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Best of East Africa Tour:
Wonders, culture, safari and beach 

Overview

We have taken our favorite places from months of travel across the region and created this action-packed 3-week tour. You will be taken on a once-in-a-lifetime journey across Ethiopia and Tanzania, offering a unique combination of ancient culture, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant wildlife safaris, and tropical beach bliss. You’ll witness the awe-inspiring ancient sites of Ethiopia, the incredible culture of the Hamar tribe, explore the spectacular wildlife of Tanzania’s iconic safari parks, and end in the stunning beaches of Zanzibar, making this the ultimate East African experience.

 

🌍 A Once-in-a-Lifetime Window
The tribal traditions in the South Omo Valley are rich, beautiful — and changing fast. Younger generations are embracing modern life, meaning authentic experiences like these may not be possible in the future. This tour offers a rare opportunity to witness, celebrate, and support the culture of different tribes at a crucial moment.

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Ready to experience the real Ethiopia?​

🗓️ Tour Length: 21 Days Standard (Flexible: 17–28+ days)

🎯 Tailored Experience: Customise it to match your pace and interests

🌍 Destinations: Ethiopia, Tanzania & Zanzibar

🛖 Tribes Visited: 3

✨ Wonders: Explore 5 ancient sites, spot wildlife in 2 iconic safari parks, and unwind on a tropical beach

🏡 Accommodation: Choose between lodges or local guesthouses

✈️ Available From: July 2025

Experiences Include:​

🥘 Ethiopian cooking class
🍲 Making traditional Hamar lunch
💍 Jewellery making with a Hamar artisan
🔥 Traditional goat roasting
🐃 Bull-jumping ceremony
🐊 Crocodile safari boat ride
🛖 Visits to Dorze, Ari and Konso tribes
🌍 Konso UNESCO world heritage site

🏞️ Blue Nile Falls
🛶 Boat trip on Lake Tana
⛰️ Simien mountain trek
🙈 See bleeding heart monkeys
🏰 Ancient Castles of Gondar
⛪ Explore rock-hewn churches in Lalibela

🦓 Ngorongoro Crater National Park Safari
🦒 Serengeti 1-day Safari
🏝️ Stone Town Zanzibar tour
🌅 Dinner on Nakupenda Sand Bank
🌿 Spice farm tour
🏖️ Beach days on Zanzibar's stunning coast​

Love this itinerary but want to tweak it? All our tours are fully customisable - whether you want to change the activities, pace or number of days, we’ll tailor it to you. Just let us know what you need!

Days 1-4: Addis Ababa and Lalibela

Image by Zeynep Sümer
Image by mulugeta wolde

Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa

  • Morning: Arrive at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. Your guide will meet you for a transfer to your hotel.

  • Afternoon: Relax, recover from your journey, or explore the city at your leisure.

  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony and a local dinner to begin your adventure.

Day 2: Full Day in Addis Ababa

  • Morning: Explore the National Museum of Ethiopia, home to the famous “Lucy” fossil, followed by the Ethnological Museum to learn about Ethiopia’s diverse cultures.

  • Afternoon: Visit Mount Entoto for panoramic views of Addis Ababa, and stop by the Holy Trinity Cathedral, one of the most important religious sites in Ethiopia.

  • Evening: Savor Ethiopian cuisine at a local restaurant, accompanied by traditional music and dance.

Day 3: Addis Ababa to Lalibela

  • Morning: Fly to Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • Afternoon: Begin your exploration of the rock-hewn churches, including St. George Church, and marvel at these ancient architectural marvels carved into the mountains.

  • Evening: Enjoy a peaceful dinner in your lodge with stunning views of Lalibela.

Day 4: Lalibela – Full Day Exploration

  • Morning: Continue visiting Lalibela’s other incredible churches, including Bet Medhane Alem and Bet Kidane Meheret, and learn about their historical significance.

  • Afternoon: Hike to Asheten Monastery for breathtaking views of the town and surrounding area.

  • Evening: Relax and unwind with a delicious local dinner at your lodge.

Days 5 - 6 Gondar 

Day 5: Lalibela to Gondar

  • Morning: Fly to Gondar, another UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • Afternoon: Visit the Fasil Ghebbi (Royal Enclosure), a palace complex with impressive 17th-century architecture. Explore the Debre Berhan Selassie Church with its famous ceiling murals.

  • Evening: Enjoy a relaxed dinner in Gondar and soak in the city’s historical charm.

Day 6: Gondar – Exploration & Travel to Arba Minch

  • Morning: Take a final morning exploration of Gondar, visiting the Fasilides Bath and Qusquam Monastery, which offer more insights into the city’s royal past.

