$1,540 pp (USD)
2 travelers on Start dateArrival
Arrival
Day 1
Arba Minch
Arba Minch
In the morning, depart from Addis Ababa and begin the scenic drive south through the Great Rift Valley toward Arba Minch. The journey passes through changing landscapes, small towns, and beautiful viewpoints along the way. En route, stop at Dorze Village in the Guge Mountains. The Dorze people are well known for their unique tall bamboo houses that resemble elephant heads and for their traditional weaving skills. During the visit, walk through the village, meet local families, and learn about their daily life. You will also see how the false banana plant is processed to make the traditional food called Kocho, an important part of the local diet. After exploring the village and enjoying the mountain views, continue the drive to Arba Minch where you will check in to your lodge and relax for the evening.
- Main Destination:
- Arba Minch (City)
- Accommodation:
- Haile Grand Addis Ababa Hotel
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 2
Arba Minch
Arba Minch
After breakfast, head to Lake Chamo for an exciting boat trip on one of the most wildlife-rich lakes in Ethiopia. During the excursion, you will see hippos in the water and large Nile crocodiles resting along the lakeshore, especially in the area known as the “crocodile market.” The lake is also a great place for birdwatching, where pelicans, African fish eagles, herons, and other water birds are often seen.
In the afternoon, visit the famous Forty Springs (Arba Minch), the natural groundwater springs that gave the town its name. Walk through the green forested area and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Later, explore Arba Minch town and take in the beautiful panoramic views of Lakes Abaya and Chamo from your lodge before relaxing in the evening.
- Main Destination:
- Arba Minch (City)
- Accommodation:
- Haile Grand Addis Ababa Hotel
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 3
Konso
Konso
After breakfast, drive south from Arba Minch to Konso, a UNESCO World Heritage cultural landscape known for its impressive terraced hillsides and traditional villages. The Konso people have practiced sustainable farming here for centuries, building stone terraces that protect the land from erosion and allow agriculture to continue in this dry region.
During the visit, explore one of the traditional Konso villages and learn about the community’s culture, social structure, and daily life. Walk through the narrow paths of the village and see the unique stone walls that surround the settlements. You will also see the famous wooden statues called Waka, carved to honor respected community members and ancestors. The visit offers a great opportunity to understand the traditions, history, and sustainable lifestyle that have shaped Konso society for generations.
- Main Destination:
- Konso (Cultural Village)
- Accommodation:
- Kanta Lodge
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 4
Awassa
Awassa
After breakfast, begin the drive north toward the lakeside city of Hawassa in the heart of the Great Rift Valley. The journey takes you through scenic countryside, passing local villages, farms, and changing landscapes along the way. It is a great opportunity to observe everyday life in rural Ethiopia.
Arrive in Hawassa in the afternoon and head to Lake Hawassa, one of the most beautiful and peaceful lakes in the Rift Valley. Enjoy relaxing time at the lakeside resort, where you can take a short walk along the shore, watch local fishermen, and observe many bird species around the lake. The calm atmosphere and beautiful sunset over the lake make it a perfect place to relax after the long drive.
- Main Destination:
- Awasa (City)
- Accommodation:
- Haile Resort Hawassa
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 5
Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa
Start the day early with a visit to the vibrant fish market at Lake Hawassa, where local fishermen bring their daily catch. It’s a lively place to observe local life, watch fresh fish being sold, and spot a variety of birds along the lakeshore. Occasionally, curious monkeys can be seen near the market searching for food.
After breakfast, depart for Addis Ababa, enjoying scenic views of the Rift Valley along the way. Stop at Lake Ziway to admire the lake, take photos, and observe its rich birdlife. Continue the drive to the capital and arrive in the afternoon for transfer to your hotel, residence, or the airport, completing your memorable southern Ethiopia journey.
- Main Destination:
- Addis Ababa (City)
- Accommodation:
- No accommodation (End of tour)
- Meals & Drinks: