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On A Culture Trail In Ethiopia

Tripoto
20th Oct 2013

Karo Tribe

Photo of On A Culture Trail In Ethiopia by Yenew Molla

Crocodiles on Lake Chamo

Photo of On A Culture Trail In Ethiopia by Yenew Molla

Konso Tribe

Photo of On A Culture Trail In Ethiopia by Yenew Molla

Nechisar Plains

Photo of On A Culture Trail In Ethiopia by Yenew Molla

Omo River

Photo of On A Culture Trail In Ethiopia by Yenew Molla

Turmi

Photo of On A Culture Trail In Ethiopia by Yenew Molla

Ethiopia is a land of discovery. Whether you are heading out to experience its culture, to dwell in its dramatic landscapes, drink the sinful coffee, explore the historic ruins or mingle with some of Africa's most fascinating tribes, it is a journey to be remembered. Considered to be Africa's gem, Ethiopia offers a plethora of activities ranging from mountain adventures to visiting tombs and 17th century castles. The country's immense diversity encompasses soaring rugged mountains, roaring giant rivers, undulating plains and sharp cliffs. The central highlands and the lowlands of the east and the south deserve a special mention as major landmarks.

A culture tour of Ethiopia is literally going back in time. Ethiopia is also called the Cradle of Life, since this is one of the oldest locations where human life (Homo Sapiens) evolved and later set out for the Middle East and the rest of the world. Some tribes here still follow customs and rituals that are around 1000 years old. The 3.5 million years old remains of ‘Lucy’ (Australopithecus Afarensis) and the older (4.4 million years) fossil of the Homo Ramides make Ethiopia one of the earliest inhabited places in the world. Similarly, the earliest hand tools discovered here make it the origin of modern technology. The diverse culture manifests itself in the various languages, throbbing music, attractive hairdos, and friendly attitudes of the people. As a cultural mosaic Ethiopia is a multi ethnic state. There is a bounty of fascinating costumes, color ceremonies and celebrations, arts, crafts, music and dance that distinguish Ethiopia from Africa.

What makes Ethiopia even more fascinating is that its culture has no influences of the European countries, like many of the other African countries do. While the western powers were dividing the continent among themselves, Ethiopia was the only country that was succesful in fighting away the Europeans and maintaining its sovereignty. Ethiopia is the second most populous country in Africa and is multi-lingual with around 80 ethnic groups residing within its borders. The largest ones being Omoro and Amhara. It has the most number of UNESCO Heritage sites in Africa. 

Ethiopia is blessed with a lot of beauty. But, most of all what is highly relevant to travelers here is its culture that precedes many old cultures of the world. Culturally, there is much to witness and I have done my best to put it all in this tour. 

From the capital of Addis Ababa, we drive to the lovely town of Arba Minch. This place is situated at the base of the Great Rift valleys and is covered with natural springs. In fact, it is so abundant in springs that it gives rise to a groundwater forest. Arba Minch is a lake town perfect for witnessing beautiful sunsets. It is often filled with tourists (one of the popular tourist destinations) and is a lot warmer since it falls in the South. Lake Abaya and Lake Chamo are two major lakes to explore here. Apart from its natural beauty, it is a great place to interact with the locals. Arba Minch is substantially populous and a tourist hotspot. The locals are always pleased to interact with the tourists and vice versa.
Photo of Arba Minch, Southern Nations, Nationalities, and People's Region, Ethiopia by Yenew Molla
Ethopia has a total of 11 national parks. Nechisar National Park is where your experience of the Savanna begins. Gazelles, Zebras and Crocodiles are a common sight here. The National Park also houses a number of endangered and endemic species. Some 70 species of mammals and 350 species of birds are found here. Africa is known for its wildlife and Nechisar gives you a peek into it. The name Nechisar means white grass, and is derived from the Nechisar Plain which lies within the park boundary to the East of the lakes. The spectacular "Bridge Of God" also lies here, which is essentially an isthmus between Lake Abaya and Lake Chamo. We head to Lake Chamo next.
Photo of Nechisar National Park, Arba Minch, Southern Nations, Nationalities, and People's Region, Ethiopia by Yenew Molla
Known for its massive Crocodile population, Lake Chamo is situated on the northern end of the Nechisar National Park. With its volcanically formed islands, the lake supports substantial numbers of Hippos and Crocodiles. Fringed with wetlands, a number of birds and wildlife are found here. We can take one of the local boats around the lakes and see some huge Crocodiles chilling in the sun! It is a bit expensive, but worth the money.
Photo of Lake Chamo, North Omo, Southern Nations, Nationalities, and People's Region, Ethiopia by Yenew Molla
Turmi is a much more developed town compared to Arba Minch. It is a market town, with local sellers displaying their products every Monday. The population is a mix of various ethnic groups with the Amharas and the Hamers taking the lead. Due to the ethnic culture, Turmi is popular for its traditional dance forms that are peculiar of native Africans. The people here are quite friendly and it's a good spot for learning about the local culture. An interesting ritual in this region is Bull-jumping. Bull-jumping is a coming-of-age rite - the prospective jumper has to do this in front of all his relatives to prove his manhood and qualify for marriage. Before the ceremony begins, there is a local dance that is done to celebrate the event.
Photo of Turmi, Southern Nations, Nationalities, and People's Region, Ethiopia by Yenew Molla
A great place to collect some tribal handicrafts, the Demeka market has some of the region's finest artistry. The various tribes here (Benana and Karo holding the majority) will enrich your route with tradition and culture. The other tribes here are Dus, Korcho, Hamer and Geleb. Demeka is well-known for its greenery and beautiful landscapes.
Photo of Demeka, Ethiopia by Yenew Molla
Murlie is where two ethnic groups mix. The Karo tribe, mostly famous for chalk painting on their bodies and various other body art and the Hamer tribe known for their eccentric hairstyles. Situated on the banks of the Omo River, Murlie lies on rugged terrain. There is a fair amount of wildlife in the area, and a good chance of seeing some form of Antelope and possibly Raptors overhead. Many of the tribal ceremonies and dance forms can be experienced here.
Photo of Murlie, Ethiopia by Yenew Molla
Returning to the wild side, Mago has a National Park that breeds various flora and fauna. It is covered with rivulets, lakes and wetlands. Also, 9% of the park is covered with Savanna Grasslands. The park is inhabited by the Mursi tribe, famous and often photographed for their lip plates, made of clay, inserted in the lower lips of the women. A part of this park serves as hunting grounds for this tribe. You can cross the Omo river in the South to visit the Omo National Park.
Photo of Mago National Park, Omo, Southern Nations, Nationalities, and People's Region, Ethiopia by Yenew Molla
Konso is the site where the early Hominid Fossils were found. Named after the local Konso people, known for their sculptures, this town is a blend of culture and history. The Konso have adapted a terrace agricultural system and the core Konso area is characterized by extensive dry stone terraces. The traditional practices of the Konso people are about 400 years old. Their occupations include Bee-keeping, Cotton-weaving and Agriculture. Konso is also a part of UNESCO's list of World Heritage Sites.
Photo of Konso, Southern Nations, Nationalities, and People's Region, Ethiopia by Yenew Molla
Wondo Genet is known for two things - hot springs and the lush green forests. It is also called the "Wondo Paradise" because of the abundant water and forests. It is almost like a mini resort. You can spot various unique species of birds and animals here like Lemon Doves, African Pygmy Kingfisher, African Emerald Cuckoo, Guereza Colobus and Vervet Monkeys.
Photo of Wondo Genet, Oromia, Ethiopia by Yenew Molla