Harar - Discovering Ethiopia

Travelling to Harar

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Harar, a pretty good destination in Ethiopia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Harar and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Harar, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Ethiopia, here's everything to know about Harar for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Harar

Harar is a city located in eastern Ethiopia, about 523 kilometers from the capital city of Addis Ababa. It is known for its unique cultural heritage and is considered one of the most important centers of Islamic culture in Africa. Harar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with over 80 mosques and shrines, and is renowned for its ancient walled city, which dates back to the 16th century. The city is also known for its colorful markets, where you can find traditional handicrafts, spices, and coffee. Additionally, Harar is home to a large population of hyenas, which are commonly fed and interacted with by locals and tourists alike.

What to visit in Harar

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions of Harar, Ethiopia, along with some information about each: 1. Harar Jugol - This is a walled city that is one of the most unique and well-preserved Islamic cities in Africa. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts over 82 mosques and shrines.
2. Rimbaud House - This is the house where Arthur Rimbaud, the French poet, lived during his stay in Harar. It has been turned into a museum that showcases his works.
3. Hyena feeding - Every night locals feed wild hyenas with raw meat at a particular spot in Harar. This has become somewhat of a tourist attraction where visitors can watch the feeding and even feed the hyenas themselves (with guidance from locals).
4. Harari Museum - This museum displays the cultural heritage of the Harar region, including its people, language, and religion.
5. Markets - Harar is home to several markets, including the meat market, the spice market, and the souvenir market. These are great places to explore and find unique items to take home.
6. Tombs of Emir Nur and Amru - These tombs are located on the outskirts of Harar. Emir Nur is considered to be the founder of the city, and Amru was his successor.
7. Harar Beer Factory - This is the only beer factory in Harar and offers tours to visitors who are interested in learning about the brewing process and trying the beer.
8. Feres Magala - This is a lake located a few kilometers outside of Harar, where visitors can go fishing and enjoy the natural scenery.
9. Harar Horse Racing - This is a traditional event that takes place annually during the Eid al-Fitr holiday. It involves horse races and other festivities. 10. Harar coffee - Harar is known for its coffee, which is grown locally. Visitors can visit coffee farms and learn about the traditional coffee-making process.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Ethiopia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Harar.

When to go on holiday to Harar

The best time to visit Harar is from October to March, which is the city's dry season. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, with comfortable temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The rainy season in Harar is from June to September, during which time the city experiences occasional heavy downpours and the temperature can be quite warm and humid. It's important to note that many festivals and events take place in Harar during the dry season, making it a particularly enjoyable time to visit.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Harar

The most common way to get to Harar is by taking a domestic flight from Addis Ababa to the nearby city of Dire Dawa, which is about an hour's drive from Harar. Ethiopian Airlines and other local airlines offer daily flights to Dire Dawa from Addis Ababa.
From Dire Dawa, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Harar, which takes around 1-2 hours depending on the type of transportation you choose. Taxis are readily available at the airport, but make sure to negotiate a price before getting in.
Alternatively, you can also take a shared minibus from the bus station in Dire Dawa to Harar, which is cheaper but may be less comfortable.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Harar, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Harar

Here are some typical foods of Harar, Ethiopia with a short description for each of them: 1. Dulet - A spicy dish made from a mixture of minced sheep or beef liver, heart, and spleen with onion, spices, and injera.
2. Kita Firfir - A traditional Ethiopian breakfast dish made of shredded injera bread that is mixed and sautéed with butter, berbere spices, and served with scrambled eggs.
3. Foul - A popular breakfast dish made with fava beans boiled and served with salt, pepper, and sometimes chili paste.
4. Kifto - A raw beef dish that has been minced and mixed with spices, mainly the Ethiopian spice blend berbere or mitmita. It's often served with injera or bread.
5. Injera - A traditional Ethiopian flatbread made from teff flour that has a spongy texture and is used as both a utensil and a food item.
6. Genfo - A porridge made from roasted and ground barley or wheat flour that is cooked with water and served hot.
7. Mesir Wot - A spicy red lentil stew that is made with berbere and served over injera.
8. Kitfo - A popular dish made from minced raw beef that has been mixed with spices, often served with injera.
9. Tibs - A dish made of sauteed or grilled meat with onions, tomatoes, chili pepper, and Ethiopian spices.
You can find general info about typical foods in Ethiopia here.

