Village - Ethiopia"Ethnic Tourism"
Visitors with an interest in
observing pre-materialist cultures or in anthropology will find much to
fascinate them in the different ethnic groups situated along the Omo River,
with marvelous scenery, wild life and bird life as an added bonus. Before
reaching the Omo, just before Arba Minch, a visit can be to Chencha, the
home of the Dorze people, famed for their bamboo bee-hive shaped houses
and their weaving skills. Further south are the Konso, noted for their intricately
terraced hillsides and the wooden totems with which they adorn their cemeteries.
Along the Omo River a variety of different ethnic groups are found, such
as the Arbore, Bume, Galeb, Karo, Hamer and Mursi, whose contact with the
modern world has come only within the last two to three decades. (The Omo,
flowing for nearly 1000 km from the highlands south west of Addis Ababa
to Lake Turkana in Kenya, provides excellent opportunities for white water
rafting.) For a trip to the Omo Valley at least 8 days should be allowed.
Some days camping will be necessary, but Village Ethiopia can provide well
fitted camps, with cooks and full board, and toilet and shower tents. 
In the far west in Gambella, along the Baro river can be found the Anuak, Nuer and Misingir people. Gambella can be reached by air, or by a 2 day road trip.
Nearer Addis Ababa, and easily accessed from Village Ethiopia's lodge at Bilen, are the Afar, most of whom are still pastoralists and who can pack up and carry their houses on the backs of camels.