Duration
8-Day
Bale Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
8-Day Bale National Park and Omo Valley Tour
Overview
This route combines ecological richness with cultural depth. From trekking across alpine plateaus and exploring rift valley lakes to engaging with traditional communities in the Omo Valley, the journey showcases Ethiopia's remarkable contrasts. It is an ideal itinerary for travelers seeking adventure, authenticity, and meaningful cultural connections.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa (City)
Via Bale Mountains NP, Awasa (City), Arba Minch (City)
Country & park
Ethiopia / Bale Mountains National Park
Style
Safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
18 years
Activities
walking safaris (with an armed guide) & nature hikes/walks
Accommodation
Nurobe Hotel Budget hotel less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP – All Meals Included - Budget hotel less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP – All Meals Included
Meals
All Meals Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Rates
Rates Per Person
USD
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
n/a* USD
$2,199 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
n/a* USD
$2,199 USD
Before booking
Important To Know
This tour is not available to solo travelers.
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
This tour is offered in US dollars (USD).
This tour is unavailable for children.
Rates include a fixed budget for flights during this tour. Flights may cost more, depending on travel dates. If so, your quote will reflect this.
Quote flow
Request Guidance
We advise requesting quotes from 3 operators ()
Requests are sent directly to the tour operator
If preferred, you can contact the tour operator directly
Route
country
Ethiopia
Start
Addis Ababa (Day 1)
Day 1-2
Bale Mountains NP
Day 3
Awasa (City)
Day 4
Arba Minch (City)
Day 5
Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)
Day 6
Omorate (Lower Omo Valley)
Day 7
Lower Omo Valley (Cultural Village)
End
Addis Ababa (City) (Day 8)
Tour Features
Budget tour
This budget tour uses lodges and resorts.
Private tour
This tour will be organized exclusively for you and won't be shared with others.
Can start any day
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
Cannot be customized
The accommodations and destinations of this tour cannot be changed.
Not for solo travelers
Solo travelers cannot book this private tour.
18
Minimum age of 18 years
The minimum age for this tour is 18 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: walking safaris (with an armed guide) & nature hikes/walks
Getting around: normal 4x4 vehicle & air transfer
This operator can select your international flights, but you'll have to book them yourself
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Accommodation & Meals
Day 1-2
Nurobe Hotel Budget hotel less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP – All Meals Included
Budget hotel less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 3
Haile Resort Hawassa
Mid-range resort in Awasa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 4
Haile Resort Arba Minch
Mid-range hotel in Arba Minch (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 5-6
Buska Lodge
Mid-range lodge in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 7
Jinka Resort Budget hotel in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) – All Meals Included
Budget hotel in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 8
End of tour
(No accommodation)
All Meals Included
Day By Day
Tour step
Arrival
You'll be collected from the airport. Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1
Bale Mountains – A Paradise for Nature Seekers
Begin your journey with a scenic morning drive southeast toward the breathtaking Bale Mountains National Park. Along the way, enjoy a relaxing lunch stop in Asella, a charming town known for its cool climate and mountain views. Continue your drive to the park headquarters, arriving in the early afternoon. After settling in, set out for a leisurely hike in the surrounding area, offering excellent opportunities to encounter some of Ethiopia’s unique endemic wildlife. You may spot remarkable mammals such as the Menelik's bushbuck and the rare mountain nyala. The park is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, with species including the black-headed siskin, Rouget's rail, wattled ibis, spot-breasted lapwing, and the striking Abyssinian longclaw, among many others. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and immerse yourself in one of Africa’s most unique highland ecosystems. Overnight Bale Robe. Budget hotel located less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Bale Mountains National Park Stay: Nurobe Hotel Budget hotel located less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
Exploring the Wonders of Bale Mountains National Park
Spend a full day immersed in the extraordinary landscapes of Bale Mountains National Park, one of Africa’s most remarkable biodiversity hotspots. Throughout the day, keep watch for endemic wildlife, including the endangered Ethiopian wolf, the rarest red wolf in the world. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by sightings of species such as the blue-winged goose, chestnut-naped francolin, and the striking alpine chat. Enjoy a day of discovery in this pristine wilderness before returning for a restful evening surrounded by nature. Overnight Bale Robe. Budget hotel located less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Bale Mountains National Park Stay: Nurobe Hotel Budget hotel located less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
Drive from Bale to Lakeside City Hawassa
