Things To Do
in Metu
Metu is a vibrant town located in the Jimma Zone of the Oromia Region of Ethiopia, known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes. It serves as a hub for trade and agriculture, surrounded by lush green hills and coffee plantations. The town offers a unique blend of traditional Ethiopian culture and modern influences, making it an interesting destination for travelers.
Metu is also known for its friendly locals and lively markets, providing an authentic Ethiopian experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local coffee market, where you can experience the traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Afterward, explore the nearby coffee plantations to learn about coffee production.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant serving traditional Oromo dishes. Post-lunch, visit the Metu Cultural Center to learn about the history and culture of the area.
Dine at a popular local eatery and spend the evening enjoying live music or cultural performances in the town square.
Take a guided hike in the nearby hills, where you can enjoy the breathtaking views and diverse wildlife. Bring a packed breakfast to enjoy in nature.
After your hike, head back to town for a leisurely lunch. Spend the afternoon visiting local artisans and markets, where you can buy handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Finish your trip with a relaxing dinner at a restaurant with a view of the sunset over the hills.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a local restaurant | $5 |
| ☕Coffee | $1 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within the town | $3 |
| 🛍️Souvenir shopping | $10 |
| 🛌Budget accommodation per night | $15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural experiences and warm hospitality.
- Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Delicious local cuisine and coffee.
- Limited infrastructure for tourists.
- Language barriers may exist for non-Amharic speakers.
- Public transportation can be challenging.
- "Selam" - Hello
- "Amasegenallo" - Thank you
- "Iwedihalehu" - I love you
- "Beminage" - How are you?
- "Ewedihalehu" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Metu
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture stunning photographs of the lush coffee fields and unique landscapes that define the region.
A vibrant area full of life, ideal for candid shots of local culture and daily activities.
The hills surrounding Metu offer panoramic views, perfect for landscape photography during sunrise or sunset.
Food in Metu
Metu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A sourdough flatbread that serves as a staple in Ethiopian cuisine, often served with various stews.
Must-Try!
A spicy chicken stew that is a popular dish during special occasions, flavored with berbere spice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and local street food such as sambusas and kebabs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake is common, and it's polite to ask about someone's wellbeing before diving into conversation.
Showing respect to elders is crucial in Ethiopian culture; always defer to them in conversations.
When sharing a meal, it’s customary to eat with your right hand and to serve others before serving yourself.
Safety
Tipping in Metu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and cafes, typically around 10% of the bill.
Cash is the most common payment method, but some places may accept mobile payments or credit cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm and dry weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and hiking.
This period brings heavy rains, which can make travel challenging but also rejuvenates the landscape.
A bustling time as locals harvest coffee and other crops, offering a unique cultural experience.
Various cultural festivals take place during this time, showcasing traditional music, dance, and cuisine.
Metu at Night
Hiking in Metu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail that winds through the lush Bonga Forest, known for its biodiversity and stunning views.
This trail offers a challenging hike with rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for experienced hikers.
Airports
How to reach Metu by plane.
Located approximately 50 km from Metu, Jimma Airport serves domestic flights and is the nearest airport for accessing the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Oromo are the largest ethnic group in Ethiopia, with a rich cultural heritage that influences the local traditions and lifestyle in Metu.
The Amhara community is also present in Metu, contributing to the cultural diversity and interactions within the town.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Metu, with local teams and matches drawing large crowds.
Ethiopia is renowned for its long-distance runners, and athletics is a key sport in Metu, with many aspiring athletes training in the area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Metu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Ethiopian dishes are vegetarian-friendly, but it's advisable to communicate your dietary preferences when ordering.