Things To Do
in Mota
Mota is a small highland town in northern Ethiopia, set among rolling green hills and coffee farms. It offers a window into rural Amhara life with a lively market, modest guesthouses, and warm, welcoming locals. The town sits along scenic routes that connect villages, crafts, and daily routines, giving visitors a gentle pace away from larger historic sites.
Its altitude brings a mild climate, lush landscapes after rains, and dramatic highland sunsets over the surrounding countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Ethiopian fare such as injera and shiro. After breakfast, stroll through the historic center of Mota, where you can admire the unique architecture and vibrant street life. Visit the local church, known for its intricate wooden carvings and beautiful murals, giving you a glimpse into the town's rich cultural heritage.
In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walking tour that takes you through the bustling markets, where you can engage with local artisans and shop for handmade crafts. Stop for lunch at a local eatery to try some delicious kitfo, a traditional dish made from raw minced meat. After lunch, explore the nearby natural landscapes, taking in the scenic views and perhaps spotting some unique wildlife.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant to enjoy a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, experiencing the rich flavors of locally grown beans. Spend your evening relaxing, mingling with locals, and listening to traditional music that fills the air. Wrap up your day with a leisurely walk through the town, soaking in the vibrant nightlife and friendly atmosphere.
Start your day early with a drive to the nearby villages, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture. Enjoy breakfast with a family in the village, learning about their daily routines and traditional practices. Participate in morning activities such as farming or basket weaving, gaining hands-on experience of local life.
After a hearty lunch prepared by your hosts, take part in a traditional dance workshop, where you will learn the moves of local dances. Spend time interacting with villagers, asking questions about their customs and traditions, which will deepen your understanding of their lifestyle. Capture the day’s memorable moments through photography, as the vibrant culture and scenery offer countless opportunities.
Return to Mota in the evening and unwind at your accommodation, reflecting on the day’s experiences. Enjoy a simple dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some spicy doro wat, while discussing your day with fellow travelers. As night falls, listen to stories shared by locals, creating a rich tapestry of cultural exchange.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 🚎Local transport (short ride) | $0.20-1 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $0.5-2 |
| 🥗Local lunch dish | $1-4 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room | $15-30 per night |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural experiences in a less-touristy setting
- Stunning highland scenery and traditional coffee culture
- Limited tourist infrastructure in some areas
- Road travel may be slow and occasionally rugged
- "Selam" - Hello
- "Amesegenallo" - Thank you
- "Dehna neh?" - Are you well?
- "Betam yichalal" - Please (informal)
- "Aydeles?" - No problem / Not necessary
- "Mequrt?" - Excuse me / Pardon me
- "I’d like water, please" - Water bezi, mekhnizo?
Places to Visit in Mota
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over rolling hills and terraced fields—best early in the morning.
Bustling stalls, colorful produce, and early-morning traders provide vibrant street scenes.
Sweeping terraces and rural huts offer classic highland compositions.
Rows of coffee shrubs and processing activity make for intimate agricultural portraits.
A peaceful water-edge route with locals passing by and birds in the reeds.
Textured walls and traditional architecture provide characterful portraits.
Food in Mota
Mota Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Teff injera served with a hearty lentil stew, a staple pairing in many meals.
Must-Try!
Spicy chicken stew slow-cooked with berbere and onions, best enjoyed with fresh injera.
Smooth chickpea flour stew rich with spices, perfect for vegetarians.
Cabbage, potato, and carrot stew with mild spices.
Minced spiced beef, optional and more common in larger towns; ask locally for availability.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning market where farmers sell fresh produce, grains, and spices; street vendors offer grilled maize and fried snacks.
Grab-and-go bites like roasted corn, lentil samosas, and simple fried dough from local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a calm, friendly 'Selam' and a handshake or nod; use polite language with elders and in religious spaces.
Offer items with the right hand or both hands; dress modestly in public, especially near religious sites.
Always ask before photographing people, especially in homes or sensitive settings.
If invited for a meal or tea, accept politely and share as a sign of respect; gifts are appreciated but not required.
Safety
Tipping in Mota
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for guides, drivers, and hotel staff. For good service, consider small tips in ETB (a few coins to a few dollars depending on service). In more formal settings, 5-10% is common for significant service.
Cash in Ethiopian birr (ETB) is the most widely accepted. Some shops may take USD or cards in larger towns, but not reliably in small towns. ATMs and mobile money (Telebirr) are increasingly common for transfers and small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
June to September brings warm days with possible afternoon showers. The hills stay lush, trails can be slippery after rain, and mornings are cool.
September to November is typically drier and pleasant for hiking and photography; landscapes gradually return to a drier look.
December to February offers cooler mornings and mild days; layers are useful, and nights can be chilly.
March to May sees warming temperatures and occasional rain; wildflowers begin to appear and fields become vibrant again.
Mota at Night
Hiking in Mota
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic circuit along ridge lines and village paths with panoramic views.
A gentle hike along terraced fields and farmhouses offering quiet photo opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Mota by plane.
Main international gateway to Ethiopia; connect to domestic flights serving northern towns.
Domestic air gateway closer to the northern Amhara region; useful for faster trips to the area around Mota.
Regional airport serving sacred sites in the region; useful for combining a heritage itinerary with Mota.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority in this region, with traditional customs, language, and dress still visible in daily life.
Minority groups engaged in trade and farming; you may encounter Somali and other traders passing through regional routes.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most widely played sport across towns and schools in Ethiopia.
Participated in school and community competitions; common in regional programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mota.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on wot-based dishes and injera. Request no meat or animal fats where possible; many places can adapt with vegetable oils and spices.