Addis Ababa in 8 Days for Friends - Tiya stelae (UNESCO) and Adadi Maryam rock church
In Collaboration with Vowland Ethiopia tour . Updated on February 13, 2026.
Tribes of the Omo Valley. A private road and boat expedition from Addis Ababa through Jimma and the Omo Valley visiting archaeological sites, highland Dorze and Konso communities, lakes and boat trips at Arba Minch, markets and many tribal villages including Hamer, Dassenech, Mursi and others. Accommodation on a BB basis; professional guides and 4x4 transport provided.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Vowland Ethiopia tour , inspired by the tour 8 Days Omo Valley Tour from Addis Ababa. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Tiya stelae (UNESCO) and Adadi Maryam rock church
- Lake Hawassa fish market and Dorze village visit
- Boat trip on Lake Chamo (crocodiles & hippos)
- Turmi: Hamer culture, Omorate Dassenech crossing
- Dimeka and Key Afer markets (tribal trading hubs) and Konso cultural terracing and wacas statue site (museum visit) (Logistics: overland by 4x4, local guides, boat crossings and several short hikes)
Itinerary
Day 1
Pickup in Addis Ababa, visit Tiya, Adadi Maryam and Melka Kunture en route to Hawassa.
Pickup — Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa)
Meet and greet at arrival / hotel pickup. Transfer briefing and depart south toward Butajira and the archaeological sites.
Tips from local experts:
- Have passports and any arrival paperwork ready for the guide at pickup to speed the meeting.
- Expect Addis Ababa traffic; allow extra time if you have a tight flight connection.
- Keep a small amount of local cash for immediate purchases (water, snacks) before the vehicle departs.
Visit Tiya Stelae (UNESCO)
Short guided visit to the Tiya stelae field to see the archaeological stele stones and learn the local context.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear sun protection and comfortable walking shoes — the site is open with limited shade.
- Stay on marked paths and follow the local guide's route to respect fragile monuments.
- Carry a small bottle of water and a hat — facilities are limited at the site.
Visit Adadi Maryam (rock-hewn church)
Guided visit to Adadi Maryam, the rock-hewn church similar in style to the Lalibela churches.
Tips from local experts:
- Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) when visiting the church and religious sites.
- Be prepared for uneven ground and a few steps; use caution and ask the guide for the easiest route.
- Ask permission before photographing worshippers or clergy; some interior areas may restrict photos.
Visit Melka Kunture (prehistoric site)
Short stop at the Melka Kunture archaeological area to view prehistoric tool-making site exhibits and landscape.
Tips from local experts:
- There is limited shade; bring sunscreen and a hat for the outdoor displays.
- Follow the guide for the most informative route and to hear the archaeological context.
- Facilities are basic—carry tissues and any personal supplies you need for the short visit.
Drive to Hawassa — evening arrival and hotel check-in
Drive to Hawassa (Awassa) for overnight. Time to rest after the day of travel and visits.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep essential items (medication, chargers) in your day bag for easy access at check-in.
- Evening temperatures can be cooler near the lake — bring a light layer for dinner or a walk by the shore.
- If you plan to visit the lakeshore fish market early next morning, leave room in your schedule and camera bag.
Day 2
Morning fish market at Lake Hawassa then drive up to Dorze village for cultural visit; overnight in Arba Minch or Dorze village.
Lake Hawassa fish market (morning)
Visit the active lakeside fish market and shoreline activity before departing to the highlands.
Tips from local experts:
- Markets are lively and can be wet — wear non-slip shoes and watch for uneven surfaces.
- Ask your guide which vendors are comfortable with photos and tip locally if taking portraits.
- Carry small change for any snacks or small purchases at the market stalls.
Drive to Dorze village and cultural visit
Drive into the Dorze highlands to see the distinctive Dorze beehive houses and weaving traditions. Visit local homes and the village area.
Tips from local experts:
- Dorze villages may have shared toilet facilities; bring personal hygiene items and hand sanitizer.
- Respect local customs: ask before entering houses and before photographing people, especially elders.
- If there is a local market (Chencha or Dorze market days), allow time to browse — markets are best for small-group exploration.
