Harar Tour Walled City of Legends in Ethiopia

Day 1 · Addis Ababa - Dire Dawa - Harar

1. 1

   Stop 1

   4 hours

   Your journey begins with the short flight from Addis Ababa to Dire Dawa. Upon arrival, our professional guide will be waiting for you at Dire Dawa airport, holding a personalized sign with your name. They will greet you warmly and provide a detailed briefing about your exciting two-day Harar tour.

   First Stop: Kezira European Cemetery (Commonwealth War Cemetery) step into history at this poignant burial site, where graves of early 20th-century settlers, railway workers and diplomats primarily from France, Italy, Greece, and Armenia-tell the story of Dire Dawa’s multicultural past.

   Next Stop: Dire Dawa Railway Station and Museum

   Discover the legacy of the historic Ethio-Djibouti railway through vintage locomotives and fascinating exhibits-a must for history and train enthusiasts! Then take a scenic 1.5 hours drive to the walled city of Harar.

   On the way, stop at Ethiopia’s largest Khat market, a lively hub offering a glimpse into local trade and culture.

2. 2

   Harar

   one hour

   In the evening, experience the thrilling Hyena Feeding Show a centuries old tradition where wild hyenas are fed by hand. This unique practice, deeply rooted in local culture, offers a rare opportunity to observe these fascinating scavengers up close. Human-wildlife interactions, the hyena feeding ritual highlights the complex relationship between humans and predators, showcasing both cooperation and survival strategies in the wild.

Overnight at Ferej Hotel, a 3 - star Hotel

Day 2 · Visit the Walled City of Harar and Fly Back to Addis Ababa

1. 1

   Harar

   4 hours

   In the morning explore Harar Jugol’s Gates and Walls. Visit the five historic gates (Assum Ber, Argob Ber, etc.) and learn about the 16th-century defensive walls.

   Stop at Emir Nur’s Tomb, a key figure in Harar’s fortification.

   Visit Harari Traditional Houses, a preserved Harari home with colorful jars (niches), intricate woodwork, and cultural artifacts. Learn about Harari customs, wedding traditions, and the unique Harari language.

   Visit Rimbaud House, French Poet’s Former Residence. Visit the museum dedicated to Arthur Rimbaud, who lived in Harar in the 1880s.

   Have a lunch break at local restaurant and try local dishes like Beyaynetu (vegan platter), Harar biryani, or spicy Doro wat (chicken stew).

2. 2

   Harar

   5 hours

   After lunch break, visit Harar Market and Craft Shops. Wander through the bustling Showa and Gidir Magala markets for spices, woven baskets, and silver jewelry.

   Visit Basajin Amulet Market (if interested in traditional Islamic talismans).

   Visit Sherif Harari City Museum. Discover Harar’s history through manuscripts, coins, and royal relics.

   Visit Feres Magala (Horse Market Square) and relax with a coffee at a rooftop café overlooking the old city.

   Late in the afternoon, transfer to Dire Dawa for your flight back to Addis Ababa or continue to your next destination