5 Days Tribal Trips to the Southern Ethiopia
Take a morning flight from Addis Ababa to Arbaminch, the gateway to southern Ethiopia’s Rift Valley. Upon arrival, meet your guide and drive to the scenic Dorze village, located in the Gamo Highlands. The Dorze people are known for their unique beehive-shaped huts, colorful weaving traditions, and beautiful views over Lake Abaya and Lake Chamo. Experience their traditional lifestyle, learn about local weaving, and enjoy a coffee ceremony. Return to Arbaminch for dinner and overnight at a lodge overlooking the lakes.
After breakfast, enjoy a memorable boat trip on Lake Chamo, famous for its large Nile crocodiles, hippos, and a variety of birdlife. You’ll also see fishermen in their traditional reed boats. After the excursion, drive south through the scenic landscapes of the Weyto Valley and Konso highlands, a UNESCO World Heritage agricultural site known for its terraced hillsides. Continue to Jinka, the capital of the South Omo Zone, and check into your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Early in the morning, drive into Mago National Park to visit the Mursi people, one of the most famous tribes in Ethiopia. The Mursi are known for their distinctive lip plates worn by women and intricate body scarifications. Learn about their customs and daily life before returning to Jinka for lunch. In the afternoon, drive to Turmi, home of the Hamer tribe, passing through the beautiful Omo Valley. Dinner and overnight in Turmi at a lodge surrounded by acacia trees.
Spend the morning visiting a traditional Hamer village to learn about their lifestyle, hairstyles, and cultural traditions. If your visit coincides with a market day, you’ll have the chance to experience one of the vibrant local markets, where different tribes come together to trade goods and socialize. Afterward, drive back to Arbaminch through Konso, enjoying scenic stops along the way. Arrive in Arbaminch by evening for dinner and overnight at your lodge.
After breakfast, transfer to Arbaminch Airport for your return flight to Addis Ababa. Depending on your schedule, you may enjoy a brief city tour or last-minute shopping in Addis before your international departure. This marks the end of your unforgettable 5-day journey through southern Ethiopia’s tribal lands and breathtaking landscapes.
✅ Included Services
- 🚗 4W Drive Vehicle: with driver and fuel included
- 🎟️ All Entrance Fees: access to all attractions mentioned in the itinerary
- 💧 Bottled Water: stay hydrated during your tours
- ☕ Cultural Coffee: experience traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremonies
- 🗣️ English Speaking Guides: expert guidance throughout your journey
- 🍽️ All meals Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner: enjoy delicious meals at selected locations
- 🏨 Hotel Accommodation: any unlisted or personal stays
- 👨🏫 Professional Guide Service: personalized assistance and local insights
📸 Camera & Video Charges: personal photography or filming with special fees
❌ Excluded Services
- 🍷 Alcoholic Drinks: not included in the package
- ✈️ Any Flight: international or extra flights are excluded
- 🛡️ Personal Insurance: travel or medical insurance not included
- 💰 Personal Tips & Gratitude: for guides, drivers, or staff
- 🛍️ Shopping Items: souvenirs or personal purchases
📝 SMT Tour – Cancellation Policy
🙋♂️ Cancellation by You (the Traveler)
- 📅 More than 30 days before the tour: Full refund minus a 10% administrative fee.
- 📅 15–30 days before the tour: 50% refund of the total booking amount.
- 📅 Less than 15 days before the tour: No refund.
🏛️ Cancellation by SMT Tour
In rare cases, if SMT Tour must cancel a tour, you will receive a full refund. Whenever possible, we will also offer alternative dates or similar tour options.
🔄 Changes to Your Booking
Changes such as dates or number of travelers are subject to availability and may incur additional charges. Please contact us as early as possible to make adjustments.
🌪️ Force Majeure
SMT Tour is not responsible for cancellations due to events beyond our control, including natural disasters, political unrest, or pandemics. We will assist with rescheduling or providing credit for future tours.
💳 Refund Process
Refunds are processed to the original payment method within 7–14 business days after cancellation confirmation.
💡 Travel Tip
We recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover unexpected situations that may affect your travel plans.