travel advisory eritrea

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Eritrea travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: March 25, 2024 13:51 ET

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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.

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). 

The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified this country as no longer poliovirus-infected but at high risk of an outbreak . Polio can be prevented by vaccination.

Recommendations:

• Be sure that your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling. Polio is part of the routine vaccine schedule for children in Canada.
• One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult .

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.

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.  

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.

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.

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 2024, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 10.

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

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After Your Trip

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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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Eritrea travel guide

Eritrea is a difficult country to define. Although in Africa, it doesn’t feel wholly African. While its broad shore faces the Middle East, it is not overtly Arabian. And though its capital evokes the spirit of Europe, it is far from European.

For such a small country, Eritrea offers an astonishing variety and it tends to attract a motley crew of visitors: from archaeologists to architects; scholars to scuba divers; historians to hikers; and cyclists to steam railway buffs.

While there are many reasons to come to Eritrea, there is one impression that endures when you leave: the remarkable kindliness of the Eritrean people. Making friends here is an unavoidable pleasure and one that touches the lives of so many visitors.

The country stretches along the Red Sea and is low-lying in the eastern coastal regions and western border with Sudan, with a precipitous mountainous interior rising to a majestic 2,500m (8200ft) above sea level.

Having been colonised in part by the Turks and Egyptians, Eritrea took on a European flavor with the arrival of the Italians in 1885 during their belated entry in the “scramble for Africa”. The legacies of successive foreign forces, combined with a rich mix of nine local ethnic groups have created a diverse cultural landscape that offers the best of African, Middle Eastern and European influences.

Eritrea also boasts an abundance of historical and natural attractions. The colonial and modernist architecture of its towns and cities is as stunning and startling as the wildlife that populates its mountainous escarpments, deserts and coastline.

Elephants, lions, baboons, gazelles, leopards, ostriches, turtles, dugongs and some of the continent’s rarest birds can all be found here. And with a coastline extending nearly 1,000km (621miles) along the Red Sea, Eritrea offers some of the best diving and snorkelling in the world, as well as the most secluded beaches.

Once you’ve experienced Eritrea’s many secrets – travelled across its mountains and deserts, swam off its coastline, and met its warm people – it will only be a matter of time until you return for more.

117,600 sq km (45,405 sq miles).

5,401,231 (UN estimate 2016).

55.5 per sq km.

President Isaias Afewerki since 1993.

Travel Advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. 

Within 25km of Eritrea’s land borders

FCDO advises against all travel to within 25km of all Eritrea’s land borders. The land borders with Djibouti and Ethiopia are closed. Eritrea’s land border with Sudan is operational in response to the conflict in Sudan and people are crossing the border in both directions.  

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

Support for British nationals in Eritrea

Consular support is severely limited in parts of Eritrea. If you’re in Eritrea and you need urgent help (for example, you’ve been attacked or arrested, or someone has died), call the British Embassy in Asmara on +291 1 202 838. If you’re in the UK and worried about a British national in Eritrea, call 020 7008 5000.

British-Eritrean dual nationals

If you are a British-Eritrean dual national, the Eritrean authorities consider you to be an Eritrean national. This applies if you hold identity documents issued by Eritrea’s Department of Immigration and Nationality, including out of date documents. The British Embassy is unable to offer consular assistance to dual nationals in Eritrea. Embassy staff will be unable to gain consular access to you if you are detained by the Eritrean authorities.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you:

• women travellers
• disabled travellers

LGBT+ travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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.   

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.

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Eritrea .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.   

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Eritrea

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Eritrea, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Military activity in the Red Sea area       

Military activity is currently underway in response to attempts by Houthi militants to prevent movement of international shipping in the Red Sea. While the area of activity is limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, there is a possibility that Travel Advice for nearby countries could change at short notice. You should continue to monitor Travel Advice and follow any relevant instructions from local authorities.

Political situation

Local security measures.

In September 2022, the Eritrean government announced a national call-up of militia in response to the conflict in northern Ethiopia. The call-up has now ended following the peace deal between the Ethiopian government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). Extra security measures may still be in place around Asmara and other regions of Eritrea. Get advice from your host, accommodation or travel operator.

Armed civilians

A large proportion of the population has access to arms under the government of Eritrea’s civilian militia programme. The British Embassy has no evidence these weapons increase the threat of violent crime.

Travelling outside of Asmara     

Foreign nationals must apply in advance for a permit to travel outside Asmara’s surrounding province, Zoba Maekel. There are checkpoints outside Asmara where officials will check your travel permit. Applications for permits are handled by the relevant ministry:

• Ministry of Trade and Industry for business travellers
• Ministry of Tourism, Harnet Avenue, for tourists
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs for diplomats

When applying, you must give details of the car you’ll be travelling in. There have been reports of authorities not allowing tourists to use public transport for travel outside of Asmara.

If you are living or working outside Asmara, you will also need a travel permit to leave your area of residence or work. Apply to the local region (‘zoba’) administration office. Applications may take several days to be processed and are not always successful.

Restrictions on travel by foreign nationals apply equally to foreign diplomats. Staff from the British Embassy cannot always give consular assistance in person to British nationals outside Asmara.

Protecting yourself and your belongings

Though Asmara is a relatively safe city, there is a risk of street crime, especially at night. To reduce your personal risk: 

• do not walk alone at night
• keep phones, cameras and passports out of sight
• keep valuables somewhere secure, such as in a hotel safe

Laws and cultural differences

Personal id.

You must always carry ID. A copy of the photo page of your passport is enough. Keep the original and a second copy in a safe place.

Internet and phone access

Internet access is highly restricted in Eritrea, mainly limited to hotels and a small number of internet cafes. There is no 3G in the country. The national telephone networks are often unreliable and may only work for limited periods each day outside Asmara and larger towns.

International SIM cards will not work in Eritrea. You need a residence permit to buy a local SIM card and this can take several weeks. There have been unconfirmed reports that phone calls made on the Eritrean mobile network are recorded.

Using cameras in secure areas

Photographing government buildings and military installations is illegal. You need a permit to take photographs of the ‘tank graveyard’ in Asmara. You can apply for a permit at the Ministry of Tourism . Always ask if you want to take a photo in any area where security personnel are present.

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal. If convicted, you can get a prison sentence.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in Eritrea, see information on driving abroad .

You’ll need a 1949 version of the international driving permit ( IDP ) and your UK driving licence. Take both to the Ministry of Transportation and Communication and they will issue you with a driving permit.

You cannot get an IDP outside the UK so get one before you travel.

Road conditions

In Asmara, street lighting is limited by power cuts. Avoid travelling after dark during power cuts and in rural areas, where roads are unlit.

