Rafting
down the Omo River on a outboard engine-powered rubber boat,
in the south of the country. Departure from Omomursi and arrival
in Omorate after about 400 kilometers. In the Mago National
park area.
Carla
has rafted down the river twice in two different trips, always
on an outboard engine-powered rubber boat, for documentary
purpose. Five different ethnic groups live along the river,
with different ways on dressing, hair styling and traditions.
During these expeditions she has had to face several problems
with the populations (in the previous 30 years no Europeans
had reached these territories) and with the animals living
in that area, especially crocodiles and hippopotamuses. A
few times, she had "close encounters" that were
not always pleasant.
The environment
is very fascinating; an true paradise for nature and animal
lovers, but what made it truly unforgettable was her encounters
with the different populations during the navigation. The
Mursi women with their labial disks, the Karo with their hats
made from clay and painted of several colors, the Bume' dressed
only with animal skin underwear and almost covered by Hammer
seeds necklaces and their women who are considered the most
beautiful of the continent.
Descending
the river took about a week, but the full duration of the
trip was almost a month, the first time and about a month
and a half the second time- on the river the group had to
walk toward the inside of the forest to reach another very
interesting population: The Surma.
Proposal
for the itinerary:
At this time is not possible to repeat the trip along the
river like Carla did, but is possible to follow a similar
route by land in the Mago National Park area, where it is
possible to find the ethnic groups and animals described above.
This route
it is also interesting, with the addition of a trekking on
the plateaus, following the same route Carla took to reach
the Surma. Every year, the male part of the population challenges
each other with long wood sticks in a bloody battle called
"Donga" to gain the women's favour. Carla was lucky
enough to see the event with her husband who, as a doctor,
took care of the wounded.
This itenerary
is for a trip of about 3 weeks. The night accommodations are
tents and all the materials are carried by donkeys.
This trip
is suggested only for experts with good physical preparation
who are ready to collaborate.
Both travels
were done in the winter season (January). During this period
the climate is hot, but during the night, on the plateaus,
the temperature drops.
The baggage
must have the essentials, and is very specific.
All vaccinations
are required, including antimalaria and antityphus. Don't
forget insect repellent.