whatdo

Things To Do
in Āwarē

Day Trips

Tours

Attractions

Prices

Āwarē is a small town located in the Oromia region of Ethiopia. It is known for its scenic beauty, surrounded by lush green hills and valleys. The town has a vibrant culture with traditional Oromo roots, reflected in its music, dance, and art.

Agriculture is a major source of livelihood for the residents, with coffee farming being a key industry in the area.

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2 Days Tours To Harar Hyena Feeding & Walled City Tours

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2 Days Harar Tours

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The Best Of Dire Dawa Walking Tour

  • "Selam" - Hello
  • "Tenastelen" - Good morning
  • "Amesegenallo" - Thank you
  • "Dehna neh" - How are you?
  • "Bemin shalem" - Goodbye

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
  • ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $10 - $30
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore war's Natural Beauty
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the scenic hills surrounding Āwarē. Enjoy a peaceful walk and take in the stunning views.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local café, then explore the nearby waterfalls. Capture the beauty of nature and take memorable photos.

evening
:

Settle down at a local restaurant for dinner. Try some traditional Ethiopian dishes and enjoy live music.

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Harar, Eastern Ethiopia; 3 Days / 2 Nights

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Romantic Tour In Dire Dawa

day 2
Cultural Experience in war
morning
:

Visit local markets to witness the vibrant community and unique handicrafts. Engage with artisans as they showcase their skills.

afternoon
:

Participate in a cooking class to learn how to make traditional dishes. Enjoy your efforts over a communal meal.

evening
:

Attend a cultural performance featuring traditional dance. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the region.

Āwarē Day Trips

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions.
  • Access to unique historical sites and natural landscapes.
  • Friendly and welcoming local communities.
  • Opportunities for ecotourism and adventure activities.
  • Affordable living costs compared to many other countries.
  • Limited infrastructure and transportation options.
  • Variable healthcare quality and availability.
  • Potential language barriers for non-Amharic speakers.
  • Political instability and regional conflicts in some areas.
  • Economic challenges affecting job opportunities.

Best Activities in Āwarē

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hiking in Ālī and Kībt

Explore the stunning landscape of the Rift Valley with its volcanic hills and breathtaking views. Hiking in Ālī and Kībt is a popular outdoor activity in Āwarē, offering visitors the chance to experience the natural beauty of the region.

Bird Watching at Lake Zway

Bird watching at Lake Zway is a must for nature enthusiasts. The lake is home to a diverse range of bird species, including pelicans, flamingos, and storks, making it an ideal spot for bird watching and wildlife photography.

Boat Tours on Lake Langa

Enjoy a tranquil boat tour on Lake Langa, where you can relax and take in the serene surroundings. The lake is surrounded by lush vegetation and is a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to unwind and experience the beauty of Āwarē.

Places to Visit in Āwarē

Visit one of these nice places.

Simien Mountains National Park

Offers stunning views of dramatic landscapes and unique wildlife

Lalibela

Famous for its rock-hewn churches and unique architecture, providing fantastic photo opportunities

Blue Nile Falls

Features beautiful waterfalls and surrounding scenery, ideal for photography

Food in Āwarē

Ethiopian cuisine is known for its rich blend of flavors, spices, and textures. In Āwarē, you can experience an array of traditional dishes and beverages that showcase the region's culinary diversity.

Āwarē Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Injera

A sourdough flatbread with a slightly spongy texture, commonly used as a base to scoop up stews and sauces. Available at most local restaurants and food stalls.

Must-Try!

Doro Wat

A spicy chicken stew simmered in berbere sauce and served with injera. Best enjoyed at traditional Ethiopian eateries like Afat.

Shiro

A smooth, savory chickpea or bean stew, often served with injera. Look for it at Warka Cafe & Restaurant for an authentic taste.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Āwarē Central Market

A bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, spices, and street food. Try the sambusas (samosas) and freshly roasted coffee for an immersive culinary experience.

Merkato Street Food Stalls

Explore the vibrant street food scene in Merkato, one of Africa's largest open-air markets. Indulge in local delicacies like kitfo (minced raw meat) and ful (cooked fava beans).

