Special expedition for the final celebration of the 10 year anniversary of Piper Mackay Photo Safaris
Only 6 guest with two photographic leaders
2 charter flights and a proper luxury mobile safari camp
My first trip to the Omo Valley was not only life-changing but was a defining moment in my career. Many years later, ” The Tribes of the Omo” became the first trip offered at Piper Mackay Photo Safaris back in September of 2011. Therefore, in celebration of 10 great years it seemed only fitting that the final celebration be spent with 6 wonderful guest in one of the most special places I have been in all of Africa.
Deep in southern Ethiopia lives one of the most beautiful tribes on the African continent. Inspired by their environment of wild trees, exotic flowers, lush vegetation, and colorful birds, the talented Suri tribespeople use the clay soil of bright yellows, startling whites and rich earth-reds to decorate their bodies and create elaborate headpieces. Beyond their beauty is their fascinating way of life, traditions and ceremonies.
I have spent 17 years roaming the wilds of Africa and the Suri Tribe in South Ethiopia continues to fascinate me. Coming from a career in the fashion industry I am constantly in awe of their talent in using the gift of nature to transform themselves into a walking body of art in only a few minutes. And yet, they are stunningly beautiful before their transformation.
The Suri live in a lush rich environment in the hills of the Great Rift Valley with a river running through it. They can farm year-round and have more than enough grass for raising large herds of healthy livestock except in extreme drought. I have even seen them panning for gold in the streams. Located away from the villages the cattle camps of the Suri are incredible. Life in the camps is highly traditional where they still practice daily rituals. In the evening as the cattle are brought in fires are started throughout the camp. While humming and singing, the men use the ashes to cover their bodies and the cattle to protect their skin from insects and the elements. A horn is often played as part of the bloodletting and drinking ceremony.
An important tradition of the tribesmen is the Donga, known as the stick fighting ceremony. It combines combat with ritual and sport. It has been said it is a way to get young men prepared for battle, impress women, and settle differences. It begins with clans gathering in song and coming from every direction. The men prepare by painting their bodies, some putting on colorful protection, and deep tribal singing as they build their courage to go into battle. Then, suddenly, two groups of 20-30 fighters go into battle. Suddenly, one is declared a winner and then they embrace while humming and singing. It is one of the deepest rituals I have experienced, which I am fully unable to explain in a few words. It is something one must experience to understand.
We will spend nine days immersed with this beautiful tribe, their way of life, and their traditions. This will give us time to learn more about them while we visit their villages, cattle camps and town. We will have an abundance of time to create beautiful portraits of them as naturally beautiful as they are and when transformed into walking bodies of art.
I will be teaming up with Greg Thomason, an incredibly talented portrait and commercial photographer. Not only does his dramatic lighting set him apart, but how he connects with his clients to bring out the beauty of who they are. Together we have a unique vision that we wish to bring to life.
We have pulled out all the stops for a really special trip. We will have two charter flights from Addis to deep into the Omo and return to Addis. We will be setting up a full Mobil Safari Camp; Each guest will have their own large safari tent with private on-suite shower and toilet, real bed, mattress, and linens. We will have a large comforatable dining cabana which can transition into a studio. Our meals will be a blend of wonderful western European cuisine along with some favorite local dishes.
We will be inviting only six guests to join us on this special signature trip.