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Travel Advisory July 31, 2023

Eritrea - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you decide to travel to Eritrea:

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

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Yellow Fever

Declare amounts over $10,000 USD

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

Embassies and Consulates

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

Destination Description

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

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Requirements for Entry:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Safety and Security

See the Department of State Travel Advisory for Eritrea .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In Asmara and throughout Eritrea, in an emergency, dial

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

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

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

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

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

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

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

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

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

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

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

Ambulance services are:

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

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

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

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. 

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

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

Further health information:

• World Health Organization

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

The following diseases are prevalent:

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

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

Travel and Transportation

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

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

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

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

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

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

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

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

For additional travel information

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

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

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How to travel to Eritrea in 2024: Tips + Itinerary

By Joan Torres 23 Comments Last updated on March 26, 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

• COVID-19 restrictions
• Introduction
• Travel Insurance
• Best time to visit
• People & culture
• Accommodation
• Transportation
• En Route Massawa
• Foro & Adulis
• Extend your itinerary
• More Information

😷 COVID-19 travel bans and restrictions for Eritrea

UPDATE SEPTEMBER 2022: Eritrea just opened its borders after being closed since March 2020, as recent travel reports suggest.

Travel Insurance for Eritrea with COVID-19 coverage

IATI Insurance  is one of the few providers that offers full Coronavirus coverage, not only when it comes to treatment, but also cancellations costs in case you tested positive before departure

And not only this, but it’s one of the few insurance providers that gives coverage for traveling to Eritrea.

Readers of Against the Compass can get an exclusive 5% discount .

🇪🇷 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)
• One of the few providers with full COVID-19 coverage
• 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 : COVID-19 coverage + 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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Warnings and insurance

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.

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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

On this page

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

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

Border areas of Ethiopia and Sudan - Avoid all travel

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

Border area of Djibouti - Avoid all travel

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

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Military Operations in Tigray

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

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

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

If you are in Eritrea:

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

Border between Eritrea and Djibouti

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

Border between Eritrea and Ethiopia

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

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

If you must travel in this region despite this advisory:

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

Border between Eritrea and Sudan

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

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

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

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

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

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

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

Banditry occurs along the coast north of Massawa.

Demonstrations

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

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

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

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

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

Emergency kit

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

Telecommunications

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

Road safety

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

Driving can be dangerous due to:

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

Avoid travelling in rural areas after nightfall./p>

Public transportation

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

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

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

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

Information about foreign domestic airlines

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

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

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

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

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

Regular Canadian passport

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

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

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

Other travel documents

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

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

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

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

Dual citizenship

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

Travellers with dual citizenship

Departure tax

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

Travel permit outside Asmara

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

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

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

Relevant Travel Health Notices

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

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

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

Routine vaccines

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

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

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

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

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

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

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

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

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

Country Entry Requirement*

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

Recommendation

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

About Yellow Fever

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

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.

• Destinations

Wild Junket

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

Last Updated on February 1, 2024

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Eritrea Travel Guide 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Search for Flights to Eritrea

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

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

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

How Much Time to Travel Eritrea?

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

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

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

How to Get Around Eritrea

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Be sure to bring cash in USD or Euros to exchange here. The Eritrean currency is the Nafka. The exchange rate currently is 1USD = 15 Nakfa. Other currencies are not accepted, only USD and Euros. It is not allowed to carry Nakfa out of the country, so don’t change too much money. The airport authorities will check your wallet when you leave the country.

You can only exchange money at the Himbol official exchange bureaus. There is one at the Asmara international airport’s arrival hall and several on the main boulevard, Harnet Avenue, in Asmara. We did not encounter any black market money changers — but even if you find them, we don’t advise dealing with them as the government is strict on this!

Best Things to Do in Eritrea

The entire city of Asmara, Eritrea , is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with thousands of Art Deco and modernist buildings erected by the Italians during their reign from 1890 to 1941. Nicknamed “la piccola Roma” (Little Rome) by the Italians, the city is reminiscent of Europe in 70 years ago.

The city’s most attractive buildings are found along the main street, Harnet Avenue. The most prominent art deco buildings in Asmara include the Fiat Tagliero service station, Cinema Impero, Theater Roma, and Medebar Market. Read my Asmara guide for more details on things to do.

Just two blocks behind Harnet Avenue is a series of markets, each block selling a type of produce. There is a fruit market, a spice market, and the most interesting of all, a traditional market selling locally produced items. You can find all sorts of weaved baskets, colorful injera containers, and paintings.

A fun thing to do in Asmara is to visit the bowling club a block away from the Municipal building. Used by the US military in the 1950s, the bowling club is a 70-year-old relic still in use today. Black and white images hang on the walls, while wooden paneling fill the floor and seating area. Play a game or two, so you can see the attendant replace your bowling pins manually. Incredibly unique!

Even though it’s been 70 years since the Italian occupation, Eritrea still continues many of the traditions the Italians have left behind. There is a vibrant cafe culture in Asmara, with lots of charming vintage cafes serving authentic Italian macchiato and espresso. Sweet Asmara Caffe, Rossina Cafe and Cathedral are both great spots to meet locals and have a chat.

On the outskirts of the city lie a graveyard for war tanks and trucks. It is a haunting reminder of Eritrea’s tragic past. Most of the tanks have rusted and crumbled, but some still spot USSR plates and symbols. From afar, the graveyard looks massive, giving one a rough idea of the sheer scale of destruction that happened here. Take a taxi here as it is located quite far from Asmara’s city centre.

Located 12miles (20km) outside of Asmara’s city center is the village of Tselot, where the President is from. Tselot is a traditional Eritrean highland village where people live in simple stone houses, transport goods on mules, and farm on lands.

There isn’t much to see here in terms of sights, but it’s interesting to visit if you are not planning to explore other parts of Eritrea besides Asmara. Locals are friendly and curious, and there are great mountain views. I hired a taxi to bring me here (and the tank graveyard) and it cost around 350 Nafka (US$23). You don’t need a permit to visit Tselot.

Poised along the Red Sea, Massawa has been a major port of Eritrea for centuries and it is rich in history. It was ruled by a succession of empires, including the Ottoman, Egyptian and Italian empires. One of the biggest battles in the 30-year year long war between Eritrea and Ethiopia took place in Massawa.

The evidence from the war is still evident, as the old town lies in ruins and a haunting atmosphere surrounds it.  Some of the most outstanding buildings include the ruins of Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie ‘s summer palace and the town hall.

Just a boat trip away from Massawa is the Dahlak Archipelago, a group of over 126 pristine islands scattered across the Red Sea. The archipelago has been famous for their pearl fisheries since the Roman times and still produce a substantial number of pearls. You can also go scuba diving off the Dahlak islands .

These days, only four of the islands are permanently inhabited. Madote island is the most popular, followed by Dissei which is inhabited by the Afar people. Boat trips there are very expensive though: we were quoted 11,000 Nafka ($733) from every source in Massawa for a day trip.

The second largest city in Eritrea is Keren. With a largely Muslim community, Keren is best known for its weekly camel market (every Monday). The city’s most interesting sites include the 19th century Egyptian fort, the 1920s former railway station , and the old mosque.

Time your visit to coincide with the annual Mariam Dearit festival, which falls on May 29 every year. During the festival, priests deck out in regal robes carry Christian figures into the Mariam Dearit shrine. The small Catholic shrine is built into a baobab tree said to be 500 years old or more.

Eritrea is home to a few Aksumite archaeological sites dating back to 1st century AD, Qohaito is the most well known of them all. The UNESCO site Qohaito is debated to be the town Koloe , a Greco-Roman city that pre-dates the Aksumite kingdom. The city’s impressively large remains are testament to its once-great stature.

Where to Stay in Eritrea

There are quite a few hotels in Asmara, though only a handful can be booked online . Quality isn’t great and hotel rates range from $80-150/night. There are however lots of basic pensions in the city with prices starting from $10/night. In other cities, hotels are very limited, but again there are several pensions as long as you don’t mind roughing it.

A popular option among travelers, this budget hotel has very clean and simple rooms, and comparatively good WiFi (don’t expect much though). Location is good, the receptionists are helpful and the hotel’s restaurant is lively and popular with locals. Check the rates here.

My favorite hotel in Eritrea is this landmark hotel famed for its classic Italian architecture. Rooms feature beautiful cornices and marble flooring, and are very comfortable. We did run out of water for a whole day though (apparently a common occurrence in Asmara). For $100 per room, Albergo Italia offers really good value as compared to the other hotels. Read reviews.

This is the only five-star hotel in Eritrea, but it is located near the airport and about a 10-minute taxi ride to downtown. It has two swimming pools (one indoor and the other outdoor), a tennis court, and bars and restaurants. However, they only accept cash and rooms are expensive. Check current rates.

The only hotel in Massawa is the Grand Dahlak Hotel that stands across the water from the old town. It looks pleasant from the outside, but rooms are smelly and are rather basic. The swimming pool is in disrepair and WiFi doesn’t work. Twin rooms are around $84/night. Read reviews here.

What to Eat in Eritrea

Food in Eritrea is similar to traditional Ethiopian food , with the injera as their staple. Injera is a huge flatbread made from teff (a grain rich in fiber). It is usually served with a spicy stew made with meat or lentils. [Read my guide on Ethiopian food .]

Do as the locals do and eat injera with your hands, tearing it into small bite sizes and grabbing a piece of meat with it. The injera can be an acquired taste for foreigners because of its sour flavor, but you will get use to it after having it for every meal.

Because of Eritrea’s location along the Red Sea, you will find more seafood here than in Ethiopia. Also due to its colonial history, there are lots of Italian influences in the food in Eritrea. You can easily find pasta and pizza everywhere.

• Tibsi — Barbecued beef slices cooked on a hot plate
• Gored gored — small chunks of seared meat cooked with pepper and spices
• Zigny berbere — Beef chunks cooked in a tomato stew and berbere spice
• Kitfo — Raw meat mixed with a series of spices and onions (you can order it seared)
• Shiro — Thick, flavorful lentil stew (good option for vegans)

One of the best things about Eritrea travel is the delicious food and coffee here. There is a vibrant cafe culture in Asmara, with lots of charming vintage cafes serving authentic Italian macchiato, gelato and cakes.

In Asmara, you will also find many local fast food places selling pizzas and pasta.  Restaurants are more expensive. A main dish (like tibs and injera) generally costs around 130-160 Nakfa (around US$10). Italian dishes and seafood cost slightly more, at around $12-15. Asmara Beer is very cheap, at $1 each.

• Asmara: Ghibabo — Definitely our favorite restaurant in Asmara, Ghibabo (pictured) is quite a charismatic place with gazebos and twinkly night lights to jazz up the atmosphere. The traditional dishes (like shiro and tibsi) here are excellent and real spicy!
• Asmara: Spaghetti and Pizza House — A popular spot along Harnet Avenue, this Italian restaurant has a great atmosphere and its international dishes are great. I recommend the veal cutlet and thin-crust pizzas.
• Asmara: Hidmona — Located in the expo area (a 10-min and 100 Nakfa taxi ride from downtown), this is a traditional restaurant that has Eritrean food and occasional dance performances. We were lucky to be there when a big tour group visited, so we joined in the dances and had a delicious Eritrean feast.
• Massawa: Grand Dahlak Hotel — Several people recommended the hotel’s restaurant to us. It was decent and the fish was pretty good, though my friend complained of stomach problems after that. Fish is not cheap, at around 200 Nafka each. 

Eritrea does get cold during the winter months (November to February). But temperatures are mild, reaching around 73°F (23°C) in the day and 42°F (6°C) at night. Even in summer, temperature drops to around 53°F (12°C) at night.

Bring layers regardless of the time you are traveling Eritrea. If you visit Eritrea in summer, t-shirts and long pants will suffice. For those visiting in winter, just bring a light jacket for the chilly nights. Don’t forget your sunscreen and hat as the sun in mountainous Eritrea can be very strong.

Many Eritrean Christian Orthodox ladies (especially in the villages) cover their hair with a white linen cloth, while Muslim ladies wear headscarfs. They are not very conservative and do not expect foreigners to cover up. Try to cover your shoulders and knees. It is fine to wear a normal swimsuit in Massawa and the Dahlak islands.

Getting connected in Eritrea is challenging. Because of the totalitarian government regime, internet is highly restricted in Eritrea. Be sure to get a VPN for Eritrea travel.

Even if you do get internet access, it is extremely slow and social media is blocked. SIM cards don’t even have 3G data. Locals are not even allowed to have internet at home in Eritrea.

There are lots of internet cafes and some hotels (like Albergo Italia and Crystal Hotel ) offer free WiFi, but the connection is very slow. A few locals have said that Eritrea’s internet connection works better with Android than Apple devices. Both my friend and I have the iPhone, and could only send and receive emails. 

Eritrea is a multi-ethnic country, with nine ethnic groups that make up its population of 5 million people. Eritrea is made up of Muslims and Orthodox Christians, and they have always lived side by side with one another.

The Tigrinya make up the majority of the population, making Tigrinya the main language of Eritrea. Learn some basic words like “Kemelaha” (how are you?) and “Ya’ahnele” (thank you!) and locals really appreciate it! Many Eritreans we met speak Tigrinya, Arabic and English, while some of the older generation speak a bit of Italian. We were definitely surprised by how easy it was to get by with English. 

