A city of hyenas

Harar, a UNESCO World Heritage site 371 kilometers (231 miles) east of Addis Ababa, is a medieval town with dozens of mosques and hundreds of lanes to get lost in. However, be cautious. It is known as the "Hyena Capital of the World." Hyenas can even enter town through an unique hyena gate. Locals think that if they are fed every night, they will keep away from children. They have done so.

A museum in town is dedicated to the unfortunate French artist Arthur Rimbaud, who resided in "loving Harar" in the late 19th century, and Marcus Baynes-new Rock's book Among the Bone Eaters chronicles his experiences connecting with the hyenas here.

Visits to the salt caravans at Dallol can be arranged from Mekele, Addis Ababa, or Axum. Ask lots of questions about safety and supplies before you go, make sure you have plenty of water, and bring your own first-aid kit and torchlights.