Things To Do
in Mojo

Mojo is a small but vibrant town located in the Oromia Region of Ethiopia, known for its rich agricultural landscape and cultural diversity. It serves as a key transport hub, connecting various regions of the country and is often a stopover for travelers heading to other destinations. The town is surrounded by beautiful hills and valleys, making it a picturesque locale for visitors.

Mojo is also famous for its colorful markets and local cuisine, embodying the essence of Ethiopian hospitality.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Mojo
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional Ethiopian breakfast at a local café, featuring injera and various stews. Afterwards, visit the Mojo Market to experience local commerce and culture.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby hills for a hike, enjoying the breathtaking views and unique flora and fauna. After the hike, explore local craft shops to find unique handmade souvenirs.

evening
:

Dine at a popular local restaurant, savoring traditional dishes while enjoying live music that showcases Ethiopian culture.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit a nearby coffee plantation to learn about Ethiopia's coffee culture and participate in a coffee ceremony. Engage with local farmers and experience their daily routines.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby historical sites, including old churches and monuments that reflect the rich history of the region.

evening
:

Enjoy a relaxing evening at a local bar, where you can taste different Ethiopian beers and socialize with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$5-10
Coffee$1-2
🚕Taxi ride (within town)$2-5
🛒Local market produce$0.50-3
🏨Budget hotel per night$20-30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and hospitality.
  • Delicious traditional cuisine.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation can be unreliable.
  • Language barrier may exist for some travelers.
  • "Selam" - Hello
  • "Amesegenallo" - Thank you
  • "Yemisirachin" - How are you?
  • "Betam dehna" - Very good
  • "Ewedihalehu" - I love you

Places to Visit in Mojo

Visit one of these nice places.

Mojo Hills

The surrounding hills offer panoramic views of the town and the lush landscape, especially stunning during sunrise and sunset.

Mojo Market

The vibrant colors and activities at the market provide excellent opportunities for capturing the local culture and daily life.

Local Coffee Plantations

The picturesque coffee farms with lush greenery are perfect for capturing the essence of Ethiopia's coffee heritage.

Culinary Guide

Food in Mojo

Mojo offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of traditional Ethiopian dishes that are a must-try during your visit.

Mojo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Injera

A sourdough flatbread that serves as the base for most Ethiopian meals, typically served with a variety of stews.

Must-Try!

Doro Wat

A spicy chicken stew made with berbere spice, often served with injera.

Kitfo

Minced raw meat seasoned with spices, often served with a side of gomen (cooked greens).

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mojo Market

A bustling market where you can find various local foods, spices, and fresh produce, perfect for experiencing the local lifestyle.

Street Vendors

Various street vendors offer affordable local snacks like sambusas and roasted corn, ideal for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

Mojo experiences a moderate climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season lasts from October to March, characterized by warm, sunny days and cooler nights. The rainy season from April to September brings frequent showers, particularly intense from June to September. Temperatures generally range from 15°C (59°F) at night to 30°C (86°F) during the day, depending on the season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake followed by a friendly smile is the typical greeting, and it’s important to greet everyone in a group.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to elders is crucial; always address them politely and offer assistance when possible.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, it's customary to eat with the right hand only and to share food from a communal plate.

Safety Guide

Safety

Mojo is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to stay alert and avoid walking alone at night. Always keep your belongings secure and be cautious in crowded places. For emergencies, it's best to have local contacts or know the nearest hospital.

Tipping in Mojo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants; however, check if service charges are included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, and while some establishments accept cards, it's best to carry cash, especially in rural areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (October - March)

Expect warm and dry weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.

Rainy Season (April - September)

Expect heavy rainfall, especially from June to September, which may affect travel plans but enhances the greenery of the landscape.

Harvest Season (November - January)

A vibrant time when locals celebrate the harvest with festivals, offering a unique cultural experience.

Cool Season (June - August)

Temperatures can drop slightly, especially at night, so pack warmer clothing if traveling during this time.

Nightlife Guide

Mojo at Night

Mojo's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger Ethiopian cities. Local bars and restaurants often feature live music, providing a lively atmosphere for socializing. Traditional coffee ceremonies and cultural performances may also be enjoyed in some venues, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Ethiopian culture while having a relaxing evening.

Hiking in Mojo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Tabor Trail

A challenging hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is recommended for experienced hikers.

Mojo River Trail

An easier, scenic trail along the river, perfect for families and those looking for a leisurely hike.

Airports

How to reach Mojo by plane.

Bole International Airport (ADD)

Located approximately 50 km from Mojo, Bole International Airport is the primary airport serving Addis Ababa and offers both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Mojo is fairly walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, markets, and restaurants are located. Sidewalks are available but may be uneven in some areas. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes and remain aware of your surroundings while walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Oromo People

The dominant ethnic group in the region, the Oromo people have a rich cultural heritage and play a significant role in the local economy and traditions.

Amhara People

Another prominent ethnic group in the area, the Amhara people contribute to the cultural diversity of Mojo, particularly in language and cuisine.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Ethiopia, with locals passionately following both local teams and international leagues.

Athletics

Ethiopia is renowned for its distance runners, and many young athletes train in and around Mojo, inspired by the country's rich history in athletics.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Mojo is generally manageable, with moderate congestion during peak hours. Public transportation options include minibuses and taxis, which are affordable but can be crowded. It's advisable to negotiate taxi fares beforehand.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Mojo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

Many Ethiopian dishes are naturally vegetarian or can be easily modified for vegan diets, with a variety of lentil and vegetable dishes available.

Gluten-Free Options

Injera is made from teff flour, which is gluten-free; however, be cautious with cross-contamination at restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Mojo is limited to basic clinics and hospitals. For serious medical issues, it's recommended to travel to larger cities like Addis Ababa. Travelers should ensure they have travel insurance that covers health emergencies and consider bringing a basic first aid kit.

Discover Ethiopia

Read more in our Ethiopia 2025 Travel Guide.

Ethiopia Travel Guide