Omo Valley with Surma villages

The lower omo is home to a remarkable mix of small, contrasting ethnic groups-not only the Dassanatch and karo,but also the Bodi,the Mursi,the Surma,the Erbore,and the Hammer, to name but a few. Lacking any material culture and artifacts common to more ‘civilized’ people, these tribes find unique ways in which to express their artistic impulse. Both Surma and Karo for example are expert at body painting, using clays and locally available vegetable pigments to trace fantastic patterns on each other’s faces, chests, arms and legs. Jewellery tends to be simple but striking-colorful necklaces, chunky metal wristlets and armlets, shiny nails appended to skirts, multiple earrings and so. The journey to these astonishing places highlights the above cultural manifestation and more.