Transfer to Arba Minch — check-in
Late afternoon transfer to Arba Minch for overnight (option to stay in a traditional Dorze hut if arranged).
Tips from local experts:
- Travel times on highland roads can be slow; keep a small bag with essentials accessible during the drive.
- If staying in a Dorze hut be prepared for simple facilities and shared sanitation.
- Keep a flashlight in your bag for village stays and arriving at rural accommodations after dark.
Day 3
Boat trip on Lake Chamo (crocodile market and hippos) then overland to Turmi via Weyto and Erbore areas; evening Hamer cultural activities.
Boat trip on Lake Chamo (Arba Minch)
Morning boat trip to see the ‘crocodile market’ area and hippos on Lake Chamo; guided by local boat crew.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a light waterproof jacket — spray from the lake can reach passengers on small boats.
- Keep cameras secure and use a strap; boats can be unsteady when approaching wildlife.
- Follow the boat crew's safety instructions, sit low and avoid sudden movements when near wildlife.
Drive to Turmi via Weyto and Erbore villages
Overland drive southwards with brief cultural stops at Weyto and Erbore villages en route to Turmi (market days noted in itinerary).
Tips from local experts:
- Road conditions vary from sealed highway to rough dirt; expect a bumpy ride and use motion-sickness precautions if needed.
- Carry snacks and water for the drive; stops are limited between villages.
- Market days bring extra activity — keep valuables secure and follow your local guide in crowded market areas.
Evening — Hamer village visit and night dance (evangadi) when available
Visit a local Hamer village; if there is a traditional night dance (evangadi) that evening, observe with the guide.
Tips from local experts:
- Cultural events follow local timing and availability — be patient and follow your guide's local protocol.
- Dress modestly and avoid bright flash photography during dances; ask the guide about photo permission.
- Evenings can be cool; bring a light jacket for outdoor village activities.
Day 4
Day trip to Omorate to visit the Dassenech tribe (boat crossing of the Omo River) then return to Turmi for market and Hamer village visits.
Day trip to Omorate — Omo River crossing and Dassenech village visit
Cross the Omo River by local boat and visit a Dassenech village with a local guide; return to Turmi in the afternoon.
Tips from local experts:
- Boat crossings use local boats — wear sensible footwear and keep personal items secure and dry.
- Respect community protocols: ask your guide about photographing people and never touch ceremonial items without permission.
- Bring insect repellent (especially in riverine areas) and a refillable water bottle for the day.
Return to Turmi — market and Hamer village follow-up
If timing permits, visit Turmi market (Monday) and local Hamer village for a cultural visit; possible observation of the Bull Jumping ceremony when it occurs.
Tips from local experts:
- Market and ceremony timings vary — rely on your local guide for the best viewing windows and respectful behavior.
- Carry small notes of local currency for market purchases; avoid large displays of valuables.
- Follow the guide's advice on safe distances during ceremonies for both your safety and the community's privacy.
Day 5
Depart Turmi for Jinka via Dimeka (market days: Tuesdays & Saturdays in Dimeka); overnight in Jinka.
Drive from Turmi to Dimeka — Dimeka market visit when applicable
Morning departure to Dimeka to visit the colorful regional market where multiple tribes trade goods; continue to Jinka afterward.
Tips from local experts:
- Market days draw people from many tribes — keep close to the group and follow the guide's lead in crowded areas.
- Small purchases are customary; bring cash in small denominations for bargaining and local crafts.
- Photography: ask permission before taking portraits; some vendors expect a small tip for close-up photos.
Continue to Jinka — afternoon arrival and check-in
Afternoon drive into Jinka for overnight and short orientation walk in town if time allows.
Tips from local experts:
- Roads can be dusty; keep a scarf or buff handy to reduce dust in the vehicle.
- Plan for limited banking/ATM access in Jinka — bring sufficient cash for small expenses.
- If you need specific medications, carry them in your day pack as local pharmacies may be limited.
Day 6
Drive through Mago National Park to visit a Mursi village; return to Jinka for South Omo Museum or optional hike to an Ari village.
