BOAT TRIP ON THE OMO

Starting from Addis, 2 day driving down to the Omo River. Day 3 starts the trip on river.

Boat Trip Day 1

The Omo River starts at the source as the Gibbe and flows eventually into Lake Turkana at the tip of Kenya. Floating past areas of dense forests right down to the water’s edge, to burning-off for the new sugar cane fields, gives plenty of variation to the scenery as you make your way downstream. Constant companions will be Nile Crocodiles, Colobus Monkeys, African Fish Eagles and Goliath Herons. From Dusse to Omorati you pass many tribal people on the riverbanks and are greeted by waves and calls of welcome from the 3 main tribes on the river - the Karo, Nangatom and Dasenach. With a bit of luck, you won’t see any other tourists on this route.

6.30-7am from Turmi drive approximately 2 hours to Dusse where the boat will be waiting for you to start the Omo River trip. Your driver will continue to Omorati and meet you a few days later. The trip will be on flat water, the boat has a canopy, and you will be with the captain, guide and cook. Today you’ll see the Karo Tribe. Overnight: (Camping)

Boat trip Day 2

Along the river you get the chance to stop and visit different tribal villages close to the banks of the Omo. Today you’ll be with the Nangatom. Note the different markings on the body, hairstyles and way of dressing. Overnight: (Camping)

Boat trip Day 3

You’ll see fishermen using dug-out canoes, fishing nets set in the river, and contrasting scenery along the riverbank. You’ll pass under a huge bridge which fell during constructions at Omorati. There are many irrigation pumps operating for the new sugar cane field developments. Continue downstream past Omorati and go as far as Pare Village. Overnight: Camping

From this stage, 2 days drive back to Addis (minimum)

Boat trip Day 4

Take a visit of the village before going further downstream as far as the tip of Lake Turkana which reaches into Ethiopia from Kenya. Overnight on an Island (Camping)

Boat trip Day 5

Early morning visit to the Dasenach people before meeting back up with the driver. Back to Omorati and returning by 4WD to Turmi for the night. Overnight: Turmi