Sahile impressed us with his broad and deep knowledge, calm professionalism and genuine passion for Ethiopia. He made everything feel safe, easygoing, and yet so enriching – whether explaining the geology of the Simien mountains, pointing out gelada monkeys, or helping us understand local customs. Our driver Daniel, was equally fantastic; punctual, skilled, and navigating challenging terrain with ease, which even made long drives feel part of the adventure. The scenery across the trip was breath taking, whereas Simien mountains was the absolute highlight with its dramatic cliffs and astonishing flora and fauna. We stayed in a mix of comfortable lodges and hotels and the logistics were handled smoothly; transport, park fees, food and guides – everything as promised. Culturally, we visited traditional communities, explored the spiritual side of Ethiopian heritage, and felt welcomed everywhere. Sahile skilfully bridged us into these moments, making them feel authentic. In short; 5 stars for the excellent guides, the authentic cultural immersion, the stunning landscapes and the very professional and warm service. We felt like we did not just visited Ethiopia but also experienced it.
Daniela and Sina · Switzerland
I don’t even know where to start… Our 3-day trip to the Danakil Depression with Discover Simien Mountains was an absolutely unforgettable experience – not only because of the surreal landscapes but also thanks to the incredible people we got to meet and travel with. We chose a private tour, and during our journey, we were joined by Bahran (guide), Addis (driver), and Habtu (cook) – each of them was such a kind, warm, and genuine person. If you’re planning a trip to Danakil or any other part of Ethiopia with Discover Simien Mountains, I truly recommend asking for Addis – he’s an amazing person and an excellent driver. Our guide (Bahran) explained everything clearly and with great passion. We learned so much about Dallol, the salt lakes, and the volcanoes. The food was another highlight! Habtu somehow managed to cook fresh, tasty meals right in the middle of the desert. We always had enough water and soft drinks, and even got to enjoy some Ethiopian beer or wine while watching the sunset on the salt lake an unforgettable experience. We also really appreciated the small but thoughtful details, like the portable shower provided during the tour – in such hot conditions, it was a true blessing! What made this trip even more special was the planning: while most operators follow a similar route, the Discover Simien Mountains team made sure we could arrive early to the main sights and enjoy them in peace before other groups arrived. That sense of privacy and exclusivity was priceless. We cannot recommend Discover Simien Mountains highly enough – if you’re planning a trip to Danakil or any other region in Ethiopia, this is the team you want to travel with. We felt safe, well taken care of, and genuinely welcomed throughout the journey. We left with the most beautiful memories the kind that stay with you long after the trip ends. It’s hard to put it all into words… you simply have to experience it yourself!
Monika · Poland
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 1 year 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.
Jano Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included. Meals: All Meals 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 Discover Simien Tour, 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.
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