Eco-Omo Safari Lodge

The lodge's restaurant, Sidamo Bamboo, is the place to be. Gather here for a drink and a snack, a buffet breakfast or an Italian-inspired dinner. The large, domed, hive-like structure of wood and floor-to-ceiling reed-work has cleverly in-laid windows. Much of the food is sourced from the garden's crops of fruits, vegetables and herbs, and the small coffee plantation – the fresh-roast Ethiopian Sidama brew is a treat! Outside, a large deck offers views of the garden and river.

Twenty double tents roofed with thatch are set on raised platforms. The interiors are small and simple, although impeccably clean, with either (narrow) twin beds or a double. Mosquito nets drape the beds, and the small but adequate private en-suite bathroom has a toilet, basin and a hot shower with decent water pressure.

Before venturing into Omo National Park, you'll need to employ an experienced guide who can speak your language and has a good rapport with the locals (local agencies can help arrange one for you.) The park has little infrastructure, but the tribes welcome tourists – treat cultural interactions sensitively, and be prepared to pay for photographs. For great photo opportunities, attend a traditional bull-jumping ceremony or head to the markets. Scenically, this semi-arid area has diverse vegetation and plentiful wildlife.