Duration
8-Day
Chebera-Churchura National Park, Ethiopia
8-Day Southern Ethiopia -Wildlife, Lakes & Local Life
Overview
Discover the vibrant landscapes and rich heritage of southern Ethiopia on this 8-day journey. You'll experience lush national parks filled with elephants, buffalo, and hippos, take scenic boat rides on sparkling lakes, and explore fascinating local communities with unique traditions and cuisine. From serene forest walks to panoramic lake views and immersive cultural encounters, this adventure offers an unforgettable blend of wildlife, nature, and local experiences, all in one seamless journey.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa
Via Chebera-Churchura NP, Wolayta Sodo (Town), Lake Chamo
Country & park
Ethiopia / Chebera-Churchura National Park
Style
Mid-range safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
4 years
Activities
game drives, walking safaris (with an armed guide) & boat trip
Accommodation
Chebera Elephant Paw Lodge Mid-range lodge less than 1hr drive from Chebera-Churchura NP – All Meals Included - Mid-range lodge less than 1hr drive from Chebera-Churchura NP – All Meals Included
Meals
All Meals Included; Breakfast & Lunch Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Rates
Rates Per Person
USD
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
$2,200 USD
$1,980 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$2,200 USD
$1,980 USD
Before booking
Important To Know
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 4 years and older. Children under 18 receive a discount and children under 9 are free.
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
Chebera-Churchura NP
Day 3
Wolayta Sodo (Town)
Day 4
Lake Chamo
Day 5
Konso (Cultural Village)
Day 6-7
Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)
Day 8
Jinka (Lower Omo Valley)
End
Addis Ababa (Day 8)
Tour Features
Mid-range tour
This mid-range tour uses lodges and tented camps.
Private tour
This tour will be organized exclusively for you. However, wildlife viewing activities are run by the lodges/camps and will be shared with others.
Can start any day
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
Can be customized
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Suitable for solo travelers
Solo travelers can book this private tour.
4
Minimum age of 4 years
The minimum age for this tour is 4 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: game drives, walking safaris (with an armed guide) & boat trip
Game drives: normal 4x4 vehicle
Getting around: normal 4x4 vehicle & air transfer
Book your own international flights when using this operator
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Accommodation & Meals
Day 1-2
Chebera Elephant Paw Lodge Mid-range lodge less than 1hr drive from Chebera-Churchura NP – All Meals Included
Mid-range lodge less than 1hr drive from Chebera-Churchura NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 3
Haile Resort Arba Minch
Mid-range hotel in Arba Minch (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 4
Paradise Lodge
Mid-range lodge in Arba Minch (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 5
Kanta Lodge Mid-range lodge in Konso (Cultural Village) – All Meals Included
Mid-range lodge in Konso (Cultural Village) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 6-7
Paradise Lodge Turmi Budget tented camp near Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – All Meals Included +4 Photos +3 Photos
Budget tented camp near Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 8
End of tour
(No accommodation)
Breakfast & Lunch 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
Flight from Addis Ababa to Jimma and Journey to Chebera Churchura National Park
You'll begin your adventure with a morning flight from Addis Ababa to Jimma, where your driver-guide will meet you for a scenic drive to Chebera Churchura National Park (approximately 100 km, partly on unpaved roads). Along the way, you'll enjoy the lush landscapes and rolling hills of southwestern Ethiopia. Depending on your arrival time, you can take a short nature walk near your lodge or simply relax in the peaceful forest surroundings. The park is home to abundant wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, hippos, and a variety of bird species. Your overnight stay will be at Elephant Paw Lodge, immersed in the tranquil forest setting. Mid-range lodge located less than 1hr drive from Chebera-Churchura NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Chebera-Churchura National Park Stay: Chebera Elephant Paw Lodge Mid-range lodge located less than 1hr drive from Chebera-Churchura NP Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 2
Full-Day in Chebera Churchura -Wildlife Safari & Forest Exploration
