Images with Soul..
A Photographic Journey Through the Tribes of the Omo Valley with Giovanna and Krista
October 20th - 29th, 2026
Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa
Welcome to Ethiopia. Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, you’ll be picked up and transferred to your hotel. We’ll be staying at the Best Western Plus Addis Ababa, a comfortable base to begin our journey. We’ll gather in the afternoon for an authentic Ethiopian coffee ceremony, where you’ll meet your fellow photographers and your hosts, Giovanna and Krista. It will be a relaxed introduction to your tour, with an opportunity to share inspirations and get to know one another.
Overnight: Best Western Plus Addis Ababa
Day 2: Addis Ababa - Jimma - Mizan Teferi
After breakfast, we’ll take a morning flight to Jimma (arriving around 12:30 p.m.), where we’ll stop for lunch before continuing our drive to Mizan Teferi, a scenic road journey of about 4.5 hours. This gives us time to rest before we continue deeper into tribal lands the next day
Overnight: Salyish Hotel, Mizan Teferi.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Mizan Teferi - Kibish (Surma Territory)
An early start today as we begin the journey to Kibish, the heart of the Suri (Surma) community. We’ll drive through remote and breathtaking landscapes to arrive at our private campsite. After a rest, we’ll enjoy our first evening photo session with the Suri people
Overnight: Private Tented Camp, Suri
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Surma
We’ll rise early to leave for the Suri cattle camp, where young and elderly men tend to their herds and engage in rituals such as ashing and bloodletting. This is a formative and bonding time, where boys and men mark themselves with symbols of identity. In the afternoon, we’ll photograph Suri girls and the youngsters as they decorate each other with ochre, wildflowers and leaves, all bathed in soft golden light.
Overnight: Private Tented Camp, Suri
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Surma
This morning, we will witness the Surma men creating intricate body art with wave-like patterns using white clay, applying it with their fingers and natural tools, as we photograph them by the river. As the golden hour approaches on our final afternoon, we will capture our last images of the beautiful Suri girls adored in coloured ochres and wildflowers.
Overnight: Private Tented Camp, Suri
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Kibish - Muri Mountains - Turmi
We’ll leave the Suri camp early and begin our journey through the Muri Mountains, heading toward Turmi. Along the way, we’ll make scenic stops and break for meals as we cross the Southern Omo Valley.
Overnight: Buska Lodge, Turmi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: The Hamar Tribe - Turmi
An early departure as we visit one of the largest Hamar villages. After a riverside breakfast, we’ll spend the day photographing the Hamar people. The women’s iconic hairstyles, copper necklaces, and traditional attire offer striking visual stories.
Overnight: Kara Camp, Turmi.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Kara Tribe
We’ll rise early and head to a Kara Village along the Omo River to photograph the morning goat herding at sunrise. Known for their stunning chalk body art and dramatic riverside settings, the Kara offer one of the most photogenic experiences of the trip.
Overnight: Kara Camp, Turmi.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: Kara Tribe - Nyangatom Tribe
After an early morning session visiting with the Kara tribe, we’ll head out to visit the Nyangatom after lunch. This lesser-known tribe originated from South Sudan and wears layered necklaces and colourful bead collars. The community is welcoming, with playful boys and beautifully adorned women.
Overnight: Paradise Lodge, Turmi.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10: Arbore Tribe - Jinka - Addis Ababa
We’ll begin before sunrise and head into the Weito lowlands to visit the Arbore tribe. Known for their dark robes, shaved heads, and bold beadwork, the Arbore are serene and striking to photograph. On the way to Jinka Airport, we’ll also stop to photograph the Bena boys, famous for their traditional stilt-walking. From Jinka, we’ll fly back to Addis Ababa. A day room will be available at the Best Western Plus Addis Ababa for rest and refreshment before your international departure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Arrival & Departure Details
Day 1 is the official arrival day, and you may arrive at any time. The journey concludes on the afternoon of Day 10. If you wish to arrive earlier or extend your stay after the tour, we’re happy to assist with recommendations or arrangements
Omo Valley Photography Tour
We’re getting ready to take bookings for the Images with Soul Photography Tour to the Omo Valley, Ethiopia, and would like to confirm the full payment structure and policies for our participants.
Tour Price
- USD 7,800 per person
Single Supplement
- USD 650 additional for single occupancy (Applies to Addis hotel, lodges, and private tent accommodations)
Payment Structure
-
Deposit – USD 1,000 per person
-
Required to secure the booking
-
Highly recommend travel insurance to cover non-refundable deposits
-
Second Payment – (50% of total tour cost)
-
Due by 5 April 2026
-
Plus single supplement (if applicable)
-
This payment confirms your participation and allows us to move forward with planning and logistics
-
Final Payment
-
Due by 5 June 2026
- The final payment + Single supplement (if applicable)
-
Non-refund
Payment Methods
All payments are made via PayPal and will be processed through our official website.
Once your booking is confirmed, our team will contact you and guide you through the payment process via the website.
- Payments are processed securely via PayPal
- Please ensure your contact information is accurate when registering
- If you experience any issues, feel free to email us at: contact@giovannaphotography.co
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Cancellations by participants:
- More than 6 months before departure (before 5 April 2026)
Deposit (USD 1,000) - Highly recommend travel insurance to cover non-refundable deposits
- 4 to 6 months before departure (Between 5 April and 5 June 2026)
50% refund of the total payment made (excluding the deposit). An administrative fee may apply
- Less than 4 months before departure (after 5 June 2026)
No refunds provided
We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and travel delays.
1. Booking & Payment Terms
To confirm your place on the expedition, a non-refundable deposit of US$1,000 per person is required at the time of registration to secure your place.
