travel to asmara eritrea

Update April 12, 2024

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Travel Advisory July 31, 2023

Eritrea - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Eritrea due to travel restrictions, limited consular assistance, landmines, and wrongful detentions.

Country Summary: The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Eritrea, as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel outside of Asmara.

U.S. citizens visiting or residing in Eritrea, including dual U.S.-Eritrean nationals, have been arrested and detained without charge or on false charges.  The Department has determined that the risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals by the Eritrean government exists.

Eritrean law enforcement officials routinely block access by U.S. government officials to U.S. citizens in detention.  The U.S. Embassy therefore may not receive notification of your arrest or be allowed access to you if you are detained or arrested.

There are landmines in many remote areas in Eritrea, particularly in Nakfa, AdiKeih, Arezza, the 25 mile-wide region (40 km) between the Setit and Mereb Rivers, and in areas north and west of Keren, areas near Massawa, Ghinda, Agordat, Barentu, Dekemhare, and south of Tessenae.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Eritrea.

If you decide to travel to Eritrea:

• Use caution when walking and hiking in remote areas or off main roads.
• Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa (if applicable). Keep original documents in a secure location.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Eritrea.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Yellow Fever

Declare amounts over $10,000 USD

Declare amounts over $10,000 USD, Maximum allowed 1000 Nakfa.

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Asmara 179 Alaa Street P.O. Box 211 Asmara, Eritrea Telephone: (291) 1-120-004 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(291)1-120-004 Fax:   +(291) 1-124-255 and +(291) 1-127-584 Email: [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Requirements for Entry:

• Passport: valid for 6 months, 2 blank pages
• Visa: Obtain your visa before traveling. Visit the  Embassy of the State of Eritrea in Washington, D.C.  website for the most current visa information. Overseas inquiries should be made at the nearest Eritrean Embassy or Consulate.
• Vaccination certificate: For travelers 9 months and older coming from  countries with risk of Yellow Fever .

Electronic items:  Strict restrictions are in place for the type and quantity of electronics allowed into the country. Check with the Embassy of the State of Eritrea in Washington, D.C. for the most current regulations. All electronics (e.g. laptops, mobile phones, cameras) must be declared upon arrival. Customs officials may confiscate previously undeclared items when you depart. Non-residents may need to show that they are leaving Eritrea with the declared electronics in their possession.

Receipts:  Visitors must save all receipts for purchases and foreign exchanges and present these upon departure. Failure to report foreign currency or electronics, or meet customs requirements can result in confiscation of possessions, fines, and imprisonment.

Exit Visas:  U.S.-Eritrean dual nationals who enter the country on an Eritrean passport or national ID card must obtain an exit visa prior to departure. All long-term residents must also obtain an exit visa.

• The exit visa application process can significantly delay travel plans.
• Exit visas, for any traveler, may be denied.
• U.S.-Eritrean dual nationals who left the country after 1993 may not be allowed to depart Eritrea after visiting.
• The Eritrean government may impose entry and/or exit restrictions on dual-nationals resident outside Eritrea who do not comply with tax regulations on overseas earnings.

The Eritrean-Ethiopian Border: The land border between Eritrea and Ethiopia is currently closed. Bearers of U.S. passports are advised not to attempt land travel between the two countries.

HIV/AIDS restrictions:  The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Eritrea.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

See the Department of State Travel Advisory for Eritrea .

Eritrea experiences frequent water shortages and not all hotels have running water. Fuel shortages occur as well.

Travel Permits: All foreign nationals, including U.S. Embassy officials, are required to obtain permits for travel more than 25 km outside of Asmara. Applications for travel permits are available at the two Ministry of Tourism offices located on Harnet Avenue and Airport Road. If you encounter difficulties while outside of the Asmara area, the Embassy’s ability to provide consular services may be limited.

Use caution when traveling near the Eritrea-Ethiopia border area. Remain on major roads in the border region due to unmarked minefields. The Eritrea-Ethiopia border is closed; there is no legal means to travel between Ethiopia and Eritrea by land.

Foreign nationals generally are not permitted to approach or cross the Djibouti-Eritrea land border.

There are landmines, particularly in Nakfa, AdiKeih, Arezza, the 25-mile-wide region (40 km) between the Setit and Mereb Rivers, and in areas north and west of Keren, areas near Massawa, Ghinda, Agordat, Barentu, Dekemhare, and south of Tessenae.

Certain remote Eritrean islands have military facilities and are not accessible to tourists.

Crime:  The Embassy is unable to quantify actual rates of crime as Eritrea does not publicly provide crime statistics, but crimes do occur and police have limited capacity to investigate. While most reported criminal incidents in Asmara involve crimes of opportunity, car and home burglaries and sexual assaults are also reported. U.S. citizens are encouraged to implement personal security practices such as:

• Avoid walking alone, especially at night.
• Do not display cash and valuable personal property.
• Maintain a low profile. Avoid doing anything that draws attention to you or your family.
• Remain alert to what is going on around you.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of crime should contact the U.S. Embassy as soon as possible. Report crimes to the local police at + (291)-1-127-799 and contact the U.S. Embassy at + (291) 1-120-004.

In Asmara and throughout Eritrea, in an emergency, dial

• + (291) 1-127-799 for the police
• + (291) 1-202-099 for the fire department
• + (291) 1-202-914 / 201-917 / 201-606 (Orotta Hospital) for medical emergencies
• + (291) 1 – 185-400 (Halibet Hospital) for medical emergencies

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• provide a list of local attorneys
• provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in case of destitution
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• replace a lost or stolen passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism:  Tourism industry infrastructure is minimal. Tourists participate in activities at their own risk. Emergency response capabilities are limited, and subsequent appropriate medical treatment may not be available in-country. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  Visitors are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Convictions for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs result in long prison sentences and heavy fines. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business. Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice website .

U.S.-Eritrean Dual Nationals:  Eritrea does not recognize dual nationality. Dual U.S.-Eritrean citizens are considered Eritrean nationals by the Eritrean authorities. This limits our ability to provide consular services for dual nationals.

Dual nationals may be subject to certain obligations, including taxes and conscription into national service. Proof of payment of the two-percent income tax is required to obtain any civil documents (e.g., birth certificates, educational transcripts, property ownership records, court records). Ask about your status at an Eritrean embassy or consulate regarding before you travel.

Military Service for Dual U.S.–Eritrean Nationals:  The National Service Proclamation of October 1995 states that any national between the age of 18 and 50 must participate in National Service.

Photography:  Exercise caution when taking photographs in Eritrea. Individuals taking photos of military or government installations may face a warning, harassment, confiscation of the phone/camera, arrest, detention, or interrogation. Do not take photos of Eritreans without their permission.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. Eritrean law enforcement officials routinely block access to foreign nationals in detention. The U.S. Embassy may not receive notification or be allowed access to you if you are detained. You may ask your family members to contact the Embassy on your behalf. See our  webpage  for further information.

Phone Service:  Cellular phones are common. Landlines are available in most homes and are more reliable than cellular service. It is very difficult for a tourist to obtain a SIM card for cellular service. There is no data service or roaming available.

Currency:  The Eritrean Nakfa (ERN) is the official currency. The economy is cash-based and there are no ATMs. Credit cards are not accepted anywhere in Eritrea . It is illegal to use foreign currency to make purchases except at a few official hotels and stores where foreigners are required to pay in U.S. dollars or Euros. For businesses that will accept U.S. dollars, they require bills printed from 2003 or later.

It is illegal to exchange money anywhere other than at a state foreign currency exchange Himbol branch. You must declare all foreign currency brought into Eritrea in excess of $10,000 (or the equivalent) and on departure you must prove that any missing foreign currency was exchanged at a branch of the Himbol or provide receipts for the items you purchased.

The Eritrean government prohibits travelers from taking more than 1,000 Nakfa out of Eritrea. Violators may have the money confiscated and/or be detained.

If you are transiting from Addis Ababa, be aware there is a limit of $3,000 (or foreign currency equivalent) that may be carried out of Ethiopia. See the  Ethiopia country information page for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  Consensual same-sex sexual activity is punishable by incarceration of ten days to three years. Antidiscrimination laws relating to LGBTQI+ persons do not exist. There are no known LGBTQI+ organizations in the country. Hotels do not allow two females or two males to share one room unless it has separate beds.

See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance : Persons with disabilities face limited access to transportation, public buildings, hotels, and communication accommodations. Within Asmara, sidewalks are plentiful, although most are in bad condition and do not have cutouts. Few buildings have elevators. Due to frequent power outages, these elevators may not be functioning.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad page  and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  Domestic violence, punishable as assault and battery, is commonplace but rarely reported and perpetrators are not prosecuted. No information is available on the prevalence of rape.

Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C): While FGM/C is a traditional practice in many parts of the country, the government has prioritized the elimination of the practice. While it is still practiced in some areas, many regions have completely eliminated the practice.

See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Please visit the Embassy's COVID-19 page  for more information on COVID-19 in Eritrea.

Consult the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for Eritrea  prior to travel.

Medical facilities and physicians are limited. Medicines are in short supply. Carry prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Bring preventative and over-the counter medicines with you.

For emergency services in Eritrea, dial + (291) 1-202-914 / 201-917 / 201-606.

Ambulance services are:

• Not widely available. Ambulances have minimal equipment; training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.
• Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance. 

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. 

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the  CDC  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas. 

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. 

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the closest Embassy of the State of Eritrea to ensure the medication is legal in Eritrea. 

Vaccinations: Be up to date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the CDC.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. embassies and consulates. The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. 

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Diarrheal Diseases
• Malaria  (in the lowlands only, outside Asmara): Use the CDC recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets. Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays. 

Visit the CDC website for more information about  Resources for Travelers  regarding specific issues in Eritrea.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Stay on main roads. Rural roads and off-road driving can be dangerous. Traveling by road is also hazardous due to slow motorized carts, pedestrians, bicycles, livestock, fog, poor road maintenance, and poor lighting. There are minefields in certain areas of the country. The roads between Asmara, Massawa, Mendefera, Dekemhare, Barentu, and Keren are paved, but roads to small villages are not. Mountain roads, which are narrow and winding with crumbling edges, generally do not have guardrails or signs, and sometimes have poor visibility of oncoming traffic around hairpin turns. Road debris is common during the rainy seasons, which differ depending on which part of the country you are in. The Filfil Road from Asmara to Massawa has a large amount of mountain debris and has washed away in parts. Wild baboons may be sighted on mountain roads. They are not safe to approach; keep vehicle windows closed and doors closed.

Traffic Laws:  If you wish to drive in Eritrea, you must obtain an Eritrea driver’s license. You may not use your U.S. or international driver’s license. The police may stop drivers randomly to inspect driver’s licenses.

Accidents:  If you are involved in an automobile accident, you should contact the local police immediately. Leave your car in place until the local police arrive to take a report. Local garages will be unable to make repairs without a police certificate, even for single vehicle accidents. If a crowd forms and becomes hostile, contact the U.S. Embassy.

Public Transportation:  Buses and taxis, both of which run on pre-established routes, are inexpensive.

• Buses: Extreme over-crowding makes them unsafe, and pickpocketing is common.
• Taxis: Requests for any deviation from the route can result in significantly higher fares. You may ask a driver in advance not to take other passengers if you pay a higher fare.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

Aviation Safety and Oversight:  As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Eritrea, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Eritrea’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Eritrea should first contact the Embassy of the State of Eritrea in Washington, D.C., to ensure they have permission to enter Eritrean waters. Mariners should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the   U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency broadcast warnings . 

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

For additional IPCA-related information, please see  the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA)  report.

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Eritrea Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

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After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Eritrea.

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Eritrea.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Eritrea.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Eritrea take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Eritrea.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis (Meningococcal disease)

Recommended for travelers 2 months old or older traveling to  areas of Eritrea  that are part of the meningitis belt during the dry season.

Meningococcal disease - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis Belt Map

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Eritrea. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Eritrea, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Eritrea. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Generally not recommended for travel to the regions of: Anseba, Debub (also known as South or Southern Region), Gash Barka, Ma’ekel (also known as Ma’akel or Central Region), or Semenawi K’eyih Bahri (also known as Northern Red Sea Region). Not recommended for travel to any areas not listed above, including the Dahlak Archipelago.

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

African tick-bite fever.

• Avoid Bug Bites

African Tick-bite fever

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite
• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Eritrea, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Eritrea. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Eritrea include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Eritrea. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Eritrea’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in Eritrea. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Eritrea may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Eritrea, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Eritrea for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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AFP/Getty Images

An unexpectedly delightful capital city, Asmara is dotted with marvellous art deco and modernist architecture, authentic street-front coffee shops that make for prime people-watching, and sobering testaments to the many difficult years of fighting in the lead up to, and ensuing years since, independence. Also, as long as travel restrictions remain in place for the rest of the country, Asmara offers the most freedom to travellers, with anywhere within 25km of the city fair game for exploration without needing to apply for travel permits.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Tank Graveyard

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Bowling Alley

A block south of the Municipality Building, the Bowling Alley is one of the few genuine 1950s alleys left in the world. It was probably built for US…

Fiat Tagliero Building

A futurist departure from the art deco standard that defines most of the notable Italian-era buildings in Asmara, this former petrol station was…

Medebar Market

Duck up northeast to soak up the atmosphere of the Medebar Market. No doubt you'll be awestruck the minute you enter this mind-boggling place. It's an…

This small village on the road to Keren is within the 25km limit from Asmara within which travellers can move freely without permits, and the foothills…

Opposite the Africa Pension Hotel, the gleaming Villa Roma is reminiscent of a Roman villa with its marble staircases, louvred shutters, curving…

Central Market

North of Harnet Ave, the sprawling Central Market is one of Asmara's major attractions. The best time to visit is early on Saturday, when people come in…

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Despite a wealth of archaeological ruins, stunning Red Sea coastline, and one of the world's greatest concentrations of largely-forgotten art deco…

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Eritrea travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: April 17, 2024 12:01 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, eritrea - avoid non-essential travel.

Avoid non-essential travel to Eritrea due to ongoing tensions and conflict with neighbouring countries.

Border areas of Ethiopia and Sudan - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to the areas within 50 km of the borders with Ethiopia and Sudan.

Border area of Djibouti - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to the area within 25 km of the border with Djibouti.

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Military Operations in Tigray

The Eritrean military called for a mobilization of armed forces on September 15, 2022.

A cessation of hostilities agreement was signed on November 2, 2022 between the Government of Ethiopia and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF). The agreement has yet to be fully implemented and there remains uncertainty regarding its implications for security along the Eritrean borders with Ethiopia and the Sudan.

Additional security measures could be imposed in Eritrea on short notice.

If you are in Eritrea:

• limit your movements
• ensure that your travel documents are up-to-date
• monitor local media to stay informed on the evolving situation

Border between Eritrea and Djibouti

Political tension and territorial conflicts continue to cause instability in the area by the Eritrean–Djiboutian border. Border raids could be carried out and can result in armed confrontations and other violent incidents. Crime is also of concern in this area.

Border between Eritrea and Ethiopia

Armed conflicts involving Eritrean forces have been taking place in the Tigray region of Ethiopia since early November 2020. In late 2020, several explosions were reported in Asmara. Although the situation in Ethiopia has somewhat stabilized, the conflict continues in the Tigray region and the situation near the border remains volatile.  

All border crossings between Ethiopia and Eritrea are currently closed. There are also unmarked landmines in the border area. You should avoid all travel within 50km of the border with Ethiopia.

If you must travel in this region despite this advisory:

• stay on the main paved roads
• do not walk in the countryside

Border between Eritrea and Sudan

The presence of rebel groups in the area next to Eritrea’s border with Sudan poses a risk. Crime and bomb attacks occur. The border remains closed: do not attempt to cross it.

There is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time. Terrorist targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Stay at hotels that have robust security measures; however, keep in mind that even the most secure locations cannot be considered completely free of risk.

Street crime is infrequent in Asmara and in other towns and villages. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs and is targeted towards foreigners. Crime is more common in border areas.

• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Avoid showing signs of affluence

Banditry occurs along the coast north of Massawa.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Due to the closure of many of Eritrea’s water purification and bottling plants, there is a generalized drinking water supply problem.

• Plan to have adequate water supplies
• Ensure that your emergency kit is complete

Emergency kit

Landmines continue to cause occasional injury and death. Many areas are mined. Exercise caution in remote areas or off main roads. Avoid walking and hiking in the countryside.

Telecommunications

Landline telephone, cell phone and Internet networks are unreliable and often limited to a few hours of service a day in major cities.

Road safety

Paved roads connect the major cities of Asmara, Barentu, Dekemhare, Keren, Massawa and Mendefera, but roads to small villages are unpaved.

Driving can be dangerous due to:

• lack of road signs;
• lack of safety guard rails;
• the presence of animals, numerous pedestrians and cyclists on the road. 

Avoid travelling in rural areas after nightfall./p>

Public transportation

Public transportation, especially buses, is often overcrowded. Many taxis are available, but they often take several passengers and follow predetermined itineraries. If you pay a higher fare, you may ask a driver in advance not to take other passengers.

