Arrive at Bole International Airport. Our representative will meet you and take you to your hotel. For morning arrivals, visit the Ethnographic Museum, a great introduction to Ethiopian culture and history. As time allows, visit the Mercato, one of Africa's largest outdoor markets, and Trinity Cathedral, resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie.
Drive to Arba Minch via Hoseana. En route visit Adadi Mariam, a 12th century rock-hewn church; and Tiya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its mysterious stelae, thought to be grave markers, dating from the 12th century . Approximate driving time 10 hours.
Take a boat trip on Lake Chamo and view some of the largest crocodiles in the world sunning on the banks of the lake. Hippopotami and birdlife are also abundant. Drive to Jinka through areas inhabited by various peoples such as the Gamo, Derashe, Konso, Tseme, Benna and Ari. Stop at Key Afar's weekly market (if on a Thursday) and wander among the various tribes that have gathered to barter their goods. Approximate driving time 5 hours.
Early morning drive to the Mago National Park to visit the Mursi people. The Mursi women are known for the clay plates they insert into their lower lips. Time permitting, visit the Omo Valley Museum in Jinka.
Drive to Turmi, home of the Hamer people, stopping to see the various tribes such as the Ari, and the Benna. The Banna are known for decorating their bodies with clay. The Hamer are known for their body decorations and the clay and ochre that they put in their hair. Driving time approximately 3 hours.
Excursion to Omorate visiting the Dasanch Tribe. Return to Turmi and explore more of the Hamer tribe and the villages.
Drive to Konso, recently designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. A highland people, the Konso are known for the ancient and intricate terraces that encircle their well-planned villages. Approximate driving time 3 hours.
Drive to the lakeside town of Hawassa. En route, visit a Dorze Village in the Guge Mountains. The Dorze are known for their tall, beehive-shaped bamboo houses. If the base becomes infested with termites, the entire house can be lifted and moved to another location. Approximate driving time 6 hours.
Drive to Addis Ababa. Optional souvenir shopping if time permits. Enjoy a Farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant featuring dancers and musicians representing some of the country's many ethnic groups. Transfer to airport for late night departure or additional hotel night booked upon request. Approximate driving time 5 hours.
