12-Day Southern Ethiopia & Bale Mountains Tour

• You'll be collected from the airport.
• Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Arrival in Addis Ababa & City Tour

Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, you will be transferred to your reserved hotel. Depending on your arrival time, we offer a variety of sightseeing options to explore Addis Ababa:

Mount Entoto: Enjoy the panoramic views of the capital from the highest peak in Addis Ababa.

Institute of Ethiopian Studies: Discover a fascinating collection of artifacts from all over Ethiopia, showcasing the country’s rich history and culture.

National Museum: Home to the famous 3.5-million-year-old remains of Lucy, among other significant exhibits.

Trinity Cathedral: A remarkable site, this cathedral serves as the burial place for members of the imperial family and revered patriots. Its stunning carvings, mosaics, and artistic details make it the most magnificent of its kind in Ethiopia.

The Mercato: Visit the largest open-air market in Africa, where the vibrant local culture comes to life.

Accommodation: Hotel, Addis Ababa.

Main Destination:

Addis Ababa (City)

Accommodation:

Triple-E Hotel and Spa

• Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• Meals at own expense
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Addis Ababa – Tiya – Arba Minch (465km)

After breakfast, we embark on a scenic 7-hour drive to Arba Minch, with a stop at Tiya (80 km from Addis Ababa) to explore the UNESCO-listed Stelae field. This historic site features mysterious engraved stelae, some up to 2-3 meters in height, stretching across Southern Ethiopia. The field contains around 45 stones, each with intricate carvings, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region's ancient past.

Continuing our journey, we’ll pass through stunning landscapes and enjoy breathtaking views of the two Rift Valley lakes, Lake Abaya to the north and Lake Chamo to the south, before arriving at our lodge in the late afternoon. Take some time to relax and unwind at the lodge, where you can enjoy panoramic views from the terrace.

Main Destination:

Arba Minch (City)

Accommodation:

Mora Heights Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Arba Minch (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Arbaminch – Lake Chamo – Dorze Village

Morning:
After breakfast, we set out for a boat cruise on Lake Chamo, where we’ll search for Africa’s largest crocodiles, which can grow up to 6 meters long, as well as hippos and a variety of bird species that thrive along the lake. The natural beauty and wildlife make for an unforgettable experience.

Afternoon:
In the afternoon, we will visit the Dorze people, a fascinating ethnic group known for their traditional lifestyle. The journey to their village offers fantastic views of the Wolayta farmlands, surrounded by lush green hills and valleys. Situated high in the Guge Mountains, the Dorze village overlooks the stunning Lake Abaya and Lake Chamo, providing breathtaking scenery.

Main Destination:

Lake Chamo

Accommodation:

Mora Heights Hotel

• Budget hotel located in Arba Minch (City)

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Arbaminch – Konso – Key Afer Market – Jinka (240 km)

After breakfast, we begin our 3.5-hour drive to Konso, a UNESCO World Heritage cultural site. Once there, we will visit the village compound and local museum to learn more about the rich heritage of the Konso people. We are also often welcomed into the Konso chief’s compound, where we can explore the family graveyard and view the house mummies, which are unique to the area. The Konso people are known for their impressive agricultural culture, creating ingenious terraces and protective walls around their fields and villages to guard against livestock damage and flooding.

From Konso, we continue our journey to the vibrant market of Key Afer (only on Thursdays), where various tribes from the Omo Valley, including the Derase, Tsemay, Benna, and Ari, gather to trade goods. The market offers a fascinating glimpse into the diverse cultures of the region. We will then proceed to Jinka, arriving in the late afternoon.

Main Destination:

Konso (Cultural Village)

Accommodation:

Jinka Resort

• Budget hotel located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley)

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Jinka -Mago National Park-Mursi-Tumri

Morning:
We will enter Mago National Park (approximately 2 hours of travel), where we'll have the chance to admire various animals and birds along the way. Afterward, we will visit the Mursi tribe and explore their villages. The Mursi are one of the most unique tribes in Africa, renowned for their women's use of large, round lip plates as a beauty tradition.

Afternoon:
After a delicious lunch, we will continue our journey to Turmi (about 3 hours), where we will meet the fascinating Hamar tribe. Turmi will serve as our base to explore the Southern tribes of the Omo Valley. This entire region of the Southern Omo has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980.

Accommodation:
Lodge in Turmi.

Main Destination:

Mago National Park

Best Time To Go June to February (Little rainfall)

High Season October to January (It might be busier)

Best Weather

Accommodation:

Emerald Lodge Turmi

• Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)

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Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Turmi – Dimeka Market – Turmi

Morning:
After breakfast, we will visit the vibrant market in Dimeka, near Turmi (Saturdays only). This market is a hub for several tribes of the Omo Valley, offering a colorful and lively experience of local culture and trade.

Afternoon:
Turmi is famous for its traditional events, and with a bit of luck, we may have the opportunity to participate in a Hamer marriage ceremony, including the renowned bull jumping ritual! Later in the afternoon, we'll visit a nearby Hamer village to observe the tribe in their everyday life. If fortune is on our side, we might even witness the Evangadi, a captivating moonshine dance performed by young Hamer men and women.

Accommodation:
Lodge in Turmi.