The long periods of war resulted in many people fleeing the country, especially during the Ethiopian colonization. There are large Eritrean diaspora communities in the US and Europe. I met an American-Eritrean while in Asmara, who actually sought asylum as a refugee 30 years ago. She was returning for a visit and told me her interesting story.

Practical Tips for Eritrea Travel

• Feel free to print out this Eritrea travel guide or bring an Eritrea guide book as you won’t have internet to research or read up on the country. There are limited foreign books on sale in Eritrea, though you can find a few at the Awghert book store at the stadium. 
• Highly recommend reading this book before your trip: Gratitude in Low Voices by Dawit Gebremichael Habte. It is a memoir written by an Eritrean who fled to the US during his teenage years. He incorporates lots of history about Eritrea and shares insights on how life was like during the war era.
• Download Eritrea’s map to use offline before landing in Asmara. Otherwise, you can buy a cool city map of Asmara from Crystal Hotel for 50 Nakfa ($3.50).
• Be prepared to go unplugged during your stay in Eritrea. Internet access is extremely limited. Download a VPN service before you arrive.
• Be sure to bring enough cash with you to last through your trip. There are no ATMs in the country and banks do not do cash advancement for foreign cards. An alternative is Western Union, with the headquarters located at the stadium.
• Apply for your travel permits once you arrive in Eritrea. You can get them from the Ministry of Tourism opposite the Cathedral on Harnet Avenue. A permit (for each area) costs around 50 Nakfa (US$3.50) and takes just 1 day to process.

I hope you’ve found this Eritrea travel guide to be useful.  The hermit kingdom is definitely an intriguing place for those who love to venture off the beaten path. This small corner of Africa offers rewarding experiences whether you are a culture vulture, history buff, or architecture geek.

Here are more articles that I’ve written about Eritrea and nearby countries in the Horn of Africa:

• Asmara, Eritrea: An Art Deco City in Africa
• My Ethiopia Travel Guide & Itinerary
• 50 Pictures of Ethiopia
• A Guide to Ethiopian Food
• Celebrating Timkat in Ethiopia
• The Rock Churches of Lalibela, Ethiopia

Let me know if you have any other questions on Eritrea travel. I’m more than happy to share all that I’ve learned from my experience traveling Eritrea.

Inspired? Pin it!

Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 140 countries across 7 continents. As an adventure travel blogger, she has a special interest in unusual destinations and deep experiences. Her work has appeared in many major publications including BBC Travel, CNN and LonelyPlanet.com. Read more about her here and get more life updates from her on her Facebook and Instagram .

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The Comments

Another stellar, very detailed write up!

Thanks Scott for the very kind words!

Eritrea is now on my bucket list

Dale Raven North

Great, comprehensive post!

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Eritrea Travel Restrictions

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Can I travel to Eritrea from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Eritrea.

Can I travel to Eritrea if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Eritrea without restrictions.

Can I travel to Eritrea without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Eritrea without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Eritrea?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Eritrea.

Can I travel to Eritrea without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Eritrea?

Mask usage in Eritrea is not required in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Eritrea?

Restaurants in Eritrea are open. Bars in Eritrea are .

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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• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 History
• 4.2 Climate
• 4.3.1 Eritrean highlands
• 4.3.2 Western lowlands
• 4.3.3 Sahelian Eritrea
• 4.3.4 Eastern escarpment
• 4.3.5 Northern coast and archipelago
• 4.3.6 Southern coast
• 4.4 Local information
• 5.1 Visa requirements
• 5.2 By plane
• 5.3 By train
• 5.6 By boat
• 6.2 By plane
• 6.3 By train
• 10.2 Shopping
• 16.1 Consular assistance
• 16.2 Dual nationals
• 17 Stay healthy

Eritrea is a country in East Africa . Formerly an Italian colony, the country shares a common language and culture with its large neighbour, Ethiopia , which it was once a part of until Eritrea gained its independence in 1993. It used to be Africa's youngest country until 2011, which was when South Sudan gained its independence.

Travel to Eritrea provides one the opportunity to see and learn more about one of the most isolated countries on the planet, governed by one of the world's most repressive dictatorships. Not that many people are brave enough to explore this mysterious nation, but if you do intend to visit, know that you are in for a real, authentic African experience; the country's charms lie in its natural attractions, wonderful architecture, dramatic scenery, and highly friendly and hospitable people.

Regions [ edit ]

Cities [ edit ]

• 15.333333 38.916667 1 Asmara (Asmera) – the capital
• 15.783333 38.45 2 Keren
• 15.6 39.433333 3 Massawa (Batsi or Mitsiwa)
• 14.7 39.416667 5 Senafe
• 16.666667 38.466667 7 Nakfa — home to the resistance movement against Ethiopia for 30 years and namesake of the currency, it was leveled in 1983 bombing raids; surrounded by trenches and remnants of the war, there is a sizeable population but it is considerably smaller than pre-war.

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 15.666667 38.883333 5 Semenawi Bahri National Park

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ].

The territory that is present-day Eritrea is considered to be the likely location of Punt, which had close relations with Ancient Egypt during the rule of Pharaoh Sahure and Queen Hatshepsut.

South Arabian migrants settled in the highlands in the 1st millennium BC and introduced Semitic elements and Eritrea was part of the Kingdom of D'mt. From the 3rd to 7th centuries, much of the territory was part of the Kingdom of Aksum.

Eritrea was conquered in 1890 by Italy, who hung onto it until World War II, when they were expelled by the British. Eritrea was awarded to Ethiopia in 1952 as part of a federation. Ethiopia's annexation of Eritrea as a province ten years later sparked a 30-year struggle for independence, which ended in 1991 with Eritrean rebels defeating Ethiopian and Ethiopian-backed forces. Independence was overwhelmingly approved in a 1993 referendum administered by the UN.

Hopes were high when the new state was born but a new border war with Ethiopia erupted again in 1998 and ended only under UN auspices in December 2000. Eritrea briefly hosted a UN peacekeeping operation that monitored a 25 km-wide Temporary Security Zone on the border with Ethiopia. An international commission, organized to resolve the border dispute, posted its findings in 2002. However, final demarcation is on hold due to Ethiopian objections, and the border remains very tense to this day. Eritrea has since expelled the peacekeepers due to lack of support from the UN in having the border ruling enforced.

Using the war as an excuse, Eritrea's government has devolved into one of the most controlling dictatorships in the world, sometimes referred to as Africa's answer to North Korea. No national elections have ever been held, the People's Front for Democracy and Justice is the only party allowed, dissidents disappear into jails, and the country comes dead last in the Press Freedom Index. Obligatory military service has been extended to eight years for men and women, border guards shoot on sight at people trying to escape. Eritreans outside the country have to pay taxes to visit. The country is desperately poor, with half the population subsisting on less than a dollar a day. Growth was crippled by the war and the termination of trade with Ethiopia, but has been steady due to state partnerships with mining companies.

In 2018, Eritrea signed a peace treaty with Ethiopia, putting an end to the war, restoring trade relations between the two countries, and finalising the demarcation of their border. Eritrea is now slowly recovering from decades of conflict, though where the future lies is anybody's guess.

Climate [ edit ]

Hot, dry desert strip along Red Sea coast; cooler and wetter in the central highlands (up to 610 mm (24 in) of rainfall annually); semiarid in western hills and lowlands; rainfall heaviest during June-September except in the coastal desert.

Landscape [ edit ]

Bordering Ethiopia, there are north-south trending highlands, descending on the east to a coastal desert plain, on the northwest to hilly terrain and on the southwest to rolling plains. Eritrea retained the entire coastline of Ethiopia along the Red Sea upon declaring independence in 1993.

Eritrea is a relatively small country (by African standards), about the same size as Pennsylvania or England , but it has a varied and contrasting landscape due to the diverse topography of the Great Rift Valley, which traverses all of East Africa, the Red Sea and the Middle East .

There are six main topographical features in the country. The highlands in the center and south of Eritrea, the western lowlands , the Sahel in the north, the subtropical eastern escarpments , the northern coast and archipelago and the southern coast .

Eritrean highlands [ edit ]

The highlands , where the capital Asmara is situated, lie between 1500 and 3500 meters above sea level and are blessed with a temperate, Mediterranean and dry climate, with little seasonal variation in temperature. There, the rainy season comes between May and September and the dry season lasts from December to April. There is however considerable variation in temperature between different altitudes in the highlands. The landscape essentially consists of valleys, hills and vast expanses of plateaus interrupted by dramatic chasms and gorges. The dry season from December to April is distinguished by the red-brown, rusty, beige or black (stone and rubble-colored) landscape, resembling photos from Mars. The vegetation consists largely of shrubbery, eucalyptus, aloes, cacti and the odd explosively colorful specs of bougainvillea, jacaranda or other ornamental plants in the villages and towns. The rainy season brings torrents of rain and nourishment to the land, which transforms into a verdant, emerald and grassy landscape in the post-rain months from August to October.

Rural highlanders live a lifestyle that resembles Biblical times: villages with stone houses, small plots, ancient temples (both Christian and Muslim), people farming and herding with traditional means using little technology, and transporting their goods (as well as themselves) with mules and camels. A good place to explore the highland landscape is in the outskirts of Asmara , the capital. Near the village of Tselot is the Martyrs National Park , inaugurated in 2000. It is a mountainous forest and wildlife preserve at the ridge of the highland plateau where the capital was built.

Western lowlands [ edit ]

The western lowlands lie between 1500 and 100 meters above sea level, the climate is tropical with high humidity and heat throughout the day during the rainy season (which comes at the same time as in the Highlands, i.e. from May to September) and dry hot days with cold nights during the dry season. The landscape consists largely of plains, which are grassy, muddy and green during the rainy season and dry, dusty and sparsely covered with shrubbery during the dry season.

The plains are interrupted by the odd hills and mounts as well as three seasonal rivers originating in the Eritrean highlands and one perennial river, which forms part of the Ethiopian border and originates in the Ethiopian highlands (the Setit , also known as Tekeze in Ethiopia and Atbara in Sudan). All major towns in the lowlands are situated on or near these rivers. The southern half of the lowlands consists of typical African Savannah and hosts the odd flocks of wild African elephants and other typically Savannah-type flora and fauna. The northern half of the lowlands is considered part of the Sahara desert and consists of vast expanses of sand dunes and rocks with a few sparsely populated oases. The best place to explore both aspects of the lowlands is the market town Tessenei by the Sudanese border and its surroundings, as it lies right between the dry and green parts of the lowlands. Tessenei is also a place of trade for the nomadic peoples of the desert as well as the sedentary farming communities of the Savannah. Tessenei affords some of the most basic amenities for visitors such as hotels with showers and flush toilets, shops (including photo shops to buy film and bottled drinks) and restaurants serving well-cooked meals. It is accessible by asphalt road from the capital Asmara via Keren and the towns of Agordat and Barentu , which takes about 10 hours. Buses run daily from Asmara. It can also be reached by dirt track from the Sudanese city of Kassala only 40 km (25 mi) away. Considering the border bureaucracy, this short distance could however prove to be a whole day's endeavor.

Sahelian Eritrea [ edit ]

The Sahel in northern Eritrea lies at the eastern fringes of the great Sahara desert and is distinguished by its sharp contrast with the sandy deserts of the western lowlands and those of the eastern coast. The Sahel consists of a towering narrow chain of mountains ranging from 1000 to 2500 meters (3280-8200 ft) high and continue all the way north to Sudan and Egypt (a feature of the Great Rift Valley). The slopes to the east and west are sparsely populated by herding nomads. The rainy season in the western slopes comes at the same time as in the Highlands and western lowlands, whereas the eastern slopes resembles the Red Sea's climate of erratic precipitation between December and March. The rainfall in this region is much less than in most other inhabited parts of the country. The climate is desert-like with little humidity, dry hot days and cold nights with little seasonal variation in temperatures. Variations in temperature are seen however, between different altitudes. Heavy erosion due to war and previous overgrazing has also seriously impeded the benefits of the rainy seasons. The landscape is therefore very arid and fit for only the most tenacious of nomadic herding communities. The central and northern core consists of impenetrable and hair-raising mountain passes, gorges and valleys. This was the main base for the Eritrean rebels (who now make up the country's government) when they fought against Ethiopia for Eritrea's independence. One seasonal river, Anseba, originating in the highlands, bisects the mountain range and drains in a delta on the Red Sea coast of Sudan just north of the Eritrean border. The best place to explore the Sahel is the town of Nakfa , which was the main base of the Eritrean resistance and gave the national currency its name. Nakfa also has a war-museum commemorating the liberation struggle and a comfortable, yet modest government-run hotel with a restaurant and satellite TV. It is accessible from Asmara via Keren on asphalt road and from Keren via the town of Afabet on a dirt road. This takes 10 to 12 hours as the road between Keren and Nakfa is awful. Buses run to Nakfa from Keren starting early in the morning so a trip from Asmara would entail an overnight stay in Keren (which is served many times daily from Asmara). Afabet is also accessible by asphalt road from the port of Massawa via the town of She'eb. The Massawa-Nakfa trip would still take about 10 hours as the unavoidable Afabet-Nakfa leg of the journey is the most taxing. Buses run once weekly from Massawa to Nakfa.

Eastern escarpment [ edit ]

The subtropical eastern escarpment , consists of the eastern (seaward) slopes of the highland region. Unique for this thin sliver of landscape is that it hosts the country's only subtropical rainforest and one of the world's largest selection of bird species, both seasonal (winter-migrants) and endemic (tropical). Being so mountainous, it has never been heavily settled (luckily) as it is very hard to farm. Nevertheless, there are some small coffee and spice plantations in its central, higher altitude areas as well as tropical fruit plantations in the lower areas. The Solomouna National Park is the best place to explore this area and is accessible by asphalt road from the capital Asmara as well as the port of Massawa. The only way to the national park is by guided tour with one of Eritrea's tour agencies, which all operate out of Asmara. Traveling to coastal Massawa from highland Asmara, one also passes through this region. The flavor of this region is represented by the towns and villages between Nefasit (25 km from Asmara) and Dongollo Alto (50 km from Asmara).

Northern coast and archipelago [ edit ]

The northern coast and archipelago consists largely of a sandy red-brown and beige semi-desert with some shrubbery and volcanic basalt-rock along the mainland coast. The elevation is between 0 and 500 m (1640 ft) above sea level and the climate is always tropical and humid, reaching uncomfortable highs of 37 to 50 °C (99-122 °F) in the summer months from May to September before cooling to breezy and warm "lows" of 25 to 35 °C (77-95 °F) between October and March. The rainy season is an insignificant concept on the coast as it seldom rains at all, save for the freak storm that occurs on the odd year. Some minimal precipitation and cloudiness may occur in the months of November to March, but the coast relies mainly on the runoff from the highlands and eastern escarpments for its water supply (from aquifers and table water). The few attractions inland are the hot springs resort about 35 km (22 mi) from the port city of Massawa, where hot mineral water baths are available and the water is also bottled as one of the country's most popular mineral water sources and brands (Dongollo, sold in brown glass bottles).

The coast and archipelago host some of the Red Sea's most pristine coral reefs, rife with marine wildlife ranging from dugongs and mantas to big schools of tigerfish, dolphins and of course sharks. Eritrea's coast offers some of the best diving in the world but some of the most limited diving and tourist facilities, all of which are based in the port city of Massawa and are extremely expensive. The beaches in and immediately surrounding the port city of Massawa and to the north are of modest to poor quality due to pollution, flooding and erosion from the nearby highlands. Parts of the northern coast also consists of large mangrove swamps, great for fishing and bird watching but not for beach life.

The beaches on the Dahlak islands, on the other hand, are clean, white and pristine, with lagoons of clear turquoise water. The only way to get to the Dahlak islands is to charter a boat from a licensed company in Massawa. The biggest island Dahlak Kebir, which features one modest resort-hotel is 90 km (56 mi) away as are some other smaller uninhabited islands like Dissei, which can make for affordable day-trips from Massawa. Beyond Dissei, the archipelago extends much farther and offers much greater attractions. With Eritrea's limited facilities, the possibility of going on longer cruises and exploring more of the attractions is prohibitively expensive and only available through a few European-run companies based in Massawa. With the country's heightened sense of security, doing such travel independently on one's own boat or a chartered one is impossible. The best place to explore the northern coast and archipelago is obviously the port city of Massawa.

Southern coast [ edit ]

The southern coast is perhaps Eritrea's most dramatic yet most inhospitable landscape because of its volcanoes, quicksand, bubbling sulphuric mud pools, salt lakes, coastal cliffs and inland depressions. The elevation ranges between peaks of over 2000 m (6,560 ft) above sea level and depressions of more than 100 m (330 ft) below sea level with fields of salt pans and strangely shaped rocks where temperatures reach the highest on our planet. The southern coast has the highest recorded temperatures in Eritrea which regularly reaches 55°C (131 °F). Humidity keeps the temperatures high all throughout the day and seasonal variations are the same as on the northern coast. The northern inland areas of the southern coast offer a dramatic landscape of contrast between the backdrop of the towering mountains of the highlands to the west and the vast expanses of coastal desert to the east. It is the only area of considerable vegetation in the whole region, thanks to the highland rainfall and runoff. The area also hosts an interesting array of wildlife such as mountain goats and ostriches. The region is situated between the port cities of Massawa and Assab, which are about 500 km (310 mi) apart. The region is ideally visited on a journey between the two cities, but a journey could also consist of excursions from Massawa and/or Assab individually, especially for trips geared towards viewing inland landscapes. Any journey without guides to this region is off-limits due to the extreme climate and to political volatility near the Ethiopian border. The only public transportation in the area consist of buses between Massawa and Assab, which run a few times weekly.

Local information [ edit ]

• Ministry of Information website

Get in [ edit ]

Visa requirements [ edit ]

Largely isolated from the rest of the world, obtaining an Eritrean visa is a difficult, painstaking, and expensive affair.

When you apply for an Eritrean visa, you must do it at an Eritrean diplomatic mission located in your home country, i.e. a country you are a citizen of. If your home country does not have an Eritrean embassy or consulate, you must go to an Eritrean diplomatic mission that is accredited to your home country.

For a tourist visa, you need to submit specific information about your plans. Prepare a travel itinerary well before you apply for an Eritrean visa.

The application process can take a long time, so be patient. Having a local contact in Eritrea will be of great help; they can speed up the process by putting in a good word for you at your local Eritrean diplomatic mission.

If you are suspected of being a journalist or someone who expresses dissenting views against the Eritrean government, there is a good chance that you will either encounter trouble at the border or not get an Eritrean visa.

By plane [ edit ]

• Egyptair serves Asmara daily from Cairo.
• Eritrean Airlines flies from Cairo, Dubai, Khartoum however as of mid-2023 they seem to not be flying anymore.
• Ethiopian : Once-daily flight from Addis Ababa , resumed in summer 2018 after a 20-year hiatus.
• Fly Dubai flies daily to Dubai.
• Turkish Airlines flies to Asmara from Istanbul.
• Sudan Airways flies to Khartoum .
• Yemenia has suspended their flights due to the conditions in Sanaa.
• Tarco Airlines flies from Khartoum

By train [ edit ]

There is a Vintage Tourist line connecting Asmara and the port city of Massawa but, to date, there is no international railway connection to Eritrea.

By car [ edit ]

You can enter Eritrea driving from Sudan (Kassala border crossing) provided you have a valid certificate of ownership of the vehicle you're driving (no rentals) and all your (including your passengers') passports and visas in order as well as a customs declaration (if necessary). Visas should be arranged in your country of origin, before arriving in Sudan (unless you are a Sudanese national). The roads on the borders are very poor so you should be driving a 4WD. The first gas-station entering Eritrea from the Sudanese border is in Tesseney, a distance of about 40 km. Diesel is not sold officially to private car owners because it is reserved for trucks, buses etc.

By bus [ edit ]

There are Sudanese pickup taxis running from Kassala in Sudan to the Eritrean border (a half hour away) daily, and Eritrean taxis from the Eritrean border to Tesseney (Tesseney is 45 km from the Sudanese border), about an hour away.

The bureaucracy of the border crossings can take hours so start in the morning or early afternoon from Kassala in Sudan as it is not possible to enter Eritrea after dusk (border posts are closed).

By boat [ edit ]

Ports and harbors: Assab (Aseb), Massawa (Mits'iwa). Sadaka Shipping Lines and Eritrean Shipping Lines serve the route Massawa - Jeddah in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. They serve mainly Muslim pilgrims, and it is quite difficult for non-pilgrims to enter or transit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. If you are sailing or cruising in on a private boat, you can apply for a special permit upon arrival in the ports of Massawa and Assab, to re-fuel, buy supplies and make reparations. Consult your country's foreign ministry and the Eritrean mission in/accredited to your country of origin in advance for details.

Get around [ edit ]

While it may be tempting to explore all that Eritrea has to offer, you must obtain a travel permit from the Eritrean government if you wish to travel outside Asmara , the capital city. It can take 24 hours or more to obtain a travel permit, so plan your trip well ahead in advance.

Third party governments recommend getting a travel permit from the Ministry of Tourism office on Harnet Avenue in Asmara .

If you are flying in to Asmara, you will need a permit from the Tourist Bureau on Liberation Avenue if you consider travelling outside Asmara's city limits. This permit needs to be applied for several days before travel. There are few places other than Asmara, Keren and Massawa/Dahlak Islands that foreigners can travel to as of September 2017 (other than those on a designated mission working with the Eritrean government) depending on the time of the year (therefore the conditions of the roads) and mostly, the decisions of the government. If you are coming by land (or ferry/private boat to Massawa), you can get a travel permit at the locality of your arrival, to transit the country, given you have a valid entry visa to Eritrea . As long as you notify and consult with the Eritrean mission issuing your entry visa about your point of entry and travel plans well ahead of time, getting the travel permit is no problem.

The most common form of intercity transportation in Eritrea is bus and/or minibus. The most frequent services, consisting of several buses/minibuses a day run between Asmara and Keren, Asmara and Massawa as well as between Asmara and the towns of the southern highlands such as Debarwa, Mendefera, Adi Quala as well as Dekemhare, Segeneiti, Adi Qeyh and Senafe reaching the Ethiopian border. It is not possible for foreign nationals to approach the Ethiopian border and travel beyond the towns of Senafe and Adi Quala as it is a heavily militarized war zone. There are also daily bus services on the road between Teseney (on the Sudanese border close to Kassala ) and Asmara traversing Barentu, Agordat and Keren as well as an alternative route traversing Barentu and Mendefera. Once a day, buses/minibuses also run between Asmara and some of the villages of the southern highlands as well. Buses to the north of the country (Nakfa) are less frequent and travel between once weekly to a couple of times weekly between Asmara and Nakfa traversing Keren and Afabet. The buses to the southern coast (Assab) from Asmara (120 km) are equally infrequent, once weekly only, traversing Massawa. However, the road between these towns is reportedly good quality and very scenic. Tickets are bought on the bus and a first-come-first-served rule applies. Some state-run bus lines travelling to remote frontier areas do allow for tickets to be bought in advance at the Asmara bus station, where you can also inquire about the bus-schedule. There will always be some people who speak English and are more than willing to help translate.

Since the collapse of Nasair in 2014, there have been no scheduled domestic flights in Eritrea.

The only rail line in Eritrea runs between Asmara and Massawa, and it is only served by a museum railway (steam engine and all) with no regular service except for freight. It only caters to chartered tour groups, and it takes a daunting 5 hours to complete just the one way journey.

The roads from Asmara to Massawa, Medefera, Dekemhare, Barentu and Keren are paved and in relatively good condition. Other roads are unpaved and can be in very poor condition, especially during the rainy season.

Unpaved roads may be mined, so tourists should check with the local authorities before setting off. Travel in the dark should be avoided.

Talk [ edit ]

The main languages of the country are Tigrinya , Arabic , and English .

Tigrinya is the lingua franca of Eritrea, and shares a lot in common with Amharic , the official language and lingua franca of neighbouring Ethiopia. If you know some Amharic, picking up Tigrinya should be easy. Although you can get far with English, learning a few phrases in Tigrinya would go a long way and would most certainly endear you to the locals.

The use of Italian has diminished drastically since the end of Italian colonialism. Very few people (apart from the elderly and the well-educated) speak the language.

See [ edit ]

• Church of Our Lady of the Rosary . With a bell tower that reaches high into the sky, this building, which was the principal church of the Italian colonials, is a sterling piece of Lombard-Romanesque architecture and a useful bearing point for lost travellers.
• Enda Mariam Orthodox Cathedral . The ancient church is located at the center of the city and symbolizes the four directions of the earth (east, west, north and south) the four gates on each direction have an equal number of worshippers passing through them every day. At the compound of this church you will find a tree called "Berberestelim". Long ago priests use to wash dead bodies by adding these tree leaves into the water and the body stays as it is for years.
• Asmara Theatre and Opera House . Constructed in 1920, the Asmara Opera House is an amazing Italian Architectural piece.
• Al Khulafa Al Rashidin Mosque . One of the most elegant mosques in Africa. The architecture is eclectic, a mix of Italian and local Moorish styles.
• Fiat Tagliero . One a very few futuristic architectural pieces ever built in the world. It is an old service station designed to look like an airplane. It has two 70 ft (21 m) cantilevered wings, acting as a cover for each side.

Do [ edit ]

Buy [ edit ], money [ edit ].

The currency is the Eritrean nakfa , denoted by the symbol " Nkf " or " ናቕፋ " (ISO currency code: ERN ). It is pegged to the US dollar. The official exchange rates are shown above. Black market rates may differ, although a currency reform in 2016 may have largely eliminated the black market as the black market rate was reported in 2019 to be Nkf 17-20 to US$1.

Coins are issued in denominations of 1 cent, 5 cents, 10 cents, 25 cents, 50 cents and 100 cents. Banknotes are issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 nakfas. Do not accept banknotes issued before 1 January 2016 as they are no longer valid.

Shopping [ edit ]

The best Eritrean souvenirs are traditional handicrafts made from leather, olivewood, clay and straw. These can be found in most souvenir shops in Asmara along with traditional home-spun cotton garments. Posters and postcards are also readily available at most press-kiosks even at the airport. Leopard and zebra skin as well as ivory items can be found in the souvenir markets, but you will be stopped from leaving Eritrea with these. Then, you will probably be stopped and fined at your home destination, because international trade in such materials is banned. Eritrea however has several souvenirs made from goatskin. Gold, pearl, and silver jewellery is also available in the markets in Asmara along with frankincense and myrrh. Beware buying textiles such as home-spun cotton garments, animal skins with fur and mats; they could be infested with parasites. Make sure it has been washed, treated and dried before returning home.

Costs [ edit ]

Eritrea is generally a cheap place to shop, eat, travel and spend time (hotel prices, apart from the pricey 5-star Intercontinental in Asmara, are also cheap). The only things that could be expensive in the country are understandably imports (especially fuel), services that depend on imports (up-scale restaurants, hotels, private transport or flights) and various government fees (visas, airport taxes, travel permits, etc.) If you stay away from imports (or bring such things as toiletries and cosmetics), eat locally, stay at budget hotels (especially the government-owned), and travel on public transportation, you need less than US$50 per day for food, lodging and transport.

Eat [ edit ]

Eritrean cuisine in the highlands (around Asmara) consists largely of spicy dishes and is very similar to Ethiopian food. The staple is a flat, spongy crepe or bread called injera, made from a batter of fermented grains. Spicy stews with meat and vegetables are served on top of it and eaten with the hands. This cuisine is generally found in many restaurants in the country. Pork is rare as the Eritrean church forbids its followers from consuming pork.

Middle Eastern dishes such as shahan-ful (bean stew) served with pitas are also readily available everywhere but more commonly eaten for breakfast or brunch in modest establishments.

Lowland cuisine is not readily available in many restaurants, but in the old town (outermost island) of Massawa, adjacent to the freeport area, there are some simple restaurants that serve cuisine typical to the Red Sea area such as grilled spicy fish and "khobzen" (pitas drenched in goats butter and honey).

Owing to its colonial history, Italian food is abundant, albeit not too varied all across Eritrea. You will always find a restaurant that serves good pasta, lasagna, steak, grilled fish, etc.

In Asmara, there are also several Chinese restaurants, a Sudanese restaurant, and an Indian restaurant (Rooftop).

Drink [ edit ]

The most common beverage in Eritrea by far is beer. There is only one (state-owned) brand in the country so there is not much choice, but it is quite good. Beer is consumed cold in Eritrea. Beer's popularity is closely followed by various soft drinks, and the most common flavours are as elsewhere in the world: orange, lemon/lime and cola, produced by one of the most recognizable brands in the world. The same company that holds the beer monopoly also holds the monopoly on producing the local form of Sambouca, colloquially called "Araqi", as well as Vermouth and other spirits. International brands of the same spirits, as well as others, are readily available at most bars for a cheap price. Sophisticated cocktails are not known in Eritrea (as of yet) outside of the Intercontinental Hotel which charges a steep price. On a side note, there is an Irish bar in that hotel.

Traditionally Eritreans also drink the local form of mead called "suwa", which consists of old bread fermented in water with honey, as well as a sweet honeywine called "mies".

Tap water should not be drunk by foreigners. There is plenty of bottled mineral water, both carbonated and non-carbonated in Eritrea costing around 20 to 30 nakfa.

Cafes in some towns offer fresh fruit juices, very common and cheap is seytun = guava, others like orange juice or mango juice are more expensive. To avoid food poisoning unpeeled fruits can be eaten or squeezed fresh by you. Avoid ice creams and all types of salads. Stick to bottled drinks and cooked foods.

Sleep [ edit ]

There are hotels at all prices and standard ranges in Asmara, from cheap pensions for 100 nakfa to the modest ones for 200 nakfa, and the overpriced Intercontinental Hotel Asmara, the only international hotel in the country (a little over US$150 per night). Some hotels have one price for foreigners and another for locals.

In most smaller towns, the lodging is quite modest and priced accordingly. The only expensive hotels outside of Asmara would be the two hotels on the sea in Massawa, neither of which exceeds US$65 per night as of 2007. Modest in Eritrean terms usually means shared bathroom with several other guests, no room-service, a common room TV, no air-conditioning and no change of sheets or cleaning throughout occupancy unless asked for (and then you might be charged extra just as if you had your clothes washed and ironed, which is also readily available for an additional price).

The middle-range hotels will have all these missing amenities (private bathroom, TV, air-conditioning, etc.) but no room-service nor inclusive laundering of sheets or clothes during occupancy. Restaurants and/or cafes are available at most mid-range hotels are regular hangout places for non-guests. In a hot place like Massawa, it is very highly recommended to stay at least at a middle-range hotel where air-conditioning is available. The only hotel that accepts credit cards in Eritrea is the Intercontinental (for a fee) and it is also the only hotel in the entire country with a swimming pool (both indoor and outdoor), gym and other common amenities in a modern standard hotel.

Most, if not all, hotels beyond the towns of Asmara, Massawa, Keren and Assab are of the modest category. There are reported to be mid-range hotels in Nakfa, Barentu and Tesseney as well as resorts in Gel'alo and Dahlak (on the South coast and east of Massawa, respectively).

Learn [ edit ]

There is a dearth of educational opportunities in Eritrea, even for Eritrean citizens.

The country is home to approximately 800 schools and one university, which is enough to say that the educational scene of the country is unlikely to be attractive to most people reading Wikivoyage.

Work [ edit ]

Working in Eritrea for an Eritrean employer (state or private) and for an Eritrean wage is not an attractive prospect for most Westerners or people reading Wikivoyage. Most foreigners in Eritrea work for foreign employers (the UN, the few remaining NGOs, foreign companies, foreign embassies and related agencies as well as the International School). A few foreigners, mainly from South Asia, work for the Eritrean government in various state-job contracts. Most, if not all, of these individuals acquired their jobs in their home country and/or were recruited and provided with their legal documentation by the Eritrean government while in their home country. It is unusual and perhaps difficult to arrive in Eritrea on a tourist visa and later apply for a work and residence permit while there.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Watch out for bicycle riders, vehicle drivers and pedestrians. People don’t look when crossing streets and bike riding accidents are common. Eritrea is generally safe though and you can walk about at night and anywhere in the cities and not worry about crime. There are sometimes children that aggressively beg and throw rocks but usually leave you alone if you are stern with them. Homosexuality is a crime which can get up to 3 years in prison or even death.

Travelling near the borders of any country surrounding Eritrea is extremely dangerous, and should be avoided. The towns of Teseney, Barentu and Assab should also be avoided due to the dangerous situation there. Tensions remain high with neighbouring states, and violence can erupt at any time.

Do not fall prey to those willing to offer you a better exchange rate for your hard currency or some other "shady economic deal". Chances are, you might land in severe trouble with the zero-tolerance Eritrean justice system.

Consular assistance [ edit ]

Consular support is severely limited in Eritrea, in due large part to the fact that the Eritrean government routinely restricts foreign diplomats from talking to foreign nationals in detention.

If you have been detained for whatever reason, know that your embassy will have little influence in assisting you. They may not even be notified that you have been detained.

Dual nationals [ edit ]

If you are thought to be Eritrean – such as having Eritrean identity documents (even those that are out of date) or being a dual national – possessing another passport will not grant you consular protection in the event you get arrested or detained.

Dual nationals are required to apply for exit visas to leave the country. If you haven't completed mandatory military service or if you're a critic of the current government, there's a good chance you will not be allowed to leave the country. If this applies to you and you are concerned about your safety, do not travel to Eritrea.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

Do not drink the tap water and even check bottled water to make sure the cap is sealed. Be very careful what you eat. Many people get sick here. There is a Jordanian UN hospital that will treat foreigners. Local hospitals have inadequate facilities. Be healthy if you come here. Avoid uncooked food and unbottled drinks.

Adult HIV/AIDS is more than 0.8%.

Respect [ edit ]

Eritreans are polite, hospitable and soft-spoken but, due to the language barrier, may keep their distance from foreigners. If approached by an English speaker, try to maintain an innocent topic of conversation and use universal common sense. Avoid displaying disdain, arrogance or harsh criticism towards the country, culture, religion or politics of the country, although most will be tolerant of your "mistakes" as you are a passing foreigner. You are in a police state, don't forget it!

It is rude to take pictures of people or their property without asking for permission. When taking pictures of public buildings beware of government buildings, especially police and military buildings. Taking pictures of these is not always illegal, but, done without permission or supervision, it can be viewed as highly suspect and can result in an uncomfortable arrest and interrogation. Ask the closest official (receptionist or police) for permission.

Public displays of affection are considered immodest.

Like in many East African and Middle Eastern countries, use of the left hand to greet, eat or hand something to someone is considered very dirty. When handing something over, using both hands is accepted and even seen as respectful, but not using the left hand alone.

Dress code is generally Western: women are not required to "cover up" or wear veils, but anyone showing too much skin will earn very little respect, and women who show too much cleavage or/and wear too short a skirt/pair of shorts will be viewed as prostitutes. Eritrean or Eritrean-looking women would also be judged badly for smoking. Do not however, conflate standards of female modesty with a lack of status or official capacity for women in Eritrea. Women do drive in Eritrea - all vehicles, even military tanks, ships, planes. They also command troops and serve in all the ranks of the army and government in the same capacity as men. It is a country undergoing a post-liberation accelerated (and sometimes paradoxical) cultural evolution.

Connect [ edit ]

Eritrea's country code is 291 .

To circumvent heavy censorship, use the free, open-source TOR Project . This workaround may become steadily less effective as the repressive regime gets aid and advice from China .

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The Ultimate Eritrea Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

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

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

Ready? Then let’s get to it!

How to Get to Eritrea

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

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

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

What to See in Eritrea

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Things to See in Eritrea

Debre bizen monastery.

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

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

What Foods to Eat in Eritrea

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

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

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

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

How to Get a Visa to Eritrea

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

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

The Tourist Experience in Eritrea

Other tourists in eritrea.

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

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

Interest Access in Eritrea

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

Safety as a Tourist in Eritrea

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

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

Transportation Around Eritrea

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

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

What Do You Think?

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

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Michael Dodson

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

That Travelista

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

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Eritrea Traveler View

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

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After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Eritrea.

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

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

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

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

Immunization schedules

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

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

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

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

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

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

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Eritrea.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

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

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

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

Malaria information for Eritrea.

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

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

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis (Meningococcal disease)

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

Meningococcal disease - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis Belt Map

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

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

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

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

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

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

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

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

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

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

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

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

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

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

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

Avoid bug bites

African tick-bite fever.

• Avoid Bug Bites

African Tick-bite fever

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite
• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite

Airborne & droplet

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

Tuberculosis (TB)

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

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

Eat and drink safely

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

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

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

Prevent bug bites

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

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

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

What type of insect repellent should I use?

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

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

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

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

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

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

Stay safe outdoors

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

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

Stay safe around water

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

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

Keep away from animals

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

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

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

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

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

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

Reduce your exposure to germs

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

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

Avoid sharing body fluids

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

Protect yourself:

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

Know how to get medical care while traveling

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

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

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

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

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

Select safe transportation

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

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

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

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

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

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

Think about the driver.

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

Follow basic safety tips.

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

Medical Evacuation Insurance

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

Helpful Resources

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

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

Maintain personal security

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

Before you leave

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

While at your destination(s)

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

Healthy Travel Packing List

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

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

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

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

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

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

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

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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Historically intriguing, culturally compelling and scenically inspiring, Eritrea is one of the most secretive countries in Africa. For those with a hankering for off-the-beaten-track places, it offers challenges and excitement alike, with a unique blend of natural and cultural highlights.

Your next trip starts here

Go from dreaming to planning with trip planning options made to help you craft your ideal itinerary.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Tank Graveyard

Part junkyard, part memorial, the ruins of military vehicles from around the country have been dragged to this open field in the years since heavy…

Opera House

The Opera House, completed around 1920, is one of Asmara's most elegant early–20th-century buildings. It's free to have a look around during the resident…

Bowling Alley

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

Historians debate whether or not the ruins of Qohaito were once the inhabited walls of the ancient town of Koloe, a settlement that predated, but grew to…

Imperial Palace

Overlooking the harbour just north of the gates of the Dahlak Hotel is the Imperial Palace, the original iteration of which was built by the Turkish…

Camel Market

From 8am on Monday mornings, a small yard on the Nakfa road just before the edge of town comes alive with buyers and sellers from Keren and the…

House of Mammub Mohammed Nahari

The ancient House of Mammub Mohammed Nahari was built with magnificent soaring Ottoman-style windows on every side. Unfortunately they are particularly…

Fiat Tagliero Building

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

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Oct 12, 2018 • 6 min read

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

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Eritrea and beyond

Eritrea Travel Tips | 10 Essential Things to Know Before You Go

If you’re planning to visit this country, these Eritrea Travel tips are essential. Eritrea is one of the least visited countries in Africa and is known as one of Africa’s most closed-off states.

A nation that many people have never even heard of, Eritrea was our final country to visit from all 54 nations in Africa.

