What Is Eskista? Ethiopia’s Traditional Shoulder Dance Explained

Eskista is an Ethiopian traditional dance characterized by the intense shaking of the shoulders, the chest, and head movement. Originating from the Amhara ethnic group, Eskista is deeply embedded in Ethiopian culture and is performed at weddings, celebrations, and communal gatherings.

This guide explains, “What is Eskista dance?”, and while offering useful information for travelers looking for Ethiopian tourist attractions, and an Ethiopian cultural tour.

The Ethiopian shoulder dance is called Eskista

What Is Eskista Dance From Ethiopia?

Eskista, a traditional Ethiopian dance, which has also been called the ”shoulder dance,” involves rapid shoulder movements interspersed with theatrical gestures and fancy footwork. Mostly found among the Amhara and the Tigray tribes in the northern part of Ethiopia, Eskista communicates stories, emotions, and social messages through body movement. “Eskista” itself is derived from the Amharic term for dance, so the dance form has deep roots in Ethiopian culture.

The Role of Eskista Dance in the Culture

Eskista is not just a dance — it is a narrative form, dynamic with the many strains of Ethiopia’s culture.

History: The origins of Eskista are traced back centuries and are steeped in ancient Ethiopian religious rituals and social gatherings. Some have proposed that its shoulder movements are similar to those one uses in farming or hunting.

Social Expression: The Eskista is used by dancers to communicate joy; love in a joking manner; or to make fun of people through satire; improvisation is common as its supports stories and it is used to get a reaction from the audience; it is performed at weddings, holidays, and religious festivals such as Timkat (Epiphany).

Ethnic diversity: Although dominated by the Amhara and Tigray, different forms of Eskista are spread through Ethiopia’s over 80 ethnicities, such as the energetic dances of the Gurage or the rhythm-based dances of the Oromo.

Cultural Heritage Preservation: As Ethiopia continues to modernize, Eskista represents a living gateway to the ancestral traditions of the Ethiopian people; it is performed in cultural halls and taught down to the youth.

How Eskista is Performed

Distinct from most world dance forms, Eskista’s signature movements are isolated shoulder shimmies imitating the slither of a snake or the flap of a bird’s wings. Dancers have rooted stances as their upper bodies flow, casting a spell.

Shoulder Shaking: The defining feature of Eskista is the rapid, rhythmic movement of the shoulders.

Chest and Head Movements: Dancers incorporate chest jolts and head gestures to enhance the performance.

Group Formation: Eskista is often performed in rows or circles, engaging the audience in a lively atmosphere.

Eskista at Ethiopian Festivals

Accompanied by such traditional instruments as the krar (lyre), masinko (one-stringed fiddle), and kebero (drum), Eskista is a popular feature of celebrations, festivals, and cultural events all over Ethiopia, which is seen as a sign of happiness and togetherness. Spectators often reward skilled dancers by sticking money onto their foreheads, a tradition known as shilimat.

Why Should You Experience Eskista Dance When You are in Ethiopia?

Real Cultural Perspective: Eskista is a window into the soul of Ethiopian life and history.

Colourful and lively: A dance in which the rapid dance movements and rhythm make for a festive spirit.

Live Tradition: The tradition of giving shilimat adds to the interactive relationship between dancers and audience members.

Visually appealing: Eskista is very easy to watch for travelers, and they’re likely to remember the dynamic lifts, bends, and poses.

Ethiopia’s iconic shoulder dance is rich in rhythm and tradition

Where to Experience Eskista Dance in Ethiopia

For Ethiopian culture tours by tourists, the  Eskista dance is one of the highlights in some of the Ethiopian tourist places. And here are some of the best places to see or try this iconic dance:

Addis Ababa: The Cultural Hub

• Venues: Seek out cultural restaurants such as Yod Abyssinia or 2000 Habesha Cultural Restaurant in Addis Ababa, where nightly performances feature Eskista, along with other traditional dances. There is dinner-show style entertainment here with real Ethiopian food, like injera and doro wat.
• Experience. Some restaurants invite guests onto the stage for a hands-on Eskista lesson.
• Travel Tip: Make reservations in advance, particularly in high tourist seasons (October to March).
• Why Visit? Addis Ababa is the launching pad for the country’s top cultural offerings like the National Museum and Merkato, so you’ve got the best-of-all-world options for combining Eskista with other sights.

