In the far corners of Africa, where ancient spirits dance, lies the enchanting Suri tribe. 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.
Tribal Africa beckons those with open hearts and curious spirits to partake in its enchanting embrace. It is a world where time slows down, and the soul finds solace in simplicity. It is a reminder of the beauty of diversity, a celebration of cultural treasures woven into the fabric of humanity.
Last October, we experienced this alternative world. While the world seemed chaotic, we flew by charter deep into remote Southern Ethiopia and settled in for eight days. I had arranged for a team to drive down in advance and set up a proper mobile tent camp with proper beds, linens, and ensuite bathrooms. Entirely off the grid yet comfortable in nature, the stress melted away, the creativity flowed, and we felt safely hidden in a secret place.
The Suri live in a lush rich environment in the hills of the Great Rift Valley with a river running through it. They farm year-round and have more than enough grass to sustain large herds of healthy livestock except in extreme drought. I have even seen them panning for gold in the streams.
Travel memories and photographs
are forever
My first trip to the Omo Valley was life-changing and a defining moment in my career. I have spent 17 years roaming the wilds of Africa and the Suri Tribe in South Ethiopia continues to fascinate me. Below is Baracoda. He was a little more than three when I began photographing him and today is a handsome grown man.
Early mornings and late afternoons were spent in various villages, and the river was just a stroll from camp. No need to rush and panic click; we were there for more than a week.
An advantage of spending this much time in a location is the odds significantly increase for a ceremony to take place.
The Donga, the stick fighting ceremony, is an important tradition of the Suri tribesmen. It combines combat with ritual and sport. It has been said it is a way to prepare young men 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, 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 they embrace each other while humming and singing. It is one of the most profound rituals I have experienced, which I cannot fully explain in a few words. It is something one must experience to understand.
Great Photography is about “Depth of Feeling,”
and not Depth of Field. – Peter Adams
The warm and sunny afternoons gave us the opportunity for portraits. We had some empty tents we used as studios, working with both flash and natural light.
No visit would be complete without a visit to the cattle camps
Located away from the villages, the cattle camps of the Suri are incredible. Life in the camps is highly traditional, and they still practice daily rituals. In the evening, fires are started throughout the camp as the cattle are brought in. 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.
Before my first safari, which completely changed the direction of my life, I had been in the fashion industry. I designed clothing and textiles for nearly 20 years. Therefore, it is easy to make the connection of why I was so instantly drawn to the exotic tribes in Africa. After spending so many years with these beautiful women who live in the bush yet could easily walk down a fashion runway, I wanted to engage with them in trying something new and a bit more fashion-oriented. However, I also wanted to keep it simple, so I brought just a few colorful fabrics to see what would materialize. The ladies felt elegant, and we all had a wonderful time working through the creative process!
More than a Photograph is an experience!
This special experience was crafted for the 10-year celebration of Piper Mackay Photo Safaris. Escaping into this alternative world for over a week and having time to deeply connect and create with the Suri exceeded our expectations. Therefore, I must do this again, and I am finalizing the details for October 2025. This will again be a very small group of no more than six guests.
Thank you so much for sharing your incredible photos. My heart is still in Africa!
Always my pleasure. I used to know that feeling until I moved back to Kenya!