Kebri Dahar

Kebri Dahar is a distinctive city located in the eastern part of Ethiopia, within the Somali Region. This destination reveals a completely different facet of the country to travelers, allowing them to immerse themselves in a unique atmosphere and experience a culture distinct from the familiar images of the Ethiopian Highlands.

The city lives by its own rhythm, offering guests the opportunity to witness the authentic lifestyle of the local population. A trip here will be an interesting experience for those seeking to explore non-touristy corners of Africa and enjoy the local character of remote regions.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach your destination is by air. Unlike many remote corners of the region, the city is served by its own airport, Kebri Dahar (IATA code: ABK). The air hub receives regular domestic flights, making the journey here quite comfortable.

The main air connection is established with the capital of Ethiopia — Addis Ababa. Flight time saves significant energy compared to long journeys by road. It is recommended to book tickets in advance, as the schedule may change depending on the season.

In the absence of direct tickets, some travelers consider flying to the neighboring city of Gode. However, it is worth noting that the subsequent journey by car will take several hours, although it will provide an opportunity to see colorful landscapes along the way.

There is no direct railway connection to the city of Kebri Dahar, as the railway infrastructure is not developed in this region of Ethiopia. Travelers planning a trip should take into account that it is impossible to get here by train, either directly or with convenient transfers.

Even the nearest major settlements, such as Gode, do not have railway stations and are not connected to the main rail network. Consequently, the train is not considered a viable route option, and tourists are better off preferring domestic flights or road transport.

Traveling by bus to Kebri Dahar is an opportunity to see the true east of the country and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the region. The most popular and accessible route connects the city with neighboring Gode: local minibuses and buses usually cover the distance of about 150 kilometers in 3–4 hours. This path allows you to observe the daily life of the local population and the changing desert landscapes.

For planning long-distance trips, it is best to focus on connections with major regional centers, such as Jijiga or Dire Dawa. These are important transport hubs from where transport departs deep into the region. Travelers should note that such a journey will take considerable time and require endurance; however, it is the most reliable and straightforward way to reach the city by land, offering a unique experience of traveling through Ethiopia.

A trip by car to Kebri Dahar allows travelers to plan their schedule independently and enjoy the harsh but picturesque landscapes of the region. Given the condition of the road surface and the desert nature of the terrain, it is strongly recommended to choose a 4x4 vehicle (SUV) for travel. A standard passenger car may not cope with the difficulties of the path, especially in remote sections.

The most optimal and shortest route for car travelers is considered to be the road from the city of Gode. The distance of about 170 kilometers can be comfortably covered in approximately 2.5–3 hours. This is a popular direction connecting settlements, where the road is relatively predictable and allows you to reach your destination without unnecessary delays.

For those driving from the regional administrative center, the city of Jijiga, the path will be significantly longer and will require stamina. Regardless of the chosen route within Ethiopia, drivers should ensure they have a full tank of fuel and a supply of drinking water in advance, as roadside infrastructure on these highways is poorly developed.

Preparing for a trip to Kebri Dahar requires attention to detail, considering the hot climate and cultural features of this region. To ensure your journey through the eastern part of Ethiopia is as comfortable and safe as possible, we have compiled a list of the most important recommendations.

1. Clothing and Essentials. Given the hot climate and conservative traditions of the region, choose loose, modest clothing made from natural fabrics, such as cotton or linen. Avoid short shorts and sleeveless tops; shoulders and knees should be covered for both men and women. Be sure to bring a head covering, sunglasses, and comfortable closed shoes for walking on dusty streets.
2. Transport. The most popular way to move around the city is by three-wheeled auto-rickshaws, which locals call "Bajaj." This is cheap and accessible transport, but you must negotiate the fare with the driver strictly before boarding, as they do not have meters.
3. Finances. Cash is used almost exclusively everywhere in the city — Ethiopian Birr. Bank cards are rarely accepted, and ATMs may work intermittently or not service international cards. It is strongly recommended to withdraw the necessary amount of cash in advance in major cities or at the airport upon arrival in the country.
4. Health and Safety. Due to high air temperatures, the risk of dehydration is very high, so always carry a supply of water. Drink only bottled water and avoid ice in drinks at street cafes. It is also worth assembling a small first aid kit with remedies for stomach upset and insect repellents.
5. Communication. The main language of communication here is Somali, and many also understand Amharic. English is not widely spoken; mostly hotel or airport staff are fluent in it. Learning a few basic greeting phrases in the local language will help you build rapport with the residents.
6. Local Etiquette. Greetings are very important in the local culture: take the time to say hello and ask how things are. Remember that the left hand is considered "unclean": greeting, passing money, or taking food (if eating with your hands) should be done exclusively with the right hand, in line with Islamic customs.
7. What to Avoid. It is strictly not recommended to photograph government institutions, police posts, the airport, and people in military uniform — this can lead to serious problems with the authorities. Also, do not photograph local residents without their explicit permission.
8. Additional Tip. Be sure to try the local tea (Shaah), which is prepared here with a large amount of spices, such as cardamom and cloves. It is not just a drink, but an important part of social interaction and hospitality.

Observing these simple rules will help you avoid awkward situations and show respect for local traditions. Openness and politeness will be your best assistants in getting to know the unique lifestyle of this city.