Lalibela: Heart of the Country and of the Culture

• Venues: Performances take place during festivals like Timkat (Jan. 19-20), which feature religious processions by Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Experience: Observe local half-naked dancers in ‘shamma’ (white shawl) dancing Eskista to celebrate Epiphany.
• Travel Tip: Stay at the Mountain View Hotel, a short walk from the churches and festival sites.
• Why Visit? Ethiopia’s haven, Lalibela: for an authentic cultural immersion journey. Look no further!

Gondar: The Camelot of Africa

• Venues: Eskista is performed in and around the Fasil Ghebbi castles of Gondar during Genna (Ethiopian Christmas, January 7) celebrations. Community events are enlivened by local cultural troupes.
• Experience: Dance your way into Eskista, and play traditional games, such as Gugs (horseback hockey).
• Travel Tip: Stay at the Goha Hotel to get beautiful views and access to cultural attractions.
• Why Visit? Gondar’s imperial history makes it one of the best stops on Ethiopian cultural tours.

Bahir Dar: Lakeside and Cultural Shows

• Venues: Lakeside resorts such as Kuriftu Resort & Spa on Lake Tana hold cultural evenings with Eskista dances.
• Try: Pairing a boat to visit the monasteries of Lake Tana with an evening of traditional dance.
• Insider Tip: Go in the dry season (October to March) when the weather is agreeable.
• Why Visit? Bahir Dar, aside from its incredible natural wonders in Ethiopia, such as the Blue Nile Falls, is a great city that provides a blend of natural and cultural beauty.

Feel the rhythm in every shoulder roll — this is Eskista, Ethiopia’s signature dance

When is the Best Time to Enjoy Eskista?

The best time to explore rare destinations in Ethiopia for Eskista performances is during the dry months (October to March), when you also have major cultural festivals, and traveling is convenient. Key events include:

Timkat (January 19–20): Colorful Eskista movements take place in Lalibela, Gondar, and Addis Ababa during this national holiday of Epiphany.

Meskel (September 27–28): Bonfire-lit celebrations in Addis Ababa that include traditional dancing, such as Eskista.

Genna (Jan. 7): Ethiopian Christmas in Gondar and Lalibela with communal Eskista dances.

The rainy season (June to September) might hinder travel to distant areas, but it means smaller crowds at cultural spots in Addis Ababa.

Why Eskista Dance is a Must-See for Tourists

Eskista is a form of Ethiopian vibrancy and is therefore one of the main attractions when it comes to Ethiopian cultural tours. The dynamism of its movements and narratives makes it an arousing show, which draws them closer to the unusual destinations of Ethiopia. Whether you’re enjoying a show at Yod Abyssinia or dancing with locals for Timkat, Eskista is a cultural gem that enhances your trip to the most stunning places to visit in Ethiopia.

Can Tourists Try Eskista?

Yes. As for tourists, numerous cultural centers and hotels have interactive dance workshops. You don’t need to be an expert to experiment. Local teachers will walk you through the basics, and even a couple of shoulder shimmies can get you closer to the Ethiopian vibe.

It’s a great way to feel like you’re experiencing the culture firsthand and come home with more than photos—come home with some rhythm.

Do's & Don'ts for Tourists

Do's

• Do applaud after performances
• Do ask before photographing
• Do try basic moves when invited

Don'ts

• Don't interrupt ceremonies
• Don't wear revealing clothing to events
• Plan your Eskista in this country in Ethiopia

Are you ready to finally learn about Eskista dance and be part of the rich cultural heritage of Ethiopia? From Addis Ababa restaurants to Lalibela Holy Festivals, the average tourist to Ethiopia should have an Eskista performance among the Ethiopian tourist attractions. If you want to experience the real thing, not one made for tourists, book during the dry season with a reliable tour operator, and you’re in for the cultural adventure of a lifetime. For those interested in personalized suggestions or assistance with planning your trip to some of the less-visited places to go in Ethiopia, leave your travel plans and questions in the comments!