Road signage and safety barriers are scarce and road surfaces are uneven. Other drivers may drive without lights and some drive erratically or at speed. Tight blind bends and steep drops are common. In many parts of the country, roads are difficult or impassable during the rainy season.

The UK Air Safety List (ASL) lists all known airlines in Eritrea that do not meet international safety standards and are banned from operating commercial air services to, from, and within the UK. Check the UK Air Safety List when considering which airlines to fly with. The list is maintained by the Department for Transport, based on advice from the UK Civil Aviation Authority .

Check whether your tour operator has concerns about airlines in Eritrea.

Mariners must get permissions and entry visas before attempting to land in Eritrea.

You risk being detained if you go ashore on the south-western Hanish Islands or any other islands that belong to Eritrea. See regional risks .

Piracy risk

The Southern Red Sea area is a hotspot for maritime crime and security incidents.  

There is still a significant risk of piracy in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean , where piracy has been reduced but not prevented. The threat assessment of the combined international naval counter-piracy forces is that sailing yachts should not enter the  designated high-risk area, due to the risk of hijacking.

This section has safety advice for regions of Eritrea. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO ’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice .

Eritrea-Djibouti border

FCDO advises against all travel to within 25km of Eritrea’s border with Djibouti.  

All border crossings between Djibouti and Eritrea are currently closed. In 2008 there was fighting between Djibouti and Eritrea after an incursion of Eritrean forces into the disputed Djibouti border region. Though relations have improved, the situation remains unresolved.

Eritrea-Ethiopia border

FCDO advises against all travel to within 25km of Eritrea’s border with Ethiopia because of military activity on both sides of the border.

All border crossings between Ethiopia and Eritrea are currently closed.

There is a risk of landmines in the Eritrea-Ethiopia border area. If you are in the border area against FCDO advice, do not leave the main paved highways by car or on foot.

Eritrea-Sudan border

FCDO  advises against all travel to within 25km of Eritrea’s border with Sudan because of military activity on both sides of the border. There are ongoing reports of banditry in and around the border area.

The border with Sudan is operational in response to the Sudanese conflict. 

Hanish Islands

It is highly unlikely that Eritrean authorities will issue permits for any vessels to visit the south-western Hanish Islands. These islands are very close to the conflict in Yemen. In the past 3 years, the authorities have detained mariners who landed without a permit. 

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 122244 and ask for an ambulance. 

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest information on vaccination recommendations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Eritrea guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Eritrea. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro .

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

There is a limited range of medicines available in Eritrea, and many of those are produced locally. If you’re taking prescription medication, make sure you have a supply for your stay plus a contingency.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .

Healthcare facilities in Eritrea

There are 3 public hospitals in Asmara. Public hospitals in other towns are often poorly equipped. In rural areas medical facilities are even more limited. If you’re travelling away from the large towns, carry a comprehensive medical pack with you.

FCDO has a list of medical facilities in Eritrea where some staff will speak English.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Eritrea

Ambulance: 122244

Police: 113 

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Consular assistance

Consular support is severely limited in parts of Eritrea. Constraints on travel within Eritrea mean the British Embassy is often unable to deliver in-person consular assistance outside the greater Asmara area.

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

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking  lawyers ,  funeral directors  and  translators and interpreters in Eritrea
• dealing with a death in Eritrea
• being arrested or imprisoned in Eritrea
• getting help if you’re a  victim of crime
• what to do if you’re  in hospital
• if you’re affected by a crisis such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

You can also contact FCDO online .

Help abroad in an emergency

If you’re in Eritrea and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in Asmara .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

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If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here , alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Do not travel

Do not travel  within 25 kilometres of the border areas with Sudan, Ethiopia and Djibouti, including the town of Teseney and areas north and west of Barentu, Ak’ordat and Nakh’fa due to ongoing tensions in Eritrea’s relations with these countries, the presence of landmines and the risk of violence, including armed banditry (level 4 of 4).

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel  elsewhere in Eritrea due to the unpredictable security situation which has the potential to deteriorate with little warning should tensions between Eritrea and neighbouring countries escalate (level 3 of 4).

Violent Crime Street crime is rare but is increasingly happening in cities and towns, including Asmara, particularly pickpocketing against foreigners. Armed banditry is common near the border with Sudan, and Djibouti along the coast north of Massawa, and on some rural roads.

New Zealanders in Eritrea are advised to be security conscious at all times and should avoid walking and travelling at night, particularly to isolated areas. As victims of robbery are often targeted due to their perceived wealth, it is advisable to avoid wearing or displaying items that appear valuable, such as electronic devices and jewellery.

Landmines There are extensive minefields in Eritrea, particularly in border areas which continue to cause occasional injury or death. Some may not be marked and travelling or walking in rural or remote areas can be dangerous. We advise you not to stray off well-used public roads and paths.

Piracy Piracy has been reported in the coastal waters off Eritrea in the Gulf of Arden, and remains a significant threat. Mariners are advised to be vigilant and take appropriate precautionary measures in these waters. For more information view the International Maritime Bureau's piracy report .

Civil Unrest During late 2020, there were several explosions reported in Asmara following armed conflict in the Tigray region. While the situation has calmed since, there continue to be skirmishes along the Ethiopian border.

On 31 October 2017, many protesters took to the streets in Asmara and there were reports of gunfire from local security forces to disperse the crowd. Whilst such incidents are rare, New Zealanders in Eritrea are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and large public gatherings as even those intended as peaceful have the potential to turn violent with little warning. Monitor local and international media, review personal security plans and be aware of your surroundings.

Terrorism Terrorist attacks in Eritrea can’t be ruled out, and could occur at any time. Be vigilant at all times, especially in crowded areas and public places.

General travel advice All foreign nationals are required to apply in advance for travel permits from the Government to leave the capital Asmara. Processing can take up to 24 hours. New Zealanders in Eritrea should be aware of and adhere to all laws, regulations and any restrictions in place on travel to certain areas of Eritrea, as they are strictly enforced by Eritrean authorities.

New Zealanders are advised to respect religious, social and cultural traditions in Eritrea to avoid offending local sensitivities. Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour.

Telephone and internet networks are unreliable and may only work for limited amount of hours in a day, even in larger towns and cities.

Photography of government buildings and military establishments or officials, is prohibited - if in doubt, don’t take a picture.

As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Eritrea, the ability of the government to assist New Zealand citizens who require consular assistance is severely limited. 

New Zealanders travelling or living in Eritrea should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air. Medical facilities may be limited outside Asmara.