You'll spend the day fully exploring Chebera Churchura National Park, one of Ethiopia’s most scenic and wildlife-rich areas. Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives or guided walks, giving you excellent opportunities to spot elephants, buffalo, hippos, warthogs, bushbuck, and a wide variety of bird species. A picnic lunch in the heart of the park allows you to soak in the tropical forest atmosphere and observe wildlife in their natural surroundings. In the evening, you will return to Elephant Paw Lodge for a relaxing overnight stay surrounded by the tranquil forest. Mid-range lodge located less than 1hr drive from Chebera-Churchura NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Chebera-Churchura National Park Stay: Chebera Elephant Paw Lodge Mid-range lodge located less than 1hr drive from Chebera-Churchura NP Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 3
Chebera to Wolayta Sodo Scenic Drive and Local Flavors
After breakfast, you will enjoy a final short wildlife drive through Chebera Churchura National Park, taking in the sights and sounds of the forest one last time. Then begin the journey toward Wolayta Sodo, a drive of approximately 6–7 hours through picturesque landscapes of southwestern Ethiopia. Upon arrival, you will check in at Haile Resort, one of the region’s finest lodges. In the evening, you'll savor a traditional Wolayta dinner, featuring local specialties such as kitfo served with kocho, accompanied by regional drinks. Relax and unwind, preparing for the next stage of your adventure. Mid-range hotel located in Arba Minch (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Wolayta Sodo (Town) Stay: Haile Resort Arba Minch Mid-range hotel located in Arba Minch (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 4
Wolayta Sodo to Dorze Village and Arba Minch
After breakfast, you'll drive south toward Arba Minch, stopping at Dorze Village on the Guge Mountains. Here, you can experience the Dorze people’s unique weaving traditions, explore their iconic elephant-shaped huts, and learn about their daily lifestyle. After the visit, you will continue downhill to Arba Minch and check in at Paradise Lodge. You'll enjoy lunch with panoramic views of Lakes Abaya and Chamo. In the afternoon, you'll take a guided walk in the Forty Springs forest to observe bushbuck, baboons, vervet, and colobus monkeys. Optionally, you may visit the Crocodile Ranch before returning to the lodge for an overnight stay. Mid-range lodge located in Arba Minch (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Lake Chamo Stay: Paradise Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Arba Minch (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 5
Arba Minch Lake Chamo Boat Trip and Konso Visit
You'll begin the morning with a boat trip on Lake Chamo, where you can see large numbers of hippos, flocks of pelicans, and the famous giant Nile crocodiles. You'll enjoy the calm waters and scenic surroundings as you explore the lake. After the boat excursion, you'll drive approximately three hours to Konso. Check in at Kanta Lodge and enjoy lunch before visiting a Konso village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll explore the terraced agriculture, wooden grave markers, and fascinating traditional architecture that showcase the community’s rich heritage. You'll return to the lodge for an overnight stay. Mid-range lodge located in Konso (Cultural Village) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Konso (Cultural Village) Stay: Kanta Lodge Mid-range lodge located in Konso (Cultural Village) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 6
Konso to Turmi Journey through Southern Ethiopia
After breakfast, you'll drive south through the scenic areas connecting Konso and Turmi. Along the way, you will stop to visit the Erbore community, known for its colorful beads and traditional huts, and pass through areas inhabited by the Weyto and Tsemay communities. You'll arrive in Turmi and check in at Paradise Lodge Turmi. You'll spend the afternoon relaxing at the lodge or take a short visit to the nearby Hamer village to enjoy the local lifestyle and watch the sunset over the surrounding landscapes. Your overnight stay will be at the lodge. Budget tented camp located near Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Stay: Paradise Lodge Turmi Budget tented camp located near Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 7
Turmi Full-Day of Cultural Exploration and Local Ceremonies
