5 Days Tour to World Heritage–listed Harrar, Dire Dawa and Awash NATIONAL PARK

Embark on an unforgettable 5-day journey through Ethiopia’s captivating UNESCO World Heritage sites and stunning natural wonders. Enjoy the vibrant culture of Harar, explore ancient cave paintings in Dire Dawa, and witness the mesmerizing hyena feeding ritual. Then, venture into the breathtaking Awash National Park, where you’ll have the chance to spot diverse wildlife on exhilarating game drives. This personalized tour offers comfortable accommodations and expert guidance, promising an unparalleled Ethiopian adventure. Prepare to be captivated by the country’s remarkable blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Key Points

• 5-day tour exploring the UNESCO World Heritage city of Harar, Dire Dawa’s ancient cave paintings, and the wildlife of Awash National Park in Ethiopia.
• Unique experiences include hyena feeding in Harar and guided tours of cultural and natural highlights, with a maximum group size of 20 for an intimate exploration.
• Inclusive package with air-conditioned transportation, professional guide, comfortable accommodations, and all necessary fees and taxes covered.
• Itinerary features a blend of culture, historical discoveries, and wildlife encounters, showcasing the diverse offerings of Ethiopia.
• Moderate physical fitness required, with a combination of driving, walking, and game drives, and personalized attention from the guide throughout the journey.

Tour Overview

The 5-day tour begins in Addis Ababa and takes visitors to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Harar, the vibrant city of Dire Dawa, and the stunning Awash National Park.

In Harar, travelers will explore the walled city and witness the unique tradition of hyena feeding.

Next, they’ll venture to Dire Dawa to discover the cave paintings.

The tour then heads to Awash National Park, where guests can enjoy a game drive and spot diverse wildlife.

Throughout the journey, travelers will be accompanied by a professional guide, ensuring a personalized and comfortable experience.

With a maximum of 20 participants, this tour offers an intimate and immersive exploration of Ethiopia’s cultural and natural wonders.

Inclusions

This tour generally includes an air-conditioned vehicle, all necessary fees and taxes, a professional guide, accommodation, airport pick-up and drop-off, and a variety of meals throughout the 5-day experience.

The tour includes 4 dinners, 4 breakfasts, and 5 lunches, ensuring travelers are well-fed as they explore the highlights of Ethiopia.

All entrance fees and taxes are covered, so there are no hidden costs.

With the services of a knowledgeable guide, travelers can delve deeper into the history and culture of the region.

The comfortable transportation and included accommodations make for a seamless and enjoyable tour experience.

Tour Experience

Travelers embark on a personalized tour experience led by a professional guide, ensuring an in-depth exploration of Ethiopia’s highlights. Maximum group sizes are kept to 20 people, providing a comfortable and intimate setting for the duration of the 5-day itinerary. The tour incorporates a variety of activities to showcase the region’s cultural and natural wonders, from the walled city of Harar and its renowned hyena feeding to the cave paintings of Dire Dawa and the diverse wildlife of Awash National Park. Throughout the journey, travelers can expect attentive service, well-appointed accommodations, and delicious local cuisine, creating a comprehensive and immersive experience.

Destination	Highlight	Activity
Harar	Walled City	Hyena Feeding
Dire Dawa	Cave Paintings	Cultural Exploration
Awash National Park	Wildlife	Game Drive

Additional Information

The 5-day tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. Public transportation is available near the destinations, and infants must sit on laps.

Participants should maintain a moderate level of physical fitness, as there are no serious medical conditions that would prevent them from enjoying the activities.

The tour starts at 9:00 AM, providing ample time to explore the World Heritage-listed sites of Harar, Dire Dawa, and Awash National Park.

Guests can expect a personalized experience with a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring comfort and attention from the professional guide.

With a combination of driving, walking, and game drives, the tour offers a well-rounded cultural and natural exploration of Ethiopia’s renowned destinations.

