Itinerary

Day 1
Arrive Addis Ababa
Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. Hilton Addis – 1-night (D)

Day 2
To Awassa
After breakfast, depart Addis and spend a day delving into the fascinating history of Ethiopia at the Paleolithic open-air museum of Melka Kunture, the striking rock-hewn church of Adadi Mariam, unique steles from the 12th century and traditional villages of the Gurage and Oromo people before arriving at scenic Lake Langano. Sabana Beach Resort – 1-night (B, L, D)

Day 3
To Arba Minch
After breakfast, take a dip in Lake Langano or just relax on the shores and enjoy the scenery. On your way to Arba Minch, visit the small villages of Wolayta and Alaba, and stop at a wildlife sanctuary to see endemic Swayne’s Hartebeest. Arrive at Paradise Lodge, situated between two lovely Rift Valley lakes. Paradise Lodge – 2-nights (B, L, D)

Day 4
Arba Minch
Embark upon a morning cruise on the southernmost Rift Valley lake of Ethiopia: Lake Chamo. Keep your eyes open for resident hippos and the giant crocodiles that laze on the banks of the lake. With a profusion of birds like the African fish eagle, the great white pelican and others, the bird watching here is superb. After a tasty lunch, visit the village of the Dorze people, known for their beautiful woven clothing and hive-shaped bamboo huts. (B, L, D)

Day 5
To Jinka
Head south across the lovely Weito Valley to visit the village of Tsemay. In Key Afer, wander through the busy weekly market of the Tsemay, Ari and Benna tribes. Omo Eco Lodge – 1 night (B, L, D)

Day 6
Mursi Village & to Turmi
After breakfast, drive to Mursi village to meet with the people and learn about their culture. One of the tribe’s distinguishing characteristics is the custom of adult women wearing circular disks in their lower lips. In Turmi, the women of the Hamer tribe are known for their ochre-colored hair and leather skirts. This afternoon, arrive in Buska Lodge on the banks of the Keske River. Buska Lodge – 2-nights (B, L, D)

Day 7
Turmi & Murulle
In the morning, take an excursion to Murulle, a village of Karo people known for painting their bodies and faces in elaborate patterns before important ceremonies. Enjoy some leisure time this afternoon. If you like, visit a nearby village or a local market (on Monday, Tuesday or Saturday). (B, L, D)

Day 8
To Yabello
Embark on a day long journey through the spectacular landscapes of southern Ethiopia. Visit the Erbore people, famed for their use of various common objects as jewelry, and the nomadic Oromo Borana people en route to remote Yabello. Yabello Hotel – 1-night (B, L, D)

Day 9
To Lake Awassa
Head to El Sod this morning to hike into the crater lake from which the local people mine salt. Stop at a coffee plantation to learn about the art and science of growing coffee beans. And visit traditional villages of the Borana and Sidama people. This afternoon, arrive on the shores of Lake Awassa. Haile Resort – 1-night (B, L, D)

Day 10
To Addis Ababa
After breakfast, visit the local fish market and then enjoy a morning cruise on the lake. Return to Addis through the Great Rift Valley. InterContinental Hotel – 1-night (B, L, D)

Day 11
Addis Ababa & Depart
After a leisurely morning and lunch in a local restaurant, visit the National Museum, the open-air market and lovely Trinity Cathedral. This evening, savor a sumptuous Ethiopian dinner and a lively performance of traditional dance before transferring to the airport for your onward flight. (B, L, D)

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