Eastern Ethiopia

Immerse yourself in
humanity’s history

Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa

Arrival in Addis Ababa (Bole International Airport). You going to greet and welcome by the driver or tourist guide!!Depending on your arrival time, explore the capital city: sightseeing at National Museum of Ethiopia, Holy Trinity Cathedral and Mount Entoto. Overnight: Addis Ababa.

Day 2: Addis Ababa to Harar

Morning flight or drive to Harar (approx. 8-10 hours by road or 1-hour flight). Harar is one of the most important cultural and religious centers in Ethiopia, and it’s considered the fourth holiest city in Islam. Sight-seeing of Harar city walls and the gateways (e.g., Babille Gate); Harar Jugol, Rimbaud House and Harar’s markets and local handicrafts. Overnight: Harar.

Day 3: Exploring Harar

Visiting  the famous Hyena Feeding Site, Juma Mosque and the colorful markets, Erer Valley; and enjoy traditional Harari cuisine, like Injera and Doro Wat. Overnight: Harar.

Day 4: Harar to Jijiga

After breakfast, travel by road to Jijiga, the capital of the Somali region (approximately 5-6 hours).Visit Jijiga’s markets and the surrounding Somali pastoralist culture; local Somali handicrafts and enjoy a taste of the distinct Somali-influenced cuisine. If you're interested, take a quick excursion to the Omo Valley, known for its diverse ethnic groups. Overnight in Jijiga.

Day 5: Jijiga to Dire Dawa

Drive to Dire Dawa (approximately 3-4 hours), an important commercial city with a mix of Somali, Oromo, and Amhara influences. Visit the Dire Dawa Railway Station, local markets and Bedele Brewery if you're interested in learning about Ethiopian beer production. Overnight in Dire Dawa.

Day 6: Dire Dawa to Awash National Park

Drive to Awash National Park, (approx. 2-3 hours), spend the day exploring this stunning wildlife reserve, famous for its diverse wildlife, including gazelles, baboons, and birds. Visit the Awash River Gorge, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and a serene landscape. Overnight in or near Awash National Park.

Day 7: Awash National Park to Harar

Return drive to Harar (approx. 3-4 hours). Spend your last evening in Harar shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs, like silver jewelry, woven baskets, and Harari scarves. Overnight in Harar.

Optional Extensions (Days 8-10)

If you have more time and want to further explore Eastern Ethiopia, you can add more destinations or relax in the scenic countryside:

Option 1: Visit the Danakil Depression

Take a flight from Addis Ababa to Mekele or Semera , then continue on to the Danakil Depression.The Danakil is one of the hottest, lowest, and most inhospitable places on Earth, with stunning landscapes, including salt plains, volcanic craters, and the Erta Ale volcano.Visit Dallol to see its otherworldly hot springs, sulfur springs, and colorful mineral deposits. Explore the Afar people’s unique nomadic culture and life in this extreme environment.

Option 2: Bale Mountains National Park

Take a detour to explore the Bale Mountains National Park, a hiker’s paradise with beautiful highland plateaus, forests, and alpine meadows.See endemic wildlife like the Ethiopian wolf and the Bale monkey. Hike around Sanetti Plateau and Harenna Forest.

Day 10: Return to Addis Ababa

Fly back to Addis Ababa or take a scenic drive, depending on your schedule. Last-minute shopping or relaxation in Addis before your departure.