Call Us For Help!
+254 713 380 337
Address
Mombasa Rd., Pacific Crest Mall, 3rd Floor, RM 23
Mail Us
info@exodussafaris.com
- Safaris & tours
TOP DESTINATIONS
- Experiences
+254 713 380 337
Mombasa Rd., Pacific Crest Mall, 3rd Floor, RM 23
info@exodussafaris.com
10 Days
24
10+
Airport
Welcome you to begin 10-Day Safari in South Omo Valley and Bale Mountain a journey of discovery with Exodus Safaris as we invite you to explore the captivating landscape of Southern Ethiopia, a region teeming with natural wonders, cultural treasures, and fascinating wildlife. Prepare to be enchanted by the pristine beauty of the Bale Mountains, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a sanctuary for an incredible array of endemic species.
As you traverse the rugged terrain of the Bale Mountains, you'll have the opportunity to encounter some of Ethiopia's most iconic wildlife, including the elusive Ethiopian wolf, the majestic Mountain Nyala, and the charismatic Bale monkey. Keep your binoculars handy as you spot rare bird species flitting among the treetops and marvel at the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of the indigenous flora that carpet the mountainsides.
But the Bale Mountains offer more than just spectacular wildlife – they are also a cultural melting pot, home to a diverse array of ethnic groups each with their own unique traditions and customs. Gain insight into the rich tapestry of Southern Ethiopia's cultural heritage as you interact with the local communities, from the Mursi with their iconic lip plates to the Konso with their impressive terraced farming techniques and the Hamer with their traditional bull-jumping rituals.
Throughout your journey, our knowledgeable guides will provide invaluable insights into the history, culture, and ecology of the region, ensuring that you come away with a deeper understanding and appreciation of this remarkable corner of the world. And with our commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism, you can rest assured that your visit will have a positive impact on the local communities and ecosystems.
So come and join us on this unforgettable adventure through Southern Ethiopia, where every step reveals a new wonder, every encounter a cultural exchange, and every moment a memory to treasure for a lifetime. With Exodus Safaris, the journey is as rewarding as the destination, and the experience is truly extraordinary.
Upon your arrival at Bole International Airport, you will proceed through customs and enter the arrivals hall, where an Exodus Safaris representative eagerly awaits to greet you and accompany you to your hotel. Following a brief respite, the guided tour of the Ethnological Museum will resume, offering you a glimpse into Ethiopia's rich cultural heritage through its diverse array of artifacts and handicrafts representing various ethnic groups.
Next on the itinerary is a visit to the renowned National Museum, home to archaeological treasures such as the famous "Lucy," a 3.2 million-year-old female hominid fossil unearthed in the Awash Valley in 1974. You'll then have the opportunity to explore Addis Ababa's sprawling Mercato, the largest open-air market on the continent, brimming with vibrant energy and diverse goods.
To conclude the day's excursion, we'll drive to Ba'ath Church, also known as Menelik’s Mausoleum, a historic site dating back to 1911 and one of Addis Ababa's oldest churches. Here, you'll marvel at exquisite paintings and pay homage to the royal tombs of past emperors, including Emperor Haile Selassie.
After a delightful breakfast, set your sights on a journey southward towards the rift valley regions. Along the way, consider a visit to Adadi Mariam, a remarkable subterranean rock-hewn church distinct from Lalibela and located at the southernmost point of its kind. Situated approximately 30km north of the Tiya stelae, this church offers a fascinating departure from Tiya's pagan ambiance, dating back to the same period in history.
Continue your drive 40km northwest from Arba Minch to discover the charming Dorze and Chencha villages, nestled amidst the Guge Mountains. Once known as fierce warriors, the inhabitants of these villages have transitioned to livelihoods centered around farming and weaving. Of particular note in Dorze are the "elephant huts," showcasing the community's exceptional craftsmanship.
Moreover, the Dorze people are renowned for their beehive-shaped houses, crafted entirely from organic materials and complemented by private gardens. Nearby Chencha, located 8km northwest of Dorze Village, is celebrated for producing the finest quality cotton in Ethiopia, woven with skill and pride.
After indulging in a delightful breakfast, embark on a boat tour along the pristine waters of Lake Chamo, where you'll encounter a myriad of fascinating creatures including crocodiles, hippos, and a diverse array of aquatic birds. Renowned for its large crocodiles basking in the sun, Lake Chamo offers a picturesque glimpse into their natural habitat.
From there, journey to Konso, a place characterized by vibrant costumes, terraced agricultural landscapes, and intricately carved wooden statues honoring the deceased. The Konso people distinguish themselves through their expertise in farming, utilizing stone terracing to cultivate crops successfully in an otherwise inhospitable region.
Continue your exploration to Key Afer, renowned for its lively Thursday market where the unique cultures of the Ari, Bena, Hamer, and Tsemay peoples converge. Here, witness the distinctive adornments and customs: Bena and Hamer women with braided hair adorned with red clay, Tsemay women accessorizing their beaded skirts with a status-denoting stick, and men sporting intricately plaited hairstyles adorned with feathers.
Concluding your journey, visit Jinka to complete your enriching experience.
Meals & Drinks:
Embark on an early morning journey to Mago National Park, where you'll encounter the Mursi highlands, home to one of the world's most renowned tribes. Among the Mursi people, women adorn ornate lip plates, a cultural symbol where size reflects beauty and desirability. Despite their gentle appearance, Mursi warriors boast arm markings signifying enemies vanquished in battle.
Witness their unique hairstyles and cultural practices firsthand, with opportunities for photography available for a fee. Following your visit, proceed to Jinka for lunch before immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of the nearby Ari Village. The afternoon unfolds with a scenic drive to Turmi via Dimeka, promising further cultural exploration and unforgettable experiences.
