Eritrea Travel Guide

This guide will take you through the natural and cultural attractions, food & drink scene, accommodation options, local customs, transportation options, and safety & health aspects of Eritrea.


Introduction to Eritrea

Eritrea, located in East Africa, is a small country that shares its borders with Ethiopia, Sudan, and Djibouti. The country is home to diverse landscapes such as deserts, mountains, and beaches, and is rich in history and culture. Eritrea is a perfect blend of ancient and modern cultures, and its people are welcoming and friendly.

List of Places to Visit in Eritrea

If you are planning a trip to Eritrea, here is a list of some of the top attractions that you shouldn’t miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • National Museum of Eritrea: This museum is located in the capital city of Asmara and is home to ancient and modern artifacts, paintings, sculptures, and much more. The museum is a must-visit place for history buffs.

  • Fiat Tagliero Building: This building is an iconic landmark of the city and is known for its distinctive architecture. The building was constructed in the 1930s as an airplane filling station and is now a popular tourist attraction.

  • Red Sea Museum: This museum showcases Eritrea’s maritime history and is located in the city of Massawa. The museum is home to ancient shipwrecks, artifacts, and much more.

Natural Attractions of Eritrea: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Dahlak Marine National Park: This marine park is located in the Dahlak Archipelago, and if you love water sports, this is the place for you. You can go snorkeling, scuba diving or enjoy beach activities like swimming, sunbathing or sea fishing.

  • Danakil Depression: This depression is one of the hottest and lowest places on earth and is a unique natural attraction. It is located in the northern part of Eritrea close to the border with Ethiopia and Djibouti.

  • Gash-Barka Region: This region is home to breathtaking landscapes, beautiful waterfalls, and wildlife in its natural habitat. You can go hiking, wildlife watching, or enjoy nature walks or camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eritrea

Eritrea has an excellent infrastructure of hiking and biking trails that allow tourists to explore the beautiful landscapes of the country. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • The Asmara-Massawa Route: This bike route is 120 km long and takes you through breathtaking landscapes, including the mountains of Eritrea.

  • Sembel to Arena: This hiking route starts from the Sembel district and goes up to the Arena valley. It is an easy route suitable for all ages.

Best Things to Do in Eritrea: Activities and Tours

If you are looking for adventure and fun, Eritrea has got you covered. Here are some of the must-do things in Eritrea:

  • Scuba Diving: Eritrea has some of the most beautiful coral reefs and marine life that you can not experience anywhere else.

  • Cultural Tours: Eritrea’s history and culture are unique, and taking a cultural tour of the city will give you an insight into the local customs, traditions, and way of life.

Week-Long Itinerary for Eritrea

If you are planning to stay in Eritrea for a week, here is your itinerary:

Day Activities
1 Visit Asmara and explore the National Museum
2 Hike to the Metera Monastery
3 Tour the Dahlak Marine National Park
4 Visit the Red Sea Museum
5 Hike to the Gash-Barka Region
6-7 Asmara-Massawa bike route and cultural tours

Food and Drink Scene of Eritrea

Eritrean cuisine is a blend of African, Arab, and Indian influences. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Zighini: A spicy meat stew made with beef or lamb and served with injera (a sourdough flatbread).

  • Kitcha fit-fit: A breakfast dish made with torn pieces of injera and mixed with spices, onions, and tomatoes.

Local Beverages

  • Sowa: A traditional fermented drink that is made from barley and is similar to beer.

  • ShaHwa: A traditional Eritrean coffee served with popcorn.

Where to Stay in Eritrea: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Eritrea has an excellent range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some of the popular options:

  • Asmara Palace Hotel: This hotel is perfect for luxury travelers looking for a lavish stay. It is located in the heart of Asmara.

  • Sunshine Hotel: This hotel is perfect for budget travelers and offers excellent service.

What to Buy in Eritrea: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you want to bring home souvenirs, here are some of the things you can buy:

  • Hand-woven textiles

  • Silver and gold jewelry

Local Culture and Customs of Eritrea

Eritrea is a conservative country, and tourists should respect local customs and traditions. Here are some of the things to keep in mind:

  • Dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees.

  • Alcohol is not widely consumed.

Best Time to Visit Eritrea

The best time to visit Eritrea is between October and February when the weather is dry and sunny.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eritrea

Here are some of the do’s and don’ts of traveling to Eritrea:

Do:

  • Learn a few words of Tigrinya (the local language).

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Photograph people without permission.

  • Avoid drinking tap water.

Safety and Health

Safety in Eritrea

Eritrea is considered a safe country to visit. However, as a traveler, it is still essential to take precautions like avoiding carrying large sums of money, traveling alone at night and staying in well-lit areas.

Health in Eritrea

Before traveling to Eritrea, it is advisable to visit a doctor for immunizations and to get current advice on travel health recommendations.

Getting to Eritrea: Transportation Options and Logistics

Eritrea has several options for transportation, including:

Airports Near Eritrea

  • Asmara International Airport

Bus Stations Near Eritrea

  • Sudan Bus Station

Other Options

  • Taxi: You can hire a taxi to travel to different parts of the country.

How to Get Around in Eritrea

The best way to get around Eritrea is by renting a car or taking a taxi. Buses and minibusses are also an option and are affordable but may not be as comfortable as a taxi.

Where to Go Next from Eritrea: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to explore more of East Africa, here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Djibouti: A small country located to the southeast of Eritrea. It is home to unique wildlife and beautiful landscapes.

  • Ethiopia: A country known for its ancient history, diverse landscapes, and rich culture.

Conclusion

Eritrea is a fascinating country that attracts tourists from all over the world. From its natural attractions to its rich history and culture, Eritrea has something to offer everyone. So, if you are planning to visit Eritrea anytime soon, this comprehensive guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip.

Vibrant street in Asmara Vibrant street in Asmara Eritrean village houses Eritrean village houses Visa policy of Eritrea Visa policy of Eritrea Asmara International Airport Asmara International Airport Busy street in Keren Busy street in Keren Church of Our Lady of the Rosary Church of Our Lady of the Rosary Eritrean injera with various stews Eritrean injera with various stews View of Asmara View of Asmara


    Central Eritrea
    Coastal Eritrea