Photography Tour Omo Valley and Lalibela
Overview
Ethiopia’s is rich diverse ethnographic attractions attributed to its nations, nationalities, and peoples of more than 83 languages and 200 dialects. One of the most important locations for these ethnographic tourism attractions is the lower Omo Valley of Southern Ethiopia which is home to an astonishing mix of small, contrasting ethnic groups such as Gnangatom, Karo, Dassench, Bodi, Mursi, Surma, Arbore, and Hamer – some of the most fascinating people and cultures.
A trip through Ethiopia that focuses on the South of the country, inhabited by some of the most attractions of the country: the Dorze with their spectacular huts, the Konso, the Mursi warriors whose women wear the lip plate, the Karos with their body paints and the Hamers with their peculiar clothing and beautiful women who cover their bodies and hair with grease and reddish mud. An ethnic journey, designed to be able to contact the great human wealth that this part of Ethiopia.
Highlights
Itinerary
Prices
Price not included
Reviews
Highlights
- National Museum of Ethiopia: Explore Ethiopia’s history and see the “Lucy” fossil
- Explore artifacts from prehistoric tools to royal treasures and modern history
- Ethnological Museum: Discover Ethiopia’s diverse cultures and traditions
- Holy Trinity Cathedral: Admire the architecture and learn about its significance
- Visit tombs of Emperor Haile Selassie, Empress Menen
- Mount Entoto: Enjoy panoramic views of Addis Ababa and visit Entoto Maryam Church
- Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony: Experience a traditional cultural ritual
Itinerary
Day 1: October 10, 2025
Addis Ababa
The group members will be arriving at different times throughout the day from various international destinations. Since their flights are not synchronized, we will coordinate their arrivals accordingly. If, however, everyone arrives in Addis Ababa (Bole International Airport) around the same time or from the same origin, we can organize a short city tour or sightseeing activity while waiting for the rest of the group. For those arriving much earlier or later, we will arrange airport transfers and accommodations as planned. Please share your flight details in advance so we can optimize the schedule.
Overnight Addis Ababa, Aya Hotel.
Day 2: October 11, 2025
Addis Ababa
Begin your Addis Ababa sightseeing with a scenic drive north to Mount Entoto, offering breathtaking views from its 3200m peak. Descending, you’ll visit the Ethnographic Museum, showcasing a comprehensive array of Ethiopian crafts and historically significant items. The National Museum awaits with its remarkable archaeological finds, including the iconic 3.4-million-year-old ‘Lucy’ fossil. After lunch, explore the grandeur of Trinity Cathedral, the largest and most revered church in Addis Ababa, built in 1941 and notable for its art and architecture. Your tour culminates with a drive through Merkato, Africa’s largest open-air market, a bustling hub of trade and local life.
Overnight Addis Ababa, Aya Hotel.
Day 3: October 12, 2025
Addis Ababa – Arbaminch (flight)
Begin your day with an early breakfast before transferring to the airport to catch your morning flight to Arba Minch. Upon arrival, our drivers will take you to your accommodation. In the afternoon, visit the Dorze Village, renowned for its unique cultural traditions. The Dorze people are celebrated for their exceptional weaving craftsmanship, a skill passed down through generations. Other distinctive practices include producing local liquors, playing traditional music, and crafting food from the false banana plant (kocho). The Dorze community, who reside on lush hillsides, are also famous for their towering beehive-shaped huts—a remarkable architectural feat that reflects their ingenuity.
Overnight Arbaminch, Paradise Lodge.
Day 4: October 13, 2025
Arbaminch – Turmi
This morning, after having early breakfast we take a boat cruise across the waters of Lake Chamo. Our destination is the renowned “Azo Gebeya,” or ‘crocodile market,’ a truly spectacular sight where an impressive number of large crocodiles gather. Keep your cameras ready for glimpses of wallowing hippos and the diverse and colorful birdlife that thrives in this ecosystem. Later, our overland journey southwards leads us towards Turmi. Our exploration includes a visit to a traditional Konso village, nestled within a striking landscape of gently sloping, terraced hills, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Konso people are widely respected for their diligent nature, evident in the meticulously crafted terraces that carpet their hillsides, surprisingly producing some of the country’s most exceptional coffee. Their ancient artistic heritage is manifested in the distinctive totems that mark the final resting places of their ancestors. As we travel, we look forward to fascinating cultural exchanges, encountering the unique customs and traditions of the various tribes that inhabit this captivating region.
Overnight Turmi, Evangadi Lodge.