In the morning, we ventured to Karo, where we marveled at a majestic landscape overlooking the Omo River. Here, we encountered the Karo people, renowned for their intricate body painting techniques using clay and an array of natural pigments.
Following a hearty meal, our journey continued to the Hammer Tribe near Turmi. This village boasts one of the largest populations in the region, with expertise in millet, vegetable, cotton, and tobacco farming, as well as cattle and goat herding. Prepare to be astounded by the Hamer people's masterful pottery and elaborate hairstyling. Men proudly display clay hair buns adorned with ostrich feathers, symbolizing their hunting prowess, while women mesmerize with glass beaded necklaces and iron arm coils, accented by cowry shells adorning their skin, signifying the wealth of their partners.
Main Destination:
(Omo Valley)Accommodation:
Emerald Lodge Turmi
This morning, we embark on a journey southward towards Omorate to visit the Dasenech, formerly known as the Geleb, tribe. Situated in the borderlands of Kenya, just north of Lake Turkana and along the Omo River, this group practices agro-pastoralism and employs flood retreat techniques to cultivate their fields.
Originally nomadic pastoralists from the Turkana region, the Geleb migrated to the more fertile lands near the Omo River. Here, they established more permanent settlements centered around trading and farming. Their dwellings are simple huts, designed for quick dismantling if necessary. Women typically don pleated cowskin skirts adorned with necklaces and bracelets, while men wrap checkered cloths around their waists as their primary attire.
After lunch, we make our way to Konso for an overnight stay.
We embark on a picturesque journey to Yiregalem, winding through the stunning Sidamo mountains and verdant coffee plantations. En route, we are treated to a unique opportunity to explore the enigmatic Tutu Fella stelae field, where ancient stones believed to originate from the 9th century stand in silent mystery. Their true purpose remains elusive to this day.
Upon reaching our Sidamo-style lodge, we indulge in a leisurely nature walk during the late afternoon, immersing ourselves in the tranquil beauty of the Sidama Coffee farm.
Main Destination:
(Town)Accommodation:
Meals & Drinks:
This morning, we'll venture to the lakeshore's bustling fish market, offering a glimpse into the local lifestyle. Here, amidst the lively activity, you'll encounter a rich variety of water birds, with African marabou storks being particularly abundant. Following this fascinating visit, we'll embark on a scenic 6-hour journey to Bale Mountains National Park's headquarters.
Surrounding the headquarters, the natural habitat hosts numerous wild animals, including Mountain Nyala and Minilik Bushbuck, which have grown accustomed to human presence. This area offers a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close, a rarity within the park. Finally, we'll conclude our journey with a 100 km (62 mi) drive to the lodge, where we'll check-in and unwind before nightfall.
Experience the enchanting wonders of Bale Mountains National Park! Encompassing an impressive 2,200 square kilometers (1,370 square miles) of diverse terrain, from lush grasslands to sprawling woodlands, meadows, swamps, and moorlands, this destination promises unparalleled natural beauty.
Nature enthusiasts will be enthralled by the park's rich biodiversity, home to rare endemic species such as the Ethiopia wolf, Bale monkey, giant forest hogs, and numerous Rift Valley native birds. Your adventure commences with a captivating safari through Hrenna Forest, where a myriad of birds, mammals, and amphibians await your discovery.
Following the safari, journey to Sanetti Plateau for a picturesque picnic lunch amidst breathtaking vistas. As the day draws to a close, embark on a scenic hike to the summit, keeping an eye out for elusive Ethiopian wolves amidst the African wildlife that thrives in this remarkable landscape.
Today marks the return journey to Addis Ababa. Along the way, indulge in a visit to the breathtaking Abijatta-Shala National Park. This remarkable park boasts the awe-inspiring Lake Shala, plunging over 260 meters deep, and Lake Abijatta, a soda lake teeming with thousands of flamingos. Don't miss the chance to explore these natural wonders.
After the park visit, make your way back to Addis Ababa, where you'll be treated to an unforgettable evening farewell dinner hosted by Exodus Safaris. Delight in authentic Ethiopian cuisine and beverages while immersing yourself in mesmerizing tribal dances. As the evening draws to a close, you'll be escorted to Bole International Airport for your international departure.
Exodus Safaris is dedicated to crafting customized tour programs tailored to your unique interests, schedule, and budget. Contact us to design your perfect adventure.
Main Destination: No major destination visited
Accommodation: No accommodation (End of tour)
21 Customer(s) recommended this item
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Ethiopia while surrounded by breathtaking scenery. An experience to treasure.
This safari in the South Omo Valley and Bale Mountain was a thrilling adventure that exceeded all my wildest expectations.
Interacting with the indigenous tribes of the Omo Valley provided an authentic glimpse into their captivating way of life.
Exploring the South Omo Valley and Bale Mountain exposed me to the abundance of nature, leaving me in awe of its wonders.
The awe inspiring landscapes of South Omo Valley and the cultural heritage of the region left me enchanted and enlightened.
This safari wove together encounters with diverse wildlife and engaging interactions with local communities seamlessly.
Trekking through the Bale Mountain National Park and exploring the Omo Valley immersed me in a captivating wonderland.
The South Omo Valley and Bale Mountain offered a mesmerizing fusion of ethereal beauty and vibrant cultural traditions.
From encountering elusive wildlife to learning about local traditions, every moment of this safari was enthralling.
This safari seamlessly blended cultural immersion with stunning natural landscapes, creating a truly memorable experience.
Leave feedback about this