Harar hotels from HK$160

Top reasons to visit Harar

• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Harar's ancient walled city is a UNESCO site, showcasing stunning Arabic architecture and rich history.
• Cultural Immersion: Experience Harar's vibrant culture through its lively markets, traditional cuisine, and historical landmarks.
• Birdwatching Opportunities: The surrounding landscapes offer excellent birdwatching, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
• Harar Museum: Visit the Harar Museum to delve into the city's intriguing history and cultural heritage.
• Lively Atmosphere: The bustling piazza squares provide a lively atmosphere, ideal for soaking in local life.

Where to stay near Harar

Harar, a vibrant city in the Harari Region of Ethiopia, offers a rich tapestry of cultural and historical experiences. Explore its ancient walled city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where Arabic influences are evident in the architecture and local cuisine. Venture beyond to discover nearby attractions that cater to various interests, from sports to business. Whether you're immersing yourself in Harar's unique vibes or seeking more destinations in Ethiopia, this city promises an unforgettable journey.

• Dire Dawa: Located 42km from Harar, Dire Dawa is a vibrant city offering a blend of cultural and urban experiences. Known for its bustling public markets and stunning sunrises and sunsets, this city attracts visitors year-round, peaking in June to July and September. Sports enthusiasts will enjoy the local stadium and sports facilities. The city's rich history is highlighted by its castle and diverse architecture, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Things to do in Harar

Shopping

In Harar, visit the bustling Harar Grand Market, where you can find local handicrafts, spices, and textiles. If you're up for a drive, explore Dire Dawa's Abadir Shopping Mall, located about 24km away, featuring various shops and eateries for a broader shopping experience.

Recreation

In Harar, the Harar Wellness Centre offers a serene environment with traditional Ethiopian treatments and holistic therapies to rejuvenate your body and mind. Nearby, the Ethio Spa provides a tranquil escape with a variety of massages and wellness programmes, utilising local herbs and techniques for relaxation.

Adventure

Explore the vibrant old town of Harar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its labyrinthine alleys and colourful markets. Experience the unique tradition of hyena feeding at night, where you can observe these fascinating creatures up close, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of this historic city.

Nightlife

Visit the Ras Hotel rooftop bar for a stunning view of the city while enjoying local drinks. For a lively atmosphere, head to Jey Jey Bar, where you can mingle with locals and enjoy traditional Ethiopian music.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Harar

To save money during your visit to Harar, consider using Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly accommodation by sorting results from lowest to highest price. Look for eco-certified hotels for sustainable options. Additionally, combining your hotel booking with flights and activities can lead to significant savings. For public transport, utilise the local bus system, which is economical and efficient. Don’t forget to explore free activities, such as wandering through the historic streets of Harar, which is rich in culture and heritage.

• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see 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 hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by combining your hotel reservation in Harar with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Harar

Harar, a city rich in culture and history, offers a variety of attractions for travellers. Visitors can explore the Harar Museum, delve into the city’s historical landmarks, and wander through the lively piazza squares. Whether you seek a cultural immersion or a vibrant city experience, Harar caters to your interests, making it an ideal destination for a culturally themed vacation.

• Gidir Magala: A significant landmark in Harar, Gidir Magala offers a glimpse into the region's rich cultural and historical heritage. Surrounded by vibrant local life, visitors can immerse themselves in the historical vibes that resonate throughout this area.
• Ras Makonnen’s Palace: This historic palace serves as a testament to the architectural elegance of Harar. With its deep cultural significance, Ras Makonnen’s Palace invites exploration of the legacy left by Ras Makonnen, an important figure in Ethiopian history.
• Feres Magala: A lively piazza that reflects the urban culture of Harar, Feres Magala is an excellent spot to experience local life. The square buzzes with activity, making it an ideal place to observe and engage with 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 with two major airports nearby. Dire Dawa Airport (DIR), located approximately 45km from Harar, serves various airlines, making it a popular choice for travellers. Nearby hotels include the Dire Dawa Hotel and the Elysium Hotel, both offering comfortable accommodations. Another option is Jijiga Airport (JIJ), situated about 85km from Harar, with limited connections. While there are fewer hotels in Jijiga, the Jijiga Resort is a notable choice. Transportation services from both airports to Harar are available, with taxis and shuttle services ensuring a smooth transfer to your accommodation in the region.