Find hotels in Harar from £15

Top reasons to visit Harar

• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Harar is recognised for its rich cultural heritage and well-preserved ancient walled city, showcasing a unique blend of history and architecture.
• Vibrant Markets: Experience bustling local markets where you can shop for traditional crafts, spices, and textiles, immersing yourself in the local culture.
• Historic Landmarks: Visit the Harar Museum and historic churches that reflect the city’s diverse influences and rich history.
• Cultural Experiences: Engage with local customs, enjoy traditional cuisine, and witness unique ceremonies that highlight Harar's vibrant culture.
• Stunning Landscapes: Explore the breathtaking surrounding countryside, perfect for outdoor activities and appreciating Ethiopia's natural beauty.

Where to stay near Harar

Harar, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a rich tapestry of culture and history, making it an ideal destination for cultural enthusiasts. Explore the ancient walled city with its vibrant markets, traditional Harari houses, and Arabic influences that echo through its streets. Nearby, you can discover breathtaking landscapes and engage in local sports, ensuring a well-rounded experience. A visit to Harar promises to be a captivating journey into Ethiopia's diverse heritage.

• Dire Dawa: Located 41.8km from Harar, Dire Dawa is a vibrant city known for its dynamic atmosphere. Visitors flock here for sports and business-themed experiences, with peak arrivals in June to July and September. The city boasts bustling public markets and stunning sunrise and sunset views. Key attractions include a local sports facility and the historical castle, offering a glimpse into Ethiopia's rich culture and heritage. Whether you're exploring the lively streets or attending an event, Dire Dawa promises an engaging travel experience.

Things to do in Harar

Harar offers a culturally rich experience ideal for city-themed holidays, with activities such as birdwatching and shopping. Explore its cultural gems and vibrant markets, where you can immerse yourself in the local heritage. Don’t miss the chance to find suitable accommodations that enhance your stay while you discover the unique charm of this historic city.

Shopping

In Harar, visit the bustling Harar Grand Market for local crafts, spices, and traditional textiles. If you're up for a drive, check out Dire Dawa’s Shopping Mall, about 48.3km away, which features various shops and eateries for a different shopping experience.

Recreation

Harar's Sof Omar Cave offers a tranquil adventure, with its stunning rock formations and serene atmosphere, perfect for meditation. Visit the Harar Coffee Ceremony for a soothing experience, savouring rich flavours while embracing local culture in a calming environment.

Adventure

In Harar, explore the vibrant markets and indulge in local cuisine, including spicy stews and coffee ceremonies. Venture into the Harar Jugol, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to discover ancient architecture and rich history. Experience the unique tradition of feeding hyenas in the evening for an unforgettable adventure.

Nightlife

In Harar, the vibrant nightlife features the lively Harar Jugol, where traditional music fills the air. Popular venues like the Ras Hotel offer a blend of local cuisine and cultural performances, creating an enchanting atmosphere for visitors seeking authentic Ethiopian experiences.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Harar

• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To uncover the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Harar with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Harar

Harar is an excellent destination for those seeking a culturally rich and city-themed vacation. Visitors can explore an array of attractions, including the Harar Museum, historic churches, and notable landmarks that reflect the region's vibrant heritage. This city offers a captivating blend of experiences, perfect for tourists eager to immerse themselves in local culture and history.

• Feres Magala: Experience the vibrant heart of Harar at Feres Magala, a lively piazza where the local culture comes alive. Enjoy the bustling atmosphere, with street vendors and locals mingling, offering a true taste of city life.
• Jamia Mosque: Visit the stunning Jamia Mosque, a significant cultural and spiritual site in Harar. Its intricate architecture and serene environment provide a unique insight into the Islamic heritage of the region.
• Hyena Feeding Sites: Witness a fascinating cultural tradition at the Hyena Feeding Sites, where locals feed wild hyenas in a captivating nightly ritual. This experience offers a glimpse into the historical relationships between the people and wildlife.

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

Travelling to Harar, Ethiopia, can be conveniently done via two major airports. Dire Dawa (DIR), also known as Aba Tenna Dejazmach Yilma Airport, is situated approximately 45.1km from Harar, making it the closest option. This airport is served by several airlines, providing good connectivity. For accommodation, hotels such as the Dire Dawa Hotel and the Karamara Hotel are nearby. Alternatively, Jijiga Airport (JIJ) is located around 85.3km from Harar. While it is farther away, it also offers various airline services. Hotels near Jijiga Airport include the Jijiga Hotel and the Gursum Hotel, ensuring comfortable stays for travellers.