Things to do in Hararghe Highlands
Discover the best attractions and experiences Hararghe Highlands has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the ancient heart of Hararghe, where stone walls and centuries‑old sites tell the story of eastern Ethiopia.
Harar Jugol
The ancient walled city of Harar, with historic mosques and gates, dating back to medieval times.
Great Mosque of Harar
One of East Africa’s oldest mosques set inside the old city’s labyrinth of streets.
Dire Dawa Railway Station
A landmark from the colonial era, famed for its distinctive architecture.
Museums
Learn about local history and culture through compact museums and cultural centers.
Dire Dawa Museum
A cultural collection highlighting the history and people of Dire Dawa and the region.
Harar Regional Museum
Exhibits on Harari culture, traditions, and local life.
Harar Cultural Centre
A center presenting crafts, history, and daily life of Harar’s communities.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites that reflect the long-standing faiths and architectural styles of the area.
Great Mosque of Harar
A historic mosque within Harar’s ancient walls, central to the city’s religious heritage.
Dire Dawa Grand Mosque
A major place of worship and a notable landmark in the city.
Mosques of Harar Jugol
A collection of historical mosques within the walled town.
National & Theme Parks
Wildlife, landscapes, and highland scenery that define the Hararghe Highlands’ natural charm.
Bale Mountains National Park
Rugged highlands with unique wildlife and breathtaking alpine scenery.
Awash National Park
A protected area known for its wildlife and desert-like landscapes along the Awash River.
Babile Elephant Sanctuary
A sanctuary near Harar known for elephant herds and distinctive savanna landscapes.
Neighborhoods
Stroll through distinct districts that shape the character of Hararghe’s towns.
Harar Old Town (Harar Jugol)
Ancient lanes, markets, and mosques inside the UNESCO-listed walled city.
Dire Dawa Old Market District
Bustling commercial streets and historic storefronts in Dire Dawa.
Chercher Highlands villages
Rugged village neighborhoods offering traditional lifestyles.
Free Things to Do
Experience local life without an entry fee with these easy activities.
Wander the lanes of Harar Jugol
Explore the old city’s narrow streets and courtyards at your own pace.
Watch street life in Dire Dawa markets
Observe daily commerce, bargaining, and local interactions.
Sunset viewpoints over Hararghe highlands
Find overlook points to take in panoramic highland vistas.
Gastronomy
Taste the flavors of Hararghe, from coffee ceremonies to traditional Ethiopian fare.
Traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony
Participate in a slow coffee ceremony and sample fresh brews.
Injera with local wats
Enjoy classic Ethiopian sourdough flatbread with flavorful stews.
Harari coffee bean tasting and local snacks
Sample beans and small bites that reflect regional flavors.
Nightlife
Evenings in Hararghe offer relaxed cafe culture and occasional cultural performances.
Coffee houses with live fusions
Evening visits to cafes for music and conversation.
Harari cultural evenings in Harar
Local musicians and dancers perform in town squares.
Night markets inDire Dawa
Late-night shopping and street food under lights.
Entertainment
Cultural showcases and performances provide a window into daily life.
Traditional Harari dances
Vibrant folk dances performed by local groups.
Storytelling evenings
Evening tales and folklore in cultural centers.
Street theatre and markets
Casual performances during market days.
Sports
Active ways to explore Hararghe’s landscapes and wildlife.
Trekking in Bale Mountains National Park
Guided hikes through alpine moorland and forests.
Bird watching in Bale Mountains
Spot endemic birds in tranquil highland habitats.
Camel rides near Harar region
Sunset camel treks across open highland plains.
Off the Track
Beyond the main sights, dive into local life and landscapes.
Visit a Harari coffee farm
Tour smallholder farms and learn about processing.
Village crafts workshop
Watch weaving or beadwork by community artisans.
Guided village and market visits
Experience daily life with locals and traders.