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters and, in some cases, farther out at sea. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report  - International Maritime Bureau’s Piracy Reporting Centre

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Eritrean authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Eritrea.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required Business visa: required Official visa: required In-transit visa: required

All visas must be obtained prior to travel. Obtaining a visa can take a very long time. Apply well in advance of your planned departure.

Dual citizenship

You should always travel using your valid Canadian passport and present yourself as Canadian to foreign authorities at all times. Note, however, that dual citizens must have an Eritrean national ID card, or at least have applied for one, before they can obtain an Eritrean visa in their Canadian passport. Dual citizens who enter Eritrea must obtain an exit visa before leaving the country. Exit visa applications may be denied or cause delays in planning a trip, even for people who have entered Eritrea legally.

Travellers with dual citizenship

Departure tax

A departure tax must be paid at the airport in nakfas or in U.S. dollars.

Travel permit outside Asmara

All foreign nationals, including employees of non-governmental organizations and of the United Nations, must obtain a travel permit from the Government of Eritrea for all travel outside Asmara. Foreign nationals living or working outside Asmara must also obtain a travel permit to travel outside the area where they live or work. Travel regulations are strictly enforced throughout Eritrea, and there are numerous military checkpoints. The Department of Tourism, in Asmara, processes applications for travel permits. If you obtain permission to travel outside Asmara and you experience problems, Canadian officials could be limited in their capacity to provide consular assistance. The restrictions on travel outside of Asmara also apply to diplomats.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is low potential for yellow fever exposure in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination may be recommended depending on your itinerary.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites .

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

This destination is in the African Meningitis Belt, an area which has the highest rates of meningococcal disease in the world. Meningococcal disease is a serious and sometimes fatal infection. 

Travellers who are at higher risk should discuss vaccination with a health care provider. High-risk travellers include those living or working with the local population (e.g., health care workers) or those travelling to crowded areas or taking part in large gatherings.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

There is a risk of schistosomiasis in this destination. Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by tiny worms (blood flukes) which can be found in freshwater (lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands). The worms can break the skin, and their eggs can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, or urinary problems. Schistosomiasis mostly affects underdeveloped and r ural communities, particularly agricultural and fishing communities.

Most travellers are at low risk. Travellers should avoid contact with untreated freshwater such as lakes, rivers, and ponds (e.g., swimming, bathing, wading, ingesting). There is no vaccine or medication available to prevent infection.

Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.

To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions .

Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:

• visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
• visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring

Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)   is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). 

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is limited in availability.

There is a shortage of medications.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

The laws of Eritrea prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Eritrea.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Photography

It is forbidden to photograph government buildings and military facilities.

To drive in Eritrea, you must have a local driver’s licence. To obtain one, you must present a valid Canadian driver’s licence or an International Driving Permit.

International Driving Permit

Local culture

Dress and behave discreetly and respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local residents.

In 2025, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 28.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Eritrea.

If local authorities consider you an Eritrean citizen, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services, thereby preventing Canadian consular officials from providing you with those services.

Dual citizens returning to Eritrea may have to do compulsory military service.

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Eritrea.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Eritrea by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Eritrea to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

The currency is the nakfa (ERN).

On arrival, travellers must declare, in writing, all foreign currency they are importing in excess of US$10,000 or the equivalent in other foreign currencies.

Credit cards are not accepted as a method of payment for everyday transactions. They are made in cash, using the nakfa. However, the Government of Eritrea expects foreign tourists to pay for accommodations in foreign currency.

Foreign currency must be exchanged at a branch of the Himbol Exchange at the official exchange rate.

You can’t take more than 500 nakfa out of the country. Offenders can have their money confiscated or face prosecution.

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from June to September. During this period, most regions of Eritrea are accessible except for the western lowlands, where roads are unpaved.

• Keep informed of weather forecasts
• Plan accordingly

Earthquakes and volcanoes

Eritrea is situated in an earthquake and volcanic zone.

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 291 (1) 127 799
• medical assistance: 291 (1) 202 914 / 291 (1) 202 917 / 291 (1) 202 606
• firefighters: 291 (1) 202 099

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada in Addis Ababa, in Ethiopia, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Search Smartraveller

Latest update

Reconsider your need to travel to Eritrea overall due to the risk of violent crime and potential conflict with neighbouring countries.

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Eritrea (PDF 218.93 KB)

Africa (PDF 1.68 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

Reconsider your need to travel to Eritrea.

Do not travel to  the region bordering Ethiopia.

Do not travel to the region bordering Ethiopia due to landmines.

Do not travel to  regions bordering Sudan and Djibouti and towns of Teseney, Barentu and Assab.

Do not trave l to:

• regions bordering Sudan and Djibouti,
• Barentu, and

due to the high risk of robbery, violence and bomb attacks.

• In September 2022, the Eritrean Government called for a mobilisation of its armed forces in response to the conflict in northern Ethiopia. While the call has ended, additional security measures may be introduced at short notice. You should remain vigilant when in Eritrea.
• In 2020, there were reports of explosions in Asmara as a result of rockets launched from the ongoing military conflict in Tigray, Ethiopia. Further attacks are possible.
• There's a risk of kidnapping in Eritrea. If you choose to travel to high-risk regions, get professional security advice.
• Landmines are found within 25km of Eritrea’s border with Ethiopia. Take care when walking or hiking in rural areas due to unmarked minefields.
• Military tensions exist between Eritrea and Djibouti. Robbery and violence are common within 25km of the border.
• Robbery and violence are common along the coast north of Massawa and on some rural roads. Take care when travelling in these areas. Street crime is rare but occurs. Don't walk alone late at night.

Full travel advice: Safety

• Parts of Eritrea, including Asmara, are at high altitudes. This can lead to altitude sickness. If you have a heart condition or high blood pressure, get medical advice before you travel.
• Malaria occurs throughout the year. Yellow fever is also a risk. Consider taking anti-malarial medication. Get vaccinated for yellow fever before you travel. Other insect-borne diseases include dengue fever and filariasis. Use insect repellent. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof.
• HIV/AIDS is a risk. Take precautions if you're doing anything that might expose you to infection.
• Polio outbreaks have occurred across the Horn of Africa. Check your vaccination status with a doctor before you travel. Other infectious diseases include cholera and hepatitis. Boil drinking water or drink bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked foods.
• There are currently drinking water supply problems being experienced across Eritrea due to the closure by the Eritrean Government of many of the water purification and bottling plants. You should be aware of this shortage when planning your visit.
• Medications are often unavailable and can be expensive. Carry a comprehensive medical pack if you travel away from large towns.

Full travel advice: Health

Serious crimes may attract the death penalty or physical punishment.

• Understand local laws. Same-sex relationships and taking photos of government buildings or military sites are illegal.
• Eritrea doesn't recognise dual nationality. Male dual nationals may need to enter military service when they return to Eritrea. Get advice from the nearest embassy or consulate of Eritrea before you travel.
• Eritrea has strict standards of dress and behaviour. Dress appropriately.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• You'll need a visa to enter Eritrea. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the Embassy of Eritrea in Canberra for the latest details.
• Carry your yellow fever vaccination certificate. You may need to show it when you arrive in and leave Eritrea.
• You need an exit permit to leave Eritrea. It can take a long time to get one. Apply well before your departure date.
• You need a permit to travel beyond 25km of Asmara and the surrounding province of Zoba Maekel. Apply before you travel. Permits usually take around 24 hours to process.
• There are no ATMs in Eritrea. You can't use credit cards, except in some hotels. Check with your hotel before travelling to find out the best way to pay. Change foreign currency at a branch of the state foreign currency exchange in Himbol. It's illegal to use foreign currencies or to change foreign currency anywhere else.
• Tourists may not be able to use public transport to travel outside of Asmara. You may need to rent a car or use a private taxi.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter tells you what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

The Australian Government may not be able to provide consular help if you're detained in Eritrea. Eritrean authorities don't always tell the relevant embassy when foreign nationals need consular help.

• Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Eritrea. If you need consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Cairo .

Australian consular officials often face long delays in getting visas to enter Eritrea or to travel outside of Asmara. These delays severely limit consular help to Australians in Eritrea, especially outside of Asmara.

• If you choose to travel, be aware consular services may be limited due to local measures.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Civil unrest and political tension, demonstrations and protests.

Instability is a risk in Eritrea. However, Asmara is relatively stable.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

Avoid demonstrations and protests. Monitor the media for news that may affect your security and safety.

More information:

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Ethiopian border

In response to the conflict in northern Ethiopia, the Eritrean Government called for a mobilisation of its armed forces in September 2022. While the mobilisation has ceased, additional security measures may be introduced at short notice. You should remain vigilant.

In 2020, there were reports of explosions in Asmara as a result of rockets launched from the ongoing military conflict in Tigray, Ethiopia. Further attacks are possible. Exercise extreme caution and follow the advice of local authorities.

Eritrea has extensive unmarked minefields, mainly near the border with Ethiopia. Don't travel within 25km of the border.

All border crossings between Ethiopia and Eritrea are currently closed. Travellers should check local advice before proceeding to the border.

It's not clear where or to what extent de-mining has taken place. Walking and hiking in rural areas may be dangerous.

In most places, the border is neither marked nor obvious.

Travel advice for Ethiopia

Sudanese border

There's a high threat of robbery and violence from bandits and insurgents, including bomb attacks. There are ongoing reports of armed groups operating in and around the border area.

Travel advice for Sudan

Djibouti border

Conflict and instability between Eritrea and Djibouti since 2008 creates a high risk within 25km of the border.

Travel advice for Djibouti

Kidnapping is a risk in Eritrea.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

If, despite our advice, you decide to travel to an area where there's a risk of kidnapping:

• seek professional security advice
• arrange effective personal security

Street crime is rare but happens in cities and towns, including Asmara. Don't walk around alone late at night.

Robbery and violence may occur:

• near the Djibouti border where law and order has broken down
• along the coast north of Massawa
• on some rural roads

Many local people access weapons under the government's civilian militia program. There's no evidence that these weapons have increased the threat of violent crime.

There's a significant threat of piracy and armed robbery in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean.

Pirates have attacked vessels and held foreigners hostage for ransom in the Gulf of Aden.

Somali pirates have attacked vessels more than a thousand nautical miles (1850km) from the coast of Somalia.

Attractive targets for Somali pirates include:

• commercial vessels
• pleasure craft
• luxury cruise liners

You should remain out of the  designated High Risk Area  or face the risk of being hijacked and held hostage for ransom. 

If you need to travel by boat to Eritrea's waters and surrounds:

• stay more than a thousand nautical miles (1850km) from the coast of the Horn of Africa, even this distance may not be safe
• travel in a convoy and maintain good communication
• take appropriate security measures

More information

• Piracy reports  issued by the International Maritime Bureau (IMB).

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:   

Cyber security when travelling overseas  

No recent terrorist attacks have occurred in Eritrea, but they can happen.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Climate and natural disasters

Eritrea is in an active volcano and earthquake zone.

Get information on natural disasters from the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System . If a natural disaster occurs, follow the advice of local authorities.

In the rainy season from June to September, you may not be able to use unsealed roads in the western lowlands.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won’t pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you’ll be away

Physical and mental health

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Eritrea. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

It may take some time to adjust to the high altitude and low oxygen levels of Asmara and surrounds.

If you suffer from a heart condition or high blood pressure, get medical advice before you travel.

Insect-borne illnesses

Malaria occurs throughout the year in Eritrea.

Other insect-borne disease risks include:

• yellow fever

There are no current reports of Zika virus outbreaks in Eritrea. However, there have been past outbreaks in Africa.

To protect yourself against diseases spread by insects:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• get vaccinated against yellow fever before you travel

Consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.

HIV/AIDS is a risk for travellers. Take precautions if taking part in activities that put you at risk of infection.

Outbreaks of polio have occurred in countries across the Horn of Africa.

Check your polio vaccination status with your doctor or travel clinic at least 8 weeks before you travel. You may need a booster dose.

If you aren't vaccinated, complete the full course of vaccinations before you leave.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are widespread. These diseases include:

• schistosomiasis
• meningococcal disease
• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food

Get urgent medical help if you suspect food poisoning or have a fever or diarrhoea.

Medical care

Asmara has 3 public hospitals. Public hospitals in other towns have fewer facilities. Elsewhere, medical facilities are even more limited.

Medicines are often unavailable and can be expensive. Carry a full medical pack if you travel away from large towns.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling, especially for an extended stay.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

In the past, Eritrean authorities have refused consular access to detained foreigners.

The Australian Government may not be able to provide fast or full consular help to Australians held in Eritrea.

Penalties for drug-related crimes are severe and include long prison sentences.

Carrying or using drugs

In Eritrea it's illegal to:

• have same-sex relations
• take photos of government buildings or military sites
• change money anywhere other than at a branch of the state foreign currency exchange in Himbol
• use foreign currency, except in some hotels

Advice for LGBTI travellers

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Eritrea doesn't recognise dual nationality.

If you're a dual national, this limits the consular services we can give if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your Australian passport .

Australian males who hold Eritrean citizenship may need to enter military service when they return to Eritrea.

Dual nationals who enter on an Eritrean identity card rather than an Eritrean passport will need an exit visa from the Immigration Office in Asmara.

If you're an Eritrean-Australian dual national, get advice from the nearest embassy or consulate of Eritrea before you travel.

Dual nationals

Local customs

Standards of dress and behaviour are strict in Eritrea. Take care not to offend. If in doubt, ask for local advice.

Visa and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Visa conditions

You'll need a visa to enter Eritrea.

Entry and exit requirements can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy of Eritrea for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Border measures

Some international flights into and from Asmara have resumed but remain limited. Check with your airline.

Exit permit

You need an exit permit to leave Eritrea. It can take a long time to get one. The Immigration Department may deny you a permit.

The Australian Government cannot influence the Eritrean Immigration Department to issue exit permits.

You must pay a departure tax in US dollars. You're exempt if you hold a valid Eritrean resident permit. Ask local authorities about the cost of the departure tax because the amount may change.

Other formalities

Yellow fever vaccination.

You may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Eritrea, especially if you're arriving from a country where yellow fever is common. You'll also need to have one when you leave.

Most countries ask for proof of yellow fever vaccination if you arrive from Eritrea and other yellow fever risk countries. This includes Egypt and South Africa .

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever .

Countries with a risk of yellow fever

Electronic devices

Declare all electronic items when you arrive. These include:

• mobile phones
• other electronic equipment

If you don't declare them, Eritrean customs officials could confiscate the items when you leave.

Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you’re overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with 'X' gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

LGBTI travellers  

 Local currency

The local currency is the Eritrean Nafka (ERN). Currency controls are in place.

There's no limit to the amount of foreign currency you can bring into the country. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash. Make sure you have had your complete foreign currency declaration form approved and stamped before you leave the airport.

Any foreign currency used in Eritrea must be exchanged or used legally. You must have proof of this when you leave.

Access to money

Eritrea's economy is completely cash-based. There are no credit card or ATM facilities in Eritrea. You'll need to pay for everything in cash. Most hotels in Eritrea will require you to settle your hotel bill in US dollars.

It's illegal to change money anywhere other than at a branch of the state foreign currency exchange in one of the 'Himbol' exchanges in town. Some officially recognised hotels can accept foreign currency. Otherwise, it's illegal to use foreign currencies in Eritrea.

You can't take more than 500 Nafka out of Eritrea. Authorities could prosecute you if you do. Nakfa aren’t convertible outside Eritrea. You should convert any excess Nakfa back to hard currency at one of the ’Himbol’ exchanges in town, as there are limits to what can be converted at the ’Himbol’ branch at the airport. You will need the original currency transaction receipt.

Local travel

Phone coverage.

Landline, mobile telephone and internet services are unreliable. Internet is available at some international hotels and internet cafes in Asmara.

Local SIM cards aren't available to non-residents.

Eritrean mobile phone providers don't have agreements with international providers. International roaming may not be available.

Contact your telecommunication provider before travelling.

Travel permits

You must apply ahead for a travel permit to travel 25km outside of Asmara and the surrounding province of Zoba Maekel. Ministries in Asmara process applications.

The Ministry of Trade and Industry handles business travel applications.

The Ministry of Tourism on Harnet Avenue in Asmara handles tourist travel applications.

It usually takes around 24 hours to process applications.

When applying for permission to travel outside of Asmara, give details of your car.

If you're living or working outside of Asmara and want to travel outside your normal area of work or home, you need a travel permit. Apply at your local Zonal Administration Office. Travel applications can take several days to process. Sometimes they're refused or delayed.

Our consular services are severely limited outside Asmara. This includes emergency assistance. Australian consular officials often face long delays to get visas to enter Eritrea. Once in Eritrea, Australian officials must then apply for a permit to travel outside Asmara.

Driving permit

To drive in Eritrea, you must get an International Driving Permit (IDP) before you arrive. Otherwise, contact local authorities to get a local licence.

Road travel

There are extensive mine fields in Eritrea, especially in border areas. Driving on main roads outside of border areas is generally safe. Driving on rural roads and off-road driving can be dangerous. Avoid travel after dark in rural areas. Road signage and  barriers are scarce, and steep drops are common. In many parts of the country roads are difficult or impassable during the rainy season.

