Harar Hotels

Top reasons to visit Harar

• Rich Cultural Heritage: Harar is steeped in a vibrant history, showcasing the unique traditions of the Harari people through its architecture and landmarks.
• Bustling Markets: Explore the lively public markets, where visitors can indulge in shopping and experience the local way of life.
• Delicious Local Cuisine: Savour the diverse flavours of Ethiopian food, a highlight for any culinary enthusiast.
• Stunning Architecture: Admire the beautiful buildings and historical sites that reflect the city's rich architectural heritage.
• Birdwatching Opportunities: Enjoy the natural surroundings and engage in birdwatching, perfect for nature lovers.

Where to stay near Harar

Harar, a vibrant city steeped in culture and history, offers a captivating experience for visitors. With its favourable weather and stunning architecture, you can immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Harari people. Explore the bustling markets, delve into the local cuisine, and witness the unique traditions that define this fantastic destination. Whether you're drawn to the city-themed vibes or seeking a cultural escape, Harar promises an unforgettable vacation adventure.

• Dire Dawa: Situated 41.8km from Harar, Dire Dawa offers a vibrant city experience with a blend of business, sports, and cultural attractions. The city is known for its bustling public market, stunning sunrises, and picturesque sunsets. Visitors can explore local landmarks such as the stadium and historical castle. The best time to visit is during peak months of June to July and September, when the atmosphere is lively. Whether you're seeking a dynamic urban adventure or cultural immersion, Dire Dawa has something to offer every traveller.

Things to do near Harar

Harar offers a rich cultural experience perfect for themed vacations. Visitors can explore the vibrant public market, indulge in shopping, and enjoy birdwatching. Key activities include engaging in city tours, cultural excursions, and visiting amusement centres, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and immersion in local traditions.

Shopping

The vibrant atmosphere of Harar offers delightful shopping experiences. Explore local treasures at the Camel Market, right in the heart of the city. If you're up for a drive, the bustling Dire Dawa Market and Ashawa Market, both 26 and 43.5km away, promise an array of unique finds.

Recreation

Explore Dire Dawa Stadium, a vibrant sports facility 41.8km from Harar, where you can soak in the energetic atmosphere. Engage in local sports activities or simply enjoy the lively environment, making it a great spot for recreation and relaxation amidst the local culture.

Adventure

Explore the vibrant streets of Harar, rich in culture and history, with its ancient walls and colourful markets. Visit the Harar Jugol, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and indulge in local delicacies, or engage with the famous hyena feeding ritual for an unforgettable experience.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at the Ras Hotel bar, where you can enjoy traditional Ethiopian drinks and mingle with locals. For a lively evening, visit the Shenkor Pub, renowned for its music and dance, offering an authentic taste of Harar's nightlife.

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 offers a captivating blend of culture and city life, making it an ideal destination for themed vacations. Visitors can explore numerous landmarks and monuments, as well as vibrant piazzas, that showcase the region's rich heritage. Whether wandering through the historic streets or immersing oneself in local traditions, Harar provides a unique experience for those seeking cultural and urban adventures.

• Mekina Girgir: This historic landmark in Harar offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. Its vibrant atmosphere and historical significance make it a must-visit for those eager to immerse themselves in local traditions and stories.
• Feres Magala: As a lively piazza, Feres Magala is the heart of urban life in Harar. Here, you can experience the pulse of the city, with bustling markets and local gatherings that reflect the vibrant culture and social interactions of the area.
• St Mary Catholic Church: This beautiful church stands as a testament to the diverse religious landscape of Harar. Its architecture and serene atmosphere provide a peaceful retreat for visitors, highlighting the cultural significance of faith in the community.

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

Accessing Harar is convenient via its two main airports. Dire Dawa Airport (DIR), situated approximately 45.1km from Harar, is the closer option and serves various airlines, making it a popular choice for travellers. Nearby accommodation includes the Dire Dawa Hotel and the Spring Hotel, offering easy access to transport services for your journey to Harar. Alternatively, Jijiga Airport (JIJ) is located about 85.3km away, providing additional options for flights. Comfortable hotels near Jijiga Airport include the Jijiga International Hotel and the Tigray Hotel, both of which have reliable transport connections to Harar, ensuring a smooth start to your Ethiopian adventure.