Ethiopia: Culture & People

Upon arrival in Addis, our representative will escort you from the airport to your hotel. Following breakfast, embark on a journey starting with a visit to the National Museum of Ethiopia, housing the ancient history of the country and the famed ancient hominid, Lucy. The Ethnological Museum, situated in Haile Selassie’s former palace amidst Addis Ababa University’s scenic grounds, offers an engaging experience with African heritage. Drive to Holy Trinity Cathedral Church, renowned for its unique architecture, before enjoying a leisurely lunch. Next, venture up to Entoto Mountains for a panoramic view of the capital and delve into its historical significance as Menelik II's former residence, featuring notable churches like Saint Mary. On the return drive via Piazza, visit St. George Church before returning to your hotel.

Day at leisure

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Bole Ambassador Hotel

overnight

Opt for a swift flight to Jinka to skip lengthy drives. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the charm of Jinka and the vibrant Ari Village. Among the region's ethnic groups, the Ari stand out as contemporary trendsetters, blending modern attire with captivating village life. Experience the artisans' craftsmanship, encountering skilled potters, adept blacksmiths, and women diligently grinding grains to craft the Ari version of injera. This unique variant, incorporating maize or sorghum with dagussa ('finger millet'), offers a delicious insight into Ari culinary traditions. Despite modern influences, Ari villages retain their cultural allure, providing a fascinating glimpse into age-old customs while seamlessly embracing aspects of the modern world.

Day at leisure

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Buska Lodge

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At dawn, depart from your lodge for a captivating journey to the Mursi Tribe within the enchanting Mago National Park. As you traverse the park, be ready for wildlife encounters, with glimpses of Dik Dik, graceful Gazelles, and various bird species along the way. The renowned Mursi tribe captivates the outside world with their striking body paintings and distinctive lip plates, a symbolic representation of feminine social maturity. Traditionally adorned by brides and women during childbirth, these mud lip plates embody profound cultural significance. After this intriguing experience, return to Jinka. Later in the day, continue your expedition towards Turmi, a rendezvous with the Hamar people, where their traditions and ways of life await your discovery.

Day at leisure

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Emerald Lodge Turmi

overnight

Indulge in an enriching morning after breakfast as you traverse the Omo River, unveiling the intriguing world of the Dassanech tribe. This unique encounter marks the initiation into Ethiopia's diverse tapestry of ethnicities and cultural heritage within the mesmerizing Omo Valley. Embark on the Southern Cultural Route, an odyssey delving deep into the essence of remote tribes, their animist beliefs resonating with an authentic African narrative. In the afternoon, journey onwards to the Hammer people, heralding the spectacle of the bull-jumping ceremony. This rite of passage signifies the transformative journey from youth to adulthood. Witness the stirring Evangadi, a vibrant traditional dance of the Hamer, while also observing a symbolic display of affection—where the jumper's family women are gently beaten by his friends, symbolizing their love and readiness for this pivotal transition into adulthood.

Day at leisure

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Emerald Lodge Turmi

overnight

Embark on a delightful journey back to Arba Minch post-breakfast, setting off for a fascinating detour to Chencha and the iconic Dorze Village. Renowned for their elaborate huts, intricate weavings, and unique lifestyle, the Dorze People offer a captivating glimpse into their heritage. Traverse the traditional bamboo houses, immersing in the art of crafting local bread from the versatile false banana tree. Engage with a welcoming family, exploring their rich culinary traditions. Delight in the vibrant market ambiance and witness skilled Dorze women spinning yarns while observing the celebrated Dorze weavers' craftsmanship. Return to Arba Minch enriched by this cultural immersion. Haile Resort Arba Minch, with its panoramic vista overlooking the picturesque Lake Chamo and Abaya, promises a tranquil retreat to unwind and savor the beauty of the region.

Day at leisure

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Haile Resort Arbaminch

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On this enchanting morning, we take a boat excursion across the shimmering waters of Lake Chamo. As the morning sun dances upon the tranquil surface, our journey unveils the majestic presence of hippos lazily basking in the water. Moreover, Lake Chamo's claim to fame lies in its legendary crocodiles, some reaching astonishing sizes. Recent records boast sightings of colossal specimens surpassing 5.5 meters in length, a testament to the lake's intriguing wildlife. Continuing our expedition, we embark on a scenic drive bound for Hawassa, anticipating further adventures and discoveries on the horizon.

Day at leisure

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Haile Resort Hawassa

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The morning begins at Lake Hawassa's local fish market, offering a genuine experience of local life with diverse fish varieties and even an Ethiopian-style "Sushi." This spot also showcases various aquatic birds. The journey proceeds towards Langano, passing by tame ostriches and reaching the deepest Rift Valley Lake, Shalla. En route, there are visits to hot springs, followed by a stop at Abijata Lake, where the shores turn pink from countless lesser and greater flamingos feeding nearby. Continuing to Lake Langano, situated 220 kilometers south of Addis Ababa, it reveals a soft brown lake against the backdrop of the 4000-meter-high Arsi mountains. The area boasts unique birdlife, potentially including the rare Hemprich's hornbill. Visitors can relax by the lake, engaging in activities such as swimming and kayaking in this serene setting.

Day at leisure

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Haile Resort Hawassa

overnight

After a leisurely morning at Lake Langano, the journey back to Addis begins with a stop at Lake Ziway to witness birdlife along the shoreline marshes. A cruise around Tulu Simbero, known as Bird Island in the local Oromiffa language, offers views of nesting sites and local fishers on reed boats. Following a lunch break in Zeway, the drive resumes towards Addis Ababa, featuring a visit to the scenic Crater Lakes of Debre Zeit/Bishoftu. The mountain-top Crater Lake, surrounded by lush woods and revered as sacred, offers opportunities to admire diverse bird species, plant life, and breathtaking scenery. Arriving in Addis Ababa by late afternoon, there's time for souvenir shopping before concluding the tour with a drop-off at Bole International Airport for the return flight home.

Day at leisure

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Haile Resort Hawassa

overnight