Search Harar hotels

Top reasons to visit Harar

• Historic City Walls: Explore Harar's ancient walls, showcasing stunning Arabic architecture and rich history.
• Cultural Landmarks: Visit the Harar Museum and vibrant piazzas to discover the city’s unique heritage.
• Vibrant Markets: Experience the bustling local markets, perfect for shopping and immersing in local life.
• Local Cuisine: Savor Harar's delicious traditional dishes, a true reflection of Ethiopian culture.
• Stunning Surroundings: Venture beyond the city to enjoy beautiful landscapes and rich heritage in nearby regions.

Where to stay near Harar

Harar, a vibrant city steeped in culture and history, offers a captivating experience for any visitor. Explore the ancient walls adorned with Arabic influences, wander through the bustling markets, and savour the local cuisine. Just beyond Harar, discover the stunning landscapes and rich heritage of the surrounding regions. This enchanting destination invites you to immerse yourself in its unique vibe, making it a must-visit spot in Ethiopia for culture enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

• Dire Dawa: Located 41.8km from Harar, Dire Dawa is a vibrant city offering a unique blend of urban and cultural experiences. Travellers flock here for sports and business, with bustling public markets and stunning sunrises and sunsets enhancing the travel experience. Highlights include the impressive stadium and sports facilities, along with the historical castle, which provide a glimpse into the local heritage. Peak visitor seasons in June, July, and September make it an exciting time to explore this dynamic city.

Things to do in Harar

Shopping

In Harar, explore the vibrant local markets, such as the Harar Market, where you can find traditional crafts and spices. If you're up for a drive, visit the Harar City Mall, located about 16.1km away, offering a range of shops and dining options for souvenirs.

Recreation

Experience the tranquil atmosphere at the Harar Wellness Centre, where you can indulge in traditional Ethiopian massages and yoga sessions. Explore the vibrant local markets for a taste of fresh produce and local crafts, or take a leisurely walk through the ancient walls of Harar, soaking in the rich history.

Adventure

In Harar, explore the ancient walled city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its vibrant markets and historic mosques. Venture into the nearby hills for hiking, offering breathtaking views. Experience the unique tradition of hyena feeding at night, a thrilling encounter with these fascinating creatures.

Nightlife

In Harar, the nightlife is vibrant and culturally rich. You can enjoy a lively atmosphere at the famous Harar Jugol, where traditional music fills the air. For a more relaxed vibe, visit the local cafés, offering delightful Ethiopian coffee and a chance to mingle with friendly locals.

Find the best attractions in Harar

Harar offers a rich cultural and city-themed experience for visitors. Key attractions include historical landmarks, the Harar Museum, and vibrant piazzas, making it ideal for those keen on exploring local heritage. With its unique blend of history and urban charm, Harar provides plenty to see and do, ensuring a memorable vacation for travellers seeking an authentic cultural experience.

• Gidir Magala: This landmark in Harar offers a rich tapestry of culture and history. Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant local traditions and admire the architectural nuances that reflect the region's heritage.
• Feres Magala: As a lively piazza, Feres Magala serves as a hub of city life. It's an excellent spot to experience the dynamic atmosphere, where locals gather, and cultural events often unfold, showcasing the essence of Harar.
• Arthur Rimbaud Center: This museum celebrates the life and work of the famed poet. It provides insights into Rimbaud's time in Ethiopia, along with exhibitions that highlight local culture and arts.

Best time to go to Harar

The best time to visit Harar can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Harar falls in March, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Harar falls in December and July. July has slightly high visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy
January	66.9°F (19.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average
February	69.8°F (21.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low
March	71.4°F (21.9°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average
April	70.0°F (21.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High
May	69.1°F (20.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low
June	67.6°F (19.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average
July	66.0°F (18.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High
August	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average
September	68.4°F (20.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High
October	68.5°F (20.3°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low
November	67.5°F (19.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average
December	66.0°F (18.9°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Harar

Getting to Harar is convenient with two major airports nearby. DIRe Dawa's Aba Tenna Dejazmach Yilma Airport (DIR) is located 45.1km from Harar, offering various airlines. Ideal accommodation options near this airport include the Dire Dawa Hotel and the Benishangul Hotel. Jijiga Airport (JIJ), situated 85.3km from Harar, also provides access to the region with airlines such as Ethiopian Airlines. For those staying in Harar, transportation services like taxis and car rentals are available to facilitate easy transfers from these airports to the city and nearby hotels.