The remote expanse of the lower Omo River basin is home to 15 seasonal nomadic tribes, whose range is limited by loosely defined traditional tribal land borders, the parched hinterlands and the mighty vein of watery life that is the River Omo. We do itineraries based on your aspirations, building a flexible adventure safari that births a magical experience that allows visitation into villages, cultures and witnessing of time forgotten traditional ceremonies and practices

The lower River Omo valley basin is believed to have been a cross roads for thousands of years as various cultures and ethnic groups migrated through and around the region. Indeed to this day some of the outstanding tribes we visit, including the Mursi, Nyangatom and Hamar enthrall the world and are subject to study because of their diversity.

The river formed the eastern boundaries for the former kingdoms of Janjero and Garo. It flows past the Mago and Omo National Parks, reknown for their wildlife and it snakes down through the plains to its confluence with Lake Turkana. Its waters bringing sustenance to the diverse peoples along the banks which include the Dassanech, Nyangatom, Kara and Mursi.

This sample safari program allows us to delve into the wilds of the lower Omo river basin and experience an adventure through visits to some of the 15 tribes in their villages teeming with tradition and culture alike where we not only see, but also learn their ancient traditions and lifestyles. Daily we are able to interact with the different tribes and experience aspects of their everyday lives such as the children, cooking and livestock chores, tending to crops and dancing. In this itinerary all nights are spent at Lumale Camp that acts as the nexus to daily forages out into the surrounding river basin.

6 Days Program

Day 01

Arrival in Omo Valley and transfer to Lumale Camp.

Day 02

Spend the day in the heartland of the Kara and visit the Kara (Karo) village Duss. The Kara number less than 1000 in number and are characterized by ritual body scarification, colorful body painting and flashy beadwork. Duss is the seat of the Karo government and their unique log constructed parliament.

Day 03

We delve into the Hamar tribal country and visit the famous local Dimeka market. On the way back to Lumale Camp we will stop and visit Gembela village to experience the Hamar people. On occasion if there is a Hamar Bull-jumping ceremony going on around Dimeka and/or Turmi an unforgettable photo opportunity arises.

Day 04

Spend the day with the Nyangatom tribe who live across the River Omo from the Kara and traditionally led a pastoralist life style. The Nyangatom are fierce tribal enemies with the surrounding tribes. We access a nearby village after a short boat ride and hike, and then experience a snap shot of their everyday life.

Day 05

An unforgettable visit to the remote region of the Mursi. The Mursi are noted for their body scarification, body painting and most striking is the clay plate that is inserted into the lower lips of the women. We access them after boating upstream and then a short hike to their village.

Day 06

Transfer from Lumale Camp to the point of departure.