The Lakes and Forests of Southern Ethiopia
Ethiopia is a new, fascinating and exciting destination for more adventurous travellers who are looking for a trip less ordinary. Experience unparalleled landscapes, rare wildlife, vibrant cities and a unique culture before everybody else.
Day 1 Arrival Addis Ababa
Upon arrival at Addis Ababa Bole international airport, you’ll be escorted by car to your accommodation in Addis Ababa.
The remainder of your day will be spent at leisure.
Day 2 Addis Ababa
Spend your first day acquainting yourself with Ethiopia’s sprawling capital. Explore the National Museum including a replica of ‘Lucy’, the famous early hominid, visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral, and head up Mount Entoto for spectacular views over the city.
Your Lightfoot Travel Designer can help plan activities that suit your needs prior to departure.
Day 3 Addis Ababa – Bale Mountain National Park
After breakfast on day three, you’ll head south to the Bale Mountain National Park and check into your luxury lodge.
Spend your days exploring the Sanetti Plateau and Bale Forest watching for wildlife, including numerous bird species, Bale monkeys, and the Ethiopian wolf, the world’s rarest carnivore and an icon of Ethiopian wildlife.
Your Lightfoot Travel Designer can advise on activities prior to departure.
Day 4 Bale Mountain National Park – Nechisar National Park
Continue south to Arba Minch in Ethiopia’s Great Rift Valley, where you’ll be staying at the aptly named Paradise Lodge overlooking Lake Abaya and Lake Chamo.
Go on game drives searching for animals and endemic birds, take a dip in the sacred waters of Forty Springs, see hippos and crocodiles on Lake Chamo, hike across ‘God’s Bridge’ (an isthmus separating the two lakes), and visit the elephant huts of the Dorze people.
Your Lightfoot Travel Designer can advise on activities prior to departure.
Day 5 Nechisar National Park – Turmi & the Omo River Valley
Your final destination is Turmi in the Omo River Valley in the heart of southern Ethiopia, where you’ll be staying in an eco-lodge overlooking the Buska Mountains.
After settling in you'll have time at leisure. Perhaps take the time to learn about the local Hamer tribe, famous for their Evangadi dance and ‘bull leaping’ ceremony.
Day 6 Turmi & the Omo River Valley
Enjoy a full day in the Omo River Valley.
This is your chance to meet and interact with other Omo River Valley tribes, such as the Dorze, Konso, Karo, Dassanetch, and Benna, each with their own fascinating culture and traditions.
Day 7 Departure
Today you’ll be escorted to the airport for your onward journey.
Explore the chaos and colour of Addis Ababa
Meet Lucy, the skeleton of the world’s oldest human, in the National Museum
See rare Ethiopian wolves in Bale Mountains National Park
Marvel at the landscapes and lakes of Ethiopia’s Great Rift Valley
Discover the culture and traditions of the Omo River Valley tribes
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AUTHENTICTravel your way with Lightfoot. We’ll take you into the heart of each destination and introduce you to the people and places that reveal the true essence of a country. With our trusted local connections, we create holidays that immerse you in culture, history, and everyday life. Far from the crowds, always deeply authentic.
EXPERT Travel with confidence, guided by experts. Our team boasts decades of first-hand knowledge and we are passionate about creating meaningful experiences for our guests. We specialise in unveiling the world’s most extraordinary and lesser-known destinations.
PERSONAL Your journey is as unique as you are. We take the time to understand what inspires and excites you, creating 100% tailormade itineraries that reflect your personality, interests, and holiday aspirations. Our bespoke holidays are designed to elevate every moment of your travel experience.
