Railway City · Eastern Ethiopia
Dire Dawa
A lively commercial city with colonial-era architecture, colourful markets and a historic railway station, and the gateway to Harar.
- Best Time
- October to March
- Suggested Stay
- Half day to 1 day
- Altitude
- 1,200 m
- Region
- Eastern Ethiopia
Why We Go
Ethiopia’s railway city, founded where the line from Djibouti reached the hills.
Dire Dawa was founded in 1902 when the Ethiopia-Djibouti railway reached the area, and it quickly grew into a hub for trade and industry. Its tree-lined streets, arcaded buildings and multicultural atmosphere make it unlike any other city in Ethiopia.
Most travellers pass through on the way to Harar, about an hour away, but the markets, railway heritage and relaxed pace are worth a few hours of their own.
Highlights
- The historic railway station and old locomotives
- Kafira market, where camel caravans once arrived
- The French-influenced old town of Kezira
- Easy flights from Addis Ababa
Journeys Including Dire Dawa
Routes that pass through here
More in Eastern Ethiopia
Plan This Destination
Build Dire Dawa into your journey
Nothing here is fixed. Tell us how long you have and what else you want to see, and our team will plan the route, including the flights, the guides and the hours that matter.
Let’s Plan Your Ethiopian Adventure
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Discover Ethiopia. Experience the Extraordinary!
Speak to someone who has been there this season
Our guides travel these routes all year. Ask about road conditions, festival dates or the best time to visit. You will get a straight answer.
Or call us directly on +251 912 039405