  • Afternoon: Fly to Arba Minch in the south of Ethiopia

  • Evening: Enjoy a local fish dinner fresh from the lakes

The Fasil Ghebbi castle located in Gondar, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
Traditional village of Konso, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ethiopia

Days 7 - 8 - Dorze tribe, Crocodiles and Konso UNESCO world heritage cultural landscape

Day 7: Dorze tribe and Crocodile Safari

  • Morning: Explore the Dorze village, learn about their famous weaving, and visit their traditional homes made from bamboo.

  • Afternoon: Take a boat trip on Lake Chamo to spot Nile crocodiles and possibly hippos in their natural habitat.

  • Evening: Enjoy a relaxed dinner in Arba Minch overlooking the lake

Day 8: Drive to the South and see Konso tribe

  • Morning: Start drive down to the South and stop at the Konso tribe where you will witness their unique agricultural practices and learn about their traditional craftsmanship and shrines.

  • Afternoon: Drive south (5 hours) to Turmi and settle in at your accommodation

  • Evening: Enjoy a local dinner and try traditional honey wine from Geta's mum's house

Day 9 - 12 - Cultural immersion in  the Hamar tribe 

Day 9: Hamar Tribe – Local Lunch & Omo Sunset

  • Morning: Take a scenic walk through the Keske River Valley, spotting local wildlife and learning about the land’s connection to the Hamar people.

  • Afternoon: Have lunch with a Hamar family, where you’ll learn about their culinary customs, and help grind grains and prepare food.

  • Evening: Take a short hike to see the sunset at the best spot in the area

Day 10: Hamar Tribe – Bull Jumping (if available)

  • Morning: Geta will explain to you all of the complex background information about the bull jumping ceremony. 

  • Afternoon: Witness the Bull Jumping Ceremony, where a young man begins his wedding engagement process by leaping over a herd of cattle.

  • Evening: See a traditional Evangadi (night dancing) which is the celebration after the Bull Jumping 

Day 11: Hamar Tribe – Exploring the Landscape 

  • Morning:  Walk to visit a Hamar farm to witness their traditional farming practices and unique way of life.

  • Afternoon: Meet a Hamar lady and learn about jewelery making, either have a go at making a piece of your own or she will make one for you. 

  • Evening: Experience a goat roasting ceremony, spend time with Hamar people during this communal activity. 

Day 12: Turmi to Addis Ababa

  • Morning: Drive to Jinka (3 hours) then fly from Jinka to Addis Ababa.

  • Afternoon: Upon arrival in Addis, enjoy an afternoon experiencing at the Mercato, the biggest open air market in Africa or visiting other local attractions.

  • Evening: Have dinner in Addis restaurant, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

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Image by Sammy Wong
Image by Dmitrii Zhodzishskii
Image by Valeria Rossi

Days 13 - 16 - An incredible Safari adventure at Ngorogoro Crater and The Serengeti 

Day 13: Addis Ababa to Kilimanjaro – Drive to Karatu

  • Morning: Fly from Addis Ababa to Kilimanjaro, Tanzania.

  • Afternoon: On your way to Karatu, stop at the Tanzanite Museum, where you’ll learn about this precious gem native to Tanzania.

  • Evening: Arrive at your lodge and relax, enjoying a dinner with scenic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Day 14: Ngorongoro Crater Safari

  • Morning: Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a thrilling safari. Spot wildlife like elephants, lions, zebras, and flamingos in this natural wonder.

  • Afternoon: Continue exploring the crater, taking in the diverse ecosystem and stunning landscapes.

  • Evening: Return to your lodge for a delicious dinner after a day of adventure.

Day 15: Serengeti National Park

  • Morning: Drive to Serengeti National Park for a morning game drive, where you could witness a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, and the iconic wildebeest.

  • Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch in the Serengeti, followed by more game viewing, including the chance to spot the elusive leopard or cheetah.

  • Evening: Head back to your lodge for a bush dinner, surrounded by the Serengeti’s vast plains.

Day 16: Serengeti – Full Day Safari

  • Morning: Embark on a final morning game drive 

  • Afternoon: Drive to Arusha to stay the night there to prepare

  • Evening: Return to your lodge for a final dinner in the Serengeti.

Days 17 - Zanzibar Beach Dream

Day 17: Serengeti to Zanzibar

  • Morning: Fly from Serengeti to Zanzibar.

  • Afternoon: Arrive in Zanzibar, head to your resort, and enjoy the afternoon relaxing on the beach or by the pool.

  • Evening: Dine by the beach, enjoying fresh seafood and stunning ocean views.

Day 18: Zanzibar – Stone Town & Nakupenda Sand Bank

  • Morning: Take a guided tour of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the House of Wonders, Slave Market, and wander through the narrow streets of this historic city.