Weather

The climate in this region is characterized as a tropical savanna climate, which features distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures can be relatively high throughout the year, with averages typically ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The rainy season generally occurs from June to September, bringing significant precipitation that supports local agriculture. The dry season lasts from October to May, during which temperatures can be quite warm but nights tend to be cooler. This climate pattern is influenced by the region's elevation and proximity to the equator, making it conducive for various crops and livestock farming. Overall, the climate plays a crucial role in shaping the livelihoods and agricultural practices of the local population.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting customs

In Āwarē, it's customary to greet people with a handshake and a warm smile. It's a sign of respect to address elders first and to use proper titles with their names.

Respect for elders

Respecting elders is highly valued in Āwarē culture. It's important to show deference and listen attentively when elders are speaking.

Dressing modestly

In Āwarē, dressing modestly is important, especially for women. It's respectful to cover shoulders and knees, and to avoid wearing revealing clothing in public spaces.

Safety

Safety in the region is influenced by various factors, including local governance, community relationships, and ongoing socio-political dynamics. In general, rural areas like Āwarē may face challenges such as limited access to law enforcement, which can affect response times to incidents and overall security. The community often relies on traditional forms of conflict resolution and communal ties to maintain safety. However, factors such as economic instability, disputes over resources, and occasional ethnic tensions can lead to localized conflicts. Travelers or visitors should stay informed about the current situation, heed travel advisories, and engage with local sources for guidance. Overall, while many residents and visitors find Āwarē to be welcoming and friendly, it's advisable to remain vigilant and informed about the local context to ensure safety.

Tipping in Āwarē

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Āwarē, Ethiopia, tipping is not a common practice and is not expected in most situations.

Payment

Payment in Āwarē, Ethiopia is typically conducted in cash, and credit card acceptance may be limited. Mobile payment services are also becoming more common in urban areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry season (October - February)

Best time to visit with mild temperatures and clear skies. Ideal for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.

Rainy season (March - September)

Expect lush green landscapes and blooming flowers, but roads may be difficult to navigate due to heavy rains. Some lodges and parks may close during this time.

Āwarē at Night

Āwarē, nestled in the heart of Ethiopia, offers an intriguing blend of cultural and contemporary experiences after dusk. As night falls, the town subtly transforms, inviting both locals and visitors to explore its varied nightlife offerings. Local cafes and small eateries begin to bustle, providing a cozy atmosphere where one can enjoy traditional Ethiopian dishes like tibs and injera, paired with a cup of rich, locally brewed coffee. The coffee houses, integral to Ethiopian social life, often turn into vibrant meeting spots where animated conversations last into the evening. For those looking for a livelier scene, a handful of bars and clubs showcase Ethiopia's vibrant music culture. Traditional music and dance performances are common, providing an authentic cultural experience. The rhythmic beats of the masenqo and the melodies of the krar can often be heard, inviting spectators to join in the dance. Though Āwarē may not be known for an extensive nightlife like larger Ethiopian cities, its charm lies in its intimate and community-oriented settings. The town's people are welcoming, and visitors can often find themselves immersed in conversations that extend late into the night, forging connections that are as warm as the Ethiopian hospitality. Overall, Āwarē’s nightlife is a reflection of its rich cultural heritage and its people's love for social gatherings, making every evening a unique and immersive cultural experience.

Hiking in Āwarē

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Simien Mountains National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic landscapes, endemic wildlife, and several hiking trails that range from easy to challenging.

Bale Mountains National Park

Famous for its unique flora, the Bale Mountains offer various hiking routes, including trails that lead to the stunning Sanetti Plateau and more challenging treks in the Harenna Forest.

Abune Yamata Church Trek

A challenging hike that leads to a stunning ancient church set in a cliffside location, providing breathtaking views and an adventure in history.

Choke Mountain

Offers a range of hiking opportunities with scenic views, nature trails, and the chance to see local wildlife in a less-traveled area.

Mount Tabor

A relatively easy hike that provides picturesque views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for leisurely walks and picnics.

Aiports

How to reach Āwarē by plane.

Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD)

Located in Addis Ababa, Bole International Airport is the main international gateway to Ethiopia and serves as the hub for Ethiopian Airlines.

Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

Situated near Arusha in Tanzania, Kilimanjaro International Airport is approximately 100 km from Āwarē and serves international flights, primarily to tourist destinations.

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO)

Located in Nairobi, Kenya, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is about 850 km from Āwarē and is the largest and busiest airport in East Africa.

Mombasa Moi International Airport (MBA)

Moi International Airport in Mombasa, Kenya, is approximately 1,200 km from Āwarē and serves both international and domestic flights, catering primarily to tourism.

