This 11-day expedition combines two of Ethiopia’s most extraordinary and contrasting regions: the surreal volcanic landscapes of the Danakil Depression in the north and the culturally rich tribal territories of the South Omo Valley in the south. It’s a journey of extremes — from salt deserts and lava lakes to traditional villages and centuries-old rituals.
Visit Dallol, a geothermal wonder of acidic springs, colorful salt formations, and gas vents
Walk across vast salt flats, see camel caravans and meet Afar salt miners
Optional night trek to Erta Ale Volcano to view its dramatic lava lake (weather permitting)
Experience one of the lowest and hottest inhabited places on Earth
Visit indigenous tribes such as the Mursi, Hamar, Karo, Dassanech, and Konso
Participate in or observe local rituals and traditional markets (e.g. Key Afer, Dimeka)
Learn about body art, lip plates, bull-jumping, and other cultural practices
Explore the Konso Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Drive through beautiful Rift Valley landscapes and remote savannahs
Days 1–4: Arrive in Mekele, explore Danakil Depression (Dallol, Erta Ale, salt flats)
Day 5: Fly or drive to Addis Ababa, then connect to southern Ethiopia
Days 6–11: Explore South Omo Valley (Jinka, Turmi, Konso), then return to Addis Ababa
A powerful contrast of geological extremes and human cultural richness
Perfect for photographers, anthropologists, and adventure travelers
Includes rugged travel in remote, off-the-beaten-path regions
Offers deep insight into both Ethiopia’s natural phenomena and tribal diversity
Upon arrival, our team will welcome you at the airport. After breakfast near the airport, you will be transferred for your flight to Lalibela. Known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” Lalibela is famous for its underground rock-hewn churches. In the afternoon, visit top attractions including Bete Medhane Alem, Bete Mariam, Bete Meskal, Bete Denaghel, Bete Golgotha, Bete Mikael, and Bete Giorgis.
Overnight at Top 12 Hotel, Lalibela.
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, enjoy a brief city tour before relaxing at your hotel.
Overnight at Aya Addis Hotel.
Fly from Addis Ababa to Semera, then drive 5-6 hours to reach Hamed Ela, stopping at Lake Afdera for lunch and possibly swimming. In the evening, visit Lake Asale’s salt flats and enjoy a drink in a stunning setting.
Overnight: Open-air camping at Hamedela.
After breakfast, explore the colorful landscapes of Dalol, one of the lowest places on earth (-125m). Witness volcanic activity, Lake Assal, and camel caravans. In the afternoon, drive to Erta Ale, Ethiopia’s active lava lake. After dinner, trek for about 20 minutes to witness the dramatic lava action before returning to camp.
Overnight: Open-air camping at Erta Ale.
Early morning visit to the boiling lava before breakfast. Drive to Afdera (2 hours), then continue to Semera (3.5 hours) for your flight to Addis Ababa.
Overnight at Aya Addis Hotel.
Drive 6 hours to Arba Minch. Visit the Dorze village, known for traditional weaving and unique beehive-shaped houses.
Overnight at Haile Resort, Arba Minch.
Drive to Jinka, stopping at Konso, a UNESCO site known for its terraced farming. Visit the Ari tribe in Jinka, known for their pottery skills.
Overnight at Jinka Resort or Eco Omo Lodge.
Visit the Mursi tribe, famous for their women wearing clay lip plates. Travel through Mago National Park, spending time engaging with the tribe.
Overnight at Jinka Resort or Eco Omo Lodge.
Day 9: Jinka – Turmi
Drive to Turmi, stopping to visit the Banna and Hamer tribes. If available, attend a local tribal market.
Overnight at Buska Lodge.
Drive to Turmi, stopping to visit the Banna and Hamer tribes. If available, attend a local tribal market.
Overnight at Buska Lodge.
Drive to Omorate, a border town near Lake Turkana, to visit the Dasenech tribe. Later, return to Turmi for lunch before continuing to Arba Minch.
Overnight at Haile Resort.
Drive back to Addis Ababa via Butajira. Visit UNESCO sites such as Tiya Stelae, Adadi Maryam rock-hewn church, and Melka Kunture archaeological site. Enjoy a farewell dinner with cultural performances before your airport transfer.
End of the
tour.
What to Bring
Domestic flights:
Accommodation:
FromFrom $1,700.00
About
Serina hotel ( 4rth floor),
Bekelech St, 2Q4M+RV8,
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
+251 91 355 0959
+251 91 156 0986
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