10 Days to Omo Valley with Chebera Churchura

This expertly curated itinerary combines breathtaking natural beauty with historical landmarks and unique wildlife experiences, offering an immersive adventure in the heart of Ethiopia, guided by seasoned Ethiopian tours experts.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Southwestern Ethiopia.

Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa

Upon your arrival at Bole International Airport, you will be greeted by a representative from Ruba Tours, who will provide a warm welcome and escort you to your reserved hotel. Depending on your arrival time, we offer an array of enriching sightseeing options that showcase the essence of Ethiopia:

• Mount Entoto: Savor the panoramic views over Addis Ababa, where the city unfolds beneath you.
• Institute of Ethiopian Studies: Delve into a diverse collection of artifacts, reflecting the multifaceted history and culture of Ethiopia’s various regions.
• National Museum: Explore numerous significant exhibits, including the 3.5-million-year-old bones of Lucy, a cornerstone of our understanding of human evolution.
• Saint George Cathedral: Admire exquisite works by the renowned Ethiopian artist Afework Tekele, alongside the rich ecclesiastical heritage that adorns this historical site.
• Trinity Cathedral: Visit this magnificent burial site of imperial family members, whose artistry in carvings and mosaics signifies Ethiopia’s artistic wealth.
• Mercato: Experience Africa’s largest open-air market, where vibrant culture and commerce come alive.
• Unity Park: Situated within the National Palace of Ethiopia, the park epitomizes Ethiopia’s generational legacy. Prime Minister Dr. Abiy’s announcement of its opening on October 11 marks a new chapter in its accessibility to the public. The renovated palace, built under Emperor Menelik II, spans 40,000 square meters and features attractions like an arena, a playground, a zoo, three churches, the House of Royals, and an imperial banquet hall.

Day 2: Drive from Addis Ababa to Jimma

After an early morning departure, you will drive through stunning landscapes that epitomize Ethiopia’s natural beauty. We will pause for lunch in the charming town of Welkite before crossing the Gibe and Gojeb rivers. In the late afternoon, you will arrive in the historic town of Jimma, known for its rich heritage. Explore remnants from the Jimma Kingdom, including the majestic Palace of Abba Jifar, and familiarize yourself with a city bustling with museums, markets, and an airport that embraces both tradition and progress.

Day 3: Drive from Jimma to Chebera (Camping)

Journey to Chebera Churchura National Park, a true gem in the South West Ethiopia Peoples’ Region, established by the regional government in 2005. Located 133 km south of Jimma and 483 km southwest of Addis Ababa, this park offers an unparalleled camping experience amidst lush landscapes and diverse ecosystems.

Day 4: Discover Chebera Churchura

Chebera Churchura National Park spans 1,250 km² and encompasses four types of habitats. The majority, approximately 62%, features wooded grassland dominated by elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum), complemented by montane woodland comprising 29%, along with woodland and riparian forests. The rich biodiversity includes a variety of palm species unique to the region.

Flora and Fauna:
The park is a sanctuary for 37 species of large mammals and 237 species of birds. It offers protection for herds of African elephants, which thrive in both protected forest areas and open grasslands. Notable wildlife includes lions, leopards, servals, greater kudus, colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, hippos, defassa waterbucks, warthogs, and Cape buffalos.

Day 5: Drive from Chebera to Bonga

Bonga, a town and the capital of the South West Ethiopia Peoples’ Region, is nestled in the picturesque Keffa Zone at an elevation of 1,714 meters. This charming hilltop location offers stunning views and a unique cultural experience. It’s essential to recognize that this Bonga should not be confused with another town of the same name near the Gambela Region.

Day 6: Drive to Mizan Teferi

Mizan Teferi, the largest town in the South West Ethiopia Peoples’ Region, serves as the administrative center of the Bench Sheko Zone. Situated approximately 160 kilometers southwest of Jimma, Mizan Teferi, alongside the neighboring town of Aman, forms a separate woreda called Mizan Aman. This town is rich in culture and significance, surrounded by the natural splendor of the region.

Day 7: Drive to Tulgit

The Omo Kibish Formation, a notable geological site located in the Lower Omo Valley, is named after the nearby Omo River and is subdivided into four members known as Members I-IV, dating between 196,000 and 13,000 years ago. This significant site has yielded rich paleoanthropological findings, shedding light on human evolution and the behaviors of our ancestors.

Day 8: Drive to Kibish

The vibrant village of Kibish is set in a scenic bowl within forested hills and is home to the captivating Suri people. Be mindful that photographing the Suri may incur fees for adults, children, and animals. For avid photographers, negotiating a comprehensive fee for unlimited photography during your visit is recommended.

Day 9: Drive to Mizan via Bebeka Coffee Plantation

On your journey back, you will pass through Bebeka Coffee Plantation, Ethiopia’s largest and oldest coffee farm, covering 93 square kilometers. Located 28 kilometers southwest of Mizan Teferi, the plantation is a testament to Ethiopia’s long-standing coffee heritage. While official tours are no longer offered, a scenic drive through the plantation allows you to appreciate its vastness.

Day 10: Drive to Jimma and Fly back to Addis Ababa

Conclude your journey with an early start, driving back to Jimma for your flight back to Addis Ababa. This captivating experience through the Southwestern Omo Valley will leave you enriched with stories, newfound knowledge, and cherished memories of Ethiopia’s incredible landscapes and cultural heritage.