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

We’ve visited every country in the world and want to help you get the most out of your travels!

Whether you need an expertly planned itinerary , some experienced hints and tips , or just craving a delicious food adventure , we’ve got you covered!

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Eritrea sits on the horn of Africa, bordering Sudan, Djibouti, and Ethiopia.

An African nation with a sprinkling of European and Arabian influence. This former Italian colony has charm and relaxed vibes. If you’re looking for a safe country in Africa that is full of adventure, smiling locals, and incredible architecture – this destination is for you.

There are essential things to know before your Eritrea Travel Adventure begins. 

These tips will help you plan your trip and provide you with insider knowledge about travel in Eritrea. We hope you enjoy this fascinating country as much as we did.

Table of Contents

Eritrea Travel – 10 Things To Know Before you Go

1. download a vpn – be prepared to be offline.

Internet is very limited in Eritrea, so be prepared to be more or less offline in the country. You will need a VPN to access what little internet is available, so download and activate one before you arrive. Be warned though; it’s terribly slow.

We used Surfshark VPN  and could send/receive emails. But social media such as Facebook and Instagram didn’t work for us. We expected to be offline for the week, so it didn’t bother us too much.

We heard that a VPN called ‘HA Tunnel Plus’ works well for the locals in Eritrea, so this could be a better option.

Either way, many internet cafes in Asmara charge around 15 Nakfa ($1) for an hour. It’s worth asking the young staff at internet cafes to configure the settings on your device. They’re quite savvy at making the necessary changes on your phone to get better access to the internet.

2. Download Google Maps of Eritrea & pin everything 

Download an offline Google map of Eritrea before you arrive, and save or favourite all the areas of interest. We’d recommend pinning the location of your hotel in Asmara, cafes, and places to eat, and the many fascinating Art-Deco buildings, churches, and markets too.

If you have the map downloaded before arriving in Eritrea, you can pin more highlights once you’re in the country. Unfortunately, you will not be able to download a map after you arrive in Eritrea, and there are very limited options for maps or navigation once you’re here.

3. You need a Visa for Eritrea & Bring your International Covid Vaccination Certificate

After closing its borders in early 2020 due to the pandemic, Eritrea opened again to tourism in September 2022. 

Most nationalities need a visa to visit Eritrea. You must apply for a visa in your country of residence. If your country does not have an Eritrean embassy, you may be able to obtain it in another country or even apply for a VOA (Visa on Arrival). 

We’d recommend that you check the iVisa  website  for assistance or more information. 

Alternatively,  this list of all Eritrean Embassies and Consulates worldwide  may help you to apply for your visa.

Covid Vaccination Requirements for Eritrea

We visited Eritrea in late October 2022. Upon arrival at Asmara airport, we showed our electronic International Covid Vaccination Certificate, advised them what hotel we were staying at, and did a quick rapid test (free of charge); it was all straightforward. 

Furthermore, moving through immigration was hassle-free. It took about 5 minutes for the woman to check and process our visas – but no questions asked, and we received a warm welcome to Eritrea with a smile.

4. Bring enough USD cash or EUR for the entire trip – No ATMs 

Eritrea is a cash society. Therefore, you must bring enough cash as there are no opportunities to withdraw more money. There are no ATMs that work with international bank cards. The best currency to bring is USD, as it will usually get you the best exchange rate for the local currency in Eritrea, the Nakfa. 

Ensure that all USD notes are in good condition and printed after 2006. Otherwise, they may not accept them. Euros are accepted too, however, the exchange rate for local currency is lower than USD.

A currency exchange shop called HIMBOL is in the airport, in the small arrivals hall to your left. There is another one on Harnet Avenue, the main street in Asmara. You will need a passport to exchange any cash.

We visited in late October 2022. The rate of exchange at this time was:

$1 USD = 15 Nakfa

1 EUR = 14.70 Nakfa

Don’t exchange too much cash into Nakfa as it’s almost impossible to change it back before departure. Also, they will not change any Nakfa back to USD or foreign currency before your departure flight, so try and plan your spending on your final day or two accordingly.

5. Bring a good Power Bank

Electricity is usually unavailable during the daytime in Eritrea, so I recommend bringing a good power bank to charge your phone, camera, etc. The more expensive hotels may have generators to run the power, which is what you’re paying more for.

The water supply for showers and toilets runs on electricity, so you cannot shower or flush the toilet if the electricity is off. Plan your bathroom time accordingly.

Many bathrooms usually include a big bucket filled with water and a large cup to have a bucket shower or manually flush the toilet. 

6. Book your first night’s accommodation before you arrive

Many flights to Asmara will arrive very late in the evening and we’d recommend booking at least your first night’s accommodation online, so you have somewhere to sleep.

We emailed 10+ hotels in Asmara to check availability and price for our arrival dates. Still, because the internet is so limited, we received only one reply from Crystal Hotel in Asmara. This is one of the better tourist hotels in Asmara, and the price of a room is USD 60 (single room) OR $83 (standard double room), which includes breakfast and wifi.

There are superior rooms available for approx $100 per night too.

We booked our first two nights here as our arrival flight was scheduled for 11 pm. It was easy to get a taxi from the airport, and there was a flat rate of 300 Nakfa or $20. Staff was waiting for us to arrive around midnight, with big welcoming smiles. 

You can reserve a room at Crystal Hotel on Booking.com or email them directly:  [email protected] .

Once you’re in the country, there are many more choices for hotels, guesthouses, and pensions for every budget that you cannot find online.

Note: We’re currently working on putting a list together for more accommodation options in Asmara. This will include more information and prices.

AFRICA Food Map – African Food Guide to 54 Countries

Travel in Eritrea – Our Final Country in Africa

7. Plan to Get your Permits to Travel in Eritrea on a Weekday

If you wish to travel to different cities or areas in Eritrea, you must first obtain permits from the Tourist Office on Harnet Avenue in Asmara. Do this as soon as possible, as they can sometimes take time to process. 

Our experience was very smooth in getting our permits to travel to Keren and Massawa (which includes Dahlak Islands). You will need to tell them what dates you wish to travel to these cities, so it’s good to know a rough itinerary of your movements. 

We applied on Thursday morning and returned to the office on the same day between 2-6 pm to collect them. You will need your passport to apply for the permits and pay 50 Nakfa ($3.40) per permit.

Note:  The Tourist Office will request that you go next door to the copy shop and get a photocopy of your passport and Eritrean Visa Page for them to submit the permits on your behalf. The lady in the copy shop charges 3 Nakfa per page to photocopy it for you. Make sure you have photocopies of your permits when you leave Asmara as we were asked for copies at the military checkpoints.

The Tourist office is open Monday to Friday from 8-12 and 2-6 pm and 8 am-12 pm on Saturdays. CLOSED on Sundays. 

Make sure you get Travel Insurance before hitting the road. We recommend Heymondo & SafetyWing Travel Insurance.

Click here and get 5% off Heymondo from us!

8. Bring clothes for all seasons to travel Eritrea

The best time to visit Eritrea is during the high season, from  October to March . The shoulder season is April and September, also pleasant times to visit. The low season in Eritrea is from May to August; it is very hot during this time, we don’t recommend visiting at this time.

Bring clothes suitable for both hot and cold weather. If you want to go swimming, snorkelling, or diving in the Dahlak Islands – remember to bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, and perhaps snorkel gear (as this is hard to find in the country).

For women, a scarf is recommended to cover your head if you wish to visit the churches.

Check out our Ultimate Packing List for Africa for all the essentials for Eritrea travel and beyond.

9. Download all Netflix, Movies, and entertainment before you arrive

Download a couple of movies & series on Netflix to keep you entertained. They’re so handy on long bus journeys or even just waiting for the bus to fill on some occasions (which can take a few hours if you just missed the last full bus).

Alternatively, you may want to watch something in the evening to relax. Of course, you can usually pick up CNN news on the TV if you have one in your room, but that’s about it.

• 🔥 Hot Tip: Book accommodation in advance on Booking.com
• 🎟 Book your attractions and tickets online: We recommend Viator and GetYourGuide
• 🔋 Stay charged: This Belkin Power Bank is essential!
• 📸 Join a Group Tour: Find some amazing Group Tours here
• ✅ Get Connected with an eSIM: Fast, easy and affordable! View easy eSIM options here

10. Bring a Guidebook for Travel to Eritrea

Eritrea is a fascinating country to learn about. Once you’re here, getting more information about what there is to see and do is nearly impossible.

We recommend you bring a Travel Guidebook with you. The Bradt Travel Guide to Eritrea will be beneficial.

If you would like to learn more about the history and culture of Eritrea, then this book called Understanding Eritrea – Africa’s most repressive state is an interesting read. It’s always useful to have the context of history and culture before you travel Eritrea.

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Practical Information about Travelling in Africa

Read more about our experience of travelling in Eritrea , our final country to visit in Africa.

If you’re planning to travel further in Africa, we’ve got some comprehensive blogs with many useful tips for you. Have you ever wondered,  how many countries in Africa are there? 54 or 55?  We cover them in depth in our  Ultimate Africa Bucket List.

If you’re considering travelling to West Africa, it’s worth reading these  17 ESSENTIAL Things to know before exploring this region of Africa.

And don’t forget about the food! Check out our list of 10 Best Food Countries in Africa, however, our delicious Food Map of Africa covers the dish you need to try in each African nation!

You may be interested in visiting Ethiopia too, a neighbouring country to Eritrea.

Our  complete Itinerary for Two Days in Lalibela  is a must-visit destination and a Day Trip to Simien Mountains  is highly recommended.

Furthermore, Ethiopia has some fantastic cuisine, and these 15 most popular Ethiopian dishes are unmissable. This Food Tour in Addis Ababa will introduce you to the best food and coffee in this bustling capital city.

Head to our  AFRICA Page  for detailed blogs about individual countries and if you’re simply looking for a place to find our best advice, tips, and suggestions on travel gear and products we use and love, then our  Travel Resources Page  is for you.

Travel Planning Resources

✈️ Flights : We use Skyscanner to book cheap flights worldwide.

🏨 Accommodation :  Booking.com is our preferred platform for booking hotels and accommodation.

🏥 Travel Insurance : We recommend Heymondo ( Get 5% off Heymondo)  & SafetyWing

🚌 Transportation : Trainline is the best website to reserve trains. We use Omio to book transport worldwide. For travel in Asia, we use 12Go.  

🚘 Car Rental : We use DiscoverCars to book rental cars worldwide.

👫 Group Tours :  G Adventures OR compare multi-day tours worldwide with Tourradar .

📸 Day Tours & Trips :  GetYourGuide  & Viator are the only two platforms you need.

📚 Lonely Planet: The Best Range of Travel Guides & Ebooks , and FREE Shipping! (use code RACHELDAVEY10 for a 10% discount)

🎒 Luggage :  Osprey Farpoint 40L Backpack  or  Samsonite Luggage Range.

🛄 What to Pack:  Don’t forget your Universal charger and a good  power bank .  To help you pack the essentials, here is our ULTIMATE Packing List for all Travellers .

🐶 Become a House Sitter:  Join Trusted Housesitters and enjoy FREE accommodation worldwide. Use our invite to receive 25% off your new membership.

💰 Send Money Anywhere: WISE  &  Revolut  are the best online accounts that let you send money, get paid, and spend money internationally. Both are so easy to use and way cheaper than any bank transfer.

📶  Stay Connected: Airalo eSIM allows you to get connected the moment you land at your destination, and you can avoid those expensive data roaming charges. We LOVE this product! Use promo code NOMAD15 for 15% off ALL eSIMs (new Airalo users only) OR use NOMAD10 for 10% off ALL eSIMs (for existing Airalo users)

✅ Check out our Travel Gear  and  Travel Resources for more valuable tips to save you money!

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Eritrea Tourism Guide | Everything You Need to Know

By Author Christian L.

Posted on Published: March 12, 2020  - Last updated: August 31, 2021

Categories Eritrea , Africa , Destinations

Eritrea is a small unknown country found in the horn of Africa on the banks of the Red Sea. It is home to one of the world’s worst dictatorships and is (un)popularly known as the North Korea of Africa.

Traveling to Eritrea and the surrounding areas is not easy. Their visa is one of the most difficult in the world to obtain. And don’t think that all the hard work is done when you receive your visa. You will also need to obtain travel permits to do basically anything in the country. You can’t even leave the capital without one.

But don’t let all this scare you. I found Eritrea to be the most fascinating and underrated country in all of Africa. After all, this is the country where the biggest national hero suddenly walks into the coffee bar while I’m enjoying a warm coffee.

If you’d like to experience one of the most unique African travel destinations, then you need to experience Eritrea tourism. This guide has everything you’ll need to know when planning a trip to this East African country. 

Visit Eritrea

This small nation, with just over 6 million people, is one of the world’s biggest providers of refugees. The UK receives more Asylum seekers from Eritrea than from anywhere else.

Eritrea got its independence in 1991 after 30 years of war with its neighbor Ethiopia.

The country was also an Italian colony from 1890 to 1947. The slice of history from its colonial times is very well preserved. The capital Asmara looks more like an Italian city than a city in Africa.

Apart from the difficulty of obtaining a visa, there’s also no ATM here, and the internet is among the worst in the world. 

