Bale Mountains & Tribes Tours

Bale Mountains & Tribes Tours: A Journey of Heart and Soul in Southern Ethiopia

Imagine standing amidst the breathtaking majesty of the Bale Mountains, where nature’s beauty unfolds in breathtaking vistas, and the whispers of ancient cultures resonate through the air. As you embark on this unforgettable journey, you will find yourself surrounded by the rolling highlands, ethereal landscapes, and vibrant communities rich in traditions. Located 400 km southeast of Addis Ababa, the Bale Mountains National Park is a paradise for adventurers and culture seekers alike. Its pristine high-altitude terrains, particularly the awe-inspiring Sanetti Plateau, reach heights over 4,000 meters, housing not just lush greenery but the highest peak of the Southern Ethiopian Highlands.

Join us as we delve deep into the heart of Southern Ethiopia, where every turn leads to encounters with indigenous tribes that have preserved their unique way of life for generations. Picture yourself standing face-to-face with the Mursi and Hamer tribes, their vibrant attire and captivating customs inviting you to participate in their stories. With Southern Ethiopia Tours, you’ll be guided by knowledgeable and trustworthy experts who are eager to share their love for their homeland, ensuring that this adventure doesn’t just fill your camera roll; it fills your heart with unforgettable memories.

Itinerary Highlights:

Day 01: Arrival in Addis Ababa
Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel. After some rest, explore the National Museum, where the historic fossil of Lucy is housed, and visit Entoto Mountain for panoramic views. Overnight in Addis Ababa.

Day 02: Journey to Bale Mountains
Travel to Bale Mountains via Sodore, soaking in the beauty of the Awash River. Enjoy a soothing dip in a hot spring and lunch in Adama before continuing to Bale National Park. Overnight camping in Dinsho or a hotel.

Day 03: Discovering Bale Mountains
Experience the spectacular flora and fauna of Bale Mountains. Discover the Sanetti Plateau’s afro-alpine ecosystem and spot the endemic Semien fox. Following a delightful lunch, venture to Tuludimtu forest for more stunning views and the endemic Mountain Nyala. Overnight camping in Harena forest.

Day 04: Visiting Oromo Villages
Admire the scenic views while crossing forests to visit Oromos from Sidamo and Bale, learning about their vibrant way of life. Overnight camping in Dolo.

Day 05: Exploring Borena People
From the Oromo, journey to Borena territory, where you’ll visit a traditional village and experience their unique customs before driving to Yabelo. Choose between overnight hotel accommodation in Yabelo or camping at El Sod Crater.

Day 06: Elsod Crater and Konso People
Rise early for a walk to the Elsod Crater to observe Borena people extracting salt. After breakfast, explore singing wells, then drive to Konso to visit a village. Overnight at Kanta Lodge or camping near the king’s palace.

Day 07: Thursday Market and Mursi Village
Venture to the Weyto River Valley, aiming to attend the bustling KeyAfer Market featuring Tsemay and Erbore people. Travel to Jinka and then to the Mursi people’s village in Elwoha. Overnight camping or hotel accommodation.

Day 08: Immersing in Mursi and Body Cultures
Spend a day with the Mursi and Body tribes, exploring their fascinating culture and daily lives. If timing aligns, witness the Donga game. Optional late-afternoon game drive in Mago National Park. Overnight camping in Elwoha.

Day 09: Muguji People Visit
Cross Mago National Park to connect with the Muguji people, possibly enjoying a traditional dance in the evening. Overnight camping.

Day 10: Karo, Nyangatom, and Hamer Tribes
Visit Karo villages and continue to the Nyangatom (Bume) people before heading to the Hamer community. Overnight stay in a selected hotel in Turmi.

Day 11: Hamer Culture and Turmi Market
Explore Hamer villages, and engage in the vibrant local culture at the Turmi Monday market, with opportunities to witness a traditional Hamer wedding and the captivating Evangadi dance. Overnight at Evangadi Lodge.

Day 12: Dassanech Culture and Turkana Lake
Experience the Dassanech people in Omorate, followed by a visit to Turkana Lake and the Incoreana people before returning to Turmi for your overnight stay.

Day 13: Exploring Erbore Villages
Visit Erbore communities en route to Arbaminch. Overnight accommodation at a chosen hotel.

Day 14: Lake Chamo and Netch Sar Park
Take a scenic drive to Lake Chamo, where you can enjoy a boat trip to witness Africa’s largest crocodiles and various wildlife in Netch Sar Park, culminating in stunning views from the mountain top. Overnight at Swayne’s hotel.

Day 15: Engaging with the Dorze People
Discover the Dorze people’s unique traditions before heading to Lake Langano in the Rift Valley. Dinner and overnight at Wenney Eco Lodge.

Day 16: Farewell to Addis Ababa
Relax by Lake Langano before an adventurous day featuring trekking, birdwatching, and visiting significant sites such as Tiya Steles and Adadi Mariam Church. Return to Addis Ababa for a final visit to Mercato, Africa’s largest open-air market, enjoying dinner with traditional dance before your departure.

Experience the wonders of the Bale Mountains and the rich cultural tapestry of Southern Ethiopia with us! Book your adventure today!