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East Ethiopia trip to Harar, Dire Dawa & Babile

Eastern Ethiopia, with its vibrant cities of Harar and Dire Dawa, offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here's an overview:

Geography:

Eastern Ethiopia encompasses diverse landscapes, from arid plains to lush highlands. It's bordered by Somalia to the east, Djibouti to the northeast, and the Ethiopian Highlands to the west.

Harar:

History: Harar, one of Ethiopia's oldest cities, has a rich history dating back to the 7th century. It was an important trading hub along ancient caravan routes.

Culture: Known as the "City of Saints," Harar is renowned for its unique Islamic heritage and vibrant cultural scene. Its old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of narrow alleyways, colorful markets, and traditional Harari houses.

Attractions: Visitors can explore attractions like the Rimbaud House (former home of the French poet Arthur Rimbaud), the 16th-century Jami Mosque, and the Hyena Man, who feeds wild hyenas every night outside the city walls.

Dire Dawa:

History: Founded in the late 19th century as a major railway hub, Dire Dawa has a more cosmopolitan vibe compared to Harar. It served as an important gateway to Ethiopia's interior during the colonial era.

Culture: Dire Dawa is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Somali, Afar, and Ethiopian communities. Its bustling markets, lively cafes, and diverse cuisine reflect this cultural tapestry.

Attractions: Highlights include the colorful Central Market, the historic Dire Dawa Railway Station, and the tranquil Kefira Market. Nearby attractions include the scenic Awash National Park and the mystical rock formations of Babile Elephant Sanctuary.

Economy and Infrastructure:

Both Harar and Dire Dawa are vital economic centers in Eastern Ethiopia. Dire Dawa serves as a regional transportation hub, with its airport and railway connections facilitating trade and commerce. Harar, on the other hand, relies on tourism, agriculture, and handicrafts as key economic drivers.

Eastern Ethiopia, with its captivating cities of Harar and Dire Dawa, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether exploring the ancient streets of Harar or experiencing the cosmopolitan charm of Dire Dawa, visitors are sure to be enchanted by the region's rich tapestry of traditions and landscapes.

Exploring Eastern Ethiopia offers a fascinating journey through history, culture, and natural beauty. Here's an overview of a trip that includes visits to Harar, Dire Dawa, and Babile:

Day 1: Arrival in Dire Dawa

Begin your journey by flying into Dire Dawa, the second-largest city in Ethiopia and a major transportation hub for the region.
Check into your accommodation and take some time to rest after your journey.
In the afternoon, explore Dire Dawa's bustling markets, such as the colorful Kezira Market, where you can experience the vibrant local culture and sample traditional Ethiopian cuisine.

Day 2: Dire Dawa to Harar

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Harar, often referred to as the "City of Saints" and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Upon arrival in Harar, check into your hotel and set out to explore the city's ancient walls, narrow alleyways, and historic landmarks.
Visit the vibrant markets, such as the famous Harar Market, where you can shop for spices, textiles, and traditional handicrafts.
In the evening, experience the unique tradition of feeding hyenas at the Hyena Man's House, a centuries-old ritual that has become a popular tourist attraction.

Day 3: Explore Harar

Spend the day delving deeper into the rich history and culture of Harar.
Visit the Harar Museum to learn about the city's fascinating past, including its significance as a center of Islamic scholarship and trade.
Explore the colorful neighborhoods of Harar, including the Old Town, where you can admire the traditional Harari architecture and visit historic landmarks such as the Jami Mosque and the Emir Nur Tomb.
Don't miss the chance to sample Harar's famous coffee, considered some of the best in Ethiopia, at one of the local coffee houses.

Day 4: Harar to Babile

Depart from Harar and travel to Babile, a small town known for its spectacular rock formations and diverse wildlife.
Along the way, stop at the Babile Elephant Sanctuary, where you can spot herds of wild elephants roaming freely in their natural habitat.
Explore the stunning rock formations of the Babile Mountains, including the famous "Valley of Marvels," renowned for its unique geological features and breathtaking landscapes.
Spend the night in Babile, either camping under the stars or staying in a local guesthouse.

