Dire Dawa Travel Guide: Things to Do & Best Time to Visit

Dire Dawa grew up around the railway and still has a relaxed, cosmopolitan feel shaped by trade.

• Kezira — The old quarter around the historic railway station, with arcaded buildings and shady streets from the early 20th century.
• Kafira market — A colourful traditional market where traders sell spices, grain, fruit and household goods, often arriving by camel.
• Taiwan market — A busy market known for imported clothes and electronics.
• Legehare — A lively area near the railway, with markets and street life.
• Addis Ababa–Djibouti railway — The modern electric railway passes through the city, continuing a long tradition of rail travel.
• Harar day trip — Drive up into the highlands to Harar Jugol, the UNESCO-listed walled city famous for its mosques, gates and hyena feeding.

Dire Dawa is lower and hotter than much of Ethiopia, with very warm temperatures from spring into summer. Rain is fairly light, falling mainly in short spells around March to April and in mid-year, sometimes as intense storms.

The cooler months from about November to February are the most comfortable for exploring the city and making the drive up to Harar, which is cooler thanks to its altitude. In the hotter months, sightsee early in the day and rest at midday.

Aba Tenna Dejazmach Yilma International Airport lies just outside Dire Dawa, a short drive from the centre, and handles domestic and some regional flights.

Taxis and bajajs (three-wheeled auto-rickshaws) are available for the ride into town, and hotels can arrange pick-ups in advance. Many travellers heading to Harar arrange a car or shared minibus directly from the airport or from the city.

Dire Dawa is easy to navigate, with hotels spread across a few central districts.

• Kezira — Historic, leafy and close to the old station; ideal for travellers interested in heritage.
• City centre — Near markets, restaurants and transport; convenient for short stays.
• Newer districts — Modern hotels suit business travellers and those wanting more amenities.

• Money: Carry birr in cash; cards are mostly limited to larger hotels.
• Getting around: Bajajs are the easiest way around town; agree prices before setting off.
• Heat: Drink plenty of water, wear a hat and avoid the midday sun.
• Etiquette: Dress modestly, particularly in markets and religious areas, and ask before photographing people.
• Harar trips: Minibuses and private cars run between Dire Dawa and Harar; set off early to make the most of a day trip.