Ethiopia-Djibouti Rail Yard


Rail fans can clamber through what remains of the once-great Imperial Railway Company of Ethiopia. Ask for Kadra Ali – she can get by in English and will happily take you around the rail yard (tip expected). You'll see plenty of rusty carcasses of disused engines, the still-operational roundhouse and Haile Selassie’s private carriage.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Old Palace

0.22 MILES

This large building is the former imperial residence of Haile Selassie. It's not open to the public and difficult to see from outside.

2. Bete Mikael Church

0.27 MILES

This colourful church, which lies near the Old Palace, is noted for its octagonal shape.

3. Greek Orthodox Church

0.34 MILES

This modern, well-proportioned church is most notable for its two spires and yellow facade.

4. Dire Dawa Market

0.54 MILES

Also known as ‘Taiwan’, this is a modern, orderly covered market mostly full of clothing and fabric, though some of the cheap electronic goods that used…

5. Juma'a Mosque

0.63 MILES

Juma'a Mosque is the city's largest mosque and a prominent landmark in the Megala neighbourhood.

6. Chattara Market

0.64 MILES

Chat is sold all over town, but the trade at the Chattara Market is so frenetic it deserves a look.

7. Ashawa Market & Livestock Market

0.68 MILES

With its numerous sheet-metal shacks in the back, the chaotic Ashawa Market is well worth a gander. In the wadi behind Ashawa you'll find the livestock…

8. Kafira Market

0.76 MILES

With its Babel-like ambience, the enormous Kafira Market, sprawling way beyond its Moorish-style arches, is the most striking of Dire Dawa's markets…