You'll start the day with a drive to Omorate, near the Kenya border, to visit the Dasenech community living along the Omo River. Observe their daily life and unique customs before returning to Turmi for lunch. In the afternoon, you will continue to visit the Karo community, renowned for its artistic body painting and scarification. If a bull-jumping ceremony is taking place, you will have the chance to witness this remarkable initiation ritual. You'll return to Paradise Lodge, Turmi, for an overnight stay. Budget tented camp located near Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Stay: Paradise Lodge Turmi Budget tented camp located near Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 8
Turmi to Jinka and Return Flight to Addis Ababa
After breakfast, you'll drive to Jinka via Key Afer, enjoying the scenic landscapes along the way and encountering members of the Mursi and Ari communities. This route allows you to experience more of southern Ethiopia’s diverse culture and natural beauty while avoiding a long drive back to Arba Minch. You'll catch your morning flight from Jinka to Addis Ababa, bringing your southern Ethiopia adventure to a close. This efficient route saves time and ensures a comfortable end to your journey. Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included) Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included) Non-alcoholic drinks
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)
Drinks (As specified in the day-by-day section)
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
Book your own international flights when using this operator
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
Ethio Wildlife Tours
5.0 operator rating
7 reviews
Discover Ethiopia's wonders with us! Ethio Wildlife Tours: is a private Tour & Travel company, Established in Ethiopia,we offer unforgettable wildlife,cultural & historical tours. Our experienced teams specializes in creating unique experiences,showcasing the breathtaking beauty and rich diversity of Ethiopia.We are committed to responsible and sustainable tourism,ensuring minimal impact on the environment and local communities. Let us show you the true essence of Ethiopia 🇪🇹
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
5-10 employees (Founded in 2018)
Tour Types
Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
Destinations
Ethiopia
Traveler feedback
Reviews
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5The nicest tour experience
I don’t usually like booking tours because of many bad experiences, however, at the time Ethiopia demanded it. I was so lucky to find Melashu’s company. It’s the most transparent, respectful, informative and well managed tour. I did the northern Ethiopian route (volcano, Danakil depression etc) and they managed to make me feel comfortable in a difficult weather environment and very safe in an area of conflict. It’s incredible to have such yummy food in the middle of nowhere! Thank you,
Yirka · Sweden
Organized and personalized
Great tour through an amazing landscape. Tour was perfectly organized, no complaints. Somewhere my shoes got lost but when I came back in Addes they were waiting for me in the hotel. Their service goes beyond. Thanks for that
Martijn · Netherlands
Our guide was fantastic — super knowledgeable, easygoing, and clearly respected by the communities.
Just got back from a 4-day tour with Ethio Wildlife and it honestly blew me away. We visited several different tribes in Omo valley and each day was completely unique and eye-opening. The whole trip felt very genuine and respectful, not staged or touristy at all. Accommodations were simple but clean and comfortable, and everything ran smoothly from start to finish. If you’re looking for something meaningful and way off the beaten path, I’d 100% recommend this experience. I came back with a full heart and a totally new perspective.
Elena Neal · United Kingdom
Organized and responsive
I contacted several tour operators in May 2025 hoping to join a group tour of the Simien mountains but since it is a slow tourist season there were none available. Ethio Wildlife were able to organize a private tour for me at a reasonable cost. They handled everything. The guide/driver/chef/scout were incredibly nice people and it was a pleasure to spend 3 days with them in the park. The guide in particular was very knowledgeable and accommodating.
Nick · 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 accepts children who are 4 years and older. Children under 18 receive a discount and children under 9 are free.
Can this tour start on my preferred date?
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
Can the itinerary be customized?
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Where do travelers stay during this tour?
Chebera Elephant Paw Lodge Mid-range lodge less than 1hr drive from Chebera-Churchura NP – All Meals Included - Mid-range lodge less than 1hr drive from Chebera-Churchura 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 Ethio Wildlife 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.
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