Roads are sealed between the cities of Asmara, Massawa, Mendefera, Dekemhare, Baretun and Keren. Roads leading to smaller villages are unsealed.

Road maintenance isn't consistent in mountainous regions and steep sloping areas. Narrow winding roads with crumbling edges often don't have safety barriers.

Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Avoid using motorcycles, particularly in rural areas where standards of driving and road maintenance are lower.

Check with your travel insurer to see if your policy covers riding a motorcycle.

Always wear a helmet.

Use only licensed taxis or reputable limousine services. You can arrange this through your hotel.

Public transport

Maintenance standards on buses may be lower than in Australia.

Travellers are sometimes not allowed to use public transport to travel outside of Asmara. You may need to rent a car or use a private taxi.

Transport and getting around safely

Before you arrive, you must get permission and an entry visa to arrive in Eritrea by sea.

Commercial vessels that don't have agreements with Eritrean authorities should avoid Eritrean territorial waters. The Eritrean government has taken control of ships that didn't have an agreement. This has led to lengthy detention for international crew members.

Piracy is a high threat in the coastal areas of Eritrea. Pirate attacks happen against all forms of vessels in and around Eritrea's waters and the Gulf of Aden.

All forms of shipping are attractive targets for Somali pirates, including commercial vessels, yachts and luxury cruise liners. Stay alert and take extra precautions when anywhere near these waters.

• Piracy reports

We can't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Eritrea's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Emergency services and the telephone network in Eritrea are unreliable but they exist.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Eritrea. The Australian Embassy in Cairo provides consular services to Australians in Eritrea.

The Eritrean authorities may not inform the relevant Embassy if a foreign national is in need of help and there have been recent instances where the Eritrean authorities have refused consular access to foreign nationals.

If you need consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Cairo .

Australian Embassy, Cairo

11th floor, World Trade Centre

1191 Corniche el Nil

Boulac, Cairo, Egypt

Telephone: +20 2 2770 6600

Facsimile: +20 2 2770 6650

Website: egypt.embassy.gov.au

X (Twitter):  @AusAmbEGY

Facebook:  Australian Embassy in Egypt

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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Traveling to Asmara, Eritrea – tips and tricks – (182nd Country Visited)

Wow, wow, and again… Wow! What a beautiful surprise that was waiting for me hidden among the mountains in my last stop in the Horn of Africa: Eritrea! This ex-Italian colony, also known as “The Rome of Africa” by the locals, definitely deserves its title! I could go as far as calling it “The Best Kept Secret of Africa!”… Arriving here was like a miracle after the desertic landscapes of Djibouti and Somalia. Just a few months ago I rated Algiers as my #1 most beautiful city in Africa . I guess we have a contender for the title, Asmara, the Capital of Eritrea, is definitely in my top 3 that’s for sure!

Beautiful Asmara at Sunrise

The city is by far the cleanest city I’ve ever been in Africa, as well as one of the safest! Being at about 2300 meters above sea level, I first felt like arriving in a Spanishish colonial town up in the Andes in Peru or Ecuador, but with a punch of Italian Flavours! This is the first place I have ever been that can be called an “Italian colonial town”. I even had a conversation in Italian with M. Telkeste, an extremely friendly Man who has worked with me to organize logistics for the trip. However, Italian seems to have been lost through the latest generations in favor of English which everybody seems to speak fluently.

Italian Style Cathedral

The city still clearly breaths Italy and its influence it everywhere! The Cathedral in the middle of the city is of “Lombard style” and the clock tower resembles those of Venice! The grand boulevards are amazingly set up with beautiful palm trees on its sides and kept as clean as a street can be. Even the dressing style of Eritreans can look like those of southern Italians, with a clear preference for fashion over traditional cloth.

Central Market with Many Columns

In a way, I felt transported back in the 1920s in Italy, period where much of the city has stayed after the Italians left. There are still vintage style cinemas that have been converted to cafes, I counted 4 through me walks around the city. Asmara can easily be a best-kept secret in Africa as it has changed so little over the last 100 years as it is one of the closest countries in the world. Some have even titled it “The North Korea of Africa” referring to its harsh politics of its government. But as a tourist, it is kind of hard to see this side of the story. there are still hints here and there, as I was told by some friendly locals I met in a cafe, explaining to me the situation with the internet. It is still prohibited to have a private connection without a special permit, the internet is accessible only at the dozen internet cafes around the Capital provided an ID to track all activity.

Clock Tower, Similar to the one in Venice

But this hidden gem may not stay hidden for too long… Just this year, Asmara was awarded UNESCO World heritage title, which has sparked a lot of media attention and tourism is now following. According to locals, I talked to, tourism is growing rapidly especially this year! In my opinion, it is a little like Cuba where people should hurry to come to see it before it gets too much hyped and invaded with tourist attractions.

Boulevards of Asmara

Being in the birthplace of Coffee plantations, and having countless Italian style cafes spread all over town, it is no wonder why I had the best macchiatos in the world! I was literally hopping from cafes to cafes to sip countless macchiatos to try to find the best I could in the city! I lost count of how many coffees I had in my whole stay, probably over 30. They still use vintage Italian espresso machines, and with fresh coffee beans, it can’t get better! At a traditional dinner, I was invited with M. Tekeste, I witnessed some Eritreans doing the traditional way to make coffee, where they roast the green coffee beans on hot coals, then grind the grains on the spot, then make the coffee, all of that in 30 minutes! It can’t be fresher than this!

Another interesting fact about Eritrea is the women. They seemed to me so confident, intelligent and I must admit, very seductive. This is the first place in Africa that I see local women wear high heels in the city during the day! Most probably this style comes from the Italian influence that fashion has left on the local population. Even so, they are definitely the most beautiful women I’ve seen in the 42 countries I’ve been in Africa! I was also explained that women play an important role in Eritrean society, and an interestingly their army counts 1/3 of their soldiers being women! that is probably the highest rate of any army in the world!

Palm Trees on the Main Street of Asmara

Overall, Eritrea has really fascinated me! I already know I want to come back to spend more time exploring the other parts of the country. I really didn’t expect the Asmara to be such a shock to me as it has been, thanks to a unique style that I haven’t seen anywhere else around the globe! This all reminded me why I love traveling… Even after 182 countries visited, I keep discovering new places I had no clue existed!

My Friend M Tekeste

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18 Comments

So inspiring Ian!

Thanks Jurinda! Make sure you put Eritrea on your “must see” places in the world 🙂

Very genuine impression of this small but beautful and charming city….with time Eritrea has more to offer to travellers besides Asmara – pristine 2000km + seaside, chains of mountains and welcoming people ! Your blog will definitely encourage others to discover this hidden gem!

I Am leaving now in Edmonton Ab Canada , but I raised up in this extraordinary beautifull city ASMARA…Indeed a hidden marvelous beautifull city thanks for sharing this blog of my city . . VIVA ASMARA

Glad to hear you are enjoying my country as much as I am enjoying yours 🙂 I beleive amazing hospitality is what makes us similar countries Canada and Eritrea

Indeed Canadians are humble people as well. Thanks again Ian.

Hej my name is berhane just to say that dispite what The media says. I am glad to haer it from such a guy like You Who have seen The Word With his own eyes and still testify that eritrea is a piecefull beutifull country and admits The True reality of Eritrea and its People and I would like to thankyou from all my heart Realy and Godbless You my friend

Hi! thanks for your beautiful message! I always bring an unbiased opinion to me readers, and it reflects what I really felt. Truely, you have an amazing country! Hopefully more people get to discover it

Hallo Ian i am glad you enjoy your trip to Eritrea as you did in Djibouti. we met at The Gulf of Tadjoura and we drove to Assel lake together was wonderful to meet you and learn about your adventure good luck Abdella Canada

Hi Abdella! Nice to hear from you, I am surprised you found my blog, how did you find about it? As you can see, Eritrea was an amazing experience!

I am happy to read your short and inspiring story of your trip to Asmara, Eritrea. Indeed, Eritrea has a lot to offer to the tourists of the world with all the beauty that you mentioned as well as its two seasons of every second (its highland about 2.3 Km above sea level and its lowland of 1.3Km along the sea side) and its beautiful mountains combined with its beautiful and generous people. I thank you very much, Ian, for sharing your experience which I try to do everyday in Montreal, where I live

Great to know you are in Montreal! I am from Quebec City originally. Hopefully you get to visit my hometown and love it as much as I loved yours 🙂

Hi It is great nation ,NEVER NEEL DOWN !!!!! people . These are the people fought for more than thirty years. They have start to built the country from zero . It is one in my agenda to visit this friendly country .

I am so glad you liked my beautiful city Asmara. It’s refreshing to know that hopefully people will know more and more about Eritrea. It’s a hidden gem indeed!! Hope you I’ll go back and explore it more in the future!!! Thanks for your beautiful blog!!!

I miss my beatifual city indeed !! One day one day I’ll be back ..🙏🏽🙏🏽🇪🇷🇪🇷

Thank you so much for your amazing input. I was Born and raised there until I was around 12 years old. I’m traveling back home next month September 2018 and I am so excited and it’s been 30+ years since I left so again thank you. It’s AWESOME to hear this review from an American like yourself so that others around the world realize we are not just some POOR THIRD WORLD COUNTRY WITH NOTHING BUT POVERTY!!! It is extremely the most beautiful place on the planet. (in my opinion)

Hello lan Greetings,

Very inspiring pictures to see my amazing city Asmera where I born and raised in those photos you captured. I bet you enjoyed the climate fresh breath and cappuccino coffee. I really apricate the interest in this beautiful country and the small African Roma (Asmera). thumps up.

I am local tour guide in Eritrea. I speak French ,English and Italian. Thus, I guided a number of people from different part of our globe. I am so happy to read you . I found your impression about Asmara. Thanks for all your beautiful words.

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The Ultimate Eritrea Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

So, you’ve decided you want to visit Eritrea? First of all, props to you for even having heard of this country. There is not a lot of information about Eritrea on the web at all, which is why I made this ultimate Eritrea travel guide. Here I cover:

• How to get to Eritrea
• Main cities and top attractions in Eritrea
• Must-try Eritrean foods
• How to get an Eritrean travel visa
• What it’s like as a tourist in Eritrea (safety, tourism infrastructure, ease of mobility)

Ready? Then let’s get to it!

How to Get to Eritrea

First things first. How does one get to Eritrea? Surprisingly, it is really easy to get a flight to this notoriously hard-to-enter country. Several flights only have one stop. You can connect to Eritrea through:

• Istanbul with Turkish Airlines
• Cairo with EgyptAir
• Dubai with Emirates or FlyDubai
• Addis Ababa with Ethiopian Airlines

All flights into Eritrea will arrive into the capital, Asmara . It will be the smallest international airport you’ve probably ever seen.

What to See in Eritrea

Tourism in Eritrea basically centers around three main cities: Asmara, Massawa, and Keren . So in this guide, I’ll go through those, plus a couple other destinations!

Asmara is the capital city of Eritrea, and if you only have time or budget for one place in Eritrea, this should be it. The word “Asmara” means “they (feminine) united” in Tigrinya (the most spoken language in Eritrea). The city used to be called “Arbate Asmara,” which means “the four (feminine) united,” because the women of four villages in the area united the villages into one. But eventually the “Arbate” got dropped off the city name.

Asmara is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and not without good reason. It’s got some pretty cool Art Deco buildings from the Italian colonial period , and although they are aging, they are beautiful nevertheless.

I have a full, detailed guide with tons of pictures on the things to do and see in Asmara , but here is a quick bullet list of the main items.

• Harnet Street
• Cinema Impero
• Church of our Lady The Rosary, Asmara
• Opera House
• Sematat Avenue
• Cinema Roma
• Fiat Tagliero
• Asmara Market
• Great Mosque of Asmara
• Enda Mariam Coptic Cathedral
• The Bowling Alley
• Tank Graveyard
• Train Ride to Arberobo

They call Massawa the Pearl of the Rea Sea . Though it is only 100km (60mi) from Asmara, this coastal port town feels a world away. It is extremely hot year round, with a lowest monthly average high of 29 deg C (84 deg F) in January. It was heavily destroyed from a bombing by Ethiopia during the war for independence. Nevertheless, this is the number two most popular spot to visit in Eritrea.

I have a separate guide with pictures and descriptions of the things to see in Massawa , but here is a quick bullet list.

• The Eritrean Highlands
• The Rea Sea
• Dahlak Archipelago
• Massawa Old Town (the Banca d’Italia, Sheikh Hanafi Mosque, the Tomb of Sheikh Durbush, and more)
• Taulud Island (the War Memory Square, Dahlak Hotel, and the Imperial Palace)

Not all tourists make it here, but Keren is called the “heart of Eritrea” and is Eritrea’s second-largest city. It is a calm, sunny place with wide tree-lined streets and locals out and about all day. Keren means “highland” or “mountain,” which makes sense when you see how it is surrounded by rather tall mountains on all sides.

I have a separate guide with pictures and descriptions of the things to see and do in Keren , but here is a quick bullet list.

• Assehaba Mosque
• Keren Market (visit on Monday if you want to see the camel market)
• Catholic Cathedral of Keren
• Murals of Keren
• Italian Army Cemetery
• British Army Cemetery

Other Things to See in Eritrea

Debre bizen monastery.

Unfortunately, this one is only for the men. Women aren’t allowed to enter this Eritrean Orthodox monastery, located high in the mountains and requiring a 2 hour hike to reach. The library here contains many Ge’ez manuscripts, and the area is known for lots of baboons.

This is for all you history buffs. Qohaito was an ancient, pre-Aksumite city in the southern Debub region of Eritrea. This city was at one point a thriving stopping point between Adulis on Eritrea’s coast and Aksum (the capital of the Aksumite Empire which is regarded as once on par with powers like Persia, China, and Rome). It is home to stone ruins that have yet to be excavated, and there is nearby rock art in caves from 5000BC.

What Foods to Eat in Eritrea

If you like Ethiopian food, you’re in luck, because Eritrean and Ethiopian food are pretty close as can be. Try to have some of these main Eritrean foods if you can:

• Zignee: this is a sauce with chopped beef cubes, eaten with injera (spongey crepe-like base of most Eritrean and Ethiopian meals).
• Zebhee dorho: this is a sauce with chicken, eaten with injera.
• Shiro: this is a vegetarian sauce made from spices, eaten with injera
• Kitcha: this is a dense bread. It can be a little sweet depending how it is made. Great with tea for breakfast or a snack.
• Kitcha fit fit: this is the above, but savory. It is then cut up into bit-sized pieces and tossed with tesmee (spiced melted butter) and berbere (a spice).
• Himbasha: this is a fluffy bread. Also great with tea and can be eaten for breakfast.
• Boon: this is Eritrean coffee. If you prefer the Italian kind, there is no shortage of that either, so don’t worry.

Italian-inspired dishes like pasta and pizza are not hard to find in Eritrea, and neither are Western staples like french fries and omelets. In Massawa, many places serve freshly caught fish.

Always make sure foods (especially those using animal products) are fully cooked and served with fresh ingredients. New Fork Restaurant in Asmara (near Harnet Street) gets my reco.

How to Get a Visa to Eritrea

The Eritrean visa is infamously difficult to get. You MUST apply for the visa before arriving . The country no longer grants on-arrival visas. Here are the general steps to getting your visa.

• Apply at your local embassy. For Americans, this will be in Washington DC. Go to the Eritrean US Embassy website and print out the application. Fill it out, include the necessary passport-sized photo, your passport (valid 6 months after your Eritrea trip), your $50 payment, and mail it in.
• The application asks how long you will be in Eritrea, but they might not grant you the same time period of time you ask for if it is too long. Just be prepared.
• Consider requiring signature of receipt for your mail package to ensure it gets into someone’s hands at the embassy. Always pay for tracking there and back when shipping your passport.
• The process takes a minimum of ten days, but averages about a month, based on what I read online prior to applying for my own. Once you see that your package has arrived, I recommend calling the embassy to ask if they have received your package. Heads up: they don’t usually answer the phone. So it will likely take forever to reach them. (This is where it helps to have an Eritrean travel guide, who likely has spoken to the embassy folks before, can also continuously contact them on your behalf, and speaks their same first language.)

The Tourist Experience in Eritrea

Other tourists in eritrea.

Eritrea, as you might guess, receives very little tourism. Visiting Eritrea is visiting a place yet to be even remotely affected by mass tourism. Locals mind their own business and will do little more than glance at a tourist walking by. If you’re considering a visit here, I assume you view that as a positive. If you prefer to interact with other visitors, consider booking a tour in a group. Don’t expect to meet a ton of fellow travelers once you get here.

English is taught in school, but there is no reason for most residents to continue using English after that or to speak it at a highly conversational level. Some people will know English, but do not expect random locals to definitely speak it like in touristy destinations. However, you can expect every single sign to be in Tigrinya, Arabic, and English .

Interest Access in Eritrea

Yes, technically there is internet in Eritrea. There are plenty of internet cafes all over Asmara where locals and tourists can buy (slow) internet for 30min at a time. Some hotels will also provided codes for internet by the day. But don’t expect to stream anything or send large files.

