Things To Do
in Metema
Metema is a small but busy border town in northwestern Ethiopia, perched at the edge of the Ethiopian plateau where the arid plains meet Sudan’s borderlands. The town functions as a major checkpoint for cross-border trade and daily commerce, with a lively market scene and stock of staples common to rural Amhara towns. The landscape around Metema is overwhelmingly dry and sun-baked, with wide-open skies and dusty roads that reveal the practical rhythms of life here.
Travelers should expect a pragmatic, authentic peek into border-town life rather than polished tourist attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic sites in Metema, where you can marvel at the ancient architecture and learn about the rich cultural heritage. Wander through the local markets, where vibrant colors and the scent of spices fill the air, creating an authentic Ethiopian experience. Don't forget to interact with the friendly locals, who are eager to share their stories and traditions.
After a delicious lunch at a local eatery, continue your exploration by visiting the nearby churches that showcase beautiful religious art and architecture. Engage with local artisans who produce intricate handicrafts and take the opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs. Take a leisurely stroll through the streets, absorbing the atmosphere and perhaps stopping for a refreshing coffee at a traditional café.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot to enjoy a traditional Ethiopian dinner, sampling dishes like injera and doro wat while enjoying local music. Engage in conversation with fellow travelers and locals, sharing stories and laughter over the meal. Wrap up your evening with a leisurely walk through the town, soaking in the vibrant nightlife and the sounds of distant traditional music.
Begin your day with a guided tour to nearby villages, where you can immerse yourself in the daily lives of the local communities. Participate in traditional morning rituals, such as coffee ceremonies, and learn about the cultural significance behind them. This intimate experience allows you to forge connections with the villagers and appreciate their hospitality.
Enjoy a homemade lunch prepared by a local family, featuring regional ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Afterward, join in on some agricultural activities, like planting or harvesting, to gain firsthand experience of the local farming practices. Discover the customs and traditions that shape their way of life through interactive storytelling sessions.
Return to Metema to relax and unwind after a fulfilling day. Enjoy a quiet dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on your experiences and the insights you've gained about the culture. Spend your evening engaging with locals or fellow travelers, perhaps enjoying traditional music or dance performances.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-6 |
| 🥙Street food snack | $0.5-2 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $15-40 |
| 🚕Local taxi ride (short trip) | $1-5 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $0.5-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic border-town culture and daily life
- Rich market scenes and strong sense of community
- Limited tourist infrastructure and amenities
- High daytime heat and dusty roads may be challenging for some travelers
- "Selam" - Hello
- "Dehna neh?" - How are you? (to a man)
- "Dehna nesh?" - How are you? (to a woman)
- "Amesegenallo" - Thank you
- "Be’alachu/Be’alki?" - Please (polite request, male/female)
Places to Visit in Metema
Visit one of these nice places.
Open, flat horizons with the river cutting through arid terrain provide dramatic sunset and early-morning light for landscape photography.
Candid market life, colorful textiles, and daily barter offer rich street photography opportunities with locals’ consent.
Wide, sun-baked plains under expansive skies yield striking silhouettes and long shadows for dramatic landscape shots.
Safe, public vantage spots where you can photograph activity near the border while respecting privacy and security considerations.
Food in Metema
Metema Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fluffy injera served with a richly spiced chicken stew; a staple combination found in most eateries and homes.
Must-Try!
Injera accompanied by spicy lentil stew, a vegetarian-friendly option that is widely available.
A thick chickpea-based stew seasoned with berbere, typically eaten with injera; perfect for a hearty, protein-rich meal.
A traditional Ethiopian honey wine often enjoyed in social gatherings; available in some teahouses and local spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Primary market where daily staples, grains, spices, and coffee are traded; great for observing local commerce and sampling fresh, simple foods.
Roasted corn, flatbreads, and small fried snacks are commonly available along market lanes and at roadside stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet everyone politely when entering shops or passing by people on the street; a friendly nod or short hello goes a long way. Men and women may greet differently; follow local cues and wait for a person to offer a handshake.
Ask for permission before photographing individuals or families; some people may decline. Respect local privacy and cultural norms, especially in intimate or religious settings.
Dress modestly in public spaces; shoulders and knees covered. Remove hats when indoors and speak in a respectful tone, especially around elders and in religious areas.
Safety
Tipping in Metema
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. In restaurants, consider around 5-10% if service is good; tip porters or guides modest amounts for their help. Hand cash directly to the person when appropriate.
Cash in Ethiopian Birr is the most reliable method in Metema. Some larger or more tourist-focused spots may accept USD or mobile money, but cash is safest. Expect limited card acceptance in small eateries and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cooler nights and warm days; light rains uncommon. Clear skies make for excellent photography and easier travel conditions, but nights can be chilly.
Hot days with occasional heavy showers; dusty and sometimes muddy roads. Travel may slow, but landscapes show a stark, dramatic contrast after rain.
Warm to hot days with sporadic rain; transitional weather can be variable but generally suitable for travel with sun protection.
Metema at Night
Hiking in Metema
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Low-difficulty trails offering expansive views of the arid plains and distant line of Sudan; suitable for a half-day hike.
Short walks along the Tekezé-adjacent ridges with photo opportunities and chances to spot local birds.
Airports
How to reach Metema by plane.
A regional hub with flights to Addis Ababa and other key cities; add-on road transfer to Metema may take several hours depending on road conditions.
Another regional option with connections to Addis Ababa; typically serves domestic routes and longer transfers to northern towns.
A northern international-style airport serving domestic flights; useful if combining a northern Ethiopia itinerary with a border visit.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group in the area, with strong cultural traditions, language (Amharic), and market-centered daily life.
A mix of seasonal and permanent workers who contribute to trade and daily commerce near the border.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
By far the most popular sport in the region, played in local pitches and watched in communal spaces.
Athletics and informal running events are common in towns with open spaces.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Metema.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Ethiopian vegetarian options rely on legumes and vegetables in stews (shiro, misir wat) served with injera. Ask for misir wat or shiro, avoid ghee or heavily spiced meat dishes, and confirm no meat stock if strict vegetarian.