Harari

Harar is a city in eastern Ethiopia. It’s surrounded by a centuries-old defensive wall that has several large gates, including Duke’s Gate. The city is known for its mazelike alleys and traditional houses decorated inside with flat hanging baskets. A replica house features at the Harar Community Centre Museum. A holy Islamic city, Harar has many mosques, including the Grand Jami Mosque with its tall white minarets.

Harar, Ethiopia, is a fascinating destination with numerous attractions that reflect its rich history, culture, and unique traditions. Here are some key tourism attractions in Harar.

Jugol

UNESCO World Heritage Site: Jugol, the old walled city of Harar, is the main attraction. Its maze-like alleyways, traditional Harari houses, and vibrant markets offer a glimpse into the city’s ancient past.

Historic Gates: The old city is encircled by a wall with five historic gates—Sanga, Shoa, Buda, Erer, and Fallana—which were used to control entry and protect the city.

Harar Jugol’s Cultural landscapeh

Mosques and Shrines: Harar is home to over 80 mosques and 100 shrines, some dating back to the 10th century. Notable mosques include the Grand Mosque and the Mosque of Sheikh Abadir, who is considered the city’s patron saint.

Harar Museum

Artifacts and Exhibits: The museum showcases artifacts that illustrate the city’s rich history, including traditional Harari clothing, household items, manuscripts, and religious artifacts.

Harari Culture: The museum also highlights the unique culture and traditions of the Harari people.

Arthur Rimbaud House

Historic Residence: This museum is housed in the former residence of the French poet Arthur Rimbaud, who lived in Harar during the late 19th century. The building itself is a beautiful example of traditional Harari architecture.

Exhibits: The museum features exhibits about Rimbaud’s life, his connection to Harar, and his literary contributions.

Hyena Feeding

Unique Tradition: One of Harar’s most famous attractions is the nightly hyena feeding, a tradition where local “Hyena Men” feed wild hyenas by hand. This practice, which tourists can observe, is believed to bring good fortune and maintain harmony between humans and hyenas.

Harar Coffee

Coffee Tours: Harar is renowned for its coffee, one of the oldest coffee-growing regions in the world. Visitors can take tours of local coffee farms, learn about traditional coffee production methods, and sample the distinctive Harar coffee with its unique fruity and wine-like flavors.

Traditional Harari Houses

Architectural Tours: Visitors can tour traditional Harari houses, known for their unique inward-facing design and richly decorated interiors. These houses often feature intricately carved wooden balconies and beautiful courtyards.

Babile Elephant Sanctuary

Wildlife Viewing: Located about 25 kilometers from Harar, the Babile Elephant Sanctuary is home to a significant population of elephants and other wildlife. It offers a natural contrast to the historical and cultural attractions of Harar.

Ras Mekonnen Statue

Historical Monument: A statue of Ras Mekonnen, the father of Emperor Haile Selassie I and a significant figure in Ethiopian history, stands in Harar. It’s a notable landmark for those interested in the country’s history.

Abdulahi Sharif’s Private Museum

Personal Collection: This private museum contains an eclectic collection of artifacts, antiques, and memorabilia gathered by Abdulahi Sharif, offering a unique perspective on Harar’s history and culture.

Harar’s blend of history, culture, and unique traditions make it a fascinating destination for tourists looking to explore one of Ethiopia’s most storied cities.