A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Harar: The Walled City of Ethiopia, A World Heritage Treasure

General Description

Harar, known as the Walled City, is an ancient city located in eastern Ethiopia. It is one of the oldest cities in Africa and is famous for its unique architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. The city is a place of great importance to the Muslim community and is considered the fourth holy city of Islam. In 2006, the city was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List due to its unique architecture and its cultural and historical importance.

Tourist Attractions

Harar is famous for its ancient wall, which was built in the 16th century to protect the city from attacks. The wall has five gates and extends for more than 3.5 kilometers. Within the walled city, visitors can explore the narrow cobblestone streets and traditional houses with their colorful doors.

The city is also known for its numerous mosques. There are over 80 mosques in Harar, many of which date back to the 10th and 11th centuries. The Great Mosque of Harar is one of the oldest and largest in Ethiopia.

Another popular attraction in Harar is the Harar Market, where visitors can buy a variety of local products, including spices, textiles, and handmade jewelry.

Surroundings of Harar

The surroundings of Harar also offer a number of tourist attractions. A few kilometers from the city is the Babuiles Reserve, where visitors can see hyenas in their natural habitat. Also near Harar is the city of Dire Dawa, which is famous for its colonial architecture and its lively market.

Culture and Traditions

Harar is a place of great cultural importance. The city is famous for its tradition of "feeding the hyenas", a practice that dates back centuries and has become a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can also enjoy the traditional music of Harar and the dance known as "eskesta".

The city is also famous for its coffee, which is considered one of the best in the world. Visitors can enjoy a traditional coffee ceremony in Harar, which is a unique and memorable experience.

How to Get There

Harar is located about 525 kilometers east of Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. The city is well connected by road and can also be reached by plane through the Dire Dawa airport, which is about 50 kilometers from Harar.

Gastronomic Products of Harar

• Coffee

  Harar is famous for its coffee, which is one of the most appreciated in the world. The Harar region is the cradle of Arabica coffee and its beans are known for their strong, wine-like flavor. Harar coffees usually have a taste of ripe fruit and wine, with a bright acidity and a medium to full body.

• Injera

  Injera is a fermented flatbread that is a staple food in the Ethiopian diet. It is made with teff flour, a grain that is grown in Ethiopia. Injera has a slightly sour taste and a spongy texture, and is used to pick up other foods, such as stews and salads.

• Doro Wat

  Doro Wat is a spicy chicken stew that is one of the most popular dishes in Ethiopia. It is made with chicken, onion, garlic, ginger and a spice blend called berbere. Doro Wat is traditionally served with injera and is often eaten during celebrations and festivals.

• Honey Beer

  Honey beer, known as tej, is a traditional alcoholic beverage from Ethiopia that is commonly found in Harar. It is made by fermenting honey with water and a plant called gesho. Tej has a sweet and sour taste and is served in a special container called a berele.

Sporting Activities in Ethiopia (Harar)

Hiking and Trekking

Ethiopia offers a variety of hiking and trekking routes that allow visitors to explore its stunning landscape. In Harar, you can hike in the nearby mountains and enjoy panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

Cycling

Cycling is an excellent way to explore Harar and its surroundings. You can rent a bicycle and tour the city streets or venture into the mountain trails for a more challenging experience.

Running

Ethiopia is known for its long-distance runners and Harar is no exception. You can join a local running group or simply enjoy a morning run through the city streets.

Swimming

Although Harar is inland, there are several pools in hotels and sports complexes where you can swim. You can also visit the nearby hot springs for a relaxing soak.

Places near Harar

If you are in Harar and wish to explore a bit more, here we present some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Dire Dawa, Ethiopia, is a vibrant city known for its colonial architecture, colorful markets, and rich culinary culture. Visitors can enjoy traditional Ethiopian dishes, aromatic coffees, and local hospitality in this hidden gem of the Horn of Africa.

Awash National Park in Ethiopia offers a unique wild experience with its diversity of wildlife and stunning landscapes. Visitors can enjoy authentic Ethiopian cuisine in the surroundings, famous for its spicy flavors and meat-based dishes.

The Babile Elephant Sanctuary in Ethiopia is a paradise for nature lovers, home to an impressive population of elephants. Enjoy authentic Ethiopian cuisine nearby, with exotic dishes and unique flavors.