New Zealanders travelling or resident in Eritrea are strongly encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

See our regional advice for Africa

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Eritrea Travel Advisory

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.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, eritrea map, search for travel advisories, external link.

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Travel Advice for Eritrea

Going to Eritrea and need to know about the latest government travel advice for Eritrea? Find the updated travel advice and travel warnings for Eritrea from governments around the world, here.

General Travel Advice and Warnings for Eritrea

The decision to take a trip to Eritrea is your choice and you are in charge of your personal safety and security whilst in Eritrea.

The content on this web page is provided for information only and pulled together from travel advice and warnings for Eritrea by governments all over the world to their citizens.

While we make every effort to offer you most current travel advice details, it is offered on an “as is” basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied.

This owners of this website does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information given.

Standard Cautions You Need to Keep in Mind When Travelling in Eritrea

Crime – Petty criminal offenses such as pick pocketing in a jampacked surrounding to sexual assault and robberies do occur in larger cities of Eritrea. Make sure that all your personal valuables, such as passports and other traveling documents, are secure at all times.

Terrorism – Always be aware of your surroundings when in public areas. Be particularly watchful if attending sporting events and throughout religious holidays and other public occasions, as terrorists often use such events to mount attacks.

Demonstrations and Protests – Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transport. It is in your interest of safety and security to stay clear of locations where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place and follow the instructions of local authorities. Monitor local media in Eritrea for info on ongoing demonstrations in Eritrea.

Scams – Exercise care in crowded tourist locations in Eritrea, where scammers target travellers. If you have actually been scammed in Eritrea, reach a safe location right away; make note, as soon as possible of the name and address of the facility where you were held; inform the cops in Eritrea and acquire a record and if your credit card is used by the scammer call your credit card provider to report the scam; they will likely request a copy of the police report to cancel the financial transaction.

Spiked Food and Beverages – Never ever leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers when taking a trip in Eritrea or anywhere else. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, chewing gum or cigarettes from unknown acquaintances. These items might contain drugs that could put you in danger of sexual assault and robbery.

What is the entry/exit conditions for Eritrea?

Every nation or territory chooses who can enter or leave through its borders, in the same manner Eritrea determines exactly who enter its borders. The Government of your home country can not interfere on your behalf if you do not satisfy your Eritrea’s entry or exit requirements.

To read more regarding the entry/exit requirement for Eritrea visit visa requirements for Eritrea or get the most up to date details with the visa office at the Eritrean consulate in your home country.

Travel insurance coverage for Eritrea

Health cover is just one of the primary factors travellers obtain travel insurance. It will not stop you getting sick or injured, though it can avoid you suffering financially. Medical support overseas can be really expensive.

You have to shell out for all treatment you obtain overseas. You can not expect to get free or subsidised care through your Eritrea’s public health system, like you would in your home country.

If you can’t pay, local authorities might arrest you. The government from your home country can’t pay you medical expense for you, loan you cash or get you out of jail.

You need travel insurance coverage for travelling to Eritrea . You also need to ensure you select a plan that is right for you.

Read the fine print of your travel insurance policy.

Declare all pre-existing conditions to your travel insurance provider upfront. If you don’t, you may void your travel insurance coverage.

Inform your travel insurer the activities you plan to do, before you go. Many common activities like winter sports are left out in basic plans. You might require to pay added.

Check if you have complimentary credit card travel insurance policy. Some cards include travel insurance policy cover. However, they often have various conditions than paid plans. Understand the differences.

If you’re visiting Eritrea from a country that has a reciprocal health care agreement, you still require travel health insurance. Agreements are restricted in what they’ll will cover.

If you have a terminal ailment, you may not be able to obtain basic travel insurance. Nonetheless you may have the ability to get a specialised insurance company that covers you for health, mishaps or property problems unassociated to your ailment. Speak with your insurance firm to learn.

Learn more about obtaining global travel insurance for Eritrea before you go.

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Eritrea Travel Advice and Travel Advisories

Eritrea travel vaccines and advice.

As a former Italian colony, Eritrea is a great travel experience. Its landscapes are rich in contrasts, which make it a unique country. With low steep plains of rivers and valleys to the West, marvellous coast bathed by the Red Sea to the East and islands of outstanding beauty, this country offers everything you can expect from a nature-centred destination. Nicknamed Little Rome, the capital Asmara is an open-air museum. It is home to many remains of Italian architecture. Continue your journey to Massawa to admire the most beautiful landscapes of the country. Further on you will find scenes of vast salt and volcanic plains dotted with wildlife such as zebras and gazelles. To relax in the sun, head to Shumma and Nora or the beautiful beach of Gergussum.

Recommended travel vaccinations for Eritrea

Recommended medication for travelling to eritrea, current weather in eritrea, medical care in eritrea.

Eritrea has a chaotic health care system, which fails to guarantee even the most basic care to the entire population. Shortage of drugs is often a problem in Eritrea. The  Orota Referral Hospital , built in collaboration with China, offers a satisfactory level of care with new facilities and equipment. Most centres in Eritrea do not accept credit cards, so be prepared to pay in cash.

You can dial  291 (1) 202 914 ,  291 (1) 202 917  or  291 (1) 202 606  for medical assistance. However, it is advisable to call a private ambulance in case of an emergency, as ambulance services prove very unreliable.

Is Eritrea Safe for Travel?

Do i need a visa to visit eritrea.

Prior to travel, make sure you check with your transportation company about any passport requirements. This is important as in some cases their regulations on passport validity may be more strict than those of the destination country.

Both, a  visa  and a  passport  are required to enter Eritrea. The passport must be  valid for at least six months beyond the date of departure .

Please click  here  for more information.

Embassy of Canada to Eritrea information

When travelling to another country, it is important to know where the Canadian embassy is located in the event of:

• A legal problem
• A lost passport
• The need to report a crime

It is advisable to make a copy of your original passport in case you lose it.

Canadian Consulate to Eritrea (ASMARA) Street Address: Abeneh Street 745, House No. 152/154, Tiravolo, Asmara, Eritrea

Tel.:  291 (1) 18 18 55 / 291 (1) 18 64 90 Fax:  291 (1) 18 64 88

Email:   [email protected]

Canadian Consulate to Sudan (KHARTOUM) Street Address: 29 Africa Road, Block 56, Khartoum 1, Sudan

Tel.:  249 156 550 500 Fax:  249 156 550 501

Please note that this is the website for the Canadian Embassy in Sudan.

Click here to access the embassy’s website

How to travel to Eritrea in 2024: Tips + Itinerary

By Joan Torres 23 Comments Last updated on April 11, 2024

Popularly known as the North Korea of Africa for being the most repressive and hermetic country on the continent, Eritrea is a real off the beaten track, undiscovered gem which not many people know about.