Day 5: Return to Dire Dawa

After breakfast, return to Dire Dawa, where you can explore any sites you may have missed on your first visit or simply relax and soak in the atmosphere of this vibrant city.
Visit the Dire Dawa Railway Station, one of the oldest railway stations in Ethiopia, and learn about the city's important role in the country's transportation history.
Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Kefira Market, where you can shop for souvenirs and interact with friendly locals.
Enjoy a final evening in Dire Dawa, savoring delicious Ethiopian cuisine and reflecting on your adventures in Eastern Ethiopia.

Day 6: Departure

Depending on your travel plans, either depart from Dire Dawa by air or continue your journey to other destinations in Ethiopia.
If time allows, consider visiting nearby attractions such as the Awash National Park or the hot springs of Sodere before saying farewell to Eastern Ethiopia.

This itinerary offers a comprehensive experience of Eastern Ethiopia, from the historic streets of Harar to the natural wonders of Babile, providing travelers with a unique insight into the cultural and natural

1. Accommodation as per plan.

2. All inter transfer & sightseeing as per Itinerary by Suitable NON AC Vehicle.

PLS. NOTE THAT VEHICLE WILL NOT BE ON DISPOSAL. IT WILL BE PROVIDED AS PER ITINERARY AND POINT TO POINT BASIS

3. Newspaper and bottled water on arrival.

4. All parking and permit charges.

5. Assistance on arrival.

• Visa fees and requirements

• Domestic transfers and flights not stated in the deal offer

• Meals/beverages not stated in the deal offer

• Optional gratuities/tipping

• Optional activities/tours

• Personal expenses

• Travel insurance

• Mandatory city tax (where applicable)

We will use Hotels which range from 2 star to five stars. We will also arrange camping, especially in the Semien Mountains National Park.

Booking Information

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East Ethiopia trip to Harar, Dire Dawa & Babile

Eastern Ethiopia, with its vibrant cities of Harar and Dire Dawa, offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here's an overview:

Geography:

Eastern Ethiopia encompasses diverse landscapes, from arid plains to lush highlands. It's bordered by Somalia to the east, Djibouti to the northeast, and the Ethiopian Highlands to the west.

Harar:

History: Harar, one of Ethiopia's oldest cities, has a rich history dating back to the 7th century. It was an important trading hub along ancient caravan routes.

History: Harar, one of Ethiopia's oldest cities, has a rich history dating back to the 7th century. It was an important trading hub along ancient caravan routes.

Culture: Known as the "City of Saints," Harar is renowned for its unique Islamic heritage and vibrant cultural scene. Its old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of narrow alleyways, colorful markets, and traditional Harari houses.

Culture: Known as the "City of Saints," Harar is renowned for its unique Islamic heritage and vibrant cultural scene. Its old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of narrow alleyways, colorful markets, and traditional Harari houses.

Attractions: Visitors can explore attractions like the Rimbaud House (former home of the French poet Arthur Rimbaud), the 16th-century Jami Mosque, and the Hyena Man, who feeds wild hyenas every night outside the city walls.

Dire Dawa:

History: Founded in the late 19th century as a major railway hub, Dire Dawa has a more cosmopolitan vibe compared to Harar. It served as an important gateway to Ethiopia's interior during the colonial era.

Culture: Dire Dawa is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Somali, Afar, and Ethiopian communities. Its bustling markets, lively cafes, and diverse cuisine reflect this cultural tapestry.

Attractions: Highlights include the colorful Central Market, the historic Dire Dawa Railway Station, and the tranquil Kefira Market. Nearby attractions include the scenic Awash National Park and the mystical rock formations of Babile Elephant Sanctuary.

