Ethiopian Lalibela Christmas (Gena) & Omo Valley Cultural Tour

Upon arrival in Jinka (Baco), meet your guide and drive through the scenic Omo Valley to Turmi, passing small towns and rural landscapes with potential stops at local markets (depending on market days).
In the afternoon, visit a traditional Hamar village and experience their unique way of life, culture, and customs. If timing allows, you may witness optional cultural ceremonies such as bull jumping or traditional dances.
Overnight: Emerald Lodge – Turmi

Activities : Sightseeing

Accommodation : Emerland Lodge [ 4 Star ]

Drive south to Omo Rate near the Kenya border to visit the Dassanech tribe, known for their strong river-based lifestyle along the Omo River.
Interact with local communities and learn about their traditions and daily life. Return to Turmi for lunch. In the afternoon, explore local markets or optional cultural ceremonies including Hamar bull jumping or Evangadi dance performances.
Overnight: Emerald Lodge – Turmi

Activities : Snowshoeing , Sightseeing

Accommodation : Emerland Lodge [ 4 Star ]

Drive to the Karo (Kara) village along the Omo River. The Kara people are famous for their elaborate body and facial painting, often using natural materials to create artistic designs.
Experience close cultural interaction with the community before returning to Turmi for lunch. Continue your journey to Jinka in the afternoon.
Overnight: Nasa Hotel – Jinka

Activities : Sightseeing

Accommodation : Nasa Hotel [ 3 Star ]

Early morning excursion to Mursi village, known for the iconic lip plates worn by women and their distinct cultural identity.
After the visit, return to Jinka and transfer to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and rest.
Overnight: Addis Ababa

Activities : Sightseeing

Accommodation : CASSIOPEIA HOTEL [ 4 Star ]

After breakfast, fly to Lalibela, one of Ethiopia’s holiest cities and home to the famous rock-hewn churches.
Upon arrival, explore the extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage churches carved from solid rock in the 12th century, including:
• Bet Medhane Alem
• Bet Mariam
• Bet Meskel
• Bet Golgotha
• Bet Giyorgis (St. George)
In the evening, join pilgrims at Bet Mariam Church for Christmas Eve celebrations with chanting, drumming, and candlelight ceremonies at midnight.
Overnight: Harbe Hotel – Lalibela

Activities : Skateboarding

Accommodation : Hareb Hotel [ 4 Star ]

Experience the spiritual climax of the journey—Ethiopian Christmas Day.
At dawn, witness thousands of priests dressed in white performing the sacred King David’s Dance, accompanied by chanting, drums, and rhythmic movement in a powerful religious ceremony symbolizing the connection between heaven and earth.
Spend the rest of the day exploring additional rock-hewn churches and observing ongoing pilgrimage celebrations.
Overnight: Harbe Lodge – Lalibela

Activities : Sightseeing

Accommodation : Hareb Hotel [ 4 Star ]

Fly back to Addis Ababa and begin a guided city tour:
• National Museum of Ethiopia (home of “Lucy”)
• Ethnological Museum
• St. George’s Cathedral
In the evening, enjoy a traditional Ethiopian farewell dinner with live music and cultural performances at Yod Abyssinia Cultural Restaurant, followed by hotel check-in.
Overnight: Addis Ababa

Activities : Sightseeing

Transfer to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport for your international departure, carrying unforgettable memories of Ethiopia’s sacred traditions, tribal cultures, and Christmas celebrations.

Activities : Sightseeing