Paradoxically, this is a surprisingly chilled-out and tourist-friendly destination, filled with kind-hearted people, huge diversity, and loads of unique things to do.

Only being independent since 1991, after a 30-war against Ethiopia, traveling to Eritrea is the ultimate offbeat experience in Africa.

This guide contains everything you need to know about doing tourism in Eritrea , including visas, permits, tips and a 9-day itinerary.

In this Eritrea travel guide you will find:

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Travel Insurance
• Best time to visit
• People & culture
• Accommodation
• Transportation
• En Route Massawa
• Foro & Adulis
• Extend your itinerary
• More Information

🇪🇷 Introduction: what’s tourism in Eritrea like

Eritrea is a tiny nation sitting on the shore of the Red Sea, nestled between Sudan , Djibouti, and Ethiopia.

When I was traveling in Ethiopia , many travelers asked me what traveling in Eritrea was like, and I always told them:

Eritrea is sort of an extension of Ethiopia, very similar, but extremely different at the same time.

The dominant group in Eritrea are the Tigrayans , a group of people who share the exact same culture as Ethiopians from Tigray region, in the north of the country, one of the most touristic regions in Ethiopia.

However, in Eritrea, you also find many different ethnic groups and what makes doing tourism in Eritrea unique unlike Ethiopia is that this used to be an Italian colony just like Libya , from 1890 until 1943.

And, since this colonization is so recent, plus the Italians created the country pretty much from scratch, the Italian influence is very present, and visible, especially in Asmara , which was entirely built by the Italians, a capital filled with art deco buildings, palm-lined streets, and lovely cafés whose terraces are packed with Eritreans slurping delicious macchiatos.

Unlike most capitals in Africa, Asmara has a sophisticated African style and is a reason in itself to visit Eritrea.

However, once you leave the capital, you’ll find yourself in one of the most traditional countries on Earth, like if you traveled back in time.

🪪 How to get a visa for traveling to Eritrea

Getting a valid tourist visa for visiting Eritrea can take time and money but it is easier than most people assume it will be.

Getting an Eritrean tourist visa via embassy

This is the cheapest way but be aware that it can take a lot of time, usually more than 1 month ; plus there are only a small number of Eritrean embassies around the world , typically in those countries where there is a significant Eritrean population, including France, the UK, Italy, Sweden, Switzerland and the USA.

If your home country doesn’t have an Eritrean embassy, it is also possible to mail both your passport and application form to the nearest one but, personally, I don’t like this option because you never know how long you are going to be without your passport.

In any case, according to all travelers I talked to, most applications get approved sooner or later and the average visa price is around 70€ (1-month visa), but this could vary slightly, depending on the embassy or your nationality.

Contact your nearest embassy to find out all the specific requirements & instructions.

Your experiences and reports are welcome.

Getting a tourist visa on arrival (via a travel agency)

Note: you are only eligible to get a VOA if there isn’t an embassy in your home country. Since there is no Eritrean embassy in my home country, Spain, I went for this option.

Getting a tourist visa on arrival for Eritrea might seem the most convenient option and, logistically, it really is but it can get very expensive because you can only arrange it through a travel agency.

Travel agencies will either charge you an administrative fee or make you book a full tour, but they can process your visa document in 1 week.

In my case, the agency charged me 250USD for processing my visa and 70USD for a minimal tour, which included airport pick up and drop off, plus 1 night in a relatively good hotel, so 320USD in total .

These were only agency fees but, then, you have to purchase your visa at the airport, which costs an additional 70USD (valid for 1 month).

I think they only accept USD – I am not entirely sure – and, if needed, they give you the change in USD as well.

Processing your visa at the airport is relatively quick. In my case, it didn’t take more than 45 minutes. Weirdly, the people who stamp your passport are young women who are barely 20 years old.

Permits for traveling around Eritrea. Is independent travel allowed?

Eritrea is known as the North Korea of Africa for a few reasons, one of them being that most of the country is heavily restricted and off-limits to tourists.

Nevertheless, things have greatly improved recently and I would say that you are allowed to travel independently to 20% of the country’s territory.

In order to visit any place outside of the capital, however, you need to get a specific permit, one for each different place you visit.

Most permits can be obtained at the Ministry of Tourism’s office , a small office located right in the city center, just in front of the big Roman Catholic Church.

Each permit costs 50 nakfas – a bit more than 3USD – and takes a couple of hours to process.

This means that, if you apply in the morning, you can pick it up in the afternoon and, if you apply in the afternoon, you can pick it up the next day.

Remember that the office is closed on Sunday.

When applying for your different permits, you need to specify the exact dates you are going to spend in each place, so you really need to plan your day-by-day itinerary.

This sucks because it means that there is no room for improvising.

To be honest, the police never asked me for the permit, but all hotels did and, if the day you arrive doesn’t match the specified date in the permit, they won’t host you.

What happens if you travel without a permit?

I did visit one town (Foro) in which a special permit was required but I didn’t have one.

There was a checkpoint right at the town’s entrance but the bus didn’t stop and, since it was market day, the village was packed with people from all over the region, so I went unnoticed by the authorities. I went there on a day trip from Massawa.

During my trip, I met one Italian who also tried to sneak into a forbidden area but he got caught by the authorities, who held him at the checkpoint for a few hours before letting him go. No big deal, he said.

What happens with the remaining 80%? When you travel in Eritrea, it doesn’t look like you are traveling in one of the most repressive states in the world: you barely see any police, you don’t see more poverty than in other African nations, the atmosphere is so chilled and you never feel any sort of tension. However, remember that, as a traveler, you can only see 20% of the country so, during my trip, I could never stop wondering: what is really going on in that unknown part of Eritrea? In any case, I am pretty sure there is a lot of undercover police, plus the numbers speak for themselves, as there are millions of Eritrean refugees living in different parts of the world.

🚑 Travel insurance for Eritrea

I strongly recommend IATI Insurance because:

• Covers travel in Eritrea (which is rare)
• Covers both short-term trips and 1-year long trips.
• Readers of this blog can get a 5% exclusive discount

⛅ Best time to visit Eritrea

Do you know what slogan the Ministry of Tourism uses to promote tourism in Eritrea?

Eritrea, 3 seasons in 2 hours.

Sitting at an elevation of 2,235 meters above sea level, Asmara might be one of the highest capitals in the world, a city which enjoys relatively cool weather all year round and, by only driving a few hours, you can get to the green rolling hills around Ginda, the humid and utterly hot shores of the Red Sea or the desert plains near the Afar region.

