Find hotels in Harar

Top reasons to visit Harar

• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Explore the enchanting old town of Harar, recognised for its unique architecture and cultural significance.
• Vibrant Markets: Experience the lively atmosphere of local markets, offering an array of unique crafts and fresh produce.
• Cultural Immersion: Engage with local traditions and customs, providing a deeper understanding of Ethiopian heritage.
• Scenic Landscapes: Enjoy the stunning vistas of the Harari Region, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
• Historic Landmarks: Discover an array of monuments and museums that narrate Harar's rich history.

Where to stay near Harar

Harar, a vibrant city steeped in culture and history, offers a unique travel experience for visitors. Explore the winding alleys of the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and immerse yourself in local traditions. Nearby attractions include the scenic landscapes of the Harari Region and the bustling markets. Perfect for those seeking a culturally themed holiday, Harar promises an unforgettable journey through Ethiopia's rich heritage.

• Dire Dawa: Located 16.2km from Harar, Dire Dawa is a vibrant city offering a unique blend of urban excitement and cultural experiences. Visitors flock here for its bustling public markets, stunning sunrises and sunsets, along with various sports activities. Key attractions include a local stadium and a historic castle, making it an intriguing destination for both business and pleasure. The city is especially popular during the peak months of June to July and September, providing an engaging experience for travellers seeking a dynamic city atmosphere.

Things to do near Harar

Harar offers a rich cultural experience perfect for city-themed vacations, with activities such as exploring the vibrant public market, indulging in birdwatching, and shopping for unique local crafts. A city tour is essential for immersing yourself in Harar's historic charm and diverse heritage.

Shopping

For a vibrant shopping experience, explore the local Ashawa Market and Camel Market in Harar, both offering lively city vibes. If you're up for a drive, Dire Dawa Market and Ashawa Market, located 26 and 16.8km away respectively, provide a broader selection of goods and souvenirs.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Dire Dawa Stadium, located 16.2km from Harar. Engage in sports activities or simply soak in the energetic vibes of the local community. It's an ideal spot for both recreation and wellness, offering a unique blend of physical activity and cultural immersion.

Adventure

Explore the ancient walled city of Harar, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can wander through narrow alleys, vibrant markets, and historic mosques. For an exhilarating experience, visit the Hyena Man, who feeds wild hyenas at night, offering a unique glimpse into local culture and wildlife.

Nightlife

In Harar, the lively atmosphere comes alive at venues like the Harar Jugol, where traditional music fills the air. Enjoy a local coffee ceremony at one of the cafés or explore the vibrant street food scene, offering a taste of authentic Ethiopian cuisine under the stars.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Harar

When planning your trip to Harar, consider using Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly accommodations by sorting results from lowest to highest prices. Look for deals by combining your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Opt for eco-certified hotels for sustainable stays. For transportation, use local public transport, which is cheaper than taxis. To save on activities, explore free options like visiting historic sites and markets. The best time to visit for lower rates is during the off-peak season, typically from June to September.

• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodation options available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your Harar hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Harar

Harar offers a rich cultural and city-themed experience for tourists, featuring notable landmarks, monuments, and museums that delve into its fascinating history. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions that cater to those seeking a deeper understanding of Ethiopian culture and urban life. This unique destination is perfect for those interested in immersing themselves in the heritage and charm of the region.

• Feres Magala: Experience the vibrant heart of Harar at Feres Magala, a lively piazza where locals gather to socialise and celebrate their culture. The atmosphere is electric, with street vendors, musicians, and artists showcasing the unique Harari spirit.
• Jamia Mosque: Visit the impressive Jamia Mosque, a significant religious site in Harar. Its stunning architecture and intricate details reflect the city's rich Islamic heritage, making it a must-see for those interested in culture and history.
• Hyena Feeding Sites: Witness a unique cultural tradition at the Hyena Feeding Sites, where locals feed wild hyenas in a captivating nightly ritual. This extraordinary experience blends adventure with history, offering insight into the fascinating relationship between the people and these creatures.

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 (Dry)	Sunny	Average
February	69.8°F (21.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	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 (Dry)	Sunny	Average
December	66.0°F (18.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Harar

Travelling to Harar can be done via two major airports. Dire Dawa Airport (DIR), situated approximately 17.4km from Harar, is the closer option and serves several airlines, providing convenient access to the region. Several comfortable hotels are located near this airport, such as the Dire Dawa Hotel and the Kuriftu Resort. Alternatively, Jijiga Airport (JIJ) is about 32.9km away from Harar, offering fewer flight options. Nearby accommodation includes the Jijiga Hotel and the Jiga Resort. Both airports provide transportation services, with taxis and shuttle services readily available to ensure smooth transfers to your hotel in Harar.