Drive through Mago National Park to a Mursi village
Morning drive into the Mago National Park area and guided visit to a Mursi village to learn about local customs.
Tips from local experts:
- Wildlife and remote roads require sturdy footwear and layered clothing; carry sun protection and water.
- Mursi village visits involve sensitive cultural practices — follow the guide's instruction on photography and interaction.
- Bring small, sealed gifts only if previously cleared with the guide; unsolicited gifts can create expectations.
South Omo Research Center & Museum (Jinka) or hike to Ari village
Afternoon return to Jinka for a visit to the South Omo Research Center & Museum or a short guided hike to a nearby Ari village depending on energy and interests.
Tips from local experts:
- The museum provides context on regional cultures — carry a light jacket as museum rooms may be cool.
- Short hikes can include uneven terrain; bring comfortable walking shoes and insect repellent.
- If visiting villages, bring only what your guide recommends and respect local customs on photography.
Day 7
Depart Jinka to Arba Minch via Key Afer (Key Afar) and Konso; brief Konso cultural museum and village visit; overnight in Arba Minch.
Key Afer market visit (when applicable) and drive to Konso
Morning departure with a stop at Key Afer (market day Thursday) to see Benna and Tsemai traders, then continue to Konso.
Tips from local experts:
- Market days are busy and dusty — keep valuables on your person and follow the guide in crowds.
- Carry small change for local purchases; ask the guide for recommended purchases to avoid overpaying.
- Bring a hat and water; rest stops are brief between market and onward travel.
Konso village and cultural museum visit (waka statues and terraces)
Brief visit to Konso to view terraced agriculture, wooden waka statues and the local cultural museum displaying regional artifacts.
Tips from local experts:
- Paths in Konso can be steep and terraced; wear stable footwear and take short steps on terraces.
- Respect local rules around waka sites and graves — do not climb or touch memorials without permission.
- Bring small notes for local museum entry donations if requested; check with the guide for official fees.
Drive to Arba Minch — evening arrival and check-in
Continue to Arba Minch for overnight at Ezana Hotel or equivalent BB accommodation.
Tips from local experts:
- The final leg can be long; bring a neck pillow and motion-sickness remedies if you are sensitive.
- Confirm rooming and any baggage needs with the guide on arrival to ease check-in.
- Evening in Arba Minch is a good time to rest — plan for an early night after long travel days.
Day 8
Early departure from Arba Minch for full-day drive to Addis Ababa with optional en-route visit to archaeological sites; overnight in Addis Ababa (Sunspot hotel noted).
Depart Arba Minch for Addis Ababa — en-route archaeological stop(s)
Early morning departure for a full day’s drive to Addis Ababa. On the way there may be time to stop at one of the listed archaeological sites (Tiya, Adadi Maryam or Melka Kunture) depending on timings.
Tips from local experts:
- This is a long travel day — pack a day bag with snacks, medication and a charged phone/power bank.
- Roadside stops are basic; use restroom breaks at hotels or established stops rather than informal roadside areas.
- Coordinate with your guide early in the morning which archaeological stop is feasible to avoid last-minute changes.
Optional short visit en route (example: Tiya) — timing dependent
If time allows, brief revisit or additional visit to Tiya / Adadi Maryam / Melka Kunture en route to Addis Ababa. Final transfer to hotel in Addis for overnight.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm with your guide the single archaeological stop planned for the day to allocate the correct time.
- Allow time buffer for traffic entering Addis Ababa in late afternoon; flights and departures may require extra time.
- On arrival in Addis Ababa, keep important documents accessible for immediate hotel check-in or onward travel arrangements.
Hotel overnight in Addis Ababa (Sunspot hotel noted)
Evening hotel check-in and end of tour services; debrief with guide and settle logistics for onward travel.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your departure plans with the guide the evening before (airport transfer times, luggage, etc.).
- Keep a small amount of local currency for any last-minute expenses or tips for local staff.
- If you have an early flight, request wake-up service and reconfirm airport transfer with reception.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 8 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 6 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 17 |
| Total Places | 17 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Attraction, Culture, Hotel, Experience, Outdoor |
