Fun Things to Do in Harar, Ethiopia

Harar, a historic city in eastern Ethiopia, is a treasure trove of unique experiences and cultural wonders.

There’s no shortage of fascinating attractions, from exploring the walled city of Harar Jugol, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to participating in the thrilling hyena feeding ritual.

Here’s an overview of the city’s must-see attractions, including its traditional Adare houses, lively markets, and historical mosques and shrines.

Exploring Harar Jugol: The Walled Historic City

Traditional Adare Houses and Architecture

Wandering through the narrow, cobblestone alleys of Harar’s Old Town reveals the unique charm of traditional Adare houses.

These dwellings are characterized by their shared external walls and inward-facing windows that open onto a central courtyard.

The interior design of these houses maintains its ancient features, untouched by modernity, and provides a glimpse into the lives of residents and their communal living arrangements.

Ancient Mosques and Shrines

Harar is home to numerous historical mosques, including the Al-Jami Mosque, where important religious and political discussions took place throughout history.

The city’s 82 mosques and 102 shrines show its long-standing Islamic heritage, with some dating back to the 10th century.

The Five Historic Gates and Their Significance

The iconic Harar Jugol wall, erected in 1551, features five gates with political, economic, social, and religious significance. Each gate has its unique characteristics and history:

• Bedrait or Buda Gate to the south is stable and calm
• Asmadinne Gate or Showa Gate to the west is the busiest, accompanied by a lively marketplace
• Argob Gate to the east, known for its wooden doors and castles, is where European explorer Richard Burton entered the city disguised as a Yemeni Hajj
• Aksum Gate or Felana Gate to the north has served as a trade hub and gateway for Muslim pilgrimage

Narrow, Winding Streets and Alleys

Harar’s narrow alleyways, totaling over 360, are an iconic feature of the walled city. The city’s atmosphere is palpable, with street games, coffee shops, and small mosques dotting the landscape.

Navigating these lively streets filled with children playing, wild dogs roaming, and locals going about their daily lives offers an exciting and immersive experience.

Top Fun Things to Do in Harar: Cultural Experiences

Hyena Feeding Ritual

One of the most thrilling experiences in Harar is the opportunity to hand-feed wild hyenas at night, guided by local experts.

This tradition, documented for over 500 years, is believed to have started as a way for hyenas to clean up organic waste in the city.

While it may be intimidating for some, it offers a rare chance to observe these wild creatures up close and gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s diverse wildlife.

Harar’s Markets

Harar’s markets offer a true taste of local life. The spice market is a must-visit, with its narrow alleys lined with stalls offering a wide array of spices, including the famous Ethiopian berbere.

The market showcases the resourcefulness of the local community, while the Awaday Khat Market provides insight into the prevalence of this stimulant plant in Harari culture.

Local Cuisine and Dining

Harar offers a unique culinary experience for travelers, with local spots serving traditional Ethiopian breakfast dishes that include injera, a spongy sourdough flatbread, accompanied by various stews and curries known as wat.

The city is also known for its delicious street food, such as grilled meats, samosas, and injera rolls.

For a refreshing break, try the sweet and juicy guava readily available in the markets, or visit local cafes like the Mermaid Cafe for a satisfying meal.

Historical Sites and Museums

Arthur Rimbaud Cultural Center

Harar has a fascinating connection to the renowned French poet Arthur Rimbaud, who lived in the city for several years in the late 19th century.

The Arthur Rimbaud Cultural Center houses a collection of the poet’s personal items, photographs, and writings from his time in Harar.

Ras Tafari House

The Ras Tafari House is a notable structure in Harar, showcasing traditional Harari architectural styles.

It provides insight into the city’s rich cultural heritage and the influence of its former rulers.

Harar City Museum

Housed in a former palace, the Harar City Museum offers a comprehensive look at the city’s history.

Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits to gain a deeper understanding of Harar’s past and its significance in the region.

Guide to Harar: Walking Tours

To fully appreciate the depth and complexity of Harar’s history and culture, embarking on a guided walking tour led by knowledgeable local guides is highly recommended.

These tours take travelers through the winding alleys of Jugol, revealing hidden gems and sharing fascinating stories about the city’s past.

Guides provide insights into the unique customs and traditions of the Harari people, such as elaborate wedding ceremonies and the importance of social gatherings like the jama’a.

Architectural Wonders

Grand Mosque (Jamia Mosque)

The Grand Mosque, also known as the Jamia Mosque, is one of the oldest mosques in Africa, dating back to the 10th century.

This architectural marvel features beautiful Islamic calligraphy, intricate woodwork, and a serene courtyard, making it a must-visit for those interested in the city’s religious heritage.

Traditional Harari Houses (Abbat)

The traditional Harari houses called “abbat,” are characterized by their shared external walls and inward-facing windows that open onto a central courtyard.

The dwellings provide a glimpse into the communal living arrangements of the residents and the architectural styles that have been preserved through the centuries.

Unique Cultural Practices and Traditions

Harar is known for its distinctive cultural practices, such as the Alley of Reconciliation, where people resolve conflicts by being forced to communicate in a narrow alley.

The city also has a rich history of traditional crafts, including weaving, basket making, and bookbinding.

Visitors can experience the local culture through activities like feeding kites at the meat market or participating in the traditional hyena feeding ritual.

Matrimonial customs and home decorations also play a significant role in Harari culture.

The placement of decorative items within the home, such as the Hamad mode, signifies important life events like the marriage of a son, providing insight into the family dynamics and social norms of the Harari people.

Harar’s Friendly Locals

The people of Harar are known for their warm and welcoming nature, often inviting travelers into their homes to share their rich cultural heritage.

Hiring a local guide is highly recommended, as they can provide invaluable insights into the city’s hidden spots, and traditional practices, and even invite travelers to participate in local khat parties.

Wrap-Up

Harar offers a truly unique and immersive experience for travelers, with its rich cultural heritage, historical significance, and fascinating traditions.

From exploring the walled Old Town to participating in local practices like hyena feeding, this ancient city provides an unforgettable journey into the heart of Ethiopia’s cultural world.

With its blend of Islamic and Christian influences, dynamic markets, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, Harar offers an authentic and enriching travel experience.