9 Days Suri Tribe & Omo Valley Ethiopia Photography Tour Tour Overview
Overview
Join an immersive 9-day photography journey into Ethiopia’s remote Omo Valley, home to some of Africa’s most culturally rich and visually striking tribal communities. This tour is specially designed for photographers and cultural explorers seeking deep access to the Suri, Hamer, Mursi, Karo, Dassanach, Arbore, and Ari peoples. From traditional ceremonies and colorful body art to dramatic landscapes and authentic daily life, this experience offers rare photographic and cultural opportunities guided by local experts.
Tour Plan
In the morning, fly from Addis Ababa to Jimma. Upon arrival, meet your driver-guide and begin the scenic drive to Mizan Teferi. En route, stop in Bonga town for a coffee experience and lunch. After arrival, check into the hotel and explore the old town.
Overnight: Hotel in Mizan Teferi
After breakfast, drive south toward Kibish, passing through the vast Bebeka Coffee Plantation, the largest in Ethiopia. Continue via Dimma before entering Suri territory, a lush and ecologically diverse region. Arrive at Kibish in the late afternoon and set up camp near the Kibish River. In the evening, visit nearby Suri villages and begin photographing their daily life, culture, and striking landscapes.
Overnight: Camping at Kibish River
Spend the entire day visiting Suri villages, learning about their traditions and photographing their extraordinary culture. The Suri are famous for body painting, scarification, floral decorations, and expressive portrait photography. If conditions allow, there may be an opportunity to witness Saginay (Donga) stick fighting, a culturally significant ceremony showcasing strength and bravery.
Overnight: Camping at Kibish River
Early departure toward the Lower Omo Valley. Drive through remote landscapes and pass through Omo National Park, one of Africa’s least visited parks, with chances to spot wildlife. Enjoy a packed lunch along the way before arriving in Turmi.
Overnight: Lodge in Turmi
Visit the vibrant Turmi market, where the Hamer people gather to trade honey, food items, and handmade crafts—perfect for street and documentary photography. In the afternoon, there may be a chance to witness the famous Hamer bull-jumping ceremony, a powerful rite of passage. If no ceremony takes place, enjoy an in-depth visit to a Hamer village.
Overnight: Lodge in Turmi
Depart early for Omorate, crossing the Omo River to reach the Dassanach tribe near Lake Turkana. Photograph their unique lifestyle, distinctive decorations, and riverside activities. Picnic breakfast and lunch will be served on location. In the afternoon, return to Turmi and enjoy a sunset photo session in a Hamer village.
Overnight: Lodge in Turmi
Early morning departure to the Weito lowlands to visit the Arbore tribe near Mount Buska. The Arbore women are known for their striking appearance, shaved heads before marriage, dark robes, and colorful beadwork. Sunrise photography offers exceptional portrait and cultural images. Picnic meals included. Return to Turmi in the afternoon.
Overnight: Lodge in Turmi
Early drive to Karo Duse village along the Omo River. The Karo people are known for elaborate chalk body painting and riverbank life. Capture scenes of children diving into the river and livestock crossings—iconic Omo Valley photography moments. After the visit, return to Turmi for lunch, then continue to Jinka.
Overnight: Eco-lodge in Jinka
At sunrise, visit a nearby Ari village known for pottery making, farming, and colorful painted homes. Enjoy final photography opportunities before lunch in Jinka. Fly back to Addis Ababa, marking the end of this unforgettable cultural and photographic journey.
Included/Exclude
- Domestic flights (Addis–Jimma, Jinka–Addis)
- 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser with experienced driver-guide
- Hotels, lodges, and camping with full camping equipment
- All meals, water, and hot beverages
- Local guides, entrance fees, and photography permissions
- Cultural visits, markets, and village experiences