Therefore, you can visit Eritrea all year long, except for the Red Sea, which has similar summer temperatures to Saudi Arabia .

🛫 How to get to Eritrea

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

Eritrea shares a border with Sudan , Ethiopia , and Djibouti but, as of today, all borders are closed, at least to foreigners.

After Eritrea and Ethiopia signed the Peace Agreement in 2018 , they agreed to open the border after decades of being shut down but, unfortunately, Eritrea decided to close it again after a few months, as many of the Eritreans who crossed into Ethiopia never came back in an attempt to seek freedom.

Therefore, the only way to travel to Eritrea is by flying in.

I personally came from Istanbul with Turkish Airlines, but you can also fly in from Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines), Cairo (Egypt Air) or Dubai (FlyDubai).

📚 Best books for backpacking in Eritrea

Understanding eritrea: inside africa’s most repressive state, by martin plaut.

Amazing book written by a BBC journalist, which helped me to understand the complexity of Eritrea, as well as its relationship with Ethiopia, a key factor in the evolution of the country.

Eritrea travel guide by Bradt

The last edition is from 2007 (the one I have) but the good news is that Bradt is releasing a new one in December 2020. Bradt specializes in offbeat destinations and has the most insightful guidebooks about destinations in Africa. I love Bradt.

Get a KINDLE!

Buying a Kindle has been one of my best recent acquisitions.

Eritrea: the people and culture

Despite its small size – only 6 million people – Eritrea is a complex society, ethnically speaking.

Ethiopia is also home to several ethnic groups, especially in the Omo area. Read my Omo Valley travel guide

As I said in the introduction, Tigrayans are the dominant group but Eritrea is composed of 8 more different ethnicities: Tigre, Rashaida, Afar, Saho, Bilen, Beja, Kunama and Nara.

If you visit Keren, you will meet the Tigre, nomadic Muslims.

If you go to Foro or any place south of Massawa, you are likely to meet Saho people, whose women dress up in some very colorful attire. In Foro, I also got to see many Afar people.

Here you can read more about ethnic groups in Eritrea .

From a traveling perspective, Eritreans are kind and pleasant people to deal with.

Scams are rare and expect many Eritreans to approach you to ask your opinion about Eritrean culture, or what have you learnt about their culture. In Asmara , they would asked me this question several times a day.

Other than that, most locals talking to you just want to have a small chat because they are curious, not because they want to get something from you, unlike in neighboring Ethiopia.

Language in Eritrea

All the languages spoken by the different ethnicities are considered official but Tigrinya – and also Arabic – is the governmental language and the most commonly used among all Eritreans.

Tigrinya is a Semitic language that comes from Ge’ez and is the official language in Tigray region, northern Ethiopia.

It also has many similarities to Amharic, the official language in Ethiopia.

Do Eritreans speak English?

Surprisingly, you always meet someone who speaks decent English, especially in Asmar a.

I also met many people speaking Italian, usually Eritreans above 60 or 70 years old.

To be very honest, language shouldn’t be a barrier when backpacking in Eritrea.

Religion is a big deal in Eritrea and, according to official sources, Christianity is practiced by 60% of the population, whereas Islam is by 40%.

Most Christians are Orthodox – but there are Catholics too – from the same Orthodox branch as Ethiopians.

In most cases, religion is based on ethnicity, which means that it is very regional, the northern part close to Sudan being very Muslim, while the area close to Ethiopia being very Christian.

Churches are always packed and I recommend you attend the Sunday service that takes place early in the morning, around 6am, in which the locals sing some very peculiar canticles.

Are you traveling around the Horn of Africa? Check my Somaliland travel guide

⚠️ Is it safe to travel to Eritrea?

Is Eritrea safe? Well, it is said that Eritrea is one of the safest countries in Africa.

I have been walking in the center of Asmara at 3am, with many people hanging out outside of the different bars and nobody bothered me.

In Eritrea, you bump into the occasional intense and slightly aggressive beggar, but more often than not, if noticed by a local, they will approach and tell him to get the hell out.

Crime in Eritrea is pretty rare, everybody says so, and I never heard of any foreigner saying otherwise.

For whatever reason, Eritrea is not like other African countries.

Moreover, according to the FCO advice , all Eritrea is safe to go except for the area within 25km of Eritrea’s land borders but that’s because of past conflicts, nothing to worry about today and, in any case, as a tourist, you can’t even go there.

Taking photos of local people

Like in any traditional country, the streets of Eritrea are filled with great picture opportunities.

In my experience, in Christian areas, people were mostly OK with you taking photos, and I only had a few issues in very traditional Muslim areas, even when taking photos from far away, especially if there were women in the frame. 

As a responsible traveler and, like you would do in any other country, ask for permission first.

Talking about local politics in Eritrea

Honestly, the only potential danger you might face when visiting Eritrea is talking about politics.

You should never say anything negative about the Government to people you don’t know or trust, since that’s enough reason to be put away for a while.

I only talked deeply about politics with one Eritrean and every time I asked him a question, he would look around and whisper his answer in my ear.

I had never seen anything like that before. Crazy.

🍲 Food & drink in Eritrea

The local traditional food in Eritrea is pretty much the same as in Ethiopia , no big difference, other than a slight change in their names and spices.

Injera, the teff-based flat, sour, fermented bread is the base of any local meal.

Some local dishes you must try are:

• Tibsi: small pieces of lamb fried in tomato sauce, always accompanied by injera.
• Shoro: spicy chickpea paste, also accompanied by injera.
• Kicha: pieces of flat bread dipped in different sauces or stews. Weird, too much bread for me.
• Foul: Smashed beans, typically eaten for breakfast

The biggest difference from Ethiopia is that in Eritrea, because of the Italian influence, you find a lot of Italian food and in some restaurants, it is great, with pasta al dente and delicacies such as caprito al forno (lamb in the oven) or parmigiana .

If you are vegetarian, you need to say you want nait-som (pronounced like night-some), which literally means fasting-food. Christian Orthodox Eritreans fast twice a week at least, days on which they can only eat vegan, so that’s why most restaurants will always serve vegetarian dishes. The traditional fasting dish usually consists of lentils and other stews with injera.

Alcohol in Eritrea

Beer is widely available in Eritrea, including in Muslim towns, but they only produce one brand: Asmara Beer. It never costs more than 15-25 nakfas (1-1.50USD)

What is funny about Asmara beer is that it always tastes different.

Sometimes it comes so light and watery, while on other occasions it is like one of those unfiltered, thick beers. Weird.

In bars and more exclusive restaurants, you can find a wide variety of wines and spirits but because they are all imported, they are very pricey.

