Coastal Eritrea Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food to try, and activities to do in Coastal Eritrea. Plan your trip with our week-long itinerary and learn about the local culture and customs, safety, and transportation options.


Coastal Eritrea Travel Guide: A Comprehensive Tour Guide

Introduction to Coastal Eritrea

Located in East Africa, Eritrea is a small country bordered by Sudan, Ethiopia, and Djibouti. Coastal Eritrea is situated along the Red Sea and offers visitors a stunning coastline, rich history, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures.

List of Places to Visit in Coastal Eritrea

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Asmara: Visit the capital city of Eritrea and discover its rich Italian-influenced architecture, including the Cathedral of Asmara, the Fiat Tagliero building, and the National Museum of Eritrea.
  • Massawa: Explore the historic port city and visit the Bait Al Aqil House, the Massawa Archaeological Museum, and the Sheikh Hanafi Mosque.
  • Dahlak Archipelago: Explore this collection of islands and delve into the history of piracy, pearl diving, and fishing.

Natural Attractions of Coastal Eritrea: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Green Island: Go on a snorkelling and diving adventure at this shallow and peaceful lagoon island.
  • Red Sea Coast: Take a boat ride and soak up the breathtaking scenery along the stunning coastline of the Red Sea.
  • Filfil Reserve: Discover the wildlife and natural beauty of this mountainous nature reserve.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Coastal Eritrea

  • Adi Keih Mountains: Take on the challenge of hiking Mount Adi Keih or cycling through the surrounding hills.
  • Debre Bizen: Hike through the lush forests of Debre Bizen and see its ancient monastery.
  • The Sahel: Trek through this region known for its rugged beauty and unique flora and fauna.

Best Things to Do in Coastal Eritrea: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking: Venture out on a guided kayaking tour and explore the islands around Massawa.
  • Camel Riding: Take a sunset camel ride on the beach for a memorable experience.
  • Diving and Snorkeling: Explore the underwater world and see colorful fish, coral reefs, and shipwrecks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Coastal Eritrea

Day Activities
1 Arrival in Massawa: Visit the Old Town, Bait Al Aqil House
2 Boat Ride to Green Island: Snorkeling and Diving
3 Adi Keih Mountains: Hiking or Mountain Biking
4 Dahlak Archipelago: Island Hopping and Pearl Diving
5 Cultural Tour of Asmara: Cathedral, National Museum, and the Sahel
6 Red Sea Coast: Scenic Drive and Sunset Camel Ride
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Coastal Eritrea

Must-Try Dishes

  • Injera: A pancake-like flatbread served with spicy meat or vegetables
  • Zigni: Spicy stew made with beef or lamb, and often served with Injera
  • Basta: A thick and flavorful soup made with lentils and vegetables

Local Beverages

  • Suwa: A traditional fermented drink made from barley or corn
  • Coffee: Eritrea is known for its high quality coffee beans, and a cup of locally brewed coffee is a must-try.

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

  • Coral Hotel: A luxurious hotel in Massawa.
  • Africa Pension: A budget-friendly option in Asmara.
  • Ecolodge Assab: A unique eco-friendly retreat in the south of the country.

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

  • Handwoven baskets and mats
  • Jewelry made from locally sourced materials such as silver and coral
  • Traditional clothing, including the shemma and zuria.

Local Culture and Customs of Coastal Eritrea

  • Eritreans are generally polite and respect traditions and customs.
  • Dress modestly, particularly in mosques and churches.
  • Do not take photographs of people without their permission.

Best Time to Visit Coastal Eritrea

The best time to visit Coastal Eritrea is between October and March when the weather is mild and sunny.

Do’s and Don’ts of Coastal Eritrea

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine.
  • Learn some Tigrinya, the local language.

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water.
  • Take photographs of people without permission.
  • Wear revealing clothing in public.

Safety and Health

Safety in Coastal Eritrea

Eritrea is considered to be a relatively safe country, with low levels of crime. However, it is recommended to take precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and not carrying large amounts of money.

Health in Coastal Eritrea

Vaccinations such as yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A and B are recommended before traveling to Eritrea.

Getting to Coastal Eritrea: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Coastal Eritrea

  • Massawa International Airport
  • Asmara International Airport

Bus Stations Near Coastal Eritrea

  • Asmara Bus Station
  • Massawa Bus Station

Other Options

  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available and reasonably priced.
  • Car Rental: Renting a car is possible, but it is advisable to hire a driver.

How to Get Around in Coastal Eritrea

  • Taxis: Taxis are the most common mode of transportation and are widely available and affordable.
  • Buses: Local buses are a cheap mode of transportation, but they may not be reliable.
  • Renting a car: It is possible to rent a car, but hiring a driver is advisable.

Where to Go Next from Coastal Eritrea: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Ethiopia: Cross the border into Ethiopia and explore its many cultural and natural wonders.
  • Djibouti: Visit the vibrant city of Djibouti and see its unique volcanic landscapes.
  • Sudan: Explore the rich history and culture of Sudan, including the Pyramids of Meroe.

Conclusion

Coastal Eritrea offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your trip to Coastal Eritrea with ease and enjoy all that this stunning destination has to offer.



    Semenawi Bahri National Park