Safety as a Tourist in Eritrea

Eritrea is generally safe for tourists. Crime, violence, and theft are low . Women and even school children walk the streets alone. It is not a crowded country, and I would describe most (if not all) of the cities as “calm.” There is no religious or enforced dress code, though I would recommend to dress conservatively because the locals naturally dress conservatively. But do not worry about covering ankles or hair or elbows.

A quick Google search of just the word “Eritrea” will pull up some results that might have you worried about safety. Definitely do a bit of research on the political and economic situation in Eritrea, just so that you have proper context for your visit. But as with many destinations with complicated situations, the reality for tourists is; do not look for trouble, and trouble will not look for you.

Transportation Around Eritrea

Everything in the Asmara downtown is walking distance from each other. For sites around the city, waive down an inexpensive a cab. However, to visit anything outside of Asmara, you will need a permit . To get the permit processed can take a full day, so have your list of cities (and exact dates, car make, and license plate) ready to go and stop by the Tourism Office downtown on Harnet Street early on in your trip.

Due to the bureaucracy of tourism in Eritrea, definitely contact a tourist guide before even applying for your visa. They can help contact your local embassy on your behalf and advise you on the application in general. Once you have your visa, they’ll still be helpful. They’ll be able to speak your language well and give you tips and tricks for your stay. They can act as intermediary for phone calls and setting up activities like the train ride or hike to Debre Bizen. These things would be impossible to do without knowing the local language. Even to get from city to city by car, you’ll need a driver guide anyways as you cannot rent a car yourself. So to really see Eritrea, you’ll need a guide for most of your trip.

What Do You Think?

Have you ever even heard of Eritrea? Let me know below whether or not my site is your first time hearing about this country. Are you visiting for the first time and need more info on anything I brought up? I really want this Eritrea travel guide to be as helpful as can be, so please leave your questions below. I’ll get back to you.

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Michael Dodson

Asmara is indeed a beautiful city with the most gracious people. I lived just off Sematat Ave.54 years ago.

That Travelista

Wow, thanks so much for sharing, Michael! The buildings still look very pretty, but from what I heard while there, it was even more beautiful around the time you were living there.

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Eritrea Tourism Guide: How to Travel to Eritrea

Eritrea remains one of the least visited countries in the world for a reason. The visa isn’t the easiest to obtain and just this year, it became even harder. On top of the visa issues, in order to travel anywhere outside of the capital – Asmara, or attend national events you need each individual permit. These permits aren’t the easiest to obtain due to the country’s bureaucracy and they’re often rejected.

But don’t let this stop you. Eritrea is a country with friendly locals and as a tourist, you don’t have to worry about safety. As I mentioned in my other post on Eritrea if you choose to visit, make sure to do your research and be respectful. Don’t be surprised if people won’t tell you the truth about politics or they’ll completely shut you off.

Is It Ethical to Visit Eritrea?

I think it depends on your purpose of traveling to Eritrea. I don’t believe that boycotting to visit any country with military regime or human rights issues, isn’t harming the government but punishes the most vulnerable. If I really wanted to boycott every country the government does inhumane and unethical things, I would never visit my own family in Poland.

Similar to Iran or Cuba , you can definitely help locals in Eritrea, interact with them, and learn their stories. Locals didn’t set the rules their country established, the government did.

How to Get a Visa to Eritrea

I opted for going with a travel company that helped me to arrange the visa and permits. I used my Polish passport and my dad’s address in Poland to obtain authorization to get my visa on arrival (if I used my US residency or any country that has an Eritrean Embassy, I would have had to go there for an interview).

I also had to hide the fact that I have this blog and research Eritrea, otherwise, I would obviously receive a rejection. The whole process at the airport took over an hour, five people to process my visa, and cost me $70.

However, upon arrival, I quickly learned that I was very lucky with my visa. I was actually the last person to enter Eritrea with a visa on arrival, as the rules changed back in May 2018 and now everyone has to go to the Embassy for an interview. It goes to show how little does the government of Eritrea care about tourism, making traveling to and around the country even more complicated.

I had my first taste of it upon arrival as I was supposed to be picked up from the airport with a pre-arranged transport, but respectively, that didn’t happen because… who knows why.

Is It Safe to Travel to Eritrea?

Truth to be told, for tourists Eritrea is very safe. As my taxi didn’t show up I started looking for a regular taxi outside of the airport. As there were no other tourists arriving, there was only one taxi. I had no troubles walking around alone in the dark and not once anyone actually stared or bothered me.

Asmara felt quite safe and calm, locals kept to themselves. I took walks alone during the day and night when everyone seems to be out in the street and not one I got bothered. Unless you ask for help in which case people will go out of their way to help you. During the National Day Parade streets were very crowded, but the police were always clearing out the crowds when they saw foreigners so we could all pass freely.

Massawa and Keren gave me a similar feeling. In Keren, when my friend and I got caught in the rain we got immediately invited to a local house for a cup of coffee.

The only rough areas are near the border with Ethiopia, as there’s a lot of tension in the area.

Best Time to Visit Eritrea

There’s no high or low tourist season in Eritrea, so you can come whenever and be on a very few tourists. I went in May around the National Day and the weather was very nice in Asmara – around 75 during the day and 65 at night. In Massawa, at the Red Sea, it was around 90 during the day with 80 at night.

Getting Around & Accommodation in Eritrea: Obtaining Permits

To get to Eritrea you need to fly to the capital city Asmara. There are flights from Cairo, Egypt (on Egyptair), Dubai, UAE (on flyDubai), and Istanbul, Turkey (on Turkish Air). I flew Egyptair and the flight was fine. Most people on the flight were Eritreans living abroad visiting family, so each person had many bags. I’ve never seen a plane so full of bags everywhere.

The most renowned company in Eritrea is  Asmara Grande.  Even if you’re booking your trip with another foreign provider they’ll still use Asmara Grande on the ground. Why do you need a local company?

Tourists are also not allowed to visit any other places without a permit from the Eritrean government . The permits outside Asmara have to be arranged in advance by the local travel agency but will be accepted or rejected very last minute when you’re already in Eritrea.

If Asmara Grande gets you permits it’ll be easy, but if you try on your own you might not get them. Even with them, my group was denied for a few places, simply because sometimes it just happens.

Tourists are also not allowed to use public transportation outside of Asmara. You’ll need to hire a car and driver. That said, if you think you can visit Eritrea without some prearranged paperwork think again as you’ll most likely be stuck in Asmara the entire time.

What you will outside of Asmara is a completely different Eritrea. If you visit Eritrea without leaving the capital it’s like if you never visited this country at all!

Money in Eritrea

Eritrea is strictly a cash economy and it’s best to exchange money at the airport, as it can be difficult to do it later in Asmara. You will not be able to purchase  Eritrean Nakfa  outside of Eritrea. Obviously, there are no ATMs in Eritrea.

What to See in Eritrea

Online information about Eritrea is very outdated. Printed guidebooks are usually also from 1990s, so while you can read up on some history you won’t find a very useful information there.

Eritrea is a former colony of Italy, so the existing architecture echoes Italian ones from the early twentieth century and was  designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The city is full of gelaterias, cafeterias, and Italian theaters. It appears way different than any other African capital city, as you will find a genuine eastern African culture with a touch of Italian culture. It’s a very clean and vibrant city.

In Asmara you can wander around on your own, stop for a coffee or juice and see the local life. You must visit some markets like Medebar Market built in 1912. While you’re there please don’t take photos of people without asking them for permission. Some were definitely not ok with having their photos taken, but I did find a few people who had no problem with photography.

Most of the places you’ll want to see are an easy walk on Harnet Avenue within Asmara’s big cathedral, where conveniently my hotel – Ambassador Hotel was located. The most known site is the Fiat Tagliero building from 1939.

Don’t forget to climb the local mosque to see the city from above. To get there you need to pass through a cemetery. Due to the proximity of a local school, you’ll most likely see many young kids hanging out. They loved out cameras and wanted to have their photos taken and show them how it came out. It was one of those moments that I really wished I packed my Polaroid.

Tanks Graveyard

Tanks graveyard in Eritrea is a very unique place. Right outside of Asmara you’ll see a giant land with a unique vast array of tanks, cars, army vehicles, buses and more. Originally a junkyard, it later became a monument honoring the 30-year-long war between Ethiopia and Eritrea. The fact that all these things are rusted and piled up make them appear as a strange siting.

You need a separate permit to visit this place, but it’s the only permit that can be issued in a few minutes.

Coal Train Route

In the past, there used to be a train between Asmara and Massawa, but the route has been closed for years. Tourists can charter this train to make a loop just outside of Massawa and this is what my group did. As this doesn’t happen frequently we attracted quite a few expats in Eritrea who joined us for the ride.

The train ride was basically an experience, as it’s a steam train. It was painfully slow and had to stop multiple times to fill it with water, to put more coal in to make it run again.

It wasn’t just an experience for us, tourists, but also for the locals from nearby villages. They found out that we’re coming and arranged to have a wedding photoshoot, and some kids came and greeted everyone.

Important: Don’t take photos of the kids unless you ask them if it’s all right. Some of them believe that if you take a photo of them you’ll steal their soul, so just be respectful.

A visit to Massawa is a must. I’ve been to the Red Sea twice from Israel and Egypt, but this was a completely different experience. I stayed at  Dahlak Hotel,  where apparently Tiffany Haddish also stayed during her visit. It was a good spot with working AC. Make sure you check out the chickens at their bar 😉

Massawa has an extremely rich history. It’s been part of some of the world´s most important kingdoms and empires like Kingdon of Aksum in the 8th century, the Ottoman Empire in 1557, and Egypt in 1846. It was also the first capital of the Italian colony before the capital was moved to Asmara in 1891, Britain after WW2, and finally, Ethiopia when they occupied it from 1950 to 1990. The port was returned to Eritrea along with their independence in 1991.

The old town of Massawa got bombed during the war with Ethiopia, but it’s still inhabited. There are small shops, a few bars and some restaurants. The place has no been rebuilt, but you can get a sense of how gorgeous it must have looked like before the damage. Most of the building of the old town were made of coral.

Massawa is mostly Muslim, unlike the rest of Eritrea, but you’re still not expected to wear a headscarf as a tourist. At the beach and islands, everyone was having fun in their swimwear.

From Massawa you can obtain a separate permit to the Dahlak Archipelago. You’ll need a speedboat to get there and you can even do some diving for 850 Nakfa (equipment is safe and almost brand new). I visited Madote Island which is inhabited and almost like a big sandbank.

Keren is known as Eritrea’s cultural heartland. I was there during an annual pilgrimage to The Shrine of Our Lady of Dearit. People from all over Eritrea travel there with their families to see the tree with the shrine inside it.

Keren also has a famous Monday camel market, but I was there on a different day.

Food in Eritrea

Food in Eritrea can be either very good or very bad, depending on the place. Restaurants will usually have an English menu, so ordering isn’t a problem, but don’t be surprised if you’ll end up waiting for a very long time for a simple dish. Fast food bars will sell fried chicken, spaghetti, burgers, pizza and french fries, but for the real Eritrean meal, you need to find a nicer restaurant.

Eritrean cuisine is similar to Ethiopian, with a lot of injera – traditional flat sourdough bread. The most common ‘topping’ for injera is Shiro – chickpea puree. Another common dish is a Kitcha fit-fit – shredded flatbread, spiced clarified butter, and the hot spice berbere, optionally with meat. I enjoyed those dishes a lot, but I met many people who didn’t share my enthusiasm.

In Massawa, fresh fish and seafood is a must. Their shrimp were fantastic. In terms of drinks, coca cola products are quite common and you can get some beer for about $2.

What to Pack for Eritrea

Toilet paper. In all seriousness, you should bring a spare roll, as similar to other less common travel destinations toilet paper isn’t present in bathrooms quite often. I was making my frequent rounds to the reception of my hotel to get a new roll of toilet paper because they were allowed to give me just one small roll for two people one time and had to return for more next time.

If you’re coming from the US bring a converter as sockets in Eritrea are European two-rounded plugs.

Internet in Eritrea

Some say that the Internet in Eritrea for tourists is almost non-existent, but I wouldn’t quite agree with it. There was an internet cafe right next to my hotel in Asmara which was always full of locals. Does it work?

It really depends on your luck. I was told I’ll be able to send a WhatsApp message and it will take at least 5 minutes, but I was also able to check my Gmail, upload an Instagram photo, see what’s happening on Facebook and do other things people usually do on the Internet. It was slow, but it worked fine. I must say that some other people in my group weren’t that lucky and even their email never loaded.

In Massawa, the hotel offered some internet which worked for a day, so I didn’t have a problem either. Regardless of the location Internet usually costs around 100 Nakfa per hour.

Your sim card will NOT work in Eritrea, so forget about texting. I was actually enjoying having a very sporadic connection to the outside world for a week.

Tourism is still very rare and new in Eritrea. I’ve experienced gracious hospitality in the country, but without unwanted attention. I definitely recommend curious travelers to visit Eritrea and learn about it, as I described in my other post . Make sure to go informed, so you can gain the most out of your experience there

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Roadracer711

Saturday 1st of July 2023

Very cool write up. Thanks for the info

Tuesday 13th of September 2022

Hey Anna first of i would like to say thank you for sharing and hearing abt my lovely country and City i born in Asmara and you wrote clearly and safty i appreciate you! Thank you Anna. From Norway

PHILIP HORN-BOTHA

Wednesday 17th of August 2022

Lovely blog! I am teaching English to people working for an international organisation in Eritrea and found your blog and photos extremely useful for developing conversations. Greetings from Johannesburg, South Africa

Saturday 26th of September 2020

I'm an Ethiopian, and I always wanted to visit Eritrea. I've been planning and saving up to visit with a friend. I found your blog while researching for places to go to , and I have to say that it was quite a journey.

Thank you for a beautiful reading adventure!

Also, How much was the trip from asmara to massawa? (approx).

Anna Karsten

Monday 28th of September 2020

I didn't pay per specific excursions, but for all week total, so I don't know how this part was exactly.

Wednesday 15th of January 2020

Hii I am from Eritrea...It is my first time reading your blog and i find it really interesting, especially the pictures. Thank you for visiting my beautiful country.

Wednesday 12th of January 2022

@YIT, am from Ethiopia and eagerly want to visit eriteria ...please arrange for me

Visiting Asmara, Africa’s most charming city

By Joan Torres 7 Comments Last updated on April 11, 2024

Wide, palm-lined boulevards, art deco, more Fiat Cinquecentos than Italy itself and a great coffee scene: Asmara, the capital of Eritrea , might be the most charming city in Sub-Saharan Africa, a must-visit and particularly great city to explore

Dusty, noisy, chaotic, a lot of traffic and not much to do.

These are just some attributes that, according to travelers, unjustly or not, characterize most African capitals, infamous for being mere gateways to the natural wonders their respective countries offer.

This is not the case of Asmara, however, a capital that resembles a southern Italian town or even I’ll dare say, a colonialist Spanish town in Central America.

The fact is that Eritrea was under Italian rule from 1890 to 1941 and Asmara was the epicenter of Italian colonialism, a city that was transformed and created pretty much from scratch, following Italian patterns from the era and leaving behind a heritage composed of Italian modernist buildings, art deco, and colonial-era futurist architecture.

Insurance for traveling in Asmara, Eritrea I strongly recommend IATI Insurance : one of the very few that covers travel in Eritrea 5% discount if purchasing via this link

Piccola Roma – The Little Rome – Mussolini used to say, a dictator who commanded Italian architects to create an urban fairyland within Africa, and the end result was a city filled with cinemas, cafés, and imported Fiat Cinquecentos.

According to a local census, in the 30s, Italians made up almost half of the total population in Asmara, the time when they built the largest number of buildings, along with extending their culture into the local’s roots.

Today, Asmarinos are well-aware of all the negative things Italian colonialism brought to their people but, at the same time, they are proud of this sophisticated, cultural heritage, one of the reasons I believe they have kept it even after all these years.

This is a Catholic Romanesque Church built by the Italians, a must-see place when visiting Asmara.

The most peaceful and safest city in Sub-Saharan Africa

At my arrival in Asmara, my taxi dropped me at the wrong hotel – it was my mistake – so I had to walk the remaining 1km to the hotel I had supposedly booked.

It was 3am and Asmara’s city center was completely dark, no streetlights except for some shy illumination coming from the many bars that were still open and packed with locals.

I was carrying 5000€ worth of electronic and photography gear, plus all the cash needed for the trip, more than enough reason to worry when walking around an African city in the middle of the night but, to my surprise, even drunk Eritreans did not seem to care about my presence and, other than a few very kind greetings, I arrived at my hotel with no issues.

On the next day, I headed to the city’s main boulevard, the most transited city street, only to see that there were barely any cars circulating and, when I wanted to cross the road, a car stopped to let me pass. 

Everything seemed so civilized.

Am I really in Africa?

Great food and coffee scene

The Italian influence is not only seen in the local architecture but also in the city’s gastronomy.

Local restaurants will always have a side menu with Italian dishes which, to be very honest, are not always good, but the city is also filled with purely Italian restaurants serving pasta al dente , caprito al forno and risottos that can be excellent, especially in Albergo Italia, a fine-dining Italian restaurant serving super quality food.