Visa For Eritrea Travel

Don’t get too worked up thinking about the visa requirement. The embassy’s pages state that they only need proof of hotel and flight bookings. 

But the application needs to be approved by the government in Eritrea and not the embassy, so it will take a long time to get your answer. It can take months. The Eritrean visa is notorious. It will most likely get approved within a few days before you go there.

I got my approval letter not much less than the day before I was flying to Eritrea, even though I had applied months in advance. The other travelers I met experienced the same.

Can I Get a Visa on Arrival?

Yes, but only if there’s no Eritrean embassy in your home country. This is also only possible if you have received a visa approval letter from the Eritrean government in advance. The only way to get this letter is to use an approved government travel agency. If you receive the letter, then the visa will cost you $70 on arrival.

Permits for Tourism in Eritrea?

When visiting Eritrea, you will experience a bureaucratic permit nightmare like nowhere else in the world.

While you are allowed to walk around the cities freely, you will need a permit to visit every other place. Unfortunately, it is not just one permit but a separate permit for each place. And YES, the permits get checked! 

Want to visit Massawa and explore some of the best Eritrea beaches? You will need a permit. Want to visit some islands in the Dahlak Archipelago? You will need a separate permit for each island! Want to visit the Military Tank Graveyard outside Asmara ? That’s right, another permit.

All the permits have to be obtained from the Ministry of Tourism and Information on the main boulevard in Asmara (just across the big cathedral). The permit to the Military Tank Graveyard is easy to get (just bring your passport). The permits outside Asmara have to be arranged in advance by the local travel agency.

While I was in the office, there was an older French tourist who wanted to visit the southern part of the country. He was told it could take weeks to get the permit approved! So, if you think you can visit Eritrea without some prearranged paperwork. Think Again!

How to Travel to Eritrea

The one and the ONLY way to arrive in Eritrea is by flight, and the ONLY international airport is Asmara International Airport, just outside Asmara (the capital of the country).

The airport is currently only serving international flights by FlyDubai, Turkish Airlines, and Egypt Air. Qatar Airways stopped all its flights to Eritrea in December 2016.

The local airline Eritrean Airlines flies to Milan, Dubai, Sudan, and Saudi Arabia, but they currently don’t offer online booking.

Note: The land borders with Sudan, Djibouti , and Ethiopia are completely closed.

Visiting Eritrea: How to Get Around

Update: As of January 2020, Foreigners are now allowed to use local transportation around Eritrea. But you will need a permit from the Ministry of Tourism and Information for each place you want to visit outside of Asmara.

So really, the only way to travel around Eritrea is with pre-arranged transportation through a local travel agency. If you’re looking for a great way to explore the city, an Asmara guided tour is a guaranteed way to not miss out on anything. 

Unfortunately, the famous train ride between Asmara and Massawa Eritrea is not currently running.

The relationship between Eritrea and Ethiopia has improved a lot recently. As a result, you can now travel between the two countries if you’re heading to Ethiopia as well.

Travel Tip: If you’re visiting Ethiopia, be sure to check out this post of my Ethiopia travel guide.

Money for an Eritrea Vacation

First of all, there are NO ATMs in Eritrea that accepts foreign bank cards. So, you will have to bring cash to exchange. USD, EURO, and British Pound are all exchangeable, but USD is by far the best to bring with you.

The official rate in Eritrea for USD is 1$ = 15 Nakfa. There’s a money exchange at the airport arrival and most of the hotels. There are at least two official moneychangers on the main boulevard in Asmara. 

Keep the receipt if you want to exchange Nakfa back to USD when leaving the country, but ONLY with a receipt. Taking local currency Nakfa out of the country is also strictly illegal.

The black market rate is $1 = 25/40 Nakfa. But be aware that exchanging money on the black market is strictly illegal, and locals can be punished with prison if caught. Even though the black market is illegal, I exchanged most of my money there. You will easily find the black market if you stay a few days in Asmara. But be careful!

NB: If you didn’t bring enough money, I noticed that the better hotels offered to give you cash with your credit card for a hefty fee of 10%.

Eritrea Travel Guide

Although I’ve already covered some of the most important travel tips, these are some other important things you should know before visiting Eritrea. 

The Cost of an Eritrea Visit?

The cost of living and traveling in Eritrea highly depends on how you exchange your money. If you go with the official rates, Eritrea will be surprisingly expensive, but if you go for the black market rates, then Eritrea would be rather cheap.

There are some things I never managed to get my head around in Eritrea. To buy a beer or a soft drink in the supermarket was A LOT more expensive than buying them in a bar or restaurant.

A local Asmara beer was priced at 20 Nakfa in a bar or restaurant but would cost you 35–40 Nakfa in a supermarket. Similarly, a soft drink would cost 9–12 Nakfa in the bar or restaurant but 40–50 Nakfa in the supermarket.

Travel Tip: I got the answer to my question in the comment section of this post. 

“Beer is more expensive in supermarkets b/c the Gov doesn’t allow the Beer Company to usually sell directly to the Supermarket. So they buy it first from the Bar and then sell it to the customer. Another reason why things Beer/Coke etc., cost more in the supermarket is the Bottle Deposit Fee is included which can be ~20 Nakfa. Thank you, Bereekt.”

The most common food in Eritrea is pizza and pasta (no joke). There is still some Italian influence here. A spaghetti bolognese would cost you from 100–200 Nakfa and a pizza from 140 Nakfa.

Internet in Eritrea?

When I say it’s bad, I do mean extremely bad. Out of the 100 countries that I have been to (except North Korea), Eritrea is by far the worst in the world when it comes to getting online.

You are not even ALLOWED to have internet in your home in Eritrea.

From Wikipedia:

• Internet users: 48,692 users, 180th in the world; 0.8% of the population is connected.
• Fixed broadband: 122 subscriptions, 192nd (last) in the world; 0.0% of the population.

While all the hotels I stayed in during my ten-day trip to Eritrea offered “WiFi”, it was ridiculously slow. I did not even once manage to log on to my Gmail account. I could not even send a snap on Snapchat or post a photo on Facebook during my visit. Posting a photo on Instagram took 10 minutes!

Your sim card will also not work in Eritrea. The phone network in the country is not connected to international services. But when traveling to the southern part of the country, you can connect to an Ethiopian phone network if you are less than 20km away from the border. 

Online Information About Eritrea

Most of the information online on websites like TripAdvisor, Wikitravel/Wikivoyage is out of date. The top 2 rated restaurants on TripAdvisor had been closed for many months when I visited Eritrea in February 2017. 

Most of the restaurants/bars and even some of the hotels on websites like Wikitravel and Wikivoyage have also been closed down for a long time already.

Language in Eritrea

Eritrea is a multilingual country. Eritrea has no official language, and it’s written in the constitution that all Eritrean languages should be treated equally. 

There are at least nine local languages, with the Tigrinya language , Tigre, and Dahlik being the three most common ones. But, a thing that surprised me in Eritrea is the level of English speakers.

“Everyone” spoke English, from the waiters in tiny restaurants and bars to people selling fruit in the market. I would go as far and say that Eritrea has the best level of English-speaking people I have ever experienced outside a native English-speaking country.

Every restaurant I went to had an English menu too.

Food in Eritrea

Italian food is the most common food – spaghetti, penne pasta (often from Barilla, you know the one) and Pizza is served in every restaurant. 

The pizza is often from old Italian stone ovens. Even though the ingredients are not as good as the ones you get in modern countries, it is definitely much better than most south-east Asian countries.

If you want to try some more authentic local food like injera, Zigni and Tibsi were the three most common local dishes I came across.

• Injera: A flatbread with a unique, slightly spongy texture. It is traditionally made out of teff flour. It is a national dish in both Eritrea and its neighbor Ethiopia.
• Zigni: a spicy stew made with lamb or mutton.
• Tibsi: sauteed meat, onions, and berbere served with a sauce.

Drinks and Alcohol in Eritrea

Only drink bottled water. Unfortunately, bottled water is rather expensive. A 1L bottle costs around 30+ Nakfa ($2 with official rate). When buying a soft drink (Coca-Cola and Sprite most common), check if it’s a local or imported bottle/can. The imported ones, normally from Sudan, are a lot more expensive than the locally made ones.

I’m a coffee addict, and I’m picky. But I can easily say that the coffee in Eritrea is one of the best in the world. Easily. 

Even the smallest coffee houses have world-class espresso machines that even top coffee houses in my home country, Norway, would be jealous of. A cup of delicious black coffee is around 10 Nakfa.

Alcohol seems quite liberal in Eritrea. They produce their own beer, gin, rum, vodka, wine, and some strange local strong homemade drinks. Imported liquor is also available but very expensive (of course) compared to the local.

Gin seems to be the favorite among the locals. And it’s even cheaper than beer. A double Gin costs normally around 17 Nakfa, even in good hotels and restaurants.

Asmara beer (the only local beer) is surprisingly good and available everywhere. The local beer is sold in glass bottles with no label in restaurants and bars. It normally costs 20 Nakfa but all the way up to 35 Nakfa in high-end places. But, if bought in a supermarket, the cost of beer on cans would be 35-40 Nakfa.

The only imported beer is Heineken, and it will cost you between 80-90 Nakfa per can.

Electricity in Eritrea

Power cuts and blackouts are very common. I experienced multiple of them every day during my ten days’ stay in the country. While all the hotels I stayed in had generators that kicked in when the power cuts happen, most of the restaurants did not have them.

The day I left the country, there were rumors going around about the Government cutting the electricity for 3 days. The reason? To prove a point to the locals.

There are no street lights during the night, so be sure to bring a flashlight. The power plugs in Eritrea are standard 220V European plugs.

Is Eritrea Safe?

Eritrea is by far the safest country I have visited in Africa. I will also put it in my top 5 safest countries that I have ever been to. The locals were super friendly and welcoming.

But be careful not to criticize the Government or president Isaias Afwerki or anything about the country with or in front of the locals. The secret police are everywhere. I learned that a boatman I used was not actually a boatman but a secret police agent.

Accommodation In Eritrea

There are no hostels, and couch surfing is strictly illegal in Eritrea. A hotel will normally cost you around 900 Nakfa / $60 a night (breakfast included).

In Asmara, I stayed at the Sunshine Hotel, which seemed to be the most popular one for tourists. I met around 7-8 other tourists there at a very popular Piano bar during the weekend. The other two popular choices are the Hotel Asmara Palace and the Crystal Hotel, Asmara . 

In Keren , I stayed in Sarina Hotel, which is a good hotel with big rooms and a balcony. 900Nafka / $60.

In Massawa, I stayed at Dhalak Hotel, which is a huge hotel with a great restaurant and location. It is by far the most popular hotel in Massawa. It cost me 750 Nakfa / $48 for a simple single room. I met a few foreigners there.

All the hotels had free Wifi, but as already mentioned, the speed was awful.

All the hotels also had an onsite restaurant and bars and money exchange (official rate).

Final Thoughts on Tourism in Eritrea

This mysterious east African country should be on most travelers’ bucket list. Whether you want to experience the unique Italian culture in Asmara or visit a breathtaking Eritrea beach, there is plenty to do here.

Just make sure you plan your visit to Eritrea properly and get all the necessary permits – otherwise, you might be limited to Asmara. You should now have all the travel information you need, so go ahead and book your Visa today!

Saturday 24th of April 2021

Hi David. Your all information was accurate, about Eritrean people been friendly and the other information. But give the people the right information because it will be full picture for the people travelling there. Eritrea became North Korea because of you guys. You came to Eritrea as guests and work for U.S to overthrow our government and make us live like Libya or Iraq. People need peace before money or anything else. And you said it is hard to travel outside of Asmera. That is true the reason is more conected to the concern of foreigners safety.

Atle Pettersen

Wednesday 24th of November 2021

@Bana, "foreigners safety", that is exactly what the MoT told me when I was there in 2018. It makes 0 sense, as in zero sense. Have nothing to do with safety, rather the paranoia the government is suffering. Never have I ever met such a bureaucratic nightmare as in Eritrea. Ever. And I have been to some really weird places.

Rahwa Tsehaye

Sunday 3rd of January 2021

wow, it is awesome. I am Eritrean. I left Eritrea when I was about 14 year old I miss my country so much I have visited different cities when I was there but in fact they are the best vacations I have ever had in my life now that I am an American citizen I really want to go back to my country.it is a best place to visit in your life. it has been colonized by many countries due to its strategy and gifts so there are also a lot of historical places for truisms. and beautiful beaches i really want to go back there after i finish collage and achieve other goals. i found this while i was trying to find other facts and things for my presentation in class and i realize that there are things i don't know about Eritrea so this motivated me to go back as soon as possible. thanks for the article it really helps.

Friday 20th of November 2020

Very useful information. Thank admin.

Saturday 3rd of October 2020

Well articulated, I like how you put everything step by step. As an Eritrean myself I am moved by the fact that you said the locals are super friendly and welcoming. It is absolutely true. The government tries to scare people not to talk to foreigners but we like to talk to strangers and make them feel at home. Those people don't deserve the suffering they are being through from the regime. Thank you.