Asmara International Airport (ASM)

Located in Asmara, Eritrea, this airport is about 900 km from Āwarē and serves as an international airport connecting Eritrea with various destinations.

Walkability

Walkability in a community often encompasses factors such as the presence and condition of sidewalks, pedestrian pathways, accessibility to essential services, and the overall safety and comfort of walking. In many Ethiopian towns, including smaller locales like Āwarē, the infrastructure may vary significantly. Typically, urban areas in Ethiopia may face challenges regarding walkability due to limited investment in pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. Sidewalks may be uneven or absent, making it more difficult for pedestrians to navigate safely. However, the close-knit community structure often means that essential services such as markets, schools, and health centers are within a short walking distance for many residents. Additionally, cultural practices influence walkability, as walking remains a primary mode of transportation for many people. Local conditions, such as the terrain and weather, can also affect individuals' willingness to walk. While improvements in urban planning and road design can enhance walkability, community engagement and cultural factors play a significant role in how walking is perceived and utilized in daily life. Overall, the experience of walking in Āwarē can be shaped by a combination of these factors, leading to both enjoyable and challenging aspects of pedestrian mobility.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Oromo

The largest ethnic group in Āwarē, the Oromo people have a significant presence and cultural influence in the area.

Amhara

The Amhara are one of the major ethnic groups in Ethiopia and have communities in Āwarē, known for their distinct language and cultural practices.

Tigray

The Tigray people, although less populous in Āwarē, contribute to the area's cultural diversity.

Somali

The Somali community in Āwarē is smaller but is recognized for its unique cultural heritage.

Sidama

The Sidama people are present in Āwarē, representing another layer of Ethiopia's ethnic mosaic.

Gurage

The Gurage people, known for their vibrant culture and economic activities, are also found in the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Āwarē, enjoyed by many locals, with numerous clubs and community teams participating in various leagues.

Basketball

Basketball has gained popularity in Āwarē, especially among the youth, with local courts available for play and community tournaments held regularly.

Athletics

Athletics, particularly long-distance running, is prominent in Āwarē, with a focus on developing talent for local and national competitions.

Volleyball

Volleyball is played in schools and community centers, with mixed-gender teams encouraging participation across different age groups.

Dodgeball

Dodgeball is a popular recreational sport among children and teenagers, played in schools and during community events.

Traffic

The traffic in this town is characterized by a mix of pedestrians, bicycles, and various types of vehicles, including motorcycles and small taxis known as "bajaj." The roads can be quite busy, especially during peak hours when local markets are active and people are commuting to and from work. Street vendors often set up along the sides of the roads, which can further contribute to congestion. The town's infrastructure may not always accommodate the increasing number of vehicles, leading to some delays. Public transportation is available, but it can be crowded at times. Overall, navigating through the streets involves a combination of caution, patience, and local knowledge.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Āwarē.

Hotels Apartments

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While Ethiopian cuisine traditionally includes a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes like shiro and misir wat (spiced lentil stew), it's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly at restaurants. Look for places that specifically cater to vegetarian and vegan diets.

Gluten-Free Options

Most Ethiopian restaurants offer gluten-free options naturally, as the staple bread, injera, is typically made from teff flour, which is gluten-free. However, it's prudent to inquire about any potential gluten cross-contamination while dining out.

Healthcare

Healthcare in this region is characterized by a combination of traditional practices and modern medical services. The local healthcare system includes several primary health care facilities, such as health centers and clinics, which provide essential services to the community. These facilities often face challenges such as limited resources, staffing shortages, and inadequate infrastructure. Access to healthcare is influenced by various factors, including geographical barriers, economic conditions, and cultural beliefs. Many residents rely on traditional healers for treatment due to mistrust of modern medicine or the lack of accessibility to health facilities. The government, along with NGOs, is working to improve healthcare access and quality through community health programs, vaccination campaigns, and training of healthcare workers. Malaria, respiratory infections, maternal and child health issues, and malnutrition are common health concerns in the area. Efforts to combat these problems include education on preventive measures, improved access to clean water, and nutritional support initiatives. The healthcare landscape continues to evolve as both local and international efforts focus on enhancing medical care and improving health outcomes for the population.

Discover Ethiopia

Read more in our Ethiopia 2024 Travel Guide.

Ethiopia Travel Guide