The Omo Valley in the far south of Ethiopia is a remote and wild region of the country with a typical East African ecosystem with rolling grasslands, riverine forests and plenty of wildlife. However it is the fascinating tribes that live in the valley and region that are what makes a visit to the Omo Valley so unique.
There are more than 16 different ethnic tribes living in the region and all have their own unique belief systems, customs, rituals, dress and way of life that is far removed from the modern world. It has often been said that the tribes of the Omo Valley have some of the oldest and most fascinating cultures in the world and the people here still live integrated as part of the ecosystem. Many of the villages here are now open to visits which have to be carefully and sensitively organised and there are only a handful of small and basic lodges.
It is best to visit the area when it’s dry in September and early October, December and January and May and June.
