3 Days Addis Ababa & Harar Cultural Tour

Overview

This 3-day cultural tour combines the highlights of Addis Ababa with the ancient walled city of Harar.
Addis Ababa, meaning “New Flower,” is Ethiopia’s vibrant capital and gateway to the country’s rich history. Harar, on the other hand, is one of the most historic Islamic cities in Africa and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
During this journey, travelers will discover Ethiopia’s unique cultural heritage, historic landmarks, colorful markets, and the fascinating tradition of feeding wild hyenas in Harar.

Included / Excluded

• All entrance fees
• Bottled drinking water
• Private 4WD vehicle with driver and fuel
• Professional English-speaking guide

Personal expenses (souvenirs
snacks
etc.)
• Tips and gratuities
• Optional activities or excursions
• Alcoholic drinks
• Video and camera charges

Gallery

Gallery for 3 Days Addis Ababa & Harar Cultural Tour

Travel itinerary

Day 1 - Day 01

Arrival – Addis Ababa City Tour
Upon arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, you will be welcomed by your guide and transferred to your hotel.
After refreshing, begin your sightseeing tour of Addis Ababa.
First, drive to Entoto Hills for a panoramic view of the city. Entoto was once the capital during the reign of Emperor Menelik II and offers spectacular views of Addis Ababa.
Next, descend into the city and visit the National Museum of Ethiopia where you will see the famous fossil Lucy, one of the oldest known human ancestors dating back about 3.2 million years.
Continue to Holy Trinity Cathedral, one of the most important religious sites in Ethiopia, built after the liberation of Ethiopia from Italian occupation during World War II.
Then visit the Ethnological Museum Addis Ababa, located inside the former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie at Addis Ababa University. The museum offers fascinating insights into Ethiopia’s diverse cultures and traditions.
Finally, explore Merkato, a vibrant marketplace where thousands of traders sell everything from spices and coffee to traditional crafts.

Overnight: Overnight: Hotel in Addis Ababa.

Day 2 - Day 02: Fly Addis Ababa – Dire Dawa – Harar

In the morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Dire Dawa.
Upon arrival, drive about one hour to the historic city of Harar.
Harar is one of the oldest Islamic cities in Africa and is considered the fourth holiest city in Islam, after Mecca, Medina, and Jerusalem. The city is surrounded by ancient defensive walls known as Jugol.
During the city tour, visit:
The colorful local markets of Harar
The historic house of French poet Arthur Rimbaud
The Harari Cultural Museum
The tomb of Emir Nur, who built the Harar city walls
In the evening, experience the famous Hyena Man feeding show, a unique tradition where locals feed wild hyenas by hand outside the city walls.

Overnight: Overnight: Hotel in Harar.

Day 3 - Day 03: Harar – Dire Dawa – Fly to Addis Ababa – Departure

After breakfast, drive back to Dire Dawa.
On the way, stop at the famous Aweday Khat Market where you can observe the lively trade of khat, an important local crop.
Continue to Dire Dawa Airport and fly back to Addis Ababa.
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for day use and relaxation.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional Ethiopian cultural dinner featuring a variety of national dishes, traditional dances from different ethnic groups, and a coffee ceremony, one of Ethiopia’s most important cultural traditions.
Later, you will be transferred to the airport for your international departure.

Overnight: Overnight: Hotel in skylight