Thursday 20th of February 2020

Hi David. I have just been in Eritrea 8 days. Completely on my own. My hotel: Crystal hotel. Tourist permit to Keren (local bus) and to Filfil (taxi) - got it the day after arrival (remember to get copies of the Tourist Permit. The Police Control will ask for it ). Loved to walk in the streets of Asmara after dinner in the evenings. Such a nice atmosphere. My restaurants: Pizza House and Ghibabo. Keren was interesting/ Filfil beautiful. On departure you can take 1000 nakfa with you. You cannot change nakfa to dollars in the airport according to Himbol.

Introducing Eritrea

About eritrea.

• Images of Eritrea
• History, language & culture
• Weather & geography
• Doing business & staying in touch

Plan your trip

• Travel to Eritrea
• Where to stay

While you’re there

• Things to see & do
• Shopping & nightlife
• Food & drink
• Getting around

Before you go

• Passport & visa
• Public Holidays
• Money & duty free

Book your flights

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

Book a Hotel

© Columbus Travel Media Ltd. All rights reserved 2024

Eritrea Tourism Guide: How to Travel to Eritrea

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

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

Is It Ethical to Visit Eritrea?

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

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

How to Get a Visa to Eritrea

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

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

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

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

Is It Safe to Travel to Eritrea?

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

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Eritrea

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

Getting Around & Accommodation in Eritrea: Obtaining Permits

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

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

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

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

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

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

Money in Eritrea

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

What to See in Eritrea

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

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

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

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

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

Tanks Graveyard

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

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

Coal Train Route

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Food in Eritrea

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

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

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

What to Pack for Eritrea

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

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

Internet in Eritrea

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

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

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

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

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

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Roadracer711

Saturday 1st of July 2023

Very cool write up. Thanks for the info

Tuesday 13th of September 2022

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

PHILIP HORN-BOTHA

Wednesday 17th of August 2022

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

Saturday 26th of September 2020

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

Thank you for a beautiful reading adventure!

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

Anna Karsten

Monday 28th of September 2020

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

Wednesday 15th of January 2020

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

Wednesday 12th of January 2022

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

Understanding Eritrea's Travel Restrictions: Exploring The Limitations And Regulations For Visitors

• Last updated Sep 04, 2023
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category United States

Welcome to the captivating world of Eritrea, a hidden gem nestled on the northeastern coast of Africa. With its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes, Eritrea has become a popular destination for adventurous travelers. However, before embarking on your journey, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the current travel restrictions in place. Join us as we delve into the intricacies of Eritrea's travel restrictions, ensuring you have all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to this extraordinary country.

What You'll Learn

What are the current travel restrictions in place for eritrea, are there any exceptions or exemptions to the travel restrictions in eritrea, how long are the travel restrictions expected to be in place, are there any specific requirements or documentation needed for travel to eritrea during the restrictions, are there any updates or changes to the travel restrictions expected in the near future.

Eritrea, a small country located in the Horn of Africa, has implemented travel restrictions in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. These restrictions are necessary to protect the health and safety of both residents and visitors to the country. If you are planning to travel to Eritrea, it is important to be aware of the current travel restrictions in place.

As of the latest updates, the government of Eritrea has limited the entry of foreigners into the country. Only Eritrean nationals and residents are allowed to enter, and even they must undergo a mandatory quarantine period upon arrival. The quarantine period is typically 14 days, during which individuals will be tested for COVID-19 and closely monitored for symptoms.

International flights to and from Eritrea have also been greatly reduced. Many airlines have suspended their operations, and the few that are still operating have limited schedules. It is important to check with your airline for the latest information on flight availability and any requirements for travel.

Additionally, land borders with neighboring countries are currently closed, and no cross-border travel is allowed. This includes both overland travel by car or bus and cross-border pedestrian travel.

Within the country, there are restrictions on intercity travel. Non-essential travel between cities and regions is discouraged, and individuals may be required to provide a valid reason for their travel. Public transportation services, such as buses and trains, are operating at reduced capacity, and passengers must adhere to strict hygiene and safety measures, including wearing masks and maintaining social distancing.

It is important to note that these travel restrictions are subject to change and may be lifted, eased, or tightened depending on the evolving situation of the pandemic. It is recommended to stay updated with the latest information from official sources, such as the Eritrean Ministry of Health and local embassies or consulates, before planning any travel to Eritrea.

If you are currently in Eritrea and need to travel back to your home country, it is advised to contact your embassy or consulate for guidance and assistance. They can provide you with the most up-to-date information on travel options and requirements.

Overall, Eritrea has implemented strict travel restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect the health of its residents. It is important to stay informed, follow all guidelines and requirements, and prioritize the safety and well-being of yourself and others when considering travel to Eritrea.

Understanding the California Travel Restrictions: What Essential Workers Need to Know

You may want to see also

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many countries around the world have implemented travel restrictions and measures to help prevent the spread of the virus. Eritrea is no exception, and the government has put in place several travel restrictions to protect its citizens and visitors.

As of now, Eritrea has closed its borders to non-residents and is only allowing Eritrean nationals and residents to enter the country. All travelers entering Eritrea must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours before arrival. They are also required to undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine at designated government facilities.

While these measures are strict, there are some exceptions and exemptions to the travel restrictions in Eritrea. One exception is for diplomats and other official government personnel who are traveling for official purposes. These individuals are still allowed to enter Eritrea but may be subject to additional testing and quarantine requirements.

Another exception is for humanitarian workers and individuals providing essential services. Those who fall under these categories may be granted entry into the country to carry out their important work. However, they will still need to follow the necessary COVID-19 protocols, including testing and quarantine.

In addition to these exceptions, there may also be some specific cases in which Eritrea grants special permission for travel. These cases would generally require individuals to demonstrate a compelling reason for their travel and may be subject to approval by the Eritrean government.

It's important to note that the situation and travel restrictions in Eritrea can change rapidly, depending on the current state of the pandemic. It is recommended to regularly check with the Eritrean embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date information on travel restrictions and any exceptions or exemptions that may apply.

In conclusion, while there are strict travel restrictions in place in Eritrea, there are exceptions and exemptions for certain individuals. Diplomats and government officials may be allowed to enter for official purposes, and humanitarian workers and essential service providers may also be granted entry. However, it is advisable to stay informed about any changes in the travel restrictions and consult with the relevant authorities before making any travel plans.

Maryland Travel Restrictions: What You Need to Know Before Your Trip

Travel restrictions have become a common practice in many countries around the world as a response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. These restrictions aim to limit the spread of the virus and protect public health. However, many people are wondering how long these travel restrictions are expected to be in place.

The duration of travel restrictions can vary from country to country and depend on several factors such as the current COVID-19 situation, vaccination rates, and government policies. In general, travel restrictions are implemented as a temporary measure until the situation improves and the risk of transmission decreases.

The timeline for lifting travel restrictions can be unpredictable and is subject to change based on the evolving nature of the pandemic. As new variants of the virus emerge and health situations fluctuate, governments may adjust restrictions accordingly.

Travel restrictions can include various measures such as border closures, travel bans, mandatory quarantine, and testing requirements. These measures can help control the spread of COVID-19 by reducing the number of infected individuals entering a country and potentially introducing new variants.

To determine when travel restrictions will be lifted, governments closely monitor key indicators such as vaccination rates, infection rates, and hospital capacity. Once these indicators show significant improvement and the situation is deemed safe, travel restrictions can be gradually lifted.

The introduction of vaccines has played a pivotal role in the gradual easing of travel restrictions. As vaccination programs progress and more people become immunized, the risk of transmission decreases, and travel becomes safer. However, it is important to note that even with widespread vaccination, travel restrictions may still be in place to prevent the introduction of new variants or if there are specific outbreaks in certain regions.

The coordination between countries is also crucial in determining the longevity of travel restrictions. International travel involves mutual agreements and coordination between governments to ensure consistent protocols and safety measures. Collaborative efforts such as the establishment of travel corridors or green lanes can facilitate the resumption of international travel while maintaining safety standards.

It is difficult to provide a definitive timeline for when travel restrictions will be completely lifted. The lifting of these restrictions will depend on the progress of vaccination efforts, the effectiveness of control measures, and the evolving understanding of the virus. However, the overall goal is to gradually relax travel restrictions as the global situation improves and the risk of transmission reduces.

As the situation continues to evolve, it is important for travelers to stay updated on the latest travel advisories and restrictions in their destination country. Keeping informed about entry requirements, testing protocols, and quarantine measures will help ensure a smooth and safe travel experience.

In conclusion, travel restrictions are a temporary measure implemented to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. The duration of these restrictions varies depending on the specific circumstances of each country. Governments rely on key indicators such as vaccination rates and infection rates to determine when to lift travel restrictions. However, it is important for travelers to stay informed and flexible as the situation continues to evolve.

Understanding California's Airport Travel Restrictions: What You Need to Know Before You Fly

Travel to Eritrea during the COVID-19 pandemic may involve specific requirements and documentation. It is crucial to stay updated with the latest information provided by the Eritrean government and local authorities before planning any travel to the country.

As of [DATE], Eritrea has implemented various restrictions on international travel to control the spread of the COVID-19 virus. These restrictions may include entry bans, quarantine measures, and mandatory testing. Travelers are advised to check with the Eritrean Embassy or Consulate in their respective countries to gather accurate and up-to-date information.

Here are some general requirements and documentation that may be necessary when traveling to Eritrea during the restrictions:

• Visa: Most travelers require a visa to enter Eritrea. The type of visa and application process may depend on the purpose of travel, such as tourism, business, or family visits. It is recommended to apply for a visa well in advance of the intended travel date.
• Negative COVID-19 Test: Travelers might be required to provide a negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test result taken within a specified timeframe before the departure date. The specific time window and test validity may change according to the evolving health situation.
• Health Declaration Forms: It is likely that travelers will be required to fill out health declaration forms, providing information about their recent travel history, contact details, and current health status. These forms aim to assess the potential health risks associated with travel and will be used for contact tracing purposes if necessary.
• Quarantine Requirements: Upon arrival in Eritrea, travelers may have to undergo a mandatory quarantine period at approved facilities. This measure can vary in duration depending on the traveler's origin and individual circumstances. It is essential to check the latest requirements to be aware of the quarantine rules before planning a trip.
• Latest Travel Advisories and Updates: Before traveling to Eritrea, it is strongly recommended to check the travel advisories issued by your home country's government. These advisories provide information and guidance on travel restrictions, entry requirements, health risks, and other important details.
• Health Insurance: It is advisable to have comprehensive health insurance that covers COVID-19-related expenses in case of illness, medical treatment, or emergency evacuation. Some countries may require proof of travel insurance before issuing a visa or granting entry.
• COVID-19 Vaccination Status: Eritrea may implement specific requirements regarding COVID-19 vaccination status for travelers. It is crucial to stay informed about any potential vaccination requirements and carry proof of vaccination if applicable.

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey, it is essential to review all the requirements and gather the necessary documents well in advance of travel. The situation and requirements may change rapidly, so staying updated with the latest travel advisories and guidance is crucial. By following the rules and regulations, travelers can contribute to the prevention and control of the COVID-19 pandemic while enjoying their visit to Eritrea.

Navigating the Current Michigan Travel Restrictions: What You Need to Know

With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, travel restrictions have become commonplace worldwide. Governments and health organizations have implemented these measures to slow down the spread of the virus and protect public health. As the situation evolves, there is a continuous evaluation of these restrictions to determine their effectiveness and make necessary adjustments. This raises the question: are there any updates or changes to the travel restrictions expected in the near future?

The answer to this question is complex, as travel restrictions vary from country to country and are subject to ongoing review. The decision to implement or lift restrictions depends on several factors, including the epidemiological situation, vaccination rates, and the effectiveness of other public health measures in place.

One key factor that influences travel restrictions is the prevalence of COVID-19 cases in a specific location. If a country experiences a surge in cases or the emergence of new variants of the virus, it is likely that stricter travel restrictions will be imposed. These restrictions may include mandatory quarantine, testing requirements, or even a complete ban on non-essential travel.

Conversely, in areas where the situation improves, travel restrictions may be eased or lifted. This could include the relaxation of quarantine measures or allowing vaccinated individuals to travel more freely. Vaccination rates play a crucial role in determining the level of restriction, as higher rates provide a higher level of protection against the virus and reduce the risk of transmission.

Another aspect to consider is the international coordination on travel restrictions. Many countries have been working together to establish common rules and guidelines for travel during the pandemic. Organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) have been involved in developing standardized protocols to ensure safe travel.

To predict future updates or changes to travel restrictions, it is essential to monitor the epidemiological situation and the progress of vaccination campaigns. Public health authorities regularly assess the effectiveness of existing measures and adjust them accordingly. As new scientific knowledge emerges and more data becomes available, recommendations for travel may evolve.

It's also important to note that the situation is fluid and can change rapidly. New variants of the virus or unexpected outbreaks can prompt governments to implement stricter measures at short notice. Travelers must stay informed and be prepared for the possibility of sudden changes or updates to travel restrictions.

In conclusion, travel restrictions are continuously being evaluated and adjusted in response to the evolving COVID-19 situation. Updates and changes to these restrictions are expected in the near future, depending on factors such as the epidemiological situation, vaccination rates, and international coordination efforts. Travelers should remain vigilant, stay informed, and be prepared for potential changes to travel plans.