You might think that Italian restaurants can be found everywhere, sure, but you also need to think that Eritrea is a hermetic country where globalization hasn’t come yet, there is no internet, and I seriously doubt that, other than in big international African cities, such as Addis Ababa, Cape Town or Lagos, you will find Italian food as good as in Asmara.

Coffee also plays a big role in Asmarino culture and hanging out in its innumerable cafés over an espresso or a macchiato is an integral part of any visit to Asmara.

Their coffee is excellent, imported from Ethiopia but brewed in Italian style.

Things to do in Asmara

The city is a great place to hang out but there are many specific things to see when you visit Asmara.

Liberty Avenue

This is the main palm-lined boulevard in the city, where you can find a large variety of cafés and old school Fiat Cinquecentos parked along the street.

The main landmarks here are Saint Joseph Cathedral , built in 1920 in the Romanesque style, and Cinema Impero , an old Italian Cinema, today fully functional, but they mostly show local movies and a few action Hollywood movies.

Cinema Roma

Asmarinos claim that Cinema Roma serves the best coffee in town, and I definitely agree, not only in Asmara but that was the best espresso I have ever had in Africa.

Cinema Roma is an old school cinema today turned into a coffee place, where relatively wealthy Eritreans come to enjoy their morning espresso and a pastry.

The café is decorated with movie-related stuff and in the middle of the room stands a real, old filming camera.

The cinema is still functional and one can visit the cinema hall. They put on occasional movies, once or twice a week, and they also broadcast most important European football matches.

Fiat Tagliero building

A Futurist style gas station that resembles an airplane, built in 1938 by Italian engineer Giuseppe Pettazi .

For some reason, the building has no function today – it is closed to the public – but still, it was one of the main reasons Asmara became a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Visiting this building was the best thing to do in Asmara.

Saint Mariam Church

Another church from 1938, this one Orthodox, and very different from the other one.

It is one of the most important Orthodox churches in the country.

Medeber Market

Two kilometers away from the city center is where actual Africa begins and the main landmark is Medeber market, a unique market, famous for turning useless objects – such as oil cans for cars – into something useful – such as kitchen pans.

The market is very noisy because most stalls keep hitting and shaping the scrap with their hammers.

At the end of the market, on the eastern edge, there are some indoor stalls, where they transform whole chilies into chilli powder – breathing inside that room is hard – and they also process also teff, the grain from which injera – the local bread – is produced.

Asmara Great Mosque

I was very surprised to learn that this mosque was also built during the colonial era.

The Muslim Eritreans sitting just outside are among the friendliest people in the city, in my experience at least. They invited me in – the praying room is gorgeous by the way – but I heard that other travelers weren’t allowed to get in.

Asmara Bowling Center

I thought that this bowling center was from the Italian era but I was wrong.

It was actually built in the 50s and used by the American Army.

What makes this bowling center especial is that the bowling pins are placed manually, there’s no pinsetter but a kid who puts them back after each strike. Here you can see some photos .

You will also see some retired men playing Bocette, an Italian version of pool table.

Tank graveyard

Around 4-5 kilometers from the city, you find one the most popular things to see in Asmara, a tank graveyard containing all the military arsenal the Ethiopian Army left behind during the Ethiopian-Eritrean war.

They call it the ”tank graveyard” but to be honest, there aren’t many tanks around, it is mostly trucks and other military vehicles.

However, they do have a few, as well as an airplane and one of those massive machine guns that goes on top of military vehicles.

The visit takes around 1 hour and I recommend you walk there because you will go through a great African district full of friendly people.

For visiting the graveyard, you will need to get a permit from the Tourism Office. It is the only permit that you can get instantly.

Best cafés and restaurants when you travel to Asmara

Insurance for traveling in Asmara, Eritrea I strongly recommend IATI Insurance : Full Eritrea coverage + 5% discount 5% discount if purchasing via this link

Kit Kat Café – Nice terrace set up, this place serves just coffee and pastries.

Daniel Fast Food – With their great juices and foul, this is a good place for breakfast.

Top-Five – The restaurant from Top-Five Hotel has great local food (also Italian) and is my local friend’s favorite restaurant for Eritrean food.

Albergo Italia – Fine-dining Italian restaurant, the best one in the city.

Cinema Roma – Best coffee – and building – in town.

Where to stay when you visit Asmara

Budget: African Village – Best option for backpackers. A majestic colonial building in which you find rooms of all prices, from 10USD rooms with shared bathroom to 30USD. All rooms are impeccably clean. I stayed here on my last night.

Budget-Mid-range: Top Five Hotel – I stayed here during my first 3 nights in Asmara. The cheapest room you can get costs 20USD, with a private bathroom, and it is just OK, but it is very clean. You can get better rooms paying a bit extra. The hotel’s restaurant is very good and it is always filled with locals.

Mid-range: Crystal Palace – A fancier hotel with rooms starting at 60USD.

For more information, read: How to travel to Eritrea: tips + itinerary

More information for visiting Asmara

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

A guide and article for traveling in Eritrea destination

• Eritrea Travel Guide

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Love reading your posts. Thankyou

May I ask you if you had a ‘tour guide’ with you booked when hanging around Asmara or did you just do it your self on foot/ taxi/ public transport?

Hi Todd, I was on my own the whole time, by foot, as everything is in a walking distance

love your blog, reading, and imagining when I get to those places

Thanks for all the interesting hints 🙂 Can i know how could you book the hotel please?

You’ll have to search it online on Google and give them a phone call or an email, or message on FB, if they have the page

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Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Eritrea set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Eritrean Embassy in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Eritrea.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Eritrea, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive and at least 2 blank consecutive pages for stamping.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You must have a visa to enter Eritrea. For information about visas, contact the Eritrean Embassy in the UK or the nearest Eritrean embassy. Check with your airline or travel company for the latest information.   

British-Eritrean dual nationals

Dual nationals who enter Eritrea on an Eritrean identity card will need an exit permit from the Immigration Office in Asmara to leave the country.

Land border crossings

Eritrea’s land borders with Djibouti and Ethiopia are closed at the moment. It is unclear if and when the borders will reopen. Eritrea’s land border with Sudan is operational in response to the conflict in Sudan.    

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Eritrea guide .

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Customs rules 

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Eritrea. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Electronic items

You must declare all laptops, mobile phones, cameras and other electronic items. If you do not, they can be confiscated by customs officials when you leave.

Taking money into and out of Eritrea

Declare foreign cash or travellers cheques if the value is 10,000 US dollars or more. You will get a certificate, which you must keep to show when you leave.

When you leave Eritrea, you must be able to show that any foreign currency you have spent has been either:

• exchanged at ‘Himbol’, the state foreign currency exchange
• spent at an official hotel

If you cannot account for foreign money you’ve spent, you may be delayed or face prosecution, leading to a severe fine.

You are not allowed to take more than 1,000 Eritrean nafka out of Eritrea.

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A Comprehensive Guide to Travel in Eritrea, Africa’s Best Kept Secret

For David and me, the allure of travel is the way it allows us to understand places different from where we’re from – and the more different a place, the more we gravitate toward it. The less available information around a destination, the better, and travel in Eritrea allowed for new discoveries around every hairpin turn – whether in the form of a well-preserved piece of Italian colonial fascist architecture, or a fast food restaurant with the freshest, most refreshing guava smoothie I’ve ever had the opportunity of tasting.  With the following article, I hope to provide some perspective on what to expect in Eritrea from a logistical standpoint so you can enjoy discovering Eritrea without having to stumble through the same roadblock we did when we visited in January 2018.

A quick note: I mention several specific places in Asmara throughout this article.  Those listed are included in a comprehensive map at the bottom of the article.  When you get bored, skip on down to the bottom!

There are several pitfalls for the traveler visiting Eritrea, though, and due to the lack of information available online, it’s easy to lose precious time on the ground dealing with political bureaucracy or chasing windmills on Google Maps.  There are a host of Eritrea travel posts online, but many (even those published as recently as a year ago!) are already hopelessly out of date.  Surely, like the others written before this one, this post will become obsolete as Eritrea liberalizes its tourism policies – primarily due to the thawing of Eritrea’s relationships with the nations encircling it.

Getting in to Eritrea

First off, you’ll need a visa.  The Eritrean visa process is notoriously arduous and powers that be behind it fickle.  I have written an exhaustive (and considering the lofty word count, perhaps exhausting) article on how we obtained our tourist visas to Eritrea here .  Note that if there is an Eritrean diplomatic mission in your home country, you will need to apply through that office – meaning, if you’re American or from one of the nations listed in this article , you won’t be able to pick up a visa in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, or another nation if you’re already traveling in the region.

Also, for the time being, the Eritrean government is no longer issuing tourist visas on arrival.  Foreign tour companies operating in Eritrea have frequently used this procedure in the past, eliminating the painful visa application process. It’s yet unclear when or if Eritrea will lift this new restriction

What to Pack for Travel to Eritrea

Eritrea is located near the equator, so the weather doesn’t vary too much.  Temperatures can vary, however, between the cities of Asmara, located at 2000m of altitude, and Massawa, at sea level on the coast of the Red Sea.  Your best bet is to pack lighter clothes for the day, and warmer clothes for night time.  Temperatures in Massawa can reach 40C at their peak, while temperatures can dip to 10C at night in Asmara (particularly in the winter, when we visited), so pack accordingly.  For two guys from the Pacific Northwest, the weather was very pleasant, especially as we were coming from the rainy season in Seattle, which generally spans  October through June.

Eritrea is a modest culture, meaning no tank tops or short skirts.  We wore long pants exclusively, and short sleeves only occasionally.  It’s also not a bad idea to dress up a little bit – you’ll find local Asmarinos dressed to the nines, often in full suits and jackets.  While I would never wear a suit on vacation (I can barely get it up for a job interview), a nice pair of slacks and a linen shirt will help you not look like a total schmuck.  Light dresses and scarves will be useful for ladies.

We try to pack as few clothes as necessary when we travel, and typically end up doing laundry on the road.  Without reliable running water in our hotels, we found a laundromat adjacent to the Central Market that turned our dirty clothes around in 24 hours at about 15 Nakfa ($1 USD per piece).  Laundry service is available at some hotels, but by no means all, for similar (if not slightly inflated) prices

Be sure to bring extra batteries and/or a heavy-duty power bank for those with lots of electronics.  Many hotels’ power outlets are more for show than actual use, so any additional power you can pack will be useful in case you find yourself low on juice.  Outlets are the European standard two-round plugs .

Unless you need to edit photos while on the road, leave your computer at home. I am an old, so I do most of my writing in paper notebooks, and can’t recommend this enough in Eritrea.  Practice your cursive!

In Eritrea, functioning internet is practically non-existent, but more to come on that later.

Flights to Eritrea

The traveler visiting Eritrea has four reliable options to choose from: either from Cairo on Egyptair, Dubai on flyDubai, Istanbul on Turkish Air, or Addis Ababa on Ethiopian.

EgyptAir has a daily flight to Asmara International Airport landing at around 2:30am.  This was the option we took, as we were flying from Athens, as it was the quickest and most economical way to get there from Athens.  That said, it wasn’t particularly cheap, costing around $400USD per person one way.

FlyDubai also has daily flights from Dubai that arrive at a more respectable 6am.

Turkish Air flies from Istanbul on Thursdays, Saturdays, Mondays, and Tuesdays, and is the most expensive option.  That said, this route has the most award availability if you collect miles on the Star Alliance network.

Ethiopian, the best connected airline in Africa, now flies between Addis Ababa and Asmara twice daily, once in the morning and once in the afternoon.  Due to proximity, the flight is the shortest and also the cheapest, with one way fares hovering around $160USD.

Eritrean Airlines also flies between Addis and Asmara, but online booking is unavailable, and the only thing resembling machinery of the airline we saw was in the form of a rusting mobile stairway at Asmara’s infamous tank graveyard.

For my travel hacking readers, I’m sure you’ve identified by now that there is nary a One World or Sky Team option for getting to Asmara.  It’s served frequently by Star Alliance partners Turkish, EgyptAir, and Ethiopian, and lone ranger flyDubai.  In general, I’ve found flights getting into non-francophone or lusophone Africa to be poorly served by Sky Team and One World, but hopefully this will change as demand for international flights to the region increases.  If you’re a collector of United Airlines miles, a particularly good option is to take advantage of their free leg option between two cities in the same region (when flying on a round trip or open jaw ticket).  This, I just learned, is called the “Excursionist Perk”, and you can read about it here .

Once in, you’ll likely be met by the agency who has helped you to obtain your visa, who will then transport you to your hotel.  Unfortunately, upon our 2:30am arrival from Cairo, our ride was nowhere to be found.  And while finding yourself in an empty airport parking lot in the ungodly hours of the morning your first time in Africa can be a bit intimidating, we were able to find a ride into town for 200 Eritrean Nakfa (around $18USD).

Getting around Asmara

Getting around Asmara is a breeze IF you have a map.   We had downloaded Google Maps of the city’s environs when we had readily available wifi in the Cairo Airport, and our phone’s GPS functioned in the city just fine.  Most of the places you’ll want to see are an easy walk within Asmara’s central core, save the Tank Graveyard.  The two tourist sites furthest from one another (the Fiat Tagliero building in the southwest of the city, and the Medebar Market at the northeast) are less than 3km/1.75miles apart from one another, so walking is very doable.  In general, you should plan to spend at least two to three days in Asmara – the city is lovely, with streets lined with bougainvillea trees and spectacular pieces of architecture.

*PLEASE NOTE : Google Maps currently has Asmara Grande listed in a very incorrect location.  At the bottom of this post, I’ve curated a map of places important to travel in Eritrea, and the correct location is listed there.  When in doubt, reach out to either Tekeste or Sara at the contacts in the photo above.

Getting out of Asmara

Tourists are not allowed to use public transportation outside of Asmara.  We were told the furthest we could go on a public bus (wihtout a permit) was Dekemhare, an Italian-built town about 40km south of Asmara, but that public transportation to the main tourist haunts of Massawa and Keren was not permitted.

Here’s the catch, to visit any of these places, you’ll need to have a permit from the Eritrean government.  The tourist office that issues these permits is located on Harnet Avenue (almost directly across from the Cinema Impero – see map at the bottom of the post), and the process may seem simple enough.  But don’t be fooled,  I’ve read and heard accounts of a simple permit to visit Massawa taking a week or more when applying as an independent traveler.  We had our good friends at Asmara Grande do the legwork for us.  After confirming our Massawa trip with them, they took copies of our Eritrean visas and passport photo pages, and  permits lined up when we were picked up the next morning.

To get to these places, you’ll also need to hire a car and driver.  You may also hire a guide if you wish – we were recovering from some painful veterinarian bills at the time, so we skipped the guide.  Asmara Grande coordinated our transportation.

The places outside Asmara you’ll most likely visit are the cities of Keren and Massawa.  Together with Asmara, these three make up the holy trinity of Eritrean travel destinations.

We had planned on visiting both, but we lost a day trying to get our bearings in Asmara (as well as trying to get a hold of the Asmara Grande office), and therefore had to skip Keren , known as Eritrea’s cultural heartland.  For travelers in Eritrea, it’s best known for its Monday livestock market, where you can commune with camels.  Keren was also the site of an impressive battle in the African theater of World War II .

We did, however, manage to make it to Massawa, which was absolutely lovely.  It seems the only option for accommodation is the Grand Hotel Dahlak (which, coincidentally, is where Tiffany Haddish stayed on her trip to the town just a week before our arrival) – costing 900 Nakfa, or around $60USD per night.  Nightly accommodation can be as low as $50USD per night, the difference being presence of A/C.  Considering we were moved twice to different rooms to try and find one with A/C (but to no avail), we should have taken the cheaper alternative.  I’ll keep my other cheeky comments about the Grand Hotel Dahlak for my upcoming post on the accommodation situation in Eritrea.  The hotel’s website is here , but take the tariffs more as rough estimates, as they change with the direction of the winds.

Our private car to Massawa from Asmara cost $200USD one way.  If we hadn’t stayed the night, it would have been $200 total to get to Massawa and back, but we wanted to spend the night, so ended up paying $400 total on transport between the two cities.

Also, pack your dramamine.

Some folks choose to go even further afield to the Dahlak archipelago , an unspoiled group of islands in the Red Sea known for pristine diving and Whale Sharks.  As we were traveling alone, the cost was prohibitively expensive to get there (as in, $800 or more to hire the boat and driver), but if you have the cash lying around, I’m sure it’s an incredible experience.  Tour groups often include the Dahlak Archipelago on their itineraries (the more people in the boat, the cheaper it is to get there).  Exorbitant costs aside, they sure look nice .

Language in Eritrea

Tigrinya is the de facto official language of Eritrea, and it is written in the Ge’ez script also used by Ethiopian Amharic.  The script is similar to some Hindi scripts, in that each character is comprised of a consonant that is altered with additional strokes to form a complete consonant-vowel syllable.  If you’re a language nerd, I highly recommend this article on the structure of Ethiopic languages’ writing system.

