9 Days Southern Ethiopia & Awash National Park Tour
Overview
Explore the cultural and natural wonders of Southern Ethiopia on this 9-day adventure. Visit the tribal regions of the Omo Valley, discover the scenic beauty of Arba Minch and Lake Chamo, experience traditional Hamer and Dassenech cultures, and continue to Hawassa and Awash National Park for wildlife encounters and relaxing hot springs. This tour combines culture, wildlife, landscapes, and authentic Ethiopian experiences.
Day 1: Arba Minch – Nech Sar National Park – Lake Chamo
After breakfast, fly to Arba Minch. In the morning, enjoy a game drive around Nech Sar National Park. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on Lake Chamo to see some of the largest African crocodiles and hippopotamuses.
Overnight: Mora Heights Hotel
Day 2: Arba Minch – Turmi
After an early breakfast, drive to Turmi, en route visiting different cultural groups and their villages, including the Konso people.
Overnight: Turmi Lodge
Day 3: Turmi – Omorate – Turmi
In the cool morning, drive to Omorate to visit the Dassenech (Geleb) tribal village after crossing the Omo River by boat. In the afternoon, visit a Hamer village and enjoy seasonal cultural activities including the famous Evangadi (Hamer dancing).
Overnight: Turmi Lodge
Day 4: Turmi – Keyafer – Jinka
After breakfast, drive to Jinka through Keyafer. At Keyafer, visit the colorful weekly Keyafer market.
Overnight: Jinka Hotel
Day 5: Jinka – Arba Minch
After breakfast, drive to Arba Minch. In the afternoon, visit the Dorze village.
Overnight: Haile Resort
Day 6: Arba Minch – Hawassa
Drive to Hawassa and enjoy a visit around the city in the afternoon.
Overnight: Hawassa
Day 7: Hawassa – Awash National Park
After breakfast, drive to Awash National Park. After lunch, enjoy a game drive to experience the park’s wildlife. Keep an eye out for oryx, baboons, greater and lesser kudu, warthogs, gazelles, and Columbus monkeys. If lucky, you may also spot leopards or lions.
Overnight: Genet Hotel
Day 8: Awash National Park – Addis Ababa
After breakfast, return to Addis Ababa. On the way, stop at the famous Sodere Hot Springs and relax in the natural mineral-rich waters.
