7 Days Omo Valley, Rift Valley & Chebera Churchura Safari

  • Duration: 7 Days
  • Language: English

Overview

Chebera Churchura Safari offers one of the most exciting wildlife and cultural adventures in southern Ethiopia. This 7-day journey takes you from Addis Ababa through the fascinating Omo Valley, where you will encounter diverse tribal communities including the Ari, Mursi, Hamer, Karo, and Dassanech people. The tour also includes a visit to Chebera Churchura National Park, a remote and beautiful park known for its large elephant population, buffalo, antelope species, and rich birdlife, making it an unforgettable Ethiopian safari experience.

What To Expect

Day 1: Addis Ababa – Jinka ✈️

In the morning, you will take a domestic flight from Addis Ababa to Jinka, the gateway to the fascinating cultures of the South Omo Valley.

Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by your guide and begin exploring the region. You will visit the South Omo Research Center & Museum to gain insight into the tribes of the Omo Valley. Later, you will meet the Ari Tribe, known for their farming culture, pottery making, and rich local traditions. You will also walk through the local Jinka market and town to observe everyday life.

Overnight: Jinka Resort – Jinka

Day 2: Jinka – Turmi (via Key Afer)

After breakfast, drive deeper into the Omo Valley toward Turmi.

Along the way you will visit the Mursi Tribe, famous for the clay lip plates worn by women. You will then stop at Key Afer Market, one of the most vibrant tribal markets in the region, where different ethnic groups gather to trade goods. During the journey you will also meet the Bena Tribe, known for their colorful body decorations and distinctive traditions.

Continue driving to Turmi, the cultural center of the Hamer people. In the afternoon you will visit a Hamer village and learn about their traditions, hairstyles, and daily life.

Overnight: Paradise Lodge – Turmi

Day 3: Karo & Dassanech Tribes

Today you will explore two of the most fascinating tribes of the lower Omo Valley.

In the morning, drive to Korcho village to visit the Karo Tribe, famous for their elaborate body painting and scarification traditions. The Karo people live along the banks of the Omo River and are among the smallest tribes in Ethiopia.

In the afternoon continue to Omorate to visit the Dassanech Tribe, who live near the border with Kenya. You will cross the Omo River by a local wooden boat to reach their village and experience their unique culture and lifestyle.

Overnight: Paradise Lodge – Turmi

Day 4: Turmi – Erbore – Konso – Arba Minch

After breakfast, depart Turmi and continue your journey north.

During the journey you will visit the Erbore Tribe, known for their distinctive bead ornaments and colorful clothing. Continue driving to Konso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its impressive stone terraces and unique cultural traditions. Here you will explore a traditional Konso village and learn about their social organization and cultural practices.

In the afternoon continue to Arba Minch. Later you will enjoy a boat trip on Lake Chamo where you can see large Nile crocodiles, hippos, and many species of water birds.

Overnight: Haile Resort – Arba Minch

Day 5: Arba Minch – Dorze Village – Soddo

In the morning drive up to the cool highlands of Chencha to visit the Dorze people.

The Dorze are famous for their tall bamboo houses shaped like elephant heads, their traditional weaving techniques, and their unique local cuisine made from Enset, also known as the false banana.

After exploring the Dorze village, begin the scenic drive to Soddo, which takes approximately three hours.

Overnight: Lewi Resort – Soddo

Day 6: Soddo – Chebera Churchura National Park

After breakfast, drive about four to five hours to the beautiful and remote Chebera Churchura National Park, one of Ethiopia’s most promising wildlife destinations.

The park is known for its large elephant populations, buffalo, lions, and several species of antelope, as well as rich birdlife and scenic landscapes.

In the afternoon you will enjoy your first game drive in the park to explore its diverse wildlife and natural beauty.

Overnight: Camping inside Chebera Churchura National Park

Day 7: Chebera Churchura – Jimma – Addis Ababa ✈️

Early in the morning enjoy another game drive in the national park to maximize your wildlife viewing opportunities.

After breakfast, depart the park and drive approximately four to five hours to Jimma. From Jimma you will take an afternoon domestic flight back to Addis Ababa.

Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, you will be transferred to your hotel or to the airport for your international departure.

End of the Tour

Price on Request

Price depends on the group size

FromPrice on Request

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