A second payment is due by April 5th, 2026. The final balance is due no later than June 5th, 2026.
*Availability is limited and filling quickly, we encourage you to complete this step at your earliest convenience
2. Cancellation & Refund Policy
Cancellations by participants:
- More than 6 months before departure (before 5 April 2026):
Deposit (USD 1,000) - Non-refundable. Highly recommend travel insurance to cover non-refundable deposits
- 4 to 6 months before departure (Between 5 April and 5 June 2026)
50% refund of the total payment made (excluding the deposit). An administrative fee may apply
- Less than 4 months before departure (after 5 June 2026)
No refunds provided
We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and travel delays.
3. Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory for all participants. Your insurance must include:
- Emergency medical care and evacuation
- Trip cancellation/interruption
- Protection for personal photography equipment (recommended)
Note: Ethiopian Airlines offers discounted internal flights only if your international flight into Addis Ababa is also with them. A US$250 surcharge applies otherwise.
4. Participant Requirements
- A positive, flexible, and respectful attitude
- Reasonable physical fitness for travel in remote areas
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity from travel dates)
- Ethiopian tourist visa (to be arranged by participant)
5. Itinerary Changes
Giovanna Photography reserves the right to adjust the itinerary due to weather, safety, or cultural considerations. Any changes will be made with the group’s best interest in mind.
6. Changes, Cancellations & Force Majeure
We reserve the right to cancel or modify the itinerary at any time due to unforeseen circumstances. All payments will be refunded in full if the tour is cancelled. Giovanna Photography is not responsible for costs incurred in preparation for the tour.
7. Medical Insurance
Medical insurance is a requirement for this expedition. It must include international emergency evacuation and local medical expenses. A copy of your insurance policy should be submitted by the deadline of the final payment.
We highly recommend having enough of any medications needed, as access to pharmacies would be limited.
8. Liability & Assumption of Risk
By registering for this tour, you acknowledge that travel in remote regions like the Omo Valley involves risks.
You agree to assume all risks associated with participation and release Giovanna Photography and the team from any liability for injury, loss, or damage unless caused by gross negligence.
9. Passport and Visa
Ensure your passport and visa are valid for travel. Giovanna Photography is not liable for visa/passport issues.
10. Reservations, Payment & Liability Release
To reserve your place, we require a completed and signed reservation form and a signed liability release, along with a non-refundable deposit of US$1,000.
If the final balance is not received by September 5th, 2025, Giovanna Photography will treat the reservation as cancelled and all payments will be forfeited.
11. Airfare
Giovanna Photography is not responsible for flight cancellations, overbookings, or baggage loss.
12. Luggage
Participants must comply with luggage weight restrictions, which will be communicated in advance. Giovanna Photography is not responsible for any loss or damage to luggage or camera gear.
13. Guest Consent
Submission of a deposit confirms your agreement to all terms and conditions outlined in this document.
14. Usage of Images for Promotion
Giovanna Photography reserves the right to photograph or film participants for promotional purposes. Notify us in writing if you do not wish to appear in such content.
15. Liability Release & Code of Conduct
You acknowledge the risks of travel and accept full responsibility for your safety and conduct. Disrespectful behaviour may result in removal from the tour without refund.
16. Health and Medical Considerations
Please make sure you are fit to travel. If you have any serious health concerns or an existing condition that may affect your participation, kindly let us know in confidence ahead of time.
This allow us to look after, and the group, with the care and respect you deserve. Thank you for your understanding.
- Domestic flights: Addis to Jimma, and Jinka to Addis
- All accommodation as outlined in the itinerary, from your arrival to departure
- All meals from breakfast on January 6th to lunch on January 15th (breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day)
- Travel in private aircon 4x4 Land Cruisers with experienced drivers
- Bottled water, soft drinks, coffee, and tea with meals
- All fuel expenses
- Photography permits and entrance fees to tribal villages
- Private access and permits for visiting and photographing in tribal communities
- Camping setup in the Suri region including tents, portable toilet, and portable shower
- Generator power for three nights at Suri camp to charge camera batteries and phones
- Airport transfers to and from Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa
- English-speaking guide, local guide, and experienced security team
- Photography mentoring throughout the journey by Giovanna Photography
- Support from Krista, artist and co-leader, who has built trusted relationships with the communities
- Thoughtfully designed itinerary to offer meaningful, respectful experiences and photographic opportunities
- Personal packing guide and tips to help you prepare for the journey
- International flights to/from Addis Ababa
- Visa fees for Ethiopia (if applicable)
- Travel and medical insurance (required for all participants)
- Excess baggage fees
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, phone calls, laundry, etc.)
- Meals or accommodation before or after the expedition (except as noted in the itinerary)
- Alcoholic beverages
- Additional snacks or drinks outside of included meals
- Emergency evacuation costs if needed
- Photography gear and personal equipment
- Extra tips for driver, guide and cook per day, approximately USD$ 10 each
- Any service not explicitly mentioned above
About
Giovanna Aryafara
I’m an Australian photographer based in Bali, and for over 40 years, I’ve travelled the world capturing soulful portraits that tell real stories from remote tribal communities to sacred ceremonies and everyday moments of beauty and connection
My work has taken me deep into the Omo Valley of Ethiopia, where I’ve spent years building relationships with the tribes and learning about their traditions, strength, and creativity. These journeys have been life-changing and are at the heart of my photography
As an award-winning photographer, I feel it’s an honour to document these cultures and share them through exhibitions, books, and now this special photographic tour. I’ll be guiding you alongside my daughter Krista, and we can’t wait to welcome you into this experience of deep connection, creativity, and inspiration