Main Destination:

Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)

Accommodation:

Emerald Lodge Turmi

• Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Turmi – Omorate – Konso

Morning: Turmi – Omorate – Turmi (140 km)
Today, we embark on an exciting excursion to visit the Dassanech ethnic group (70 km one way), renowned for their nomadic lifestyle and fascinating body decorations, including scarifications. Along the way, you'll also enjoy breathtaking views of the Omo River as we cross it in a traditional dugout canoe.

Afternoon: Turmi – Konso (180 km)
After lunch, we drive back to Konso (approximately 3.5 hours), arriving at our comfortable lodge in the late afternoon.

Accommodation: Lodge, Konso.

Main Destination:

Omorate (Lower Omo Valley)

Accommodation:

Kanta Lodge

• Mid-range lodge located in Konso (Cultural Village)

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Konso – Hawassa (350 km)

Morning:
After breakfast, we embark on a scenic 8-hour drive to Hawassa, the vibrant capital of the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Region, also known as the "Town of Endless Love." Upon arrival, unwind and rejuvenate at the luxurious Haile Resort, a renowned 5-star retreat owned by the famous Ethiopian runner Haile Gebrselassie. With a range of wellness amenities, including a sauna, steam bath, and beauty treatments, this resort offers the perfect escape from the rigors of travel. And don’t miss the breathtaking sunset views that the town is known for!

Afternoon:
We’ll arrive at the Haile Resort early enough to take in the stunning sunset over the lake, allowing time to relax and enjoy the tranquility of this peaceful destination.

Main Destination:

Awasa (City)

Accommodation:

Oasis International Hotel

• Mid-range hotel

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Hawassa – Dinsho – Goba (200 km)

Morning:

Drive from Hawassa to the Bale Mountains National Park headquarters in Dinsho.

Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely walk, with the opportunity to see a variety of animals and birds, including the endemic mountain Nyala. The biodiversity in this area is truly amazing!

Afternoon:

Continue your journey to Goba

Accommodation:

Overnight in Goba Hotel.

Main Destination:

Bale Mountains National Park

Best Time To Visit November to February (Little rain)

High Season October to January (Park is never busy)

Best Weather November to February

Wildlife in Bale Mountains NP

Ethiopian Wolf Common

Mountain Nyala Common

Warthog Common

Menelik's
Bushbuck Occasional

Guereza Monkey Occasional

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Olive Baboon Occasional

Bohor Reedbuck Occasional

Starck's Hare Occasional

Giant Mole-rat Occasional

Bale Monkey Rare

Giant Forest Hog Rare

Golden Jackal Rare

Gelada Monkey None

Walia Ibex None

Accommodation:

Goba Wabe Shebelle Hotel

• Budget hotel located less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Goba – Senette Plateau (Bale Mountains National Park)

Morning & Early Afternoon:

Drive into the Bale Mountains National Park (34 km), which is well on its way to becoming a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site.

Travel along Africa's highest all-weather road, heading toward the expansive Senetti Plateau, the largest moorland tract on the continent.

In this area, you'll have the opportunity to spot the endemic Ethiopian Wolf and its primary prey, the Giant Mole Rat. If you're lucky, you'll encounter both in their natural habitat.

Exploration:

Continue your journey to the Harena Escarpments and explore its lush rainforests. These forests are home to diverse wildlife and provide a rich, green contrast to the moorlands.

For bird enthusiasts, this is a fantastic opportunity for highland birding! Look out for unique species like:
Abyssinian Catbird

Abyssinian Woodpecker

White-backed Black Tit

Abyssinian Ground Thrush

Yellow-crowned Canary

Somali Chestnut-winged Starling and drive back to Goba.

Main Destination:

Bale Mountains National Park

Accommodation:

Goba Wabe Shebelle Hotel

• Budget hotel located less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Bale Mountains – Lake Langano (250 km)

Morning:
After breakfast, we depart from the mountains and drive back to the Rift Valley, heading toward Lake Langano (approx. 4 hours). Enjoy the scenic drive as we descend into the valley.

Afternoon:
Upon arrival, you can choose between two relaxing options. First, visit the Abyata-Shalla National Park, where you'll enjoy breathtaking views over the Rift Valley and possibly spot some wildlife. Alternatively, unwind at the Lake Langano Resort beach, where you can swim and relax by the lake.

Accommodation:
Stay overnight at a comfortable lodge in Langano.

Main Destination:

Lake Langano

Accommodation:

Sabana Beach Resort

• Mid-range resort located at Lake Langano

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Lake Langano – Addis Ababa (200 km)

Morning / Afternoon:
After breakfast, we begin our drive back to Addis Ababa (approx. 4 hours). We will arrive in the afternoon, and a day room will be reserved for you until 6 PM, allowing you some time to relax.

Evening:
In the evening, enjoy a traditional Ethiopian dinner accompanied by a lively dance show at one of Addis Ababa's renowned restaurants. After dinner, you'll be transferred to the airport for your international departure, or if you're staying overnight in Addis Ababa, you’ll be taken back to your hotel.

Departure or Individual Extension.

Main Destination:

Addis Ababa (City)

Accommodation:

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

• Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
• You'll be dropped off at the airport.