Coffee in Eritrea is a big deal If you like good coffee, you are going to love to travel to Eritrea. Their coffee is mostly imported from Ethiopia but they prepare it in Italian style and in the endless cafés around Asmara macchiato is the way to go. To be very honest, what they serve isn’t real Italian macchiato, but more like a Spanish cortado , but they do it very well, with thick foam and great presentation. If you like it strong, you need to order a black macchiato. Otherwise, they put too much milk in, in my opinion.

💻 Internet and connectivity in Eritrea

This is a pretty important section.

Fact: in Eritrea, there is no internet.

Well, this isn’t entirely true but mobile internet doesn’t exist, really.

The only places where you can connect to the internet are in cyber cafés and specific hotels, in which you need to buy a voucher that costs around 1USD and can be used for 1 hour.

However, the internet is absolutely awful and all you can do is send WhatsApps, text emails or simple browsing.

In addition, you can’t use it unless you connect to a VPN .

This means that, before traveling to Eritrea, you must download all the information needed for traveling, plus all your music, Netflix movies, etc.

Some travelers told me that the internet situation is similar to the one in Cuba but the little internet you get is even slower.

On the bright side, in the different cafés, restaurants, and buses, you never see anybody checking their phones but people are just talking like we used to do some years ago.

You get used to it surprisingly fast.

Get a VPN for traveling in Eritrea

You should always use a VPN when you travel, especially when you connect to public Wi-Fi networks.

Your connection will be much safer. 

Moreover, keep in mind that the only way to connect to the internet in Eritrea is with a VPN.

I recommend ExpressVPN – Extremely easy to use, fast and cheap. 

If you want to learn more about VPN, check: Why you need a VPN for traveling .

💰 Money in Eritrea $

In Eritrea, they use the Eritrean Nakfa (ERN) and approximately:

1 USD = 15 ERN

A few years ago, there used to be a black market in which you could exchange 1USD for 55ERN.

Things, however, have changed and this black market has been eradicated so, today, you can only change in some Governmental offices named Himbol . Both USD and € are accepted.

You can still exchange on the black market if you know the right people but it is extremely illegal and the maximum rate you will get is 18ERN for 1USD.

Important! Bring enough cash for the whole trip because international cards can’t be used!

How much does it cost to travel in Eritrea?

Overall, Eritrea is cheap but, in a country in which most people earn less than 50USD, this is a very expensive country, much more than traveling in Ethiopia .

These are the costs of the most typical things:

• Macchiato: 7-10 nakfas
• Breakfast (foul): 15-25 nakfas
• Vegetarian lunch: 50-70 nakfas
• Non-vegetarian lunch: 100-120 nakfas
• Internet 1 hour: 15-20 nakfas
• Water 1 liter: 15-25 nakfas
• Beer: 15-25 nakfas
• Permits: 50 nakfas each
• Public bus from Asmara to Keren: 25 nakfas
• Mini-van from Asmara to Keren: 70 nakfas
• Public bus from Asmara to Massawa: 31 nakfas
• Mini-van from Asmara to Massawa: 75 nakfas
• For hotel prices, go to the Accommodation section

The price of water in Eritrea On my first day, I went to a local grocery shop to buy some water. They only had a 1L size and when attempting to pay, he said: 20 nakfas, almost 1.50USD. I really thought he was ripping me off, so I left the bottle and left. Then, I went to a nearby shop where prices were written, only to find out that a 1L bottle there cost 25 nakfas, almost 2USD. What the hell? I talked about this to a random local I met in a café and he said that, yes, water in Eritrea is crazy-expensive and the reason is that there used to be a local company that processed mineral water but the Government shut it down without giving any explanation, so now they have to import it from Ethiopia, and this is a huge issue because most people can’t afford it and tap water isn’t drinkable.

🏨 Accommodation in Eritrea

Eritrea is relatively well-sorted for hotels.

The problem with accommodation is that sometimes it can be very overpriced, but you can find some good options.

Hotels in Asmara

Asmara has, obviously, the best offer of hotels, from 4USD-filthy rooms to top-end.

• 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.

Hotels in Keren

• Budget: Sicilia Hotel – The owner speaks amazing English and his mother impeccable Italian. The rooms are very basic but clean. All rooms cost between 8 and 12USD. It has a great garden/terrace.
• Mid-range: Keren Hotel – The first hotel ever opened in Keren and where most foreigners stay. When I visited Keren, I saw a tour group of around 20 foreigners coming out of the hotel. Unfortunately, I don’t remember the prices, but it should be in the 30-50USD range.

Hotels in Massawa

• Budget: Luna Hotel – This is the best budget option but still, it is very overpriced. Non-AC rooms cost 20USD, and they are extremely basic, with not even plugs and a filthy shared bathroom. Otherwise, slightly better rooms with AC cost nearly 40USD.
• Mid-range: Dahlak Hotel – A fancier hotel next to Luna, with rooms starting at 60-70USD.

🛺 Transportation: How to travel around Eritrea

As long as you have the necessary permits, you can move around Eritrea independently by public transportation.

Traveling around Eritrea by bus

Bus is pretty much the only way to travel between Eritrean towns and cities. There are both minivans and big public buses. I recommend you go early in the morning, otherwise, you may find very long queues and have to wait there forever and, occasionally, pushing hard and getting a bit aggressive is the only way to find a seat.

Traveling around Eritrea by train

The beautiful steam train that used to run from Asmara to Eritrea doesn’t work anymore and today, the only functional section is the one that runs from Asmara to Nefasit and it only works for the occasional tourists who book the whole train in advance. Someone told me that, if you were a group of 15, you would pay around 50USD per person. 

Renting a car in Eritrea

In Asmara, I saw more than one rental car office but I am not sure to what extent you can just drive around by yourself. You will need to figure it out by yourself.

Things to do in Eritrea in a 9-day itinerary

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

You could squeeze this Eritrean itinerary into one week and, probably, I could have visited one or two additional places but I don’t like to rush and, in any case, I was already pretty satisfied with what I managed to visit 🙂

Map of the places to visit in Eritrea

Day 1, 2, 3 – Arrival and visit Asmara

In my experience, Asmara was the highlight of my trip to Eritrea, without a doubt.

Unlike many other African capitals, this is such a peaceful city. Can you imagine an African city in which all cars would let you pass when you cross the street?

The best thing you can do in Asmara is hanging out in the different cafés over a macchiato, searching for good Italian food and checking out the several art deco buildings found across the city.

