About this tour

Cultural Travel to Hamar Tribe is like opening a vibrant and intricate cultural treasure box. Nestled in the Southwestern part of Ethiopia, specifically in the Omo River valley, this Ethiopian ethnic group of approximately 46,500 members has carved out a way of life deeply intertwined with their environment. Their rich biodiversity and diverse ethno-linguistic groups form the backdrop of their distinctive rituals and strong social structure. The Hamar language, Banna – Hamar, is a crucial cultural carrier, reflecting their worldview and practices, enriched with metaphors and proverbs. What truly sets the Hamar Tribe apart are their captivating rituals and ceremonies. The bull-jumping ceremony, known as “Ukuli Bula,” stands as a significant rite of passage, a daring spectacle that symbolizes a young man’s readiness for adulthood and marriage. The Evangadi, a vibrant night dance, brings both men and women together in a celebration of life and community. Scarification, a symbol of beauty and maturity, is willingly endured by women, a testament to their strength and resilience. In the Hamar Tribe, women play multifaceted roles, from childbearing and rearing to managing household chores and participating in rituals, showcasing their unwavering spirit. Men, on the other hand, are primarily responsible for cattle herding, defense, and decision-making, with their status often tied to their performance in rituals like bull-jumping. Children grow up steeped in tradition, with their roles evolving as they age, from herding smaller livestock to participating in important tribal rituals. The Hamar Tribe’s economic system is a harmonious blend of subsistence farming, cattle rearing, and trade. Farming, especially crops like sorghum and coffee, shapes much of their yearly cycle, while cattle hold significant cultural and symbolic value, being involved in rituals, marriages, and dispute settlements. Trade is a vibrant aspect of Hamar’s economy, with local marketplaces serving as social hubs. Beadwork, body painting, and unique hairstyles are vivid expressions of their artistic prowess. Beadwork, in particular, denotes one’s status within the tribe, while hairstyles symbolize age, marital status, and social standing. Body painting, using natural pigments, transforms their skin into living canvases, imbued with cultural and symbolic significance.