Things To Do
in Metu
Metu is a town located in southwestern Ethiopia, in the Illubabor Zone of the Oromia Region. It is known for its lush green landscapes and scenic beauty, surrounded by fertile agricultural land. The town serves as a commercial hub for the surrounding area, with markets and shops offering a variety of goods.
Metu is also home to a diverse community representing different ethnic groups, making it a vibrant and culturally rich destination.
- "Selam" - Hello
- "Tenastelen" - Good morning
- "Amesegenallo" - Thank you
- "Dehna neh" - How are you?
- "Bemin shalem" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.25 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Metu market, where you can experience local culture and goods. Enjoy some fresh fruit or traditional breakfast from a local vendor.
Take a guided tour of the University of Metu and its beautiful campus. Participate in a cultural exchange with local students to broaden your perspectives.
Dine at a popular local restaurant to taste authentic Ethiopian cuisine. End your evening with a leisurely walk around the town to soak in the atmosphere.
Head to the nearby natural reserves for a morning hike. The fresh air and scenic views will invigorate you.
Have a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, enjoying the beauty of the landscape. Ideal for photography, so don't forget your camera!
Return to Metu and find a cozy café to relax. Sip on some Ethiopian coffee while engaging with locals or reading a book.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and historical significance.
- Diverse natural surroundings that attract tourists and nature enthusiasts.
- Growing educational opportunities with local institutions.
- Community-oriented lifestyle with strong social ties.
- Access to local markets and fresh produce.
- Infrastructure challenges, including road maintenance and sanitation.
- Limited access to healthcare and educational resources in some areas.
- Economic disparities and high unemployment rates.
- Potential political instability impacting local governance.
- Environmental concerns due to deforestation and climate change effects.
Best Activities in Metu
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Metu is surrounded by beautiful mountains and offers several hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts.
Enjoy a day by the picturesque Metu River, perfect for picnics and relaxation.
Take a nature walk or hike through the lush Metu Forest, home to diverse flora and fauna.
Tours
Uncover the best of Metu with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Metu
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views and photo opportunities of the diverse wildlife and landscapes.
Known for its beautiful scenery and opportunities to capture the river and surrounding nature.
Provides breathtaking views and great photo opportunities of the picturesque crater lake.
Food in Metu
Metu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spongy sourdough flatbread served with various savory stews and vegetable dishes. Best enjoyed at local eateries like Shewaferaw Cafe.
Must-Try!
A spicy chicken stew simmered in berbere sauce, often served with injera. Tasty and authentic versions can be found at Biftu Gudina Restaurant.
Finely minced raw beef, seasoned with spiced butter and served with injera. Try this traditional dish at Enat Kitfo Bet for an authentic experience.
A flavorful chickpea or bean stew, often served as a vegetarian option with injera. Visit Ager Kitchen for a delicious serving of shiro.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Metu better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the bustling Metu Central Market for an authentic taste of local street food, like ful medames, a popular Ethiopian breakfast dish, and a variety of freshly prepared snacks.
Venture into the Guraghe Zone area to discover a wide array of street food options, including samosas, roasted maize, and traditional injera with delectable toppings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Metu, Ethiopia, it is important to greet others with respect, using traditional greetings such as 'salam' or 'akkam.' It is also common to shake hands and make eye contact when greeting someone.
Respecting elders is a key cultural norm in Metu, Ethiopia. This includes using formal language and gestures when interacting with older individuals, as well as showing deference and seeking their guidance and advice.
It is important to dress modestly and respectfully in Metu, Ethiopia, particularly when visiting religious sites or attending community events. Wearing traditional attire or clothing that covers the shoulders and knees is often considered appropriate.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Metu with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Metu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Metu, Ethiopia. It is not expected or customary to tip at restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
In Metu, Ethiopia, cash is the primary form of payment. Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted, so it's important to carry enough cash when visiting the area. Mobile money services may also be used for certain transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Metu is during the dry season, from October to May, when the weather is generally sunny and pleasant. Visitors can expect clear skies, warmer temperatures, and minimal rainfall during this period.
The rainy season in Metu occurs from June to September. Travelers should expect frequent rainfall, lush green landscapes, and cooler temperatures during this time. However, some outdoor activities may be limited due to the wet conditions.
Metu at Night
Hiking in Metu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park known for its diverse ecosystems, rare wildlife, and beautiful landscapes, offering numerous hiking trails.
A popular mountain near Metu that provides various hiking trails with scenic views of the surrounding areas.
Located a bit farther away, this park offers hiking opportunities through lush landscapes and wildlife viewing.
A lesser-known hiking destination that features challenging trails and spectacular vistas.
Aiports
How to reach Metu by plane.
The largest international airport in Ethiopia, located in the capital city, Addis Ababa, approximately 45 km from Metu.
An international airport serving Arba Minch, located about 400 km from Metu.
An airport located in Mekelle, approximately 580 km from Metu, serving domestic and international flights.
An international airport in Gondar, located roughly 700 km from Metu.
An international airport serving Bahir Dar, situated about 660 km from Metu.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Ethiopia, including the region of Metu, with a rich cultural heritage and significant influence in politics and economics.
A prominent ethnic group with historical significance, known for their contributions to Ethiopian culture, language, and administration.
An ethnic group known for its coffee production and rich cultural traditions, located in the southern regions of Ethiopia.
A diverse group renowned for their unique language and elaborate cultural practices, often engaged in trade and agriculture.
An ethnic group from the northern region of Ethiopia, noted for its historical significance and cultural contributions.
Includes various small ethnic groups such as the Kulin, Hadiya, and others, each maintaining their unique cultural identity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Metu, played by many local teams and appreciated by a large fan base.
Basketball is growing in popularity in Metu, with several courts available for community play and school competitions.
Volleyball is commonly played in schools and community centers, especially among women, and is a popular recreational activity.
Athletics, particularly long-distance running, has a strong following in Ethiopia, including Metu, with many local athletes participating in races.
Cycling is gaining popularity as both a sport and means of transportation, with individuals and groups organizing regular rides.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Metu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most local eateries offer vegetarian dishes like shiro and various vegetable stews. For vegan options, it's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly to ensure a fulfilling dining experience.
While injera is a staple, some restaurants may offer gluten-free injera or alternative grain-based flatbreads upon request. Communicating dietary needs in advance can assist in finding suitable options.