Harar Hotels

Top reasons to visit Harar

• Historical Landmarks: Harar is home to numerous historical sites, including the Harar Museum and ancient walls that reflect its rich past.
• Cultural Experiences: The city offers a vibrant cultural scene, showcasing Arabic influences and local traditions.
• Vibrant Markets: Explore bustling markets where you can shop for unique local crafts and sample traditional Ethiopian cuisine.
• Birdwatching Opportunities: Surrounding landscapes provide excellent birdwatching spots for nature enthusiasts.
• Enchanting Streets: Stroll through Harar's captivating streets, immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere and local charm.

Where to stay near Harar

Harar, a vibrant city in Ethiopia, offers a rich tapestry of culture and history, making it an ideal destination for themed vacations. As you explore its enchanting streets, you’ll encounter Arabic influences and historical landmarks that tell the story of its past. Nearby attractions also cater to diverse interests, including sports and business activities, ensuring a well-rounded travel experience. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the unique vibes of this remarkable city.

• Dire Dawa: Located 41.8km from Harar, Dire Dawa is a vibrant city known for its unique cultural and historical charm. Visitors often experience a mix of sports and business-themed activities. The city boasts lively public markets where local traditions come alive, and the stunning sunrises and sunsets add to its allure. Key attractions include a sports facility stadium and a historic castle, making it an exciting destination for those seeking both adventure and culture while enjoying the warm Ethiopian hospitality.

Things to do in Harar

Shopping

In the heart of Harar, you can explore the vibrant markets like the Harar Grand Market, where handmade crafts and spices abound. If you're up for a drive, the Harar Shopping Mall offers a range of local and international brands for a more modern retail experience.

Recreation

Experience the tranquil gardens at the Harar Medhane Alem Church, where you can meditate amidst the serene atmosphere. Explore the local markets for a taste of traditional Ethiopian coffee, or join a yoga session at a local retreat to rejuvenate your mind and body.

Adventure

Explore the ancient walled city of Harar, where you can wander through colourful markets and discover intricate Islamic architecture. Engage with the local hyena men during an evening feeding ritual, an unforgettable cultural experience. Don’t miss the chance to sample traditional Ethiopian coffee in a local café.

Nightlife

In Harar, the lively nightlife features traditional music and dance at local bars, offering an authentic cultural experience. The bustling cafés serve up delicious local dishes, while vibrant markets create a unique evening atmosphere, perfect for exploring the city's rich heritage and socialising with locals.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Harar

When planning your trip to Harar, consider using Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly accommodation by sorting prices from lowest to highest. Look for eco-certified hotels to support sustainable tourism. You can save more by booking flight and hotel packages. For getting around, utilise public transport options for cost-effective travel. Additionally, explore the city on foot to enjoy free activities such as wandering through the historic streets and markets. Travelling during the off-peak season can also help you secure better deals and lower prices.

• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, choice of location, and additional preferences. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Moreover, you have the option to refine your selection by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save on costs by combining your hotel reservations in Harar with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Harar

Harar, nestled in Ethiopia's Harari Region, is an ideal destination for culture and city-themed vacations. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including historical landmarks, the Harar Museum, and vibrant piazzas. This city caters to those seeking rich cultural experiences and urban exploration, ensuring a memorable stay. Whether you're delving into the local history or enjoying the lively atmosphere, Harar offers a unique glimpse into Ethiopia's heritage.

• Jamia Mosque: Nestled in the heart of Harar, the Jamia Mosque is a stunning example of Islamic architecture, showcasing intricate designs and a serene atmosphere. Visitors can experience the local culture and spirituality while admiring the mosque's beautiful minarets and vibrant surroundings.
• Feres Magala: This lively piazza is the cultural hub of Harar, where locals gather to socialise and enjoy street food. Feres Magala offers a vibrant atmosphere, with colourful markets and a variety of shops, making it an ideal spot to immerse yourself in the city's daily life.
• Arthur Rimbaud Center: Dedicated to the famed French poet who spent time in Harar, this museum showcases his life and works. Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight Rimbaud's influence and connection to the region, adding a unique literary twist to your cultural experience.

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 Airport (DIR), located approximately 45.1km from Harar, serves a variety of airlines including Ethiopian Airlines. Comfortable accommodation options near this airport include the Dire Dawa Hotel and the Ras Hotel. Alternatively, Jijiga Airport (JIJ) is about 85.3km from Harar, with less frequent flights. Nearby hotels include the Jijiga Hotel and the Tigray Hotel. Transportation services from both airports to Harar are available, making it easy for tourists to reach their destinations with minimal hassle.