Traveling south along the Great Rift Valley, you arrive in Hawassa, a peaceful lakeside destination known for its natural beauty. Lake Hawassa is the centerpiece, where visitors can enjoy boat rides, bird watching, and encounters with hippos. The Hawassa Fish Market provides a lively cultural experience, showcasing local fishermen and fresh catches Enjoy scenic walks along the Fiker hayke, (lake). Watch hippos and a variety of aquatic bird species, Pelicans, Ducks, Grey Herons, Storks, Plover, Egrets, Kingfishers, Fish eagles, Ibis, Spoonbills Overnight Hawassa. Mid-range resort located in Awasa (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Awasa (City) Stay: Haile Resort Hawassa Mid-range resort located in Awasa (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4
Drive To Areba-minch with visting Dorze village
Start your day early with a visit to the famous Hawassa Fish Market, located along the shores of Lake Hawassa rive to Arba Minch, one of the main towns in southern Ethiopia, beautifully set between Lakes Abaya and Chamo. Along the way, visit a traditional Dorze village in the Guge Mountains. The Dorze people are renowned for their remarkable craftsmanship, especially their tall, beehive-shaped houses made from woven bamboo. These unique structures can reach up to 10 meters in height and are designed to last for decades. Ingeniously, if the base becomes infested with termites, the entire house can be lifted and relocated—an impressive example of sustainable and adaptive architecture. Meet villagers, learn about their customs, and sometimes enjoy traditional music and dance. Taste traditional foods made from enset, including “kocho,” and experience local hospitality. Overnight Areba-minch. Mid-range hotel located in Arba Minch (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Arba Minch (City) Stay: Haile Resort Arba Minch Mid-range hotel located in Arba Minch (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5
Drive to Omo valley via Konso
Today, you will drive south toward the remote and culturally rich South Omo Valley, enjoying a scenic journey through diverse landscapes and traditional villages. En route, stop at Konso, home of the Konso people, renowned for their impressive terraced farming system and sustainable agricultural practices. Take time to explore the village and learn about their unique culture and way of life. If your visit coincides with a local market day, you may have the opportunity to stop at a nearby market town frequented by the Gato tribe. These vibrant markets offer a wonderful chance to take photographs, interact with local communities, and experience authentic daily life. Continue your drive through the territories of the Banna tribe, where you will observe their traditional farming methods and experience the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Arrive in Turmi in the late afternoon for your overnight stay. Overnight Turmi. Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Stay: Buska Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 6
From Turmi to Omorate
Drive across wide savannah plains from Turmi to Omorate (72 km) to visit the Daasanach tribe, who live along the lower Omo River near the Kenyan border. This semi-nomadic community relies on cattle herding, floodplain farming, and fishing, with a striking landscape of dry plains contrasted by lush riverbanks. In the afternoon, visit the Hamar tribe, one of the most culturally rich groups in southern Ethiopia. They are known for the *Evangadi* (bull-jumping ceremony), a rite of passage for young men before marriage. Hamar women are also renowned for their distinctive hairstyles, coated with butter and ochre, and adorned with colorful beads and leather skirts. In the late afternoon, return to your lodge and enjoy the sunset, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Omorate (Lower Omo Valley) Stay: Buska Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 7
From Turmi to karo and Mursi tribe
In the morning, cross to the other side of the Omo River to visit the Karo tribe at Korcho, one of the most scenic villages in the Omo Valley. Perched on a high cliff, it offers stunning panoramic views over the river. The Karo, one of the smallest ethnic groups in the region, are renowned as masters of body painting, using natural pigments like white chalk, ochre, charcoal, and minerals to create intricate patterns inspired by nature. After the visit, drive back to Jinka. If your trip coincides with a market day, stop at Key Afer to experience a lively local market frequented by the Aari people. You may also encounter Mursi women, known for their distinctive lip plates made of clay or wood, a unique cultural tradition. Overnight in Jinka. Budget hotel located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lower Omo Valley (Cultural Village) Stay: Jinka Resort Budget hotel located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 8
Fly back from Jinka to addis and city Tour
Take a flight to Addis Ababa and enjoy a city tour. Visit the National Museum of Ethiopia to see the famous fossil “Lucy” (Dinkinesh) and other archaeological treasures. Continue to Holy Trinity Cathedral, one of the most important Ethiopian Orthodox churches, where you can admire stained-glass windows and the tombs of Haile Selassie and Menen Asfaw. Drive up to Entoto Mountain for panoramic views of the city, and visit Entoto Maryam Church along with the former palace of Menelik II. Explore Merkato, Africa’s largest open-air market, where you can experience local life and discover spices, handicrafts, and coffee. End the day with an optional farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant, featuring cultural music and dance. All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Tour step
End of tour
Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost. You'll be dropped off at the airport.