Economy and Infrastructure:

Both Harar and Dire Dawa are vital economic centers in Eastern Ethiopia. Dire Dawa serves as a regional transportation hub, with its airport and railway connections facilitating trade and commerce. Harar, on the other hand, relies on tourism, agriculture, and handicrafts as key economic drivers.

Exploring Eastern Ethiopia offers a fascinating journey through history, culture, and natural beauty. Here's an overview of a trip that includes visits to Harar, Dire Dawa, and Babile:

Day 1: Arrival in Dire Dawa

Begin your journey by flying into Dire Dawa, the second-largest city in Ethiopia and a major transportation hub for the region.

Check into your accommodation and take some time to rest after your journey.

In the afternoon, explore Dire Dawa's bustling markets, such as the colorful Kezira Market, where you can experience the vibrant local culture and sample traditional Ethiopian cuisine.

Day 2: Dire Dawa to Harar

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Harar, often referred to as the "City of Saints" and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Upon arrival in Harar, check into your hotel and set out to explore the city's ancient walls, narrow alleyways, and historic landmarks.

Visit the vibrant markets, such as the famous Harar Market, where you can shop for spices, textiles, and traditional handicrafts.

In the evening, experience the unique tradition of feeding hyenas at the Hyena Man's House, a centuries-old ritual that has become a popular tourist attraction.

Day 3: Explore Harar

Spend the day delving deeper into the rich history and culture of Harar.

Visit the Harar Museum to learn about the city's fascinating past, including its significance as a center of Islamic scholarship and trade.

Explore the colorful neighborhoods of Harar, including the Old Town, where you can admire the traditional Harari architecture and visit historic landmarks such as the Jami Mosque and the Emir Nur Tomb.

Don't miss the chance to sample Harar's famous coffee, considered some of the best in Ethiopia, at one of the local coffee houses.

Day 4: Harar to Babile

Depart from Harar and travel to Babile, a small town known for its spectacular rock formations and diverse wildlife.

Along the way, stop at the Babile Elephant Sanctuary, where you can spot herds of wild elephants roaming freely in their natural habitat.

Explore the stunning rock formations of the Babile Mountains, including the famous "Valley of Marvels," renowned for its unique geological features and breathtaking landscapes.

Spend the night in Babile, either camping under the stars or staying in a local guesthouse.

Day 5: Return to Dire Dawa

After breakfast, return to Dire Dawa, where you can explore any sites you may have missed on your first visit or simply relax and soak in the atmosphere of this vibrant city.

Visit the Dire Dawa Railway Station, one of the oldest railway stations in Ethiopia, and learn about the city's important role in the country's transportation history.

Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Kefira Market, where you can shop for souvenirs and interact with friendly locals.

Enjoy a final evening in Dire Dawa, savoring delicious Ethiopian cuisine and reflecting on your adventures in Eastern Ethiopia.

Day 6: Departure

Depending on your travel plans, either depart from Dire Dawa by air or continue your journey to other destinations in Ethiopia.

If time allows, consider visiting nearby attractions such as the Awash National Park or the hot springs of Sodere before saying farewell to Eastern Ethiopia.

This itinerary offers a comprehensive experience of Eastern Ethiopia, from the historic streets of Harar to the natural wonders of Babile, providing travelers with a unique insight into the cultural and natural

1. Accommodation as per plan.

2. All inter transfer & sightseeing as per Itinerary by Suitable NON AC Vehicle.

PLS. NOTE THAT VEHICLE WILL NOT BE ON DISPOSAL. IT WILL BE PROVIDED AS PER ITINERARY AND POINT TO POINT BASIS

3. Newspaper and bottled water on arrival.

4. All parking and permit charges.

5. Assistance on arrival.

• Visa fees and requirements

• Domestic transfers and flights not stated in the deal offer

• Meals/beverages not stated in the deal offer

• Optional gratuities/tipping

• Optional activities/tours

• Personal expenses

• Travel insurance

• Mandatory city tax (where applicable)

We will use Hotels which range from 2 star to five stars. We will also arrange camping, especially in the Semien Mountains National Park.