For more information about Asmara, read: Things to do in Asmara

Day 4, 5 – Keren

Predominantly a Muslim city, Keren, the capital of Anseba region, has a sort of Middle Eastern feel, or Sudanese perhaps, but what is obvious is that it is a completely different world from Asmara.

Keren is a super traditional city, in which you are likely to find more donkeys and camels than cars.

The best day to visit Keren is during the animal market (Monday, from 7am to 3pm), a lively market in which Eritreans from all over the Anseba region come to buy and sell livestock, from camels to massive bulls.

Other than that, besides an Italian & British cemetery with soldiers from WWII and a few mosques and churches, there isn’t much to do but the highlight of Keren is the traditional life itself.

Day 6 – Journey from Keren to Massawa

The journey from Keren to Massawa is a long one (8 hours at least) and if you have time, I recommend you break the journey in Asmara, especially because there are a few places between Asmara and Massawa which are worth checking out.

Whatever you decide, you will need to stop in Asmara because there is no direct bus from Keren to Massawa.

The first big town you find is Nefasit, from where you can hike up to Debre Bizen , a Christian Monastery from where you get stunning views – I missed this place, unfortunately.

But the town I did visit and I recommend you to stop is in Ginda , a beautiful, photogenic green town surrounded by lush green mountains

Day 7 – Massawa

Massawa was one of the cities most affected by the war and here is where you realize the problems the country is going through, as it’s been decades since the end of the war and most buildings are still in ruins.

Ruled by the Ottomans and then the Egyptians, Massawa has a very different from vibe from anywhere else you have been to in Eritrea, not only in the architecture but also in the atmosphere, as the humid and utterly hot weather of this area has made life terribly slow and relaxed.

Things to see in Massawa

• Former Italian Bank – And old Italian building today in ruins
• Imperial Palace – A stunning building which served as the winter residence of Haile Selassie, the emperor of Ethiopia from 1930 to 1974.
• Old City – Check out all the Ottoman buildings.
• Try the local fish – There are many fish restaurants and I recommend you try Selam Fish Restaurant, a very authentic place in which you choose the fish you want to eat.

Day 8 – Day trip to Foro

Foro is a small town located 50km south of Massawa and pretty much the gateway to the inhospitable and infamous Afar region and the Danakil Depression .

The main reason to come to Foro is for the ruins of Adulis , the most important ancient port of the Axumite Empire , an ancient civilization that ruled in Eritrea and northern Ethiopia for 800 years, from 1st to the 10th century.

The ruins are a couple of km from Foro but guess what.

I didn’t visit the ruins.

I didn’t visit them for the simple reason that it was market day (Thursday) and people from all over the region attend that market, including many Afar & Soho, so I preferred to enjoy that unique, super offbeat place.

In any case, I am not a big fan of visiting ruins and, apparently, the site is very much in ruins, so unless you know the history, you would need a lot of imagination to enjoy the place.

Extend your Eritrea itinerary

If I had more days to visit Eritrea, I would have visited the following places:

Dahlak Islands – Dreamy islands just in front of Massawa. However, getting to these islands is very expensive, plus you need to get the permit at the National Museum of Asmara. Ask the tourism office for more information.

Mendefera – Traditional Tigrinya city in the south of the country.

Qohaito – Some very important ruins and a stunning canyon.

How did you find this comprehensive travel guide to Eritrea? Got any comments or suggestions? Post them in the comments section 🙂

❗ More information for traveling to Eritrea and the Horn of Africa

📢 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

• Asmara Travel Guide

Travel guides to other countries in Africa

• Ethiopia Travel Guide
• Somaliland Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Sudan
• Travel Guide to Egypt
• Libya Travel Guide
• Mali Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Mauritania
• Tunisia Travel Guide

23 comments

Mendefera – Traditional Tigrinya city in the south of the country. Qohaito – Some very important ruins and a stunning canyon.

Hi Joan – great itinerary / travel information. Please can you confirm that the areas above are part of the 20% of Eritrea accessible to tourists? I’m guessing that as based in UK I will need to deal with the unpredictabilities of the Eritrean Embassy?!

Hey Andy! Yes, you can get a permit to those places, no problem. And yes, you can contact the embassy when the right time to travel comes, and reports are welcome 🙂

You said that between Asmara and Massawa, you can stop twice, at Debre Bizen and Ginda.

Is that all on the one bus ticket, where you can get off / on? Or, do you have to get a new ticket for every time you decide to break the journey? And, of course, how regular are the buses?

As a diver, Dahlak interests me, so I’ll research that myself.

You need to buy separate tickets, they just cost a few $, it’s very cheap. When using private mini-vans however, I remember that everyone in the bus went to Massawa, so I think you’d have to pay for the whole ride and then either get off in Nefasit (for Debre Dizen) or Ginda. In any case, as i said, it’s very cheap.

As per how regular the buses are, there run all day long, not sure how many a day though.

What a great and such a detailed description. I’ve only started to learn about this interesting and well worth visiting country. Thanks!

Hi. Yes. Asmara is beautiful. I visited Eritrea earlier this year and took the bus to Keren and a taxi to Filfil mountains. Before Keren there was a police control. They wanted to see my travel permit and asked for a copy . I had no copy. My advice is: take copies of your travel permit before leaving Asmara. Later I was in Filfil. And police control again. Yours Tage Hansen, Bornholm , Denmark

Hi Joan, Thanks for the detail information about Eritrea. I plan to visit there next year when Covid is over (if it will be), and I wonder if you went there by a guided tour or just visited on your own? I have thought of booking a tour, but it is expensive and I really do not want to be restricted, so I consider to travel on my own and obtain permit to Karen, but does that will affect my chance of getting a visa? Thanks for the help.

Hi Julie, I traveled there on my own, it’s totally possible but depends on the country where you are from. Please check the visa section, it’s well-explained there.

Hi Joan, in this case I will try getting the visa to Eritrea on my own. Thanka again. ~Julie

Guys am Eritrean its really nice to see tourists appreciating my country . If you wanna know about politics in Eritrea know this first and respect it. Eritreans fought against ottoman empire , Egyptians , Italians & Ethiopians Jesus we even fought against UN as the united nations punish Eritrea by forcing Eritrean federation with Ethiopians 15 September 1952 after ww2 . So Eritreans they know war and the damage of it that is why every where you go in Eritrea you see Muslim christian and 9 tribe they live peacefully like 1 big family unlike any other African countries and very proud people an easy going and welcoming people . Do you Eritrea is the only country in Africa that doesn’t accept foreign aid or have no dept in world bank ? Eritreans play with them enjoy with them they are the most loving a carrying people you ever seen and they will love you but make no mistake do not insult or mock their land they are not going to like it . other than that enjoy pure untouched red sea clean water and beach and have a beautiful trip . oh yeah one more thing ” visit our beautiful islands ” God bless

thanks, H.Michael

Hello, Can you give more information about tourist agencies who helping for VOA. I’m from Bulgaria and here no Eritrea Embassy . I think that Visa on arrival is the best way for that I ask to give a contact to this agencies. Thank you so much.