Navigating Travel Restrictions from Bangkok to Koh Samui: What You Need to Know

Frequently asked questions.

As of now, there are travel restrictions in place for Eritrea due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The government has implemented strict measures, including the closure of borders and suspension of international flights. These restrictions are in place to prevent the spread of the virus and ensure the safety of the population.

Currently, foreigners are not allowed to enter Eritrea unless they have a specific authorization from the Eritrean government. This includes individuals with valid work permits, diplomats, and those involved in essential services. It is important to note that even with the necessary authorization, travelers may still be subject to quarantine upon arrival.

Yes, travelers entering Eritrea are required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours prior to their departure. They must also undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine at a designated facility upon arrival. Additionally, travelers may be subject to health screenings and temperature checks at the airport.

There are limited exceptions to the travel restrictions in Eritrea. These include Eritrean citizens and permanent residents returning to the country, as well as individuals with permission from the government to enter for specific reasons. However, even in these cases, travelers are required to comply with all entry requirements and restrictions, including quarantine measures. It is advisable to check with the Eritrean embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information before making any travel plans.

• Melissa Carey Author Reviewer Traveller

• Duke Trotter Author Editor Reviewer Traveller

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THE BEST OF ERITREA TOURISM Eritrea is a country in the Horn of Africa with Asmara as its capital. It borders Ethiopia to the south, Sudan to the west and Djibouti to the southeast. The Red Sea stretches along Eritrea’s coastline to both the northeast and the east. The country has a total area of approximately 117,600 km2. It includes the Dahlak Archipelago.

In 2017, the city was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its well-preserved modernist architecture. and is home to one of the world’s largest concentrations of Art Deco buildings such as

• Fiat Tagliero Building
• Opera House
• Medebar Market
• Old Railway Station
• St Mariam Cathedral
• Capitol Cinema

Undiscovered Destinations

The best of eritrea tourism.

We are happy to offer you a wide range of tours to Eritrea. Whatever your interests are, whether conservation, cultural, or just with your loved ones, Find the method of travel to Eritrea that is a match for you and let our experts work out the intricate aspects to design the most memorable trip of your life.

Traveling around Eritrea

Massawa was the capital city of the Italian Colony of Eritrea until it was relocated to Asmara in 1897 and is the gateway towards the Dahlak Islands.

Keren The second-largest city of Eritrea and is is now for its Colorful Monday Market, which attract traders and tribes from the surrounding areas.

Dahlak Islands

The DahlakArchipelago comprises a group of 360 islands and approximately 645 miles in length.

The islands’ temperatures range from 25 degrees Celsius between November and April to at least 45degC in June to September. These islands in the DahlakArchipelago are famous for their coral reefs that remain intact.

Best of Eritrea

Popular tour packages.

Here are a few of the  specially designed Tours  luxurious experiences we designed for our customers to give you an idea of what’s possible when our expertise is put to use.  Visit Eritrea with the number one tour operator in the country.

6 Days Tour Asmara, Keren & Massawa

On this six-day tour, We will visit cultural and historical sites in Asmara, Keren & Massawa

The Best of Eritrea 9 days tour

This tour is all about Eritrea as a country, Enjoy 9 Days/8 Nights Best of Eritrean

Explore Eritrea 4 Days Tour

A guided tour will lead to the most interesting places in Asmara, UNESCO World Heritage Site

Do you need assistance with your Eritrea Visa?

Adulis Travel can help you secure the visa on arrival by scanning your passport's front page. We will arrange a visa in advance so that you can pick it up on arrival at Asmara airport.

Adulis Travel, the leading Eritrea travel agency, marvels at assisting you to get your trip intended. Not only a trip, however, exceptional excursions full of enjoyable and life-enriching adventures.

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10 Hardest Countries For Americans To Visit

• There are many countries Americans can't visit easily; for example, Bhutan's high-value, low-impact tourism policy restricts access due to strict visa policies and costly tourist tax.
• Turkmenistan's difficult visa requirements and limited tourist infrastructure make it a hassle for American travelers.
• Libya is off-limits due to ongoing conflict, diplomatic tensions, and minimal visa issuance, hindering American visits.

Unlocking the world's mysteries often leads adventurous souls to remote corners and unfamiliar cultures. Yet, within the allure of exploration, there are a number of countries Americans can't travel to easily for various reasons (they're not necessarily places Americans aren't allowed to visit, but are typically very difficult to do so, or, in some cases, advised against).

Delving into the intricacies of bureaucracy, diplomatic relations, and safety concerns, these countries that are hard for Americans to travel to are formidable challenges for the USA's globe-trotters. Each presents its own unique set of difficulties, from enigmatic regimes and strained diplomatic tensions to war-torn landscapes and hard-to-obtain visas. Curious to learn what these countries are and why they are difficult for Americans to visit? Prepare for a journey through the complexities of international travel as they are unveiled.

The countries that are hard for Americans to visit in this list were compiled by looking at the relations they have with the United States. They are arranged in order of population, with the least populated country first on the list. Each of these are countries difficult to travel to for Americans because of their bilateral relations with the US, or because there is extreme difficulty in meeting visa requirements as a US citizen.

Many of these countries that are hard to travel to as a US citizen are considered unsafe, especially for Americans. As such, visiting those that are deemed unsafe is not advised. Always check and adhere to US Travel Advisories and stay up to date on US Travel Alerts .

10 Friendliest Countries In The World, According To Statistics

There are usually no direct flights to bhutan, and its strict visa and costly tourist tax are challenging.

Traveling to breathtaking Bhutan, the last Shangri-La , proves to be a formidable and costly task. This is due to the nation's commitment to sustainable tourism and cultural preservation. Bhutan strictly regulates tourism through a "high-value, low-impact" policy, requiring visitors to book their trip through authorized tour operators and pay a daily tariff.

Moreover, limited international flights and the exclusive Paro Airport further complicate access to the country. Securing a visa necessitates a pre-arranged itinerary and the accompaniment of a licensed guide, adding layers of bureaucracy and cost. These stringent measures, coupled with Bhutan's remote location in the Himalayas, pose significant hurdles for American travelers wishing to explore this unique destination.

• Continent: Asia
• Population: 790,616
• Relations with the US: Warm, Informal Relations , despite there not being an official relationship established by treaty or agreement.

A scarcely visited communist stronghold in Africa, with cumbersome visa processes

Dubbed the North Korea of Africa for its conservative policies and autocratic governance, Eritrea is almost impregnable to everyone, not just Americans. The U.S. Department of State cautions travelers to Eritrea , citing risks associated with civil unrest, crime, and potential arbitrary detention, dissuading American travelers.

Moreover, obtaining a visa for Eritrea proves to be a cumbersome process, characterized by stringent requirements and lengthy procedures. Additionally, Eritrea's limited transportation infrastructure and remote geographical location further hinder accessibility for American tourists. These collective barriers make venturing to Eritrea a challenging undertaking for Americans, impeding their exploration of this East African country.

• Continent: Africa
• Population: 3.79 Million
• Relations with the US: Challenging . The country has a spotty record for human rights.

Turkmenistan

A former soviet socialist republic with difficult-to-obtain tourist visas.

Embarking on a journey to see Turkmenistan's many wonders presents obstacles for Americans (and people of other nations, too). Stemming from the country's strict visa requirements and limited tourist infrastructure. Turkmenistan maintains a tightly controlled visa regime , requiring travelers to obtain visas in advance through a Turkmen embassy or consulate, a process that's usually time-consuming.

Furthermore, securing a tourist visa often entails obtaining a letter of invitation from a local sponsor. Additionally, independent travel is almost nonexistent, with tourists usually needing to book guided tours for the duration of their stay. That's not to say there aren't amazing things to do and see in Turkmenistan , but getting there is a hassle. These factors combine to create significant barriers for anyone, including Americans aspiring to explore Turkmenistan's rich history and cultural treasures.

• Continent : Asia
• Population: 6.57 Million
• Relations with the US: Established , but the local regime remains questionable.

Turkmenistan is run by an authoritarian government. While there are friendly relations with the US and there is an embassy established, the powers of the embassy are heavily controlled.

A country in the East that's long been in conflict with the US

For Americans, visiting Libya remains an unattainable dream due to many factors. Foremost among these obstacles are severe security risks stemming from ongoing conflict and political instability sparked by the 2011 Libyan Civil War . The U.S. Department of State maintains a Level 4 travel advisory , strongly cautioning against all travel to Libya due to these dangers.

Moreover, diplomatic relations between the United States and Libya are strained, further complicating matters for American travelers. Visa issuance to Americans is virtually non-existent, as the Libyan government imposes strict restrictions and requires rare, difficult-to-obtain approvals. With these formidable barriers in place, Americans face significant challenges attempting to visit Libya, which is a shame because the country is home to some truly impressive ancient ruins.

• Population: 6.94 Million
• Relations with the US: Strained . Embassies are established, but the country's history as a supporter of terrorism casts a long shadow over bilateral relations.

A communist stronghold in the Caribbean with diplomatic tensions and trade embargoes with the US

Traveling to Cuba to see its hidden treasures presents a unique set of challenges for Americans, largely due to decades-long diplomatic tensions and trade embargoes between the two countries . While travel to Cuba has become more accessible in recent years, Americans are still subject to specific restrictions. Most notably, travel to Cuba for tourism purposes remains prohibited under U.S. law, necessitating compliance with one of twelve approved categories, such as educational or cultural exchanges.

Additionally, Americans must navigate the complex process of obtaining a visa or travel authorization, often involving paperwork and additional fees. Despite the allure of Cuba's vibrant culture and historical sites, these regulatory barriers continue to hinder seamless travel for Americans.

• Continent: North America/Caribbean
• Population: 11.18 Million
• Relations With the US: Limited engagement . Economic sanctions remain in place, straining regular relations.

10 Unfriendliest Cities In The World That People Love To Visit

North korea, one of the last communist countries in the world with ongoing political tensions with the us.

North Korea stands as a fortress of secrecy, closed off to much of the world, including American travelers. Travel to North Korea is tightly controlled by the government, with visitors subjected to strict supervision and limited access to the outside world. North Korea's DMZ is one of the most heavily fortified borders in the world , yet some people do visit, despite the associated risks.

Ongoing political tensions between North Korea and the United States further exacerbate the difficulty. Americans who travel to North Korea without acquiring passports validated by the Department of State run the risk of arrest and long-term detention. As such, the elusive allure of North Korea remains largely inaccessible to American tourists.

• Population: 26.2 Million
• Relations with the US: Hostile

Once a stable country, it's now difficult to obtain entry permits and there are dangers from the Syrian Civil War

Syria is another one of the unsafe countries for Americans to visit. It presents numerous obstacles for Americans, primarily due to the security risks, and diplomatic tensions. The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4 travel advisory , urging Americans to avoid all travel to Syria due to the ongoing Syrian Civil War, which includes a high threat of terrorism, civil unrest, and armed conflict.

Additionally, the Syrian government imposes strict visa regulations , making it exceedingly difficult for Americans to obtain entry permits. With the absence of consular services and the volatile security situation, visiting Syria remains hazardous and virtually inaccessible for American travelers. Still, despite the unrest in Syria, the country has some truly beautiful places and fascinating old ruins.

• Population: 23.9 Million
• Relations with the US: Strained due to sanctions and certain actions by the Syrian state.

Once the richest country in South America, crime, civil unrest, and strained diplomatic relationships with the US make visiting harder

Visiting Venezuela as an American poses significant hurdles due to multiple factors. Firstly, the U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4 travel advisory , strongly discouraging travel due to safety concerns like crime and civil unrest. Additionally, diplomatic tensions between the United States and Venezuela further complicate matters , leading to almost no consular assistance and a lack of diplomatic representation for American travelers.

Moreover, obtaining a visa to enter Venezuela is notoriously difficult for Americans, with stringent requirements and bureaucratic procedures enforced by Venezuelan authorities. These combined factors currently make visiting Venezuela a daunting prospect for American tourists.

• Continent: South America
• Population: 29.20 Million
• Relations with the US: Strained . The US maintains that the sitting Venezuelan government was not elected democratically and recognizes the previously elected assembly from 2015 as the legitimate governmental body.

This Country Was Just Ranked The Friendliest In The World

Hard-to-get-visas, political tensions, and banned independent travel for american tourists make visiting a challenge.

Iran presents a tapestry of culture, history, and politics, some of which render it a challenging destination for American tourists. Iran and America have had strained diplomatic relations for decades due to the 1979 Iranian Revolution and sanctions that followed. Diplomatic relations further weakened during Donald Trump's presidency .

Obtaining a visa to enter Iran is a lengthy and unpredictable process. After all of that? US citizens are banned from independent traveling in Iran. All travel must be part of an organized tour led by a government-approved guide. The US Department of State still warns that US citizens should not travel to Iran for any reason , stating that many US citizens have been wrongfully detained. These factors, combined with the intricacies of navigating the Iranian bureaucracy, create significant obstacles for Americans seeking to explore the nation. Both Canada and the US have advised against visiting Iran .

• Population : 89.6 Million
• Relations With