Rowda Waber Cultural Guest House

If staying overnight in Harar, Rowda Waber Cultural Guest House is your best choice of accommodation: it gives the opportunitiy to stay within the walls of the old city and to immerse yourself in local culture and everyday life.

This small, no-frills Harari guest house, perhaps not as comfortable as 'western' hotels but has plenty of character and authenticity. (It is a traditional Harari home which has been converted into a guest house).

Rowda Waber is definitely for travellers, rather than for tourists - this is something we would want to emphasise. Some - but not all - of the rooms have en-suite facilities. Located in a blind alley about 200 meters to the east of the Shewa Gate, the guesthouse is run by two sisters who have done a great job of maintaining it. 

The Waber sisters don't speak much English, so you will need a guide in this city - not least because the guesthouse is not that easy to find. Guests enjoy relaxing in the courtyard - to which some rooms have access -  or, in the main and colourful, traditionally decorated reception area. Breakfasts are highly rated and include traditional honey pancakes. (Food is simple, but good).