Is Harar an expensive destination for tourists?

Harar, Ethiopia can be relatively inexpensive for tourists compared to other destinations. Accommodations, food, and transportation are generally affordable there. However, guided tours and access to some historical sites can be a bit more expensive. It's best to do some research and plan ahead to stick within your budget while taking advantage of all that Harar has to offer. Overall, it can be a reasonable and affordable destination for travelers.

Where to find accomodation in Harar

There are a few areas in Harar that are good for finding accommodation. The first is the Old Town, which is the historic part of Harar and is packed with traditional architecture, markets, and shops. It's also conveniently located close to many of the top tourist attractions in Harar, such as the Harar Jugol city walls, Rimbaud's House, and the hyena feeding site.
Another good area to find accommodation is the New Town, which is the more modern part of Harar and offers many amenities such as banks, restaurants, and shops. It's also a good base for exploring Harar's surrounding countryside, including the Babile Elephant Sanctuary and the Dire Dawa train station.
Finally, if you're looking for more upscale accommodation, you might want to consider staying in the nearby city of Dire Dawa, which is located just a short distance from Harar and offers a wider range of hotel options.
You can check hotel prices at Harar here:
Booking.com

Is Harar a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Harar is generally a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, it is always advisable for travelers to exercise caution and stay aware of their surroundings. Petty theft can be an issue in some areas, so it is best to keep valuables with you and not leave them unattended. It is also important to follow local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites. It is a good idea to check with your embassy or consulate for any travel advisories or warnings before visiting.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Ethiopia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Harar.

What type of travelers will enjoy Harar the most?

Harar is a unique destination that can be enjoyed by a variety of travelers. However, it is important to note that Harar is best suited for travelers who are interested in cultural experiences and history. Here's who might enjoy the city the most: 1. History and Cultural Enthusiasts: Harar has a rich history and culture that dates back over 1,000 years. The city has a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is the old walled city and attracts travelers who want to explore the distinct architecture, ancient mosques, and unique markets.
2. Families: Harar has a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, making it a great place for families to visit. The city is known for its friendliness, and families can enjoy a variety of activities such as visiting the Harar Wildlife Sanctuary, exploring the narrow alleys of the old city, and trying local foods.
3. Solo Travelers: Harar is a relatively safe city in Ethiopia, and solo travelers can enjoy exploring the city's unique culture and attractions at their own pace. The city is also known for its lively street markets and great street food, which can be enjoyed by solo travelers.
Overall, While Harar may not be the ideal destination for young people looking for fun, those who are interested in history, culture, and a unique travel experience will enjoy exploring this city.

How to get around Harar

In Harar, the most common transportation options are: 1. Walking: The historic walled city of Harar is quite compact and can be explored easily on foot.
2. Bajaj: Bajaj is a small three-wheel vehicle that can carry up to three passengers. It is a popular mode of transportation in Harar and is relatively cheap.
3. Taxis: Taxis are available in Harar and can be hailed on the street or hired at a taxi stand. They are a bit more expensive than bajajs.
4. Minibuses: Minibuses are also available for intercity travel, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable.

What to see around Harar

Certainly, here are some interesting and beautiful destinations for a day trip from Harar, Ethiopia: 1. Dire Dawa: The city of Dire Dawa is only about an hour drive from Harar. Visit the bustling markets and try local street food or enjoy a coffee at one of the coffee shops.
2. Babile Elephant Sanctuary: This protected area is only about 50 km from Harar and is home to the African bush elephant. Visitors can spot the magnificent animals and enjoy the unique rock formations of the area.
3. Jugal Mountains: Located about 40 km from Harar, the Jugal Mountains are perfect for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.
4. Lake Basaka: A beautiful lake located 18 km to the north of Harar, surrounded by the lush green countryside.
5. Aweday Hot Springs: Visit the natural hot springs located 60 km to the south of Harar and rejuvenate in the warm waters.
6. Kudu Valley: Only about an hour's drive from Harar, this valley is known for its stunning views, farms and traditional houses of the surrounding countryside.
7. Gara Muleta Forest: Located at 30 km from Harar, this forest is a great spot to enjoy a relaxing stroll or a picnic while taking in the natural beauty of Ethiopia.
I hope these suggestions are helpful in planning a day trip from Harar.
For every travel information about Ethiopia you can click here.

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