Vanishing Tribes of Ethiopia

Ethiopia's Omo River Valley is home to many tribes still trying to live as generations have done before them in this harsh environment. Visiting this remote region and these amazing tribes had been a dream of mine for many years. It had been a challenge to get into this southern region of Ethiopia but in 2016 my wife and I arranged for a guide, driver, cook, and a second backup vehicle. Some areas hardly had roads, we crossed rivers, and camped with armed guards at the Surma village. Every tribe was incredible with their own unique customs and styles. Some things were hard to see like the scarification, lip plates, ear plugs and whipping of women even though we had seen photos. Some were very friendly, children were anxious to see us, touch us and look at photos I took. Unfortunately the old cultures are vanishing. Roads are being developed, cell phones are widely used, the Omo River has several dams being built, etc. The few tourists that visit these tribes provide a small income to them by paying for the privilege of taking photos, seeing there homes, paying interpreters, and purchasing tribal crafts. The experience was incredible and something I will never forget.