I am an avid proponent of basic language learning, having learned young toddler level Russian, Georgian, Armenian, and Albanian in the past few years.  Tigrinya, however, was not this type of language.  Of all the languages I’ve learned or attempted to learn, Tigrinya is the most alien to my brain and tongue.  I mean, watch this .

I mean…that was nice, but maybe not for me.

I did, however, learn “hello” and “thank you” – my bare minimum when visiting a new place.  “Hello” is an easy enough “selam,” while it took me a few days to really wrap my mind around Tigrinya’s four syllable “thank you”.  I won’t try to romanize it here, but this is what it sounds like.

Food and Drink in Eritrea

Ordering food can be quite complicated in Eritrea.  While snack bars (you’ll see them most often referred to as “fast food” in Asmara) are ubiquitous, deciphering a menu written in Ge’ez script (used in both Ethiopian Amharic and Eritrean Tigrinya) is nearly impossible.  Many of these fast food restaurants will have portions of the menu translated into English, but typically only those dishes most familiar to foreigners – think hamburgers, sandwiches, and spaghetti bolognese.  At a fast food restaurant in Asmara, these mains will typically cost between 40 and 100 Nakfa (around $3-7USD).

We ate the majority of our meals at fast food joints while in Eritrea, and actually had a harder time finding traditional Eritrean cuisine.  In Seattle, where we live, there is a lively Ethiopian and Eritrean population, and can easily find restaurants that serve dishes consisting of lentils (birsen), injera (traditional flat sourdough bread), and hamli (sauteed dark greens with onion).  The two restaurants where we found the most reliable Eritrean cuisine with English translations were the New Fork Restaurant and the restaurant on the premises of the Crystal Hotel .

The next time I’m in Eritrea, I am going to ask someone to write out the names of some traditional menus in Ge’ez script so I can purposefully seek out the Eritrean dishes I know and love.  We also ate exclusively pescetarian on this trip, but I imagine the tibsi (sauteed meat with onions) and zigni (mixed meat cooked with spicy berbere) are as delicious as the traditional veggie dishes we ate most frequently.

Drinks-wise, Asmara lager beer is present at all hotel bars and most fast food restaurants in the city.  Our favorite “bar” was the outdoor parking lot cum terrace at the Hamasien Hotel, where I spent many afternoons drinking fabulously cold beer and writing observations about our travels, fancying myself a low rent Ernest Hemingway or Paul Bowles.  Beers typically cost between 20 and 30 Nakfa ($2 USD or less), regardless of your restaurant or bar choice.  Fanta and Coca Cola are also everywhere.

Shopping in Eritrea

As the “kitsch” in the title of this blog implies, I’m a shopper.  Eritrea had a vast number of souvenirs to be found for the hoarder with a sharp eye.  For a traditional souvenir, your best bet is in the Central Market, where there are two blocks that specialize in serving the errant traveler her kitsch fix.  The first is located two blocks directly north of the Central Mosque between Gonder and Baro streets.  There you’ll be able to find more traditional African crafts of dubious origin (giraffe carvings, etc.) as well as more Eritrea-specific gifts like coffee sets for traditional coffee ceremony, and dried gourds painted with national colors.  A jebena (Eritrean/Ethiopian coffee pot) can cost anywhere between 20 and 60 Nakfa (generally $4USD or under).  We came home with…a few of these.

Medebar Market, which I wrote about in my previous post about architecture in Asmara , is another great place to search for goodies.  While the market itself is very utilitarian, selling mostly tools made from recycled scrap metal, there are gems to be found.  My husband found a traditional pair of shida, a rubber sandal made from recycled tires , made famous as the official shoe of Eritrean freedom fighters, for under 100 Nakfa ($6-7USD).  It’s entirely possible that you may not find anything that strikes your particular fancy there, but the architecture of the building and the resourcefulness of the people working at Medebar make it worth the trip.

If you’re keen on books and posters, your best bet is the Awghet Book Shop, with two locations: One in the base of Bahti Meskerem Arena (at the eastern terminus of Harnet Avenue) and one in Asmara International Airport’s departures hall.  There you can find posters depicting members of the various indigenous tribes of Eritrea, postcards and shirts emblazoned with the most famous photo from the Eritrean War for Independence , and posters of the Ge’ez alphabet for your most frenemies’ children (good luck with them ABCs!).  There is also a comprehensive selection of literature about Eritrea, published in every language you can imagine.  Seriously, they had a technical guide to wounds and injuries sustained during the Eritrean War of Independence in POLISH.

Both store outlets claim to accept Visa and Mastercard, but I think it’s an Eritrean attempt at irony or something, as your plastic won’t be accepted anywhere in country.

Post in Eritrea

Asmara’s main post office is conveniently located just north of the Catholic Cathedral in a picturesque square cohabitated by the Central Bank and Albergo Italia (arguably the nicest – and spendiest – digs in town).  An international postcard stamp costs 10 Nakfa, and will arrive to its destination quite quickly!  Quickly here is, of course, relative – our postcards from Eritrea arrived to the USA about a week prior to those we had sent from Albania.  From Asmara to the Seattle was under three weeks door to door.  To Europe, this time is even less.

If you do want to send a postcard from Eritrea, you’ll have to go on a wild goose chase to find one.  We found a stationery shop just east of the Ambassador Hotel that had a few (we bought them out, and I’m not sure they had product to restock after we left).  At the post office, we found signs of postcards past in the form of empty display racks.  It may be that postcards as we knew them in Eritrea are currently extinct.

Money in Eritrea

Eritrea is strictly a cash economy, and there are only a precious few places in Asmara that will change your dollars.  Officially you are only able to change your money at Himbol, the state’s official money changer – theoretically so there is record of all money coming in from outside the country.  You will not be able to purchase Eritrean Nakfa before entering the country, and theoretically not allowed to take any out upon your departure (more on this later).  The official exchange rate is 15 Nakfa to one US Dollar, and you’ll have to present your passport when you exchange.

Some hotels, however, may take your USD, but as the exchange rate is official, there are no arbitrage opportunities to be sought by seeking different rates from different places.

Formal policy in Eritrea used to be that one declare all purchases in the form of receipts upon departure of the country – a way for the nation to balance its checkbooks, I suppose.  Not knowing if this was still the case when we were there, we kept all of ours (see  photo above), but weren’t asked by any immigration agents to show them at the airport before our flight out.

Internet in Eritrea

Seriously, there is almost no accessible internet in Eritrea , and literally none outside of Asmara. Internet penetration by household is lower in Eritrea than any other nation in the world , including North Korea.  Generally there is some internet to be found at hotels – typically each has an adjacent internet cafe where one can purchase one day’s worth for 100 Nakfa.  This said, good luck finding a signal.  I successfully posted to instagram once while in country.

That said, not having internet ended up being exactly what we needed.  Not to pontificate too much, but ubiquitous connection is both a blessing and a curse, and not having the ability to open social media or check emails with any regularity allowed us to really sink our teeth into Eritrea.  When out at restaurants and coffee shops, the sounds of conversation filled the air, rather than the silence characteristic of smartphone addicts, ourselves included.

It’s best to think of your trip to Eritrea as a forced digital detox.

Things to See and Do in Asmara

Rather than go into detail here of all of the various sights to see in Asmara, I’m rather going to list some of my favorites.  Part of what’s so exciting about travel in Eritrea is the ability to discover things that aren’t yet listed in travel publications, and I’m sure you’ll discover a host of your own hidden treasures on your trip there.

Fiat Tagliero Building – Without a doubt the building for which Asmara is best known.  When we went, it was deserted.  I don’t anticipate this will last for long.

For many, experiencing a traditional coffee ceremony is a must.  Our daily coffee ceremony took place at the nearest café, which you can find scattered throughout the city.  Our favorite was in the lobby of the Cinema Dante building, which also happens to be the oldest Italian cinema in the city.  But you needn’t be too picky of venue to find a great espresso – even the smallest of fast food shops will be equipped with a top of the line, Italian made coffee machine.

No Starbucks here, Becky.

The real joy of travel in Asmara and the whole of Eritrea was just wandering aimlessly through its streets, smiling and exchanging conversation with its residents.  Tourists are still tiny in number in Eritrea, so much so that by our third day in Asmara, people on the streets were addressing us by name.  I’ve experienced gracious hospitality all over the world, but never to the scale that we received in Eritrea.

I’ve listed many other points of interest in the map at the bottom of this ever-expanding post, but I encourage you to pick a direction, and walk.  Any way you choose, you’ll be met with smiles and friendly people, happy to converse over a cup of coffee.

Leaving Eritrea

Leaving the country can be nearly as onerous as entering.  Our flight on EgyptAir departed after 2am, and when we arrived to the airport at around 11pm there was already a long queue to get inside.  For the EgyptAir flight, the airport opens at midnight – if you’re looking to spend your remaining Nakfa, there’s a bar and restaurant across the street from the airport.

There is a sign outside of the airport declaring that leaving the country with any Nakfa is illegal.  We had about 700 left (around $40USD), and when we went through the first security checkpoint, asked an agent if we could spend it inside.  Apparently, there is no issue with this, so long as the amount you have is less than 1000.  As currency collectors, we were thrilled.

Developing world rules apply for check-in at Asmara International, so get in there and hold your own in the mass of folks as you inch toward the counter.

Getting through security is the tougher bit.  You non-checked bags will be thoroughly searched before you are able to go to the departure gate.  Despite having any number of items that could be construed as blunt instruments, the man searching my bag chose to fixate on a wooden spoon I had purchased at the market that same day.  Displaying to me how he could use the object as a weapon, I pleaded with him – “It’s a gift for my mother!” “She’s the cook in my family and would so love to have such a gift from your country!”  I had almost gone the route of saying, “Dude, my laptop could do a lot more damage as a weapon,” but thankfully reconsidered my choice of words.  He allowed me to keep my spoon which, to this day, I have not given to my mother.

We spent much of our remaining Nakfa at the airport outlet of Awghet Book Shop, and departed on our plane to Cairo without incident.  And yes, we managed to take a few notes home.

Map: Useful Places and Points of Interest in Asmara, Eritrea

Ethical considerations of travel to eritrea.

I struggled quite a bit prior to our trip about whether travel to Eritrea was a morally sound choice.  I read voraciously about the situation in Eritrea, and there are numerous reasons why fellow travelers might have trepidation about visiting.  For one, the country has been ruled by a merciless dictator for decades.  Isaias Afwerki and his regime control all information coming in and out of Eritrea – to the point where reputable news outlets have difficulty confirming or denying events taking place inside the secretive nation.

Luckily for those who haven’t yet been to Eritrea, the situation is improving – the easing of border tensions and establishment of diplomatic relations with its neighbors will mean more visitors from abroad.  This, in turn, means Afwerki’s regime will have more and more trouble keeping its atrocities behind closed doors (not to mention make it harder for other nations to turn a blind eye to them, as we are so fond of doing in Africa).  Yes, there is still forced undefined/indefinite military conscription in the nation, and Eritrea still ranks high in the share of refugees attempting escape abroad – but with Eritrea getting more press and visibility growing, I have high hopes that the dire situation of these wonderful, most welcoming people will improve at a rapid clip.

Now is the perfect time to visit Eritrea – while it’s still shrouded in mystery but becoming more open to outsiders.  Make sure to go informed, so you can gain the most out of your experience there.  The more you know, the better you’ll be able to spread the proverbial gospel about this most fantastic country, not just about the its amazing food, architectural wonders, and markets – but about the plight of this fledgling nation’s people and its struggle for true freedom.

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In Eritrean culture, using you mother as an excuse is considered the lowest of the lows. 😛

Seriously, a very good and informative report. Thank you!

Great report, Nick! I read it word for word & am bookmarking it for the list of hypothetical trips I plan.

I’ll be giving her the spoon this week, I promise! Consider this post an accountability booster 🙂

Definitely add Eritrea to your shortlist, Tree! Hugs to the pups! ❤️

Khartoum is on the shortlist for 2019 travel and trying to find a way to throw in Eritrea, too. Very helpful!

Dear sir, Thank you for your beautiful, kind, detailed and unbiased article. I hope to see you one day in Asmara, in a free and prosperous Eritrea. Thank you

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Is Eritrea Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Eritrea is a country located in East Africa, squeezed in between Djibouti and Sudan, sharing a long border with Ethiopia which has been the source of many disputes.

Its northeastern and eastern parts have an extensive coastline along the Red Sea.

Apart from this, it boasts rich wildlife and many rare species, but what attracts tourists to this country is the breathtaking scenery at the outskirts of the country.

You can also enjoy its capital as Asmara today is the so-called poster capital for cleanness, tranquility and architectural style.

If you venture to Asmara right away, you will end up truly in awe of its architecture, public buildings, villas and mansions of Art Deco.

Just watching the design of the buildings in Asmara and its charming facades is enough of an experience to make you want to visit this gorgeous city.

Many of them look like sailing ships and monuments.

If this isn’t your cup of tea, keep in mind that you can always go hiking, rock climbing and mountain biking outside of Asmara.

• Warnings & Dangers in Eritrea

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Overall, Eritrea is safe to visit if you avoid some parts of the country. Still exercise caution as petty and violent crimes do exist although they aren't too common.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

As for transport, it is generally safe, though Asmara is situated on a plateau and the roads that lead to it are steep, curving, and narrow, and mostly in poor condition, commonly littered with rocks and debris. Driving in Eritrea is tricky as their drivers are reckless, road signs non-existent and roads frequently in bad condition.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

Pickpocketing exists in Eritrea, like in any country but it is not too big of an issue. There are specific areas like crowded places and places frequented by tourists where pickpockets operate and, of course, the public transport that is notorious for pickpockets. Be careful and keep your valuables close by your side.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

Eritrea is commonly hit by natural disasters like flooding, earthquakes and volcanic activity, while every three to five years, it also suffers a drought that destroys all the crops, kills livestock and causes considerable material damage.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

Violent crimes aren't an issue in Eritrea. You can relax and walk around Eritrea carefree and not think about crime. Still, avoid dark streets and remote areas that you wouldn't go into even in your own country.

TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM

Even though there haven't been any terrorist attacks in Eritrea's recent history, they shouldn't be ruled out, be aware of your surroundings at all times. Always keep in mind the areas of the country that should be avoided, namely, anywhere near the border with Ethiopia.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

There is the issue of scams in Eritrea, but it isn't any bigger of an issue than in any other country. Always negotiate everything in advance, double check your change and never pay anything upfront. Never accept drinks from strange people or leave your drink unattended.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Women are relatively safe in this country. If you are a woman planning to visit Eritrea, just avoid all the parts of the country that are dangerous for anyone else to visit, and you should be fine. Also, after dark, avoid dark and deserted areas.

• So... How Safe Is Eritrea Really?

Generally speaking, Eritrea is a safe country to visit if you avoid some parts of it.

For example, its capital Asmara is a very active city, and in the downtown area of Asmara, you can walk around normally, from morning until midnight.

Just avoid isolated and deserted areas, as you might run into gangs, intoxicated people or muggers.

Apart from this, Asmara is considered safer than many European capital cities.

However, even though Asmara does not have the same level of street crime as other cities travelers are advised to exercise caution as there have been dozens of reports of westerners being attacked, robbed, mugged or injured in some way.

Petty crimes are also extremely active in shopping areas and around tourists landmarks, so keep your wallets/purses close to the body.

Be careful in all crowded areas like bus stops, stadiums, movie theatres, market places, and even places of worship.

Avoid roaming around late at night as there have been reports of Eritreans and Westerners being assaulted and robbed while doing so.

The main cause of concern for all tourists visiting Eritrea, are the forbidden areas where you shouldn’t go under any circumstance.

Around the border with Ethiopia, there are military forces from both countries that remain strong along the border areas and crossing between the two is not allowed.

Tsorona, Humera, and Zalambessa are particularly dicey areas.

Keep in mind that you should stay at least 25 km away from the Ethiopian border and the Southern Red Sea region, including the port of Assab.

The town of Barentu is also best avoided.

• How Does Eritrea Compare?
• Useful Information

Many countries do need a visa in order to enter Eritrea. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months past your date of departure from Eritrea and you have two blank pages that are side by side. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

Eritrean nakfa is the official currency in Eritrea. Don't count on ATMs in this country, and keep in mind that credit cards aren't accepted in any of the establishments. Bring everything in cash.

Climate in Eritrea varies depending on the altitude of the area. Its highlands are located on the highest landmass in Africa and therefore receive much cooler weather than the semi-arid coast stretching along the Red Sea and in the lowlands of the country. The average temperature in Asmara is 16° C.

Asmara International Airport, formerly referred to as Yohannes IV International Airport is the international airport of Asmara, the capital of Eritrea. It is located less than 2 km south west of Asmara.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Eritrea since it covers not only the costs of medical problems, but also theft and loss of valuables.

Eritrea Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature
• Where to Next?

26 Reviews on Eritrea

Lovely country and very friendly people.

