Pick-up: I will meet you at Jinka Airport at 1:45 PM and drive you to your chosen accommodation, either a high-quality lodge or a cozy local guesthouse, depending on your preference. Meet your fellow 

Ari Tribe: We’ll visit the Ari tribe, based in Jinka, known for their incredible clay pottery. You’ll see the traditional process of making and decorating pottery, a vital skill in their culture.

Cultural Preparation: Over dinner, I’ll teach you some basic words in Hamar and explain how to interact respectfully with local communities and we will get to know the group by playing some games. 

Drive to Turmi: After breakfast, we’ll embark on a scenic 3-hour drive to Turmi, stopping at the Alduba or Dimeka markets to observe local crafts and understand the importance of market days in the region.

Cooking Experience: Lunch will be a hands-on experience at my mother’s house, where you’ll learn how to make traditional Ethiopian dishes, including injera (a sour pancake made from teff). You’ll also receive a recipe and spice packets to try making it at home!

Hamar Village: In the afternoon, we’ll visit a nearby Hamar village to witness the impressive honey-harvesting techniques of the tribe. You’ll see firsthand the arduous process of collecting honey and taste the sweet result, learning about its cultural significance.

Stay: In Turmi in a lodge or local guesthouse for the next four nights.

Morning: Under the shade of mango trees, we’ll learn about the Hamar’s rich jewelry-making tradition. Your local guide will explain the cultural significance behind the jewelry, and you can create your own piece with the help of an expert or choose a design for them to craft for you.

Traditional Hamar Lunch: Later, we’ll visit a local Hamar family for a traditional lunch. You’ll participate in grinding maize or sorghum, picking moringa leaves (a superfood!), and preparing traditional Hamar coffee made from coffee husks instead of beans. You’ll then share the meal with the family and learn about their daily life. (If you’re not fond of the local food, an alternative lunch can be arranged.)

Evening: Climb and have some drinks at a nearby rock offering the best sundowner views. Optional: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try the local honey wine and enjoy the evening socializing with your group.

Abore Tribe: In the morning, we’ll drive 1 hour to visit the Abore tribe. You’ll learn about their distinctive dress, customs, and the role these play in their culture.

Hamar Goat Night: In the evening, we’ll experience the Hamar’s famed goat roasting ceremony. Enjoy sitting on cow hides as the family prepares fresh meat, which takes about three hours. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in the process, or simply observe while your guide shares fascinating insights into Hamar beliefs and cultural practices, including their views on the stars.

Stay Overnight in the Village (Optional): Experience a night in the village, camping with tents and basic facilities (a hole-in-the-ground toilet and hand-washing station). The evening is filled with storytelling, star-gazing, and possibly playing cards with the family.

Morning: Wake up to the sounds of the Hamar village. After enjoying a coffee with the family, return to your lodge or guesthouse for a shower and breakfast. 

Bull Jumping Briefing: I’ll provide a thorough explanation of the cultural significance of bull jumping, the months of preparation that go into the ceremony, and the tradition’s deep-rooted connection to the Hamar people.

Afternoon: Witness the incredible bull jumping ceremony, where a Hamar man transitions into adulthood by leaping over a herd of cattle. This is an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience.

Evening: Participate in Evangadi, a celebratory night dance marking the boy's transition. The village will gather to dance and celebrate this important milestone in the boy’s life. (Timing depends on the season.)​ Optional: After the cultural experiences, we can explore the local nightlife in Turmi, where you can enjoy a drink in local pubs or the “nightclub.”

Morning at Hamar Farm: After breakfast, we’ll visit a Hamar farm just 15 minutes from Turmi. You’ll meet a local family and participate in a range of activities, from learning how to start a fire with a stick to playing a local flute-like instrument. You’ll also get to try slingshot techniques for bird control

Drive to Konso: We’ll then drive 5 hours to Konso, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique terraced farming, fortified settlements, and carved wooden statues. You’ll gain insight into their fascinating culture and history.

Stay: Overnight in a local guesthouse in Konso

Morning Drive to Arba Minch: After breakfast, we’ll drive 2 hours to Arba Minch.

Crocodile Safari: Upon arrival, we’ll take a small boat on a private crocodile safari, where you might also spot hippopotamuses.

Stay: Enjoy your evening at Ezana Guesthouse or a nearby lodge. Dinner with views of the lakes and surrounding landscapes will be a perfect way to relax.

Dorze Tribe: In the morning, we’ll visit the Dorze tribe, known for their weaving techniques. You’ll learn how they make their famous woven garments, prepare food from the false banana tree, and sample their local dishes and alcohol.

Lunch & Flight back to Addis: After lunch, head to the airport in time for your 3:45 PM flight back to Addis Ababa.

Evening: We’ll wrap up the adventure with a night out in Addis—great vibes, local music, and one last group celebration.