Eastern
Danakil Depression
Salt flats, sulphur springs and lava lakes in one of the hottest places on Earth.
Eastern Ethiopia
Harar
A walled trading city with a distinct culture, narrow lanes and lively markets.
Overview
About Harar
Harar Jugol is a walled city in eastern Ethiopia with a strong Islamic heritage, many mosques and shrines, and its own language, food and architecture. Its narrow lanes and coloured houses are best explored on foot.
At dusk, hyenas are fed by hand outside the walls, a local tradition that draws visitors. Harar is also known for its coffee and its markets.
- Region
- Eastern
- Best time
- October to March
Highlights
What makes it worth the journey
Highlights
- Walking the old town and its gates
- Markets full of spices and textiles
- The hyena feeding at dusk
- Harari coffee
Things to do
- Explore the old town with a local guide
- Visit the markets
- Watch the hyena feeding
- Try local snacks and coffee
Plan your visit
Before you go
Best time to visit
October to March; the cooler dry season is the most comfortable
Getting there
Fly to Dire Dawa and drive about an hour to Harar, or drive from Addis Ababa (a full day).
Getting around
The old town is compact and walkable; three-wheelers cover the rest.
Good to know
- Dress modestly; it is a conservative city.
- Ask before taking photographs of people.
Gallery
A look at Harar
Photos: Unsplash
Keep exploring
More places to see
Eastern
Eastern
Awash National Park
Beisa oryx on acacia plains, a waterfall into a gorge and hot springs among doum palms.
Central
Addis Ababa
Ethiopia’s capital: museums, markets and the birthplace of many a coffee ceremony.
Let us plan your Harar trip
Tell us when you want to travel and what you love. A local specialist will reply with a suggested plan and a clear price.