Eritrea Is Kinda Safe

eritrea is very safe I had literally no issues everyone is friendly and helpful

novel says thank u for your concern and for your personality

it is very safe as it had many bad rumors abt it but it can be said safer than most of its surrounding countries

This isn’t true at all. Eritrea is one of the safest countries in Africa. The people are very friendly there, they wouldn’t even care if you’re a tourist or not, as long as you keep respectful. Of course it’s advicable to take precautions at all time but issues like terrorism, burglary, assaults etc. aren’t common. But cities/regions that border to Ethiopia, Sudan and generally at the border are adviced not to travel to. I want to keep discret so visit other travel advisors that ACUTALLY GIVE REAL precautions.

It can be said Eritrea is one of the safest country in Africa if not in the world. Crime is rare, woman can walk alone at midnight, friendly and quite modest people. Unfortunately the countries image is portrayed by media for political reason unfairly negative.

Thank you for your honesty, that’s exactly what they do a lot of false media that brain wash this world unfortunately but I am so amazed to still have people believe on the media entirely???? in this day and age.

Good and friendly

eritrea is very safe no problem I had over there and people wad friendly and helpful too plus I went to other cites around eritrea too

So your suggestion seems ok,…but why is that 2stars?

What I read is some...

What I read is some of what they telling to the trustees is wrong I’m Eritrean my self I’m 50 years old what I read is Eritrea is commonly hit by natural disasters like flooding, earthquakes and volcanic activity, while every three to five years, it also suffers a drought that destroys all the crops, kills livestock and causes considerable material In Eritrea natural disasters earthquake or volcano flooding every 3 to 5 years no I never see it in my country few years go yes it happened around the read see volcanic yes. But the rest. They just giving wrong advice to the tourist of course border problems I believe that the rest the country the safest country in Africa rich natural recourse oil gas gold. Potash the Eritrean currency in Africa number 9 the strongest currency call Nakfa. This is just white media

Do not lie about Eritrea

The safest Place is Eritrea, this is not true at all. TERRORISM risk, really? you should speak based on an experience please. none of it is true

What are you saying? Eritrea isnt safe and terrorism is common ,please be more considerate about your statments .And stop stating false facts. For i it is one of the safest countries in the world period

eritrea is safe and the people is very nice

what did to you happend brother, who rubbed your money just dont lie our Problem is still the dictator but Eritrea is safe come on ,truth is truth

Scary place

Sadly I must disagree with most of the above comments. The truth is that although Eritrea is a barren but beautiful country it’s population are extremely violent against whitey. If visiting any of its cultural wastelands it is best to black up for your own protection. The Eritrean currency is useful as toilet roll but not much else and it is customary to tip the local witch doctors by leaving them a little bag of local organically grown heroin. Not a great place to visit but still better than Nigeria.

Safest Country in Africa is Eritrea

Are you for real, what you have just described must be Lagos and most of Nigeria.. yes I have been to Nigeria but you can not compare to Eritrea. Eritrea is the cleanest and most beautiful country in Africa.. Nigeria was the most unsafe place that required us to have security just step outside. Please keep your lies and comments to yourself.

You sound you have it all made up, are you sure you’re talking about Eritrea and it’s people?

Eritrea is a very safe Place to visit and enjoy natural diversities. It’s a good spot to visit too. The media knows Nothing or has done a very small range research. It’s located in strategic position in Africa, and this gives some one to go and enjoy there. We Eritrean have a saying that goes like “Mriay Mieman eyu”( Some one has to see it, to believe it).

I lived in Africa, Europe, South America and now living in North America for many, many years. Recently, I went to Eritrea, my motherland, and stayed there for 6 years, and visited almost 90% of the country. I was in Eritrea when the greatest leader of Ethiopia visited Eritrea and when the border between Eritrea and Ethiopia opened. I visited Tigray for a few days since I worked there when I was young. In general, all the bad comments regarding Eritrea are completely false. Eritrean is the safest country in the world. I am talking according to my long travel experiences in the world. Where did you see police without a gun if the country is not safe? Where did you see people work in the factories and others walk after midnight? Anybody who wants to visit Eritrea, I guarantee you you will enjoy its beautiful Asmara streets, beautiful Massawa and Asab beaches, its cafe latte, beautiful and very, very honest and humble society, people who get out of their way to help you. I enjoyed my stay there and I assure you I will visit it every year from now on. ENJOY IT, you will not regret it at all.

Not advised to explore on your own

We’ve followed the travel guidelines avoiding peripheral areas thus everything was perfectly safe. I honestly don’t understand how people dare to explore a new country willy nilly, with no guide or know-how, this is asking for trouble, pure and simple.

ERITREAN,ETHIOPIAN "PRIDE OF AFRICA".

I have not been to Eritrea,but I would love to visit there one day and maybe invest and buy a house.Honestly,Eritrea and Ethiopia are the pride of Africa.

Eritrea is the most safest countries in Africa.

Eritrea is the most safest countries in Africa. But the western media are blackmailing the countries image for political issues. The people didn’t care and have no admire on people comes from Europe, America or Asia. Women can move from place to place any time without scare. And there is no any reports of terrorist attacks for the past three decades. Asmara is the capital city of Eritrea having around 800 thousand living. And many tourists believe; the city is much safest from many European capital cities.

very hot, safe and nice country

If so safe, why so many Eritrean refugees in Izrael, all over Europe? Yesterday clashes between pro and anti government immigrants in Germany, it doesn’t sound well.

eritrea is safe because there are many soldiers like novel

Clean, safe, poor.

Been there twice and in my experience the country is completely different from the politically motivated narrative. Asmara is clean and safe – I’ve gone walking alone in the days and evenings with absolutely no concerns. The people are wonderful – polite, warm and genuine. Stunning scenery. Neat Italian architecture in both Asmara and Massawa. Use a little common sense and stay away from border areas, otherwise this country is great.

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• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
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Eritrea Travel and Tours

We provide real and updated information on Eritrea and offer the widest variety of tours in all of Eritrea. From city trips in Asmara, to cooking workshops, exploring the desolate landscape of the Danakil Depression, diving in the Red Sea to archeological tours, Eritrea has it all! Have a look at our wide range of travels and day tours!

Eritrea Travel and Tours is a colorful, international crew of American-Belgians and Eritrean friends who all share the same love for Eritrea. Our team has decades of experience setting up all kinds of tours in every corner of the country. Throughout the years we have assisted film crews shooting documentaries, set up diving expeditions, tribe visits, cycling tours and much more. Contact us to know more!

Welcome to Eritrea Travel and Tours, your best source for information on Eritrea and your travel partner to one of Africa’s best hidden secrets.

Sometimes dubbed as the Italy of Africa, Eritrea is a relatively young country with a remarkable colonial architecture and a complex political history. The former Italian colony fought a violent civil war which lasted over thirty years before it finally got independent from neighbouring Ethiopia in 1993. Since then Ethiopia has been led by president Isaias Afewerki.

As Eritrea is extremely hard to visit, it is not overrun by tourists. Visas are extremely hard to get and traveling outside of the capital requires a travel permit, which is a pity as the country offers exceptional beauty and a variety of culture, nature and landscapes waiting to be explored. Because of the construction-obsession of the Italians in the nineteen thirties, Asmara offers a wide variety of intact colonial constructions with a lot of art deco and futuristic buildings to be seen. It is one of the cleanest cities in all of Africa with exceptional city planning and was one of the most modern cities in all of Africa. In 2017 the capital was added as a world heritage UNESCO site.

In the Red Sea we can find the Dahlak-Archipelago, a group of over 200 idyllic islands where you can snorkel and scuba dive in the warm waters of untouched coral reefs with many unique species which can only be found among the Eritrean coastline. Once inland we’ll find majestic mountains rising over 2.500 meters and fertile lands which attract the majority of the inhabitants to farm and herd cattle.

Besides many untouched areas such as the Semenawi Bahri National Park Eritrea which has an abundance of wildlife such as gazelles, ostriches, African wild dogs, leopards and tons of birds, the country boasts an enormous amount of archeological sites which show an ancient bond between Africa and the Middle East. There are over 80.000 sites throughout the whole country. This is the second largest variety in the continent after Egypt.

There is plenty of variety and stuff to be discovered during your holiday: the rich colonial architecture, scuba diving at the Red Sea, desert explorations, the ancient Christian and Muslim culture with plenty of mosques, churches, monastries and holy sites, birding and wildlife viewing and ofcourse one of the best parts: the food. Eritrea has excellent local cuisine as well as many Italian dishes which became part of the Eritrean food culture. It also has a long tradition of coffee ceremonies and because of the Italian occupation there are excellent macchiatos, cappuccinos and lattes to be found.

Come explore this little hidden pearl with us and get to know its friendly people with their traditions and stories they want to share with you. We offer a wide variety of high quality tours all over the country for decades throughout a vast network of local, enthusiastic guides led by our professional team. We happily help you setting up your ideal holiday in Eritrea as well as help you out with your visa, travel permits, airport assistance and anything else you might need for your new adventure. Have a look at our tours and don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions!

• Archeological Wonderland Extra plus: 8 days
• Archeology, Keren, architecture and Danakil: 11 days
• Archeology, Keren, tribes, architecture and Danakil: 12 days
• Complete Two Week Travel in Eritrea: 14 days
• Eritrea’s Gems: a 12-Day Tour
• Asmara city trip: 3 nights, four days
• Asmara full city exploration: 4 nights, five days
• Asmara luxury romantic getaway in Africa’s little Rome: 3 nights, four day
• Massawa city trip: 2 nights, three days
• Dahlak Islands overnight trip
• Dahlak Islands scuba diving trip: two nights, three days trip
• The architectural wonders of Eritrea: 5 day trip
• Asmara – Massawa Essentials: 5 day trip
• Asmara – Massawa – Adulis Essentials: 6 day trip
• Asmara – Keren Essentials: 5 day trip
• Asmara – Keren and Tribes Essentials: 6 day trip
• The Big 3: Asmara – Massawa – Keren: 6 days
• Danakil Depression Tour: 3 days
• Archeological Wonderland Grand Tour : 6 days
• Boat trip to Dur Ghella: Explore the little Eritrean Island
• Architectural wonders and Historical Highlights of Asmara
• Food and Coffee Tour of Asmara including coffee ceremony
• Complete Essential Tour of Asmara
• Epic Steam Train Adventure in Asmara: riding back in time
• Debre Bizen Monastery Day Tour
• Cooking Workshop in Asmara
• Asmara Brewery visit
• Ghinda, Dekemhare and Segeneiti exploration
• The Archeological Wonders of Kohaito
• Massawa City Tour
• Elabered Exploration
• Halib Mentel Tribal visit
• Keren Day Tour
• Fil Fil and the Green Belt
• Kunama Tribe visit: full day
• Keren Day tour
• Massawa city tour
• Island escape including snorkeling
• Adulis, Foro And Zula
• Visa on Arrival and Travel Permits in Eritrea
• Boat Rental in Eritrea
• Car Rental with driver in Eritrea

• Destinations

Wild Junket

Eritrea Travel: A Detailed Guide on Safety, Visa and Budget 2024

Last Updated on February 1, 2024

Eritrea travel is not easy, but it’s definitely interesting and very much off the beaten path. Here’s a detailed Eritrea travel guide I compiled based on my trip there.

Dubbed “the North Korea of Africa”, Eritrea is a hermit kingdom and the most secretive country in Africa. Since independence in 1993, the nation has been ruled by a totalitarian government and has become one of the least visited countries in the world.

For centuries, the Eritreans suffered tremendously under a succession of colonizers: first the Italians, then the British and Ethiopians. The country endured a long struggle for freedom that spanned across 100 years.

Today, Eritrea has emerged from the ashes to become a small but independent country where peace reigns. The scars of the world can still be seen, but the legacy of the Italian colonization also remains. Its entire capital city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site dotted with 1930s Art Deco buildings, churches and open-air cafes.

Table of Contents

Eritrea Travel Guide 

Why travel eritrea, is it ethical to travel eritrea, eritrea travel safety, is it easy to travel eritrea, travel visa and permits for eritrea, how to get to eritrea, best time to travel eritrea, 1 week in eritrea: suggested itinerary, cost of travel in eritrea, travel eritrea independently or book a tour, money in eritrea, admire the art deco architecture in asmara, scour through asmara’s market, go bowling in a vintage alley in asmara, drink coffee with locals in the cafes of asmara, see the tank graveyard, visit the mountain village of tselot, explore the abandoned port city of massawa, visit the dahlak archipelago, explore keren, a muslim town, admire the aksumite ruins of qohaito, asmara: crystal hotel, asmara: albergo italia, asmara: asmara palace hotel, massawa: grand dahlak hotel, traditional eritrean dishes, where to eat in eritrea, what to pack for eritrea, internet and data in eritrea, people and language of eritrea, more information for eritrea travel .

There are many reasons to visit Eritrea, and the main reason for me was its history. Eritrea’s story is one of resilience and persistent fight for freedom.

From the 1890 to 1941, the Eritreans were occupied by the Italians, who brought profound changes and development to the country. In 1941, the British expelled the Italians and took over the country. 10 years later, Ethiopia annexed Eritrea and claimed it to be its 14th state.

After a 30-year war with Ethiopia that involved millions dead and displaced, Eritrea finally gained independence and became a free state in 1993. Despite the tough political and economic situation, Eritrea remains one of the most intriguing destinations in Africa, particularly for travelers seeking something a little different.

Today, Eritrea is governed by a one-party totalitarian dictatorship in which national elections have never been held. President Isaias Afwerki, who has been in office since independence, has often expressed disdain for the western concept of democracy.

The Eritrean government’s human rights records is among the worst in the world. The mandatory military service (for both male and female) requires long, indefinite commitment. As all local media is owned by the government, Eritrea is also ranked third in press freedom, after North Korea and Turkmenistan .

Because of the regime, Eritrea travel can be a controversial subject. I choose to travel to Eritrea because I believe a government does NOT represent its people . I want to get to know a country from ground level. Based on past experiences, the reality in a country is often very different from what’s shown in the news.

After years of war and occupation, it is now finally safe to visit Eritrea. Ethiopia and Eritrea signed a peace treaty in July 2018 as well as a joint declaration formally ending the border conflict.

Currently, the US and UK Foreign Offices only advise against travel within 25km of Eritrea’s land borders, with the exceptions of the towns, Senafe and Tessenei. Beyond that, the rest of Eritrea is safe for travel.

Asmara, Eritrea, is one of the safest cities in Africa, and it’s absolutely walkable even at night. You won’t find the usual chaos in other African capital cities here. Instead, there is an air of calm and a laidback atmosphere. Massawa also feels very relaxed, despite the haunting atmosphere that surrounds the abandoned old town.

Eritrea remains one of the least visited countries in the world for several reasons. The Eritrea travel visa isn’t the easiest to obtain and permits are needed to travel out of Asmara, Eritrea . This is the government’s way of tracking everyone’s movement. 

Independent travel is now allowed in Eritrea and it IS possible to travel Eritrea without going on a tour. Many websites say that it is not allowed to travel independently out of Asmara, but that is outdated information. We traveled Eritrean independently for a week and enjoyed the freedom while spending half of what we would on a tour.

Because of the totalitarian regime, internet is highly restricted in Eritrea. Even if you do get internet access, it is extremely slow and social media is blocked. SIM cards don’t even have 3G data. The country is a cash-only economy and there are no ATMs here. Your bank card will NOT work here. 

Everyone needs a tourist visa to enter Eritrea, including Ethiopians. You will need a letter of invitation to apply for an Eritrea visa at your nearest embassy, but that can take months and it is a tedious process.

BUT if you don’t have an Eritrean embassy near you, you can apply for a Visa on Arrival (VOA) from an Eritrean tour operator . We got our VOA from Tekestre who owns Asmara Grande . It took 2 weeks and he charged us US$50 for the service. The VOA costs $70, to be paid at the airport on arrival. They took around 5 people and 1 hour to give us our VOA.

On top of that, it is mandatory to obtain permits to go anywhere outside of Asmara, Eritrea’s capital . The permits are easy to obtain from the Ministry of Tourism opposite the Cathedral on Harnet Avenue. A permit (for each area) costs around 50 Nakfa (US$3.50) and takes just 1 day to process.

[fusion_tooltip title=”” class=”” id=”” placement=”top” trigger=”hover”]TIP: Even if you do have an Eritrean embassy at home, try to get the VOA by providing an address elsewhere (where there’s no embassy). I provided my Singapore address even though I live in the Netherlands, and had no issues.[/fusion_tooltip]

Asmara International Airport (ASM) is the main gateway into Eritrea. All road borders (with Sudan, Djibouti and Ethiopia) are closed at the time of writing. Flying is the only option.

There are direct flights to Asmara from Dubai (UAE), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), Cairo (Egypt), and Jeddah (Saudi Arabia). Ethiopian Airlines only resumed flights from Addis to Asmara in 2018 after Ethiopia and Eritrea signed the peace treaty.

• Direct flights from Addis Ababa to Asmara cost around US$230 return (1.5hours)
• Flying direct from Dubai to Asmara costs around $420 return (4 hours)
• Flying direct from Cairo to Asmara costs $430 return (3 hours)

Search for Flights to Eritrea

The best time to travel Eritrea is in winter (November to February) , when temperatures are comfortable for exploring. We visited in late February — the mountain air in Asmara was pleasant while the Red Sea coast was not too hot.

