Harar: Feeding Hyenas in the City of Saints
Lost in the colorful alleys of Jugol, sipping the finest coffee, and coming face to face with spotted hyenas.
Mule Ethiopia Tour — Local Team
Addis Ababa · Licensed Ethiopian Tourism Guides
Mule Ethiopia Tour — Local Team
Addis Ababa · Licensed Ethiopian Tourism Guides
The Fourth Holy City of Islam
Located in eastern Ethiopia, Harar is vastly different from the Christian highlands. Surrounded by a centuries-old wall (Jugol) with five historic gates, the old city contains over 80 mosques and 100 shrines. It is often considered the fourth holiest city in Islam and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
A Maze of Color
Wandering through Harar’s narrow, winding alleys is a sensory overload. The walls of the traditional houses are painted in vibrant hues of blue, pink, and green. The markets overflow with spices, incense, and qat (a mild stimulant leaf chewed locally). It’s easy to get lost, but that is part of the charm.
The Hyena Men
Harar’s most famous and bizarre tradition takes place just outside the city walls at nightfall. For generations, the "Hyena Men" have called out to wild spotted hyenas and hand-fed them scraps of meat. Visitors can watch this incredible display of trust between human and predator, and the brave can even try feeding a hyena from a stick held in their mouth.
Harari Culture and Coffee
Harari people are known for their distinct culture and beautiful basketry. The region also produces some of the world’s finest coffee. Sitting in a traditional Harari home, decorated with intricate baskets and carpets, sipping a freshly brewed cup of local coffee, is an essential Ethiopian experience.
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