Day 5: October 14, 2025
Turmi – Omorate – Turmi
On this day after breakfast, our day unfolds with an excursion to Omorate, where we’ll have the privilege of meeting the Dassanech people – often called the ‘people of the Delta’ – who make their home along the northern shores of the vast Lake Turkana. After our visit, we’ll journey back to Turmi. The afternoon brings an encounter with the captivating Hammer people in their village. Renowned as one of the most striking and proud communities in the Omo Valley, the Hammer truly embody a sense of beauty and grace. Their women are particularly eye-catching, adorned in elegant leather skirts embellished with delicate, tiny pearls. Intricate and elaborate hairstyles serve as another significant form of their personal expression and beauty.
Overnight Turmi, Evangadi Lodge.
Day 6: October 15, 2025
Turmi – Nyangaton/Karo – Turmi
Begin your day with an early departure from Turmi, heading toward the remote village of Kangatan. From there, take a guided walk through lush fields, where locals tend to their crops, before arriving at a traditional Nyangatom tribal village. Immerse yourself in their vibrant culture, learning about their unique customs, intricate beadwork, and pastoral way of life.
After the visit, journey back across the river and continue to the spectacular Karo village of Korcho, perched dramatically on a Cliffside with breathtaking views over the Omo River. The Karo people, though the smallest tribe in the Omo Valley, are renowned for their stunning body paintings and elaborate scarification, making them some of the most visually striking communities in the region. Spend time interacting with the villagers, capturing their artistry, and admiring their striking traditional adornments.
Afterwards, we will enjoy a scenic drive back to Turmi, reflecting on the unforgettable cultural encounters of the day.
Overnight Turmi, Evangadi Lodge.
Day 7: October 16, 2025
Turmi – Jinka
After breakfast, drive to Jinka, stopping at Dimeka, home to one of Ethiopia’s most vibrant weekly markets (Tuesdays & Saturdays). Here, you’ll see the Hamer, Benna, Tsemai, Ari, and Karo tribes trading goods, dressed in traditional attire. Soak in the lively atmosphere before continuing through scenic landscapes to Jinka, the cultural heart of the Omo Valley.
Overnight Jinka, Nasa Hotel.
Day 8: October 17, 2025
Jinka – Bodi/Mursi – Jinka
We’ll wake up early drive towards Mago National Park, a wild and beautiful area home to some of Ethiopia’s most iconic tribes. Our focus today is meeting the Bodi (known for their honey-colored body paint and unique ceremonies) and the Mursi (famous for their striking lip plates and decorative scarifications). These tribes have preserved their ancient customs in remarkable ways, and visiting their villages gives us a rare glimpse into traditions that have remained unchanged for generations. The drive itself is an adventure, with scenic landscapes and possible wildlife sightings along the way! After a visit drive back to Jinka.
Overnight Jinka, Nasa Hotel.
Day 9: October 18, 2025
Jinka – Addis Ababa (flight)
On this day after breakfast we take the morning flight back to Addis Ababa. We should be in the airport before one and half hours for check in. In the afternoon relax in the hotel. In the evening a farewell dinner at one of the best traditional restaurant in Addis to see different types of cultural music and dance with a traditional Ethiopian foods.
Overnight Addis Ababa, Aya Hotel.
Day 10: October 19, 2025
Addis Ababa – Lalibela (flight)
After breakfast, take a short flight to Lalibela. After checking in at the hotel, visit the rock-hewn Churches of Lalibela. Lalibela is the jewel in the crown of Ethiopia, home to the most famous churches and the scene of many major religious ceremonies. Also known as ‘Africa’s Petra’, Lalibela and its rock-hewn churches are among Ethiopia’s top attractions. Visit the churches: Bete Medhane Alem, Bete Mariam, Bete Maskal, Bete Danaghel, Bete Golgotha & Bete Mikael, and Bete Giorgis. In the afternoon, visit the remaining churches: Bete Amanuel, Bete Markorios, Bete Aba Libanos, and Bete Gebriel-Rufael.
Overnight: Lalibela, Panoramic View Hotel.
Day 11: October 20, 2025
Lalibela
After breakfast, visit the rest of the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and take an excursion to visit some of the churches outside Lalibela town.
Overnight: Lalibela, Panoramic View Hotel.
Day 12: October 21, 2025
Lalibela – Addis Ababa (flight)
Take a morning flight back to Addis Ababa, where you can enjoy some last-minute shopping or sightseeing before your departure.
End of the Journey
Prices
Photography Tour Pricing
Price per Person in Double Room
Group size 4 people: $2985
Group size 5-7 people: $2745
Group size 8-10 people: $2490
Single Room Supplement: $250
Minimum Group Size: 4 Maximum Group Size: 10
Trip Date: October 10, 2025 to October 21, 2025
Includes
- Lunch
- Car with fuel
- Driver allowance
- Mini Van and 4*4 Land Cruiser
- Local guide fee all destinations
- Sightseeing entrance
- Bottle of water
- Service fee
Price not included
- Tip
- Alcoholic beverages
- Photo and Videography fee
- Any expenses which is not stated in the including lists
Reviews
