The Mursi “Hale” Settlements (Within Mago National Park)

The Mursi people are among the most distinct ethnic groups in the Omo Valley. The “Hale” settlements, located deep within Mago National Park, are key locations that allow visitors to observe the community’s ancient and natural way of life at close range.

  1. Location and Setting
  • Location: The Hale villages are situated deep inside Mago National Park, approximately 60 to 80 kilometers from the town of Jinka.
  • Ecosystem: The settlements are established in the park’s lowlands and along riverbanks. Surrounded by dense bush and savanna grasslands, the area is ideal for both cattle herding and wildlife.
  1. Unique Features of Hale Settlements

What sets these villages apart from other settlements?

  • Semi-nomadism: The Mursi of Hale is not permanent residents. They move based on rainfall patterns and the availability of grazing land. Consequently, their houses are designed to be easily dismantled and rebuilt.
  • Architecture: Their houses are low-profile huts made of reeds and grass. The entrances are so low that one must crouch to enter. This design helps regulate heat and provides protection from wild animals.
  1. Cultural Values in Hale

Visitors to these settlements can observe the following core traditions:

  • Lip Plates: The world-famous lip plates worn by Mursi women are widely seen in Hale villages. These are considered symbols of beauty and social status.
  • Stick Fighting (Donga): In the vicinity of Hale, seasonal stick fighting (Donga) takes place, where young men demonstrate their bravery and physical strength.
  • Body Art: Both men and women decorate their bodies with intricate designs using white chalk.
  1. Lifestyle and Livelihood

The Mursi living in these Mago Park settlements rely on two main pillars:

  • Cattle Herding: Cattle are the foundation of Mursi life. Milk and blood are dietary staples, and cattle are used for marriage dowries and compensation payments.
  • Agriculture: They practice recession agriculture (sorghum and maize) along the banks of the Omo and Mago rivers.
  1. Interaction with the National Park

The presence of Hale settlements within the park has several impacts:

  • Conservation: The Mursi have a long history of coexisting with wildlife.
  • Tourism: While the settlements are a major attraction, high volumes of tourism are beginning to influence the community’s traditional values.
  1. Essential Tips for Visitors
  • Caution: It is mandatory to be accompanied by a local guide and a park scout when visiting Hale. Because the Mursi are very protective of their culture and require payment for photography, it is essential to negotiate beforehand and respect their privacy.
  • Guides & Scouts: A guide fluent in the Mursi language and an armed scout from the park is vital for your safety and communication.
  • Clothing: Due to the dusty and hot environment, light clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended.

Sample Itinerary (Starting from Jinka)

Since Mursi villages are located southwest of Jinka inside the park, the trip must begin early in the morning.

Day 1: Addis Ababa – Jinka

  • Activity: Fly to Jinka. In the afternoon, visit the South Omo Research Center (Museum) to gain prior insight into Mursi culture.
  • Overnight: Jinka (Eco-Omo Lodge or similar).

Day 2: Jinka – Mago National Park (Mursi Villages)

  • 06:00 AM: Depart from Jinka. An early start is crucial to reach the Mursi before they head out for herding or farming, and to return before the midday heat.
  • 07:30 AM: Reach the Mago National Park checkpost to pick up a mandatory park scout.
  • 08:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Arrive at the Hale villages.
    • Observe the tradition of lip plates.
    • View the unique architecture of their traditional huts.
    • Engage with village elders through your translator.
  • 12:00 PM: Drive back to Jinka. (On the way, look out for wildlife such as monkeys, antelopes, and various bird species within the park).
  • Overnight: Jinka.