Day 1: To Harar
After an early breakfast in Addis Ababa, transfer to the airport to catch your flight to Dire Dawa (08:30-09:30).
Upon arrival, meet with your driver and transfer to Dire Dawa town for a coffee break and a brief tour of the Megala Market and Dire Dawa train station. Then lunch.
After lunch continue on to Harar, a short drive of 55kms that takes you over the scenic Dengego Pass, and through several small villages and markets. You may want to make a short stop en route at Awedai, where you can learn more about the production of Khat, one of Ethiopia’s major exports.
On arrival in Harar, check into a local guesthouse. Rest during the afternoon, waiting for the midday heat to pass, then commence your walking tour of the Walled City, ending with dinner in a traditional Ethiopian restaurant. Overnight at the guesthouse.
Day 2: Harar
Full day tour of Harar, taking in Rimbaud's house, the major markets inside and outside the Walled City, the Tomb of Amir Nur, and the Camel Butchers and Black Kite rooftops.
In the afternoon, you’ll have the chance to take part in a Hariri-style coffee ceremony. Your guide will explain the rich symbolism underpinning this most important of Ethiopian rituals.
In the evening, you might like to watch the nightly hyena feeding ritual. Alternatively, your guide can help you choose a good place to dine out and enjoy the evening at leisure in the city.
Day 3: To Addis
Drive back to Dire Dawa for your afternoon flight to Addis Ababa.
From Addis, continue with your onward travel arrangements or transfer to the airport for your return flight home.
Walled City of Harar
3-day extension to the walled city of Harar, in eastern Ethiopia. This short extension can be combined with a tour of northern Ethiopia and the Historic Route.
Walled City of Harar
This short tour of the walled city of Harar can be booked as an extension to a longer Ethiopia itinerary, such as our escorted Historic Route tours or our Simien trekking expeditions. We recommend at least two nights in Harar, though longer stays are also possible.
Outline Itinerary
Price guide
Price based on two travellers in shared twin/double accommodation, and subject to availability at the time of booking.
Pricing
3 days from £890pp
Wedding in the Serengeti
All the planning and conversations we had prior to our trip proved to be invaluable.