  • Afternoon: After lunch, head to Nakupenda Beach, a pristine sandbar where you can swim, sunbathe, and relax.

  • Evening: Return to the resort for a seafood dinner as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean.

Day 19: Zanzibar – Free Day at the Beach

  • Morning: Spend a full day at leisure, relaxing on the beach, snorkeling, or exploring the island at your own pace.

  • Afternoon: Continue soaking up the sun or enjoy a spa treatment at your resort.

  • Evening: Dinner by the beach, followed by an evening stroll along the shore.

Day 20: Zanzibar – Spice Tour & Relaxation

  • Morning: Visit Zanzibar’s spice plantations and discover the island’s famous spice trade. Experience the sensory delights of smelling and tasting spices like cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon.

  • Afternoon: Relax at the beach or try more water activities like kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding.

  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner, overlooking the tranquil beach.

Day 21: Departure from Zanzibar

  • Depending on the time of your return flight, you might have some time to relax on the beach then you will transfer to Zanzibar Airport for your flight home, filled with unforgettable memories from your journey across East Africa.

Image by Lidia Stawinska
Image by Timon Studler
Masai People in Zanzibar Tanzania

Ready to book your adventure?

Pricing

Your tour is customized around you so pricing varies depending on: group size, season, activites and your choice of luxury lodges and premium 4x4, or authentic guesthouses and standard vehicles.

We’ll tailor everything to your style and budget — so you get the best possible experience at the best possible price.
👉 Contact us now for a personalized quote.

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What’s Included ✔️

✔️ Exclusive Activities: Enjoy a range of exclusive cultural experiences, including visits to historic and religious sites, and immersive activities with local communities. All entrance fees national parks, heritage sites, and attractions are included, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience throughout your tour.
✔️ Accommodation: High-end lodges or authentic local guesthouses
✔️ All Meals & Drinks: All meals, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks included
✔️ Expert Local Guides: You’ll be accompanied by an expert English-speaking guide, as well as local guides who are experts in the site we are visiting 

✔️ Private Transport: Comfortable AC 4x4 or budget-friendly vehicle option
✔️ Internal Flights: Your internal Ethiopian flights
✔️ Unique Experiences: Many activities are exclusive to our tours
✔️ Carbon Offsetting: Travel responsibly — your trip emissions are offset
✔️ Community Charitable Support: 10% portion of your payment directly supports local communities
✔️ LifeStraw Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and safe throughout your trip

✔️ Tree Planting: We plant a tree for every traveler to support reforestation and carbon offsetting efforts

✔️ Photographic Opportunities: Guidance on the best spots and respectful photography practices

✔️ 24/7 In Country Support: Personal assistance from Fiona, a British travel expert based in Ethiopia

✔️ Pre-Trip Travel Advice: Packing lists, safety tips, and cultural etiquette guidance. Ask any additional questions on email or phone call. 

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What’s Not Included ❌

❌ International flights to/from Ethiopia
❌ Travel insurance (recommended)
❌ Alcoholic beverages
❌ Personal purchases like souvenirs
❌ Optional extra services (e.g., massages at lodges)

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​This isn’t just a holiday — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to chance to experience traditional Hamar life. This tour offers you a unique opportunity to connect with a culture at a turning point, before modernization changes its way of life forever.
Ready to experience the real Ethiopia?
👉 Click here to start planning your adventure.

Ready to book your adventure?

Not your typical South Omo tour.

While most tours move quickly from tribe to tribe—offering brief visits and surface-level glimpses—we take a different path. Our deep, respectful partnership with the Hamar people invites you into authentic experiences built on real trust, connection, and learning. We're a believer that everyone does their best until they know better and then they do better. We believe tourism can do better, and we hope more journeys will follow this model in the future.

Typical South Omo Tours:

  • Visit many tribes quickly, little depth

  • Focused on photos, not real experiences

  • Surface-level, sometimes inaccurate information

  • Voyeuristic — tourists watch but don’t engage

  • Heavy use of single-use plastics

  • No carbon offsetting or sustainability focus

  • Short, rushed interactions with locals

  • Tourist groups often overwhelm villages

Our Hamar Immersion Tour (incorporated into this Tour)

  • Deep connection with one tribe (Hamar)

  • Hands-on cultural experiences (cook, dance, craft)

  • Accurate knowledge passed on from Hamar people

  • Respectful, non-intrusive, meaningful exchanges

  • Low-plastic, eco-conscious operations

  • Full carbon offsetting and tree planting

  • Slow travel approach — quality over quantity

  • Small groups for genuine, low-impact experiences

Not your typical tour company:
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