Included
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)
Excluded
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
Getting There
This tour starts and ends in Addis Ababa
This operator can select your international flights, but you'll have to book them yourself
Fly to/from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD - Check price)
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost
Offered by
Inward Ethiopia Tours
4.5 operator rating
4 reviews
At Inward Ethiopia Tours, we believe travel is more than just visiting new places—it's about meaningful connections, cultural immersion, and discovering the soul of a country. Based in the heart of Ethiopia, we specialize in curated travel experiences that take you beyond the typical tourist trail and deep into the rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cultures of this extraordinary land.
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
5-10 employees (Founded in 2025)
Member Of
lalibela guide associations, addis abeba guide associations & Ethiopia tourism associations
Tour Types
Custom budget & mid-range tours that can start every day
Destinations
Ethiopia
Traveler feedback
Reviews
Overall
4.5/5Communication
4.5/5Accuracy
4.5/5Value
4.5/5Safety clarity
4.5/5Cultural value
4.5/5The true essence of Addis ababa
I’m a solo female traveller, and I really enjoyed this tour with Saleamlak. I felt completely safe the entire time; he’s very knowledgeable, approachable, and flexible. He shared many stories about his country, it’s clear he knows a lot and has a wealth of experience. It’s a shame I already had the rest of my trip planned; otherwise, I would have taken another tour with them. Good price as well .
Alessandra · Italy
Well-organized tour to Debre Libanos
My tour to Debre Libanos and Blue Nile Gorge was wonderful. This excursion was a first in my trip to Ethiopia, and it was a good first impression. Our guide was exceptional. He explained everything clearly, answered all our questions with patience, and ensured everyone in the group felt included and comfortable throughout the day. Everything was interesting and well-organized. From the ancient church and museum to the Portuguese Bridge and the panoramic views. I highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting the region.
Vladislav · Russia
I’m very happy having a good tour guide Saleamlak, he is nice and knowledgeable.
During the holiday seasons,we encountered some non-human-caused problems, but the tour guide resolved them promptly, allowing us to complete the trip smoothly.
Angela · United States
OUr tour guide Saleamlak is a knowledeable, willing to learn, helpful and service-oriented person.
The tour was great, but the qeuipments provided were not that great, especially the vechicle was broken during the trip. Well the 3 days volcano trip with 4x4 was fatastic, the food, the service are also great. It wasw a wonderful experiecce.
Jennifer · United States
Practical answers
Tour FAQs
Are rates charged per person?
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
Which currency is this tour priced in?
This tour is offered in US dollars (USD).
Can children join this tour?
This tour is unavailable for children.
Can this tour start on my preferred date?
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
Can the itinerary be customized?
The accommodations and destinations of this tour cannot be changed.
Where do travelers stay during this tour?
Nurobe Hotel Budget hotel less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP – All Meals Included - Budget hotel less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP – All Meals Included. Meals: All Meals Included
Where does this tour start and end?
This tour starts and ends in Addis Ababa
Are airport transfers included?
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Operator policy
Terms and Conditions
Disclaimer
This tour is offered by Inward Ethiopia Tours, not SafariBookings.
This operator reserves the right to change rates advertised on SafariBookings.
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 Inward Ethiopia Tours.
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