Introducing Harar
Harar is a place apart. Located south of the Chercher Mountains, this sensational city will blast your senses. The old walled city, with 368 alleyways squeezed into just 1 sq km, 87 mosques and shrines, coffee scents wafting through the streets, animated markets, superb architecture, charming people and unique ambience, will make you feel like you’re floating through another time and space. As if that’s not enough, an otherworldly ritual takes place nightly outside the walls: men feeding hyenas. Don’t be confused: it’s not a touristy show, it’s a tradition.
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A bit like Zanzibar, Harar appeals to spiritual seekers and hedonists. Despite shortcomings (read: poverty and minor hassles), you’ll fall in love with this gem of a city – at least we did.
Last updated: Mar 24, 2009
Tips & articles
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Lonely Planet: Roads Less Travelled Ethiopia itinerary
10 November 2009
A day spent negotiating Harar’s maze of cobblestone alleyways is the perfect start for a journey to Ethiopia’s hidden corners....
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Harar's prayer-trance ceremony
9 November 2009
A handful of incense hits the glowing charcoal, unleashing a fragranced fog. It blurs the vision and mingles with the...
Thorn Tree forum discussion
Recent posts
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RE: Ethiopia (Harar) overland to Somaliland (Hargeisa)
by LizaD 13 September 2011
I am interested in doing the same trip on my own, I am a white female. If you get any extra information in PM please share with us on…
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Ethiopia (Harar) overland to Somaliland (Hargeisa)
by namhlat81 13 September 2011
Hi all Can someone tell me the latest information on this trip? in terms of safety. I am an African female but not from the region, and…
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Need travel buddies for Ethiopia/Djibouti--Jan/Feb 2012
by lesblick 13 September 2011
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