Ethiopian Tribes & Lalibela Christmas Cultural 7 Nights / 8 Days Tour 8 days

Day 1: Fly from Addis Ababa to Jinka – Drive to Turmi

Fly from Addis Ababa to Jinka (Baco Airport), where your guide will welcome you. Drive through the beautiful landscapes of the South Omo Valley via Key Afer, Alduba, and Dimeka. If your visit coincides with a market day, stop to explore one of the region's lively tribal markets.

In the afternoon, visit a Hamar village to learn about their traditional lifestyle and customs. Depending on local schedules, you may also have the opportunity to witness a traditional Bull Jumping Ceremony or other cultural celebrations (optional).

Overnight: Emerald Lodge, Turmi.

Day 2: Dassanech Tribe Excursion

After breakfast, drive to Omorate to cross the Omo River and visit the Dassanech people, one of the region's fascinating pastoral communities living near the Ethiopian-Kenyan border.

Return to Turmi for lunch. If your visit falls on a market day, explore the colourful Hamar market. Optional activities include attending a Bull Jumping Ceremony or the traditional Evangadi Dance.

Overnight: Emerald Lodge, Turmi.

Day 3: Karo Tribe & Drive to Jinka

Drive to Korcho Village to meet the Karo (Kara) people, famous for their elaborate body and face painting using natural pigments. Learn about their traditions and enjoy spectacular views over the Omo River.

After your visit, return to Turmi for lunch before continuing to Jinka.

Overnight: Nasa Hotel, Jinka.

Day 4: Visit the Mursi Tribe – Fly to Addis Ababa

Early in the morning, visit Mago National Park to meet the Mursi people, internationally known for the decorative lip plates worn by many women and their traditional pastoral lifestyle.

Return to Jinka Airport for your afternoon flight to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Overnight: Addis Ababa.

Day 5: Fly to Lalibela – Christmas Eve Celebration

Fly to Lalibela and transfer to your hotel.

Spend the day exploring the magnificent rock-hewn churches, including Bet Medhane Alem, Bet Maryam, Bet Meskel, Bet Danaghel, Bet Debre Sina, Bet Golgotha, and the iconic Bet Giyorgis (Church of St. George).

In the evening, join thousands of Ethiopian Orthodox pilgrims at Bete Mariam Church for the Christmas Eve celebration. Listen to ancient chants performed by priests and deacons as pilgrims pray throughout the night. At midnight, witness the beautiful candlelight ceremony celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.

Overnight: Hilltop Lodge, Lalibela.

Day 6: Ethiopian Christmas (Gena) Celebration

Before sunrise, witness one of Ethiopia's most extraordinary religious ceremonies.

Hundreds of priests dressed in white robes and colourful ceremonial scarves gather above the churches to perform the ancient King David's Dance. Accompanied by rhythmic drumming, sacred chanting, and traditional prayer, the ceremony symbolises the connection between heaven and earth and represents one of the most profound spiritual experiences in Ethiopia.

In the afternoon, continue exploring the remaining rock-hewn churches and hidden passages of Lalibela.

Overnight: Hilltop Lodge, Lalibela.

Day 7: Fly to Addis Ababa – City Tour & Farewell Dinner

Fly back to Addis Ababa and begin a guided city tour.

Visit the National Museum of Ethiopia, home of the famous fossil "Lucy," followed by the Ethnological Museum and the historic St. George's Cathedral.

In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at the famous Yod Abyssinia Cultural Restaurant, where you will experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine, traditional music, and cultural dances from across the country.

Overnight: Addis Ababa.

Day 8: Departure

After breakfast, transfer to Bole International Airport for your departure flight.

Leave Ethiopia with unforgettable memories of its ancient civilisations, vibrant tribal cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and one of the world's most remarkable Christmas celebrations.