Reviews and Ratings

According to reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor, the 5-day tour to Harar, Dire Dawa, and Awash National Park has an overall rating of 4.5 stars based on 10 reviews.

No 5-star ratings have been recorded for this tour.

Travelers seem to have enjoyed the personalized attention provided by the professional guide and the comfortable experience facilitated by the small group size of maximum 20 participants.

The tour itinerary, which includes visits to the walled city of Harar, the cave paintings of Dire Dawa, and a game drive in Awash National Park, also appears to have met expectations.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience is a convenient option for those who need flexibility.

Exploring Harar

Steeped in ancient history and vibrant culture, Harar captivates visitors with its walled city, a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with narrow alleyways, colorful markets, and religious sites.

Explore the old town’s iconic walls, which date back to the 16th century and stretch for over 3 miles, enclosing a labyrinth of alleys and markets.

Visit the Jami Mosque, one of the five holiest sites in Islam, and witness the unique ritual of hyena feeding, where locals hand-feed these wild creatures.

Explore Harar’s artisanal craft scene, from vibrant textiles to intricate leatherwork.

With its blend of Islamic, African, and Ethiopian influences, Harar offers a truly immersive cultural experience.

Discovering Dire Dawa

After exploring the historic walled city of Harar, the tour continues to Dire Dawa, where visitors can discover the unique cave paintings that adorn the region’s geological formations.

The cave paintings, dating back thousands of years, offer a glimpse into the lives and artistic expressions of the area’s ancient inhabitants. Guests will have the opportunity to venture into the caves and marvel at the intricate depictions of daily life, spiritual beliefs, and wildlife.

The tour guide will provide insightful commentary, helping travelers appreciate the historical and cultural significance of these remarkable rock art sites. With ample time to explore, travelers can enjoy this captivating aspect of Ethiopia’s rich heritage.

Enjoying Awash National Park

The tour culminates with a game drive through the scenic Awash National Park, where travelers can spot a diverse array of wildlife, including kudu, oryx, gazelle, and the elusive Ethiopian endemic, the Swayne’s hartebeest.

Awash National Park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, featuring the majestic Awash Falls and the active Fantalle volcano.

During the game drive, the guide provides expert insights into the park’s ecology and highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect the region’s unique flora and fauna.

Visitors can also enjoy scenic hikes, birdwatching, and opportunities to learn about the traditional ways of life of the local Afar people.

The experience in Awash National Park offers a fitting finale to this comprehensive tour of Ethiopia’s natural and cultural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Tour Group Size Limit?

The tour group size is limited to a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience. This small group setting allows for more attention from the guide and a more intimate exploration of the destinations.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated?

The tour accommodates various dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Guests are encouraged to inform the tour operator of any special dietary needs when booking to ensure their preferences are catered for during the trip.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Interests?

Yes, the tour can likely be customized for individual interests. The tour provider offers a private tour setting, allowing for flexibility to adjust the itinerary based on travelers’ preferences and interests within the overall tour scope.

What Are the Vaccination Requirements for the Trip?

The tour operator doesn’t specify any vaccination requirements. However, it’s recommended that travelers consult with their healthcare provider and verify entry requirements for Ethiopia, which may include COVID-19 and other vaccinations, before booking the tour.

How Much Free Time Is Allocated During the Tour?

The tour allows for some free time, though the specifics are not provided. Participants can likely explore destinations on their own during breaks from the scheduled activities, but the exact amount of free time is not clearly stated.

The Sum Up

This 5-day tour offers a captivating blend of cultural richness and natural beauty in Ethiopia.

Visitors can experience the unique hyena feeding ritual in Harar, explore ancient cave paintings in Dire Dawa, and enjoy exhilarating game drives in Awash National Park.

With professional guides, comfortable accommodations, and personalized attention, this tour provides an unforgettable Ethiopian adventure for those seeking to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites and diverse wildlife.