Hi Yosif i don’t think there is an embasy in Bulgaria and am sure there will be no visa on arrival so my best advice to you is do not travel with out valied visa . you can send or travel to your nearest country that have Eritrean embassy.

Does anyone know anything about Adulis travel who I Plan to do a tour with in Eritrea. Thanks Ann

Hi Joan Was the flight from Asmara to Djibouti extremely expensive? Not sure if I am looking in the right place(s) but I am seeing £350-£400… Ethiopian Airlines taking 5 1/2 hours via Addis Adaba-

I don’t really remember my flight being that expensive but that was the flight I took

Can anyone tell me if Eritrea is open to tourists. I plan on going back for a holiday and see friends in Asmara. I’m not getting any feedback from the Eritrean consulate in Australia on any information.

Hi Craig, Eritrea is finally open, yes

Hi Joan, what travel agency/tour guide did you use to obtain your visa to enter Eritrea?

Hi John, I got my visa through Asmara Grande

Hello. Could you please recommend a company that I can get an Eritrean visa through? Many thanks 🙂

Travelled to Eritrea Nov 2019, travel permits granted for western areas of the country, there were fantastic tribal weekly markets in Hagar, Agordat and Mogolo on Tuesdays and even better the Wed market in Ashoshi. All these areas are on the way or near the major town of Barentu. Also received permit for the scenic Pentice Orientali road as well as Adi Kala and Metara. It seems to be a bit hit and miss which areas will be granted permits, the more you apply for the better. Keren and Massawa always granted. We used a local driver based in Asmara, anyone require his number let me know.

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VISA REGIME

ENTERING AND LEAVING THE COUNTRY Citizens of the Republic of Serbia require a visa for entering Eritrea. Visas for entering Eritrea can be obtained through official diplomatic-consular representative offices abroad. Contacts can be found at: https://embassy.goabroad.com/embassies-in/eritrea , along with the necessary information on how to submit a visa application and on the procedure of issuing of visas. Since the Embassy of Eritrea in Italy covers the Republic of Serbia on a non-residential basis, for all necessary information on the method of issuing visas consult their Embassy in Rome, at: https://embassy.goabroad.com/embassies-of/italy

SOCIAL SECURITY AGREEMENT No social security agreement has been signed.

USEFUL INFORMATION

HEALTH SITUATION –  We advise checking the current health situation before travelling, on the website of the World Health Organisation, Regional Office for Africa:  www.afro.who.int/health-topics . There is a risk of malaria and typhoid fever. Only bottled water is used for drinking.

SECURITY SITUATION –  Security is satisfactory, and crime is not widespread. However, Serbian citizens are advised caution and to monitor information on the security situation in the country before and during their stay.

TRANSPORT –  The international airport is located in the capital of Asmara. There is railway transport and the railway runs from Asmara to the port of Massawa. Travelling outside Asmara requires securing a permit from the local authorities. Waiting times are up to a week.

OTHER –  When travelling to Eritrea it is recommended to use tourist agencies, while individual travel requires thorough preparation and information. The national currency of Eritrea is the nakfa (ERN). Money can be exchanged in hotels and exchange offices.

Contact information: During your stay in Eritrea, for consular assistance and protection you may contact the Embassy of the Republic of Serbia in Nairobi (address: Benin Drive 1032, Runda, Nairobi), covering Eritrea on a non-residential basis, through the following contact telephone number: + 254 794 588 515; + 254 734 601 031; +254 732 755 554 or e-mail: [email protected] and [email protected]

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Service sector inflation is becoming more entrenched.

April 10, 2024

US inflation came in hot. The consumer price index (CPI) rose 0.4% in March, the same increase as February and above the consensus expectation for a 0.3% increase. Higher energy prices and shelter costs contributed to about half of the rise in inflation, similarly to last month. Gasoline prices rose 1.7% and housing costs increased 0.4%. The CPI index rose 3.5% from a year ago in March, up from 3.2% in February.

The core CPI, which excludes food and energy, rose 0.4% in March, the same as February. That was also above the consensus expectation for a 0.3% increase. Core CPI rose 3.8% from a year ago in March, stuck at the same pace as February. Major goods prices continue to fall. Prices for big-ticket items such as new vehicles, appliances and furniture declined. The disappointment in the report came from the services sector which showed rising inflation.

The supercore services measure, which excludes shelter and energy costs, rose 0.7%, a pickup from 0.5% in February. The supercore increased 4.8% from a year ago in March, up from 4.4% in February. The three-month and six-month annualized measures accelerated further with the former rising 8.2% from a year earlier in March from 6.9% in February. Earlier evidence pointed to inflation being bumpier but the latest data suggest it is becoming stickier. Given that the services sector is a much larger share of the economy, the latest inflation news is a big disappointment to Federal Reserve officials who expected to see further progress.

Medical services and insurance costs continued to fuel higher inflation. Hospital costs rose 1% while motor vehicle insurance increased 2.6%.

Travel related costs were muted after months of increases. Airline fares fell 0.4% as hotels were unchanged in March. Still, the number of people out on vacation remains elevated, the fourth highest March in the series; TSA throughput continues at high levels.

Several of the pass-through components in CPI that feed into the personal consumption expenditures (PCE) index reveal elevated inflation. On a not-seasonally adjusted basis, there was a large increase in in-home elder care, up 5.9%, car and truck rental, up 5.7% and veterinary services, up 2.5%. We will have a better measurement for inflation when PCE is released later this month; it is the Fed's preferred measure of inflation. Several components of PPI, due tomorrow, also feed into the calculation of PCE.

A September rate cut is also now in doubt.

Ken Kim, KPMG Senior Economist

Bottom Line

Service sector inflation is becoming more entrenched. The recent inflation data does not show the cooling in inflation the Fed desired to see. Our forecast for a rate cut was recently changed to September from June and the number of cuts reduced to two from three in 2024. In the absence of a notable improvement in inflation in the coming months, the Fed may only cut once this year. Market participants have thrown in the towel for a June easing after today’s CPI report. The probability of a June rate cut is now 18%. A September rate cut is also now in doubt. The market probability for a September cut has fallen to 44%. 

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Service sector inflation looks sticky

The Fed needs to see a further cooling in inflation before cutting rates.

A supply drought

Housing, inflation & the Fed

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