Western Ethiopia & Surma Tribes – 10 Days

Overview

Embark on a 10-day cultural and scenic journey through Western Ethiopia, exploring lush coffee regions, historic towns, and the remote territories of the Surma (Suri) people. This expedition is perfect for travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences, stunning landscapes, and encounters with Ethiopia’s most fascinating indigenous tribes.

Day 1 – Arrival in Addis Ababa

Arrive at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, visit the National Museum, showcasing Ethiopia’s prehistoric and cultural heritage, and the Ethnographic Museum of Addis Ababa University, highlighting the customs of over 80 ethnic groups. Enjoy lunch at Lucy Restaurant before visiting Emperor Menelik’s Palace and Entoto Mountain for panoramic city views. End the day exploring Merkato, Africa’s largest open-air market. Dinner and overnight at Oasis Hotel Apartment or similar accommodation.

Day 2 – Drive to Jimma

After breakfast, drive 225 km to Jimma via Wolqite, home to the hardworking Gurage tribe. En route, enjoy the scenic Gibe River Valley. Upon arrival in Jimma, check into your hotel and visit the Jimma Museum and King Abba Jifar Palace. Dinner and overnight stay at Honey Land Hotel or Central Jimma Hotel.

Day 3 – Drive to Bonga, Kaffa (Birthplace of Coffee)

Travel 125 km to Bonga, the heart of Ethiopia’s coffee region. After check-in and lunch, take a short trek into the surrounding forest to visit Makira, considered the birthplace of Coffea arabica. Return to Bonga in the late afternoon for dinner and overnight stay at Coffee Land or similar hotel.

Day 4 – Bonga Forest, Waterfalls & Drive to Mizan Teferi

Explore Bonga’s natural wonders, including the Berta Waterfalls and the forest’s natural bridge. After lunch, drive 163 km to Tepi, arriving late afternoon. Check into a local hotel or guesthouse for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 5 – Drive to Kibish (Surma Territory)

After breakfast, embark on a 300 km journey to Kibish, passing the Bebeka Coffee Plantation, Ethiopia’s largest, cultivating organic coffee, peppers, and rubber trees. Enjoy a picnic lunch along the way. Arrive in Kibish late afternoon, set up camp, and take an initial walk through a nearby Surma village, observing their daily life. Dinner and overnight camping.

Day 6 – Explore Surma Villages

Spend the full day in Surma villages. Observe women’s beautification rituals, including lip plates, and men’s traditional stick-fighting competitions (Donga, now officially prohibited). Lunch is either at the campsite or picnic style in the villages. Continue photography and cultural immersion in the afternoon. Dinner and overnight camping.

Day 7 – Drive Back to Mizan Teferi

After breakfast, depart Kibish and drive 300 km back to Mizan Teferi. Arrive late afternoon, check into a hotel, have dinner, and overnight stay at a local hotel.

Day 8 – Drive Back to Jimma

After breakfast, continue your journey to Jimma (approx. 290 km). Arrive in the afternoon, check into your hotel, enjoy dinner, and overnight stay at Honey Land or Central Jimma Hotel.

Day 9 – Leisure & Cultural Exploration in Jimma

Spend a relaxed day exploring Jimma further, visiting local attractions or enjoying the surrounding coffee plantations. Dinner and overnight at your hotel.

Day 10 – Return to Addis Ababa & Departure

Take a short morning flight back to Addis Ababa. Arrive in the afternoon for souvenir shopping before a farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant such as Habesha 2000 or YOD Abyssinia, featuring live music and dance. Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to Bole International Airport for your departure.