Voyage Omo Village

Upon your arrival at Jinka Airport at 08:55 AM, you will be welcomed by your Prime Ethiopia Tours driver and tour guide, who will be waiting for you at the parking lot. After a brief introduction, you will set off toward Arbore.

The Arbore, whose name means "land of bulls," are an ethnic group residing in the arid lowlands of the Omo Valley near Chew Bahir (Salt Sea). Although they are believed to be descendants of the Konso ethnic group, the Arbore have preserved their distinct language and traditions. The Arbore is known for their unique customs—young girls traditionally shave their heads to differentiate themselves from married women. They wear dark robes and adorn themselves with colorful beads. Their houses are constructed from tree branches and papyrus plants, reflecting their deep connection with nature.

After visiting Arbore, continue your journey along a mix of paved and dirt roads toward Turmi. Upon arrival, you will explore the vibrant open-air market of the Hamar tribe, known for their close cultural ties with the Banna tribe. Learn about the Hamar women’s unique goat-skin dresses, intricate hairstyles, and rare rituals. Discover their language, daily activities, and sources of economic wealth.

In the evening, take a short drive to one of the Hamar villages for a glimpse into their evening routines and daily life. Engage with the villagers and learn a few tribal words to deepen your cultural connection.   If fortunate, you may witness a bull-jumping ceremony—a rite of passage for young Hamar and Banna men as they transition into adulthood and prepare for marriage.

Overnight at Buska Lodge

Rise early and drive to the Karo village of Korcho. The Karo are the smallest ethnic group in the Omo Valley and are renowned for their elaborate body painting. They adorn their faces and bodies using a mix of ochre, white chalk, and yellow mineral rocks, creating striking patterns that reflect their artistic identity.

After spending time with the Karo, drive to the Nyangatom tribal village of Kakuta. The Nyangatom are believed to be descendants of the Toposa tribe of South Sudan. The Nyangatom live in one of the harshest and most arid regions of the Omo Valley. The women wear numerous strands of beads around their necks, which they continue to build upon throughout their lives as a symbol of status and beauty.

Take the opportunity to learn the tribespeople and observe their way of life before returning to Turmi.    

Overnight at Emerald Lodge

After an extended breakfast, set off for Omorate. Upon arrival, you will visit one of the scattered villages of the Dasanech tribe by crossing the Omo River in a traditional flat-bottomed wooden boat.

The Dasanech people are semi-nomadic pastoralists and are known for their adaptability to the harsh environment of the Omo Valley. Engage with the villagers, observe their way of life, and gain insight into their unique customs.

After concluding your visit, return to Turmi for lunch. In the afternoon, drive back to Jinka.

In the evening, take a short excursion to an Aari village situated on a rocky hillside. The Aari are pottery, honey production etc.  Enjoy the breathtaking mountainous scenery as you interact with the villagers and learn about their lifestyle.

Overnight at Eyob Hotel

Start your day early with an excursion to Mago National Park to visit the Mursi tribe. The Mursi are one of the most iconic tribes in Ethiopia, known for the women’s tradition of wearing large clay lip plates. The size of the plate is considered a symbol of beauty and social status within the tribe.

Afterward, return to Jinka and drive approximately 42 km to Keyafer town. Here, you will experience a diverse open-air market frequented by the Banna, Aari, and Tsemay tribes, as well as merchants from Jinka and neighboring towns.

On your way back to Jinka, stop at a hilltop where you may encounter Banna boys practicing the traditional art of stilt walking—a playful and impressive local pastime.

Upon returning to Jinka, transfer to the airport for your afternoon flight to Addis Ababa.