In Asmara, the mountainous terrain causes a huge thermal change between day and night. In winter, daytime temperature is around 73°F (23°C) but it drops to around 42°F(6°C) at night.

July and August are the rainy months. For those visiting in summer, the temperature in Asmara ranges from 79°F (26°C) in the day to 53°F (12°C) at night. But Massawa can get oppressively hot, reaching 113°F (45°C) at times.

How Much Time to Travel Eritrea?

Eritrea is a small country, as compared to most countries in Africa. It doesn’t take more than 4 hours to get from Asmara, Eritrea , to major sites like Massawa and Keren on public transport. Also, the interesting sights in Eritrea are located in the cities so you can easily get to them via public transport.

We spent 1 week in Eritrea, and found it sufficient. We visited Asmara and Massawa, but wished we had time to also explore Keren and Qohaito. It’s definitely possible to visit all of them in 1 week. Below is a recommended Eritrea itinerary for those who prefer to see more.

• Days 1-3: Asmara — Eritrea’s capital city is UNESCO-listed Art Deco city, so it’s definitely worth spending 3 days in. Located at 2000m above sea level, the city has a relatively cool climate and beautiful layout.
• Days 4-5: Massawa — This port city has an old town featuring Turko-Egyptian and Italian architecture. But it was heavily bombed by the Ethiopians and is now more of an abandoned town. Do a day trip to one of the pristine, uninhabited Dahlak Islands.
• Day 6: Day trip to Keren — This Arabic town has an interesting weekly camel market (every Monday) and several shrines and mosques. You can climb up to the hilltop viewpoints for panoramic shots of the city. It is a 3-hour bus ride away from Asmara.
• Day 7: Day trip to Qohaito — Eritrea is home to a few Aksumite archaeological sites dating back to 1st century AD, Qohaito is the most well known of them all. It is however a 4.5-hour journey from Asmara and best done on a private taxi.

How to Get Around Eritrea

Public transport in Eritrea is quite decent. Each city has a bus terminal and there are regular bus services from Asmara to major sites like Keren and Massawa. Buses are either in the form of big 40-person coaches or white Japanese minibuses. They usually leave when full, and are cheap and relatively comfortable. A bus ride from Asmara to Massawa takes around 3 hours and costs 50 Nakfa (US$3.50).

Within the city, you can always find yellow taxis plying the streets. They are cheap if you share them with others. A taxi ride from the airport to downtown Asmara costs around 300 Nakfa ($20). A shared taxi ride within downtown Asmara is usually around 10 Nakfa ($0.70).

If you want to hire a taxi to bring you from one city to another, it is going to cost a lot. We asked around and a taxi from Asmara to Massawa cost around 2000 Nakfa ($130) for a single trip.

Eritrea is more expensive than other parts of Africa. Tours are particularly expensive, as there are not many operators (scroll down for more details). We traveled Eritrea independently for 1 week and spent around US$600 each .

Accommodation is way overpriced and quality isn’t great. If you’re looking for 3-star hotels, their rates range from $80-150/night.  We stayed at the popular Crystal Hotel ($84/night) and Albergo Italia ($100/night). There are however lots of basic pensions with prices starting from $10/night. 

There are lots of Italian cafes in Asmara, serving fresh fruit juices and cakes/sambusa for less than $1. But if you are looking for proper meals, a main dish in a restaurant (like tibs and injera) generally costs around US$10. Meat dishes and seafood cost slightly more, at around $12-15. Asmara Beer is very cheap, at $1 each. 

It is quite easy to travel Eritrea independently, especially if this is not your first time in Africa. Many African capital cities are chaotic, gritty and dangerous — but not Asmara. Like I mentioned, the city and many other parts of the country are calm and laidback. 

Public transportation is decent and distances are short in this small country (3-4 hours max from Asmara to Massawa, Keren and Qohaito). We had no problems getting permits in Asmara and taking the local transport ourselves. Everyone was kind to us, and there were always people who spoke English that offered to help us translate.

If you prefer to travel Eritrea with a guide, Asmara Grande is the most popular one. Many of my friends have traveled with them. We just used them to get our visa, for which they charged a service fee of $50. Tour prices are high, at around US$2500 for a 5-day private tour . That however does not include the hotel stays and visa cost.

It’s important to know that Eritrea is a cash-only economy and there are no ATMs here. Your bank card will NOT work here. Banks do not give cash advancements, Western Union is the only possible way to get cash from abroad. 

Be sure to bring cash in USD or Euros to exchange here. The Eritrean currency is the Nafka. The exchange rate currently is 1USD = 15 Nakfa. Other currencies are not accepted, only USD and Euros. It is not allowed to carry Nakfa out of the country, so don’t change too much money. The airport authorities will check your wallet when you leave the country.

You can only exchange money at the Himbol official exchange bureaus. There is one at the Asmara international airport’s arrival hall and several on the main boulevard, Harnet Avenue, in Asmara. We did not encounter any black market money changers — but even if you find them, we don’t advise dealing with them as the government is strict on this!

Best Things to Do in Eritrea

The entire city of Asmara, Eritrea , is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with thousands of Art Deco and modernist buildings erected by the Italians during their reign from 1890 to 1941. Nicknamed “la piccola Roma” (Little Rome) by the Italians, the city is reminiscent of Europe in 70 years ago.

The city’s most attractive buildings are found along the main street, Harnet Avenue. The most prominent art deco buildings in Asmara include the Fiat Tagliero service station, Cinema Impero, Theater Roma, and Medebar Market. Read my Asmara guide for more details on things to do.

Just two blocks behind Harnet Avenue is a series of markets, each block selling a type of produce. There is a fruit market, a spice market, and the most interesting of all, a traditional market selling locally produced items. You can find all sorts of weaved baskets, colorful injera containers, and paintings.

A fun thing to do in Asmara is to visit the bowling club a block away from the Municipal building. Used by the US military in the 1950s, the bowling club is a 70-year-old relic still in use today. Black and white images hang on the walls, while wooden paneling fill the floor and seating area. Play a game or two, so you can see the attendant replace your bowling pins manually. Incredibly unique!

Even though it’s been 70 years since the Italian occupation, Eritrea still continues many of the traditions the Italians have left behind. There is a vibrant cafe culture in Asmara, with lots of charming vintage cafes serving authentic Italian macchiato and espresso. Sweet Asmara Caffe, Rossina Cafe and Cathedral are both great spots to meet locals and have a chat.

On the outskirts of the city lie a graveyard for war tanks and trucks. It is a haunting reminder of Eritrea’s tragic past. Most of the tanks have rusted and crumbled, but some still spot USSR plates and symbols. From afar, the graveyard looks massive, giving one a rough idea of the sheer scale of destruction that happened here. Take a taxi here as it is located quite far from Asmara’s city centre.

Located 12miles (20km) outside of Asmara’s city center is the village of Tselot, where the President is from. Tselot is a traditional Eritrean highland village where people live in simple stone houses, transport goods on mules, and farm on lands.

There isn’t much to see here in terms of sights, but it’s interesting to visit if you are not planning to explore other parts of Eritrea besides Asmara. Locals are friendly and curious, and there are great mountain views. I hired a taxi to bring me here (and the tank graveyard) and it cost around 350 Nafka (US$23). You don’t need a permit to visit Tselot.

Poised along the Red Sea, Massawa has been a major port of Eritrea for centuries and it is rich in history. It was ruled by a succession of empires, including the Ottoman, Egyptian and Italian empires. One of the biggest battles in the 30-year year long war between Eritrea and Ethiopia took place in Massawa.

The evidence from the war is still evident, as the old town lies in ruins and a haunting atmosphere surrounds it.  Some of the most outstanding buildings include the ruins of Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie ‘s summer palace and the town hall.

Just a boat trip away from Massawa is the Dahlak Archipelago, a group of over 126 pristine islands scattered across the Red Sea. The archipelago has been famous for their pearl fisheries since the Roman times and still produce a substantial number of pearls. You can also go scuba diving off the Dahlak islands .

These days, only four of the islands are permanently inhabited. Madote island is the most popular, followed by Dissei which is inhabited by the Afar people. Boat trips there are very expensive though: we were quoted 11,000 Nafka ($733) from every source in Massawa for a day trip.

The second largest city in Eritrea is Keren. With a largely Muslim community, Keren is best known for its weekly camel market (every Monday). The city’s most interesting sites include the 19th century Egyptian fort, the 1920s former railway station , and the old mosque.

Time your visit to coincide with the annual Mariam Dearit festival, which falls on May 29 every year. During the festival, priests deck out in regal robes carry Christian figures into the Mariam Dearit shrine. The small Catholic shrine is built into a baobab tree said to be 500 years old or more.

Eritrea is home to a few Aksumite archaeological sites dating back to 1st century AD, Qohaito is the most well known of them all. The UNESCO site Qohaito is debated to be the town Koloe , a Greco-Roman city that pre-dates the Aksumite kingdom. The city’s impressively large remains are testament to its once-great stature.

Where to Stay in Eritrea

There are quite a few hotels in Asmara, though only a handful can be booked online . Quality isn’t great and hotel rates range from $80-150/night. There are however lots of basic pensions in the city with prices starting from $10/night. In other cities, hotels are very limited, but again there are several pensions as long as you don’t mind roughing it.

A popular option among travelers, this budget hotel has very clean and simple rooms, and comparatively good WiFi (don’t expect much though). Location is good, the receptionists are helpful and the hotel’s restaurant is lively and popular with locals. Check the rates here.

My favorite hotel in Eritrea is this landmark hotel famed for its classic Italian architecture. Rooms feature beautiful cornices and marble flooring, and are very comfortable. We did run out of water for a whole day though (apparently a common occurrence in Asmara). For $100 per room, Albergo Italia offers really good value as compared to the other hotels. Read reviews.

This is the only five-star hotel in Eritrea, but it is located near the airport and about a 10-minute taxi ride to downtown. It has two swimming pools (one indoor and the other outdoor), a tennis court, and bars and restaurants. However, they only accept cash and rooms are expensive. Check current rates.

The only hotel in Massawa is the Grand Dahlak Hotel that stands across the water from the old town. It looks pleasant from the outside, but rooms are smelly and are rather basic. The swimming pool is in disrepair and WiFi doesn’t work. Twin rooms are around $84/night. Read reviews here.

What to Eat in Eritrea

Food in Eritrea is similar to traditional Ethiopian food , with the injera as their staple. Injera is a huge flatbread made from teff (a grain rich in fiber). It is usually served with a spicy stew made with meat or lentils. [Read my guide on Ethiopian food .]

Do as the locals do and eat injera with your hands, tearing it into small bite sizes and grabbing a piece of meat with it. The injera can be an acquired taste for foreigners because of its sour flavor, but you will get use to it after having it for every meal.

Because of Eritrea’s location along the Red Sea, you will find more seafood here than in Ethiopia. Also due to its colonial history, there are lots of Italian influences in the food in Eritrea. You can easily find pasta and pizza everywhere.

• Tibsi — Barbecued beef slices cooked on a hot plate
• Gored gored — small chunks of seared meat cooked with pepper and spices
• Zigny berbere — Beef chunks cooked in a tomato stew and berbere spice
• Kitfo — Raw meat mixed with a series of spices and onions (you can order it seared)
• Shiro — Thick, flavorful lentil stew (good option for vegans)

One of the best things about Eritrea travel is the delicious food and coffee here. There is a vibrant cafe culture in Asmara, with lots of charming vintage cafes serving authentic Italian macchiato, gelato and cakes.

In Asmara, you will also find many local fast food places selling pizzas and pasta.  Restaurants are more expensive. A main dish (like tibs and injera) generally costs around 130-160 Nakfa (around US$10). Italian dishes and seafood cost slightly more, at around $12-15. Asmara Beer is very cheap, at $1 each.

• Asmara: Ghibabo — Definitely our favorite restaurant in Asmara, Ghibabo (pictured) is quite a charismatic place with gazebos and twinkly night lights to jazz up the atmosphere. The traditional dishes (like shiro and tibsi) here are excellent and real spicy!
• Asmara: Spaghetti and Pizza House — A popular spot along Harnet Avenue, this Italian restaurant has a great atmosphere and its international dishes are great. I recommend the veal cutlet and thin-crust pizzas.
• Asmara: Hidmona — Located in the expo area (a 10-min and 100 Nakfa taxi ride from downtown), this is a traditional restaurant that has Eritrean food and occasional dance performances. We were lucky to be there when a big tour group visited, so we joined in the dances and had a delicious Eritrean feast.
• Massawa: Grand Dahlak Hotel — Several people recommended the hotel’s restaurant to us. It was decent and the fish was pretty good, though my friend complained of stomach problems after that. Fish is not cheap, at around 200 Nafka each. 

Eritrea does get cold during the winter months (November to February). But temperatures are mild, reaching around 73°F (23°C) in the day and 42°F (6°C) at night. Even in summer, temperature drops to around 53°F (12°C) at night.

Bring layers regardless of the time you are traveling Eritrea. If you visit Eritrea in summer, t-shirts and long pants will suffice. For those visiting in winter, just bring a light jacket for the chilly nights. Don’t forget your sunscreen and hat as the sun in mountainous Eritrea can be very strong.

Many Eritrean Christian Orthodox ladies (especially in the villages) cover their hair with a white linen cloth, while Muslim ladies wear headscarfs. They are not very conservative and do not expect foreigners to cover up. Try to cover your shoulders and knees. It is fine to wear a normal swimsuit in Massawa and the Dahlak islands.

Getting connected in Eritrea is challenging. Because of the totalitarian government regime, internet is highly restricted in Eritrea. Be sure to get a VPN for Eritrea travel.

Even if you do get internet access, it is extremely slow and social media is blocked. SIM cards don’t even have 3G data. Locals are not even allowed to have internet at home in Eritrea.

There are lots of internet cafes and some hotels (like Albergo Italia and Crystal Hotel ) offer free WiFi, but the connection is very slow. A few locals have said that Eritrea’s internet connection works better with Android than Apple devices. Both my friend and I have the iPhone, and could only send and receive emails. 

Eritrea is a multi-ethnic country, with nine ethnic groups that make up its population of 5 million people. Eritrea is made up of Muslims and Orthodox Christians, and they have always lived side by side with one another.

The Tigrinya make up the majority of the population, making Tigrinya the main language of Eritrea. Learn some basic words like “Kemelaha” (how are you?) and “Ya’ahnele” (thank you!) and locals really appreciate it! Many Eritreans we met speak Tigrinya, Arabic and English, while some of the older generation speak a bit of Italian. We were definitely surprised by how easy it was to get by with English. 

The long periods of war resulted in many people fleeing the country, especially during the Ethiopian colonization. There are large Eritrean diaspora communities in the US and Europe. I met an American-Eritrean while in Asmara, who actually sought asylum as a refugee 30 years ago. She was returning for a visit and told me her interesting story.

Practical Tips for Eritrea Travel

• Feel free to print out this Eritrea travel guide or bring an Eritrea guide book as you won’t have internet to research or read up on the country. There are limited foreign books on sale in Eritrea, though you can find a few at the Awghert book store at the stadium. 
• Highly recommend reading this book before your trip: Gratitude in Low Voices by Dawit Gebremichael Habte. It is a memoir written by an Eritrean who fled to the US during his teenage years. He incorporates lots of history about Eritrea and shares insights on how life was like during the war era.
• Download Eritrea’s map to use offline before landing in Asmara. Otherwise, you can buy a cool city map of Asmara from Crystal Hotel for 50 Nakfa ($3.50).
• Be prepared to go unplugged during your stay in Eritrea. Internet access is extremely limited. Download a VPN service before you arrive.
• Be sure to bring enough cash with you to last through your trip. There are no ATMs in the country and banks do not do cash advancement for foreign cards. An alternative is Western Union, with the headquarters located at the stadium.
• Apply for your travel permits once you arrive in Eritrea. You can get them from the Ministry of Tourism opposite the Cathedral on Harnet Avenue. A permit (for each area) costs around 50 Nakfa (US$3.50) and takes just 1 day to process.

I hope you’ve found this Eritrea travel guide to be useful.  The hermit kingdom is definitely an intriguing place for those who love to venture off the beaten path. This small corner of Africa offers rewarding experiences whether you are a culture vulture, history buff, or architecture geek.

Here are more articles that I’ve written about Eritrea and nearby countries in the Horn of Africa:

• Asmara, Eritrea: An Art Deco City in Africa
• My Ethiopia Travel Guide & Itinerary
• 50 Pictures of Ethiopia
• A Guide to Ethiopian Food
• Celebrating Timkat in Ethiopia
• The Rock Churches of Lalibela, Ethiopia

Let me know if you have any other questions on Eritrea travel. I’m more than happy to share all that I’ve learned from my experience traveling Eritrea.

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Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 150 countries across 7 continents. She is a book author and Lonely Planet guidebook writer. As an adventure travel blogger, she has a special interest in unusual destinations and deep experiences. Follow her travels on her Facebook and Instagram .

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The Comments

Another stellar, very detailed write up!

Thanks Scott for the very kind words!

Eritrea is now on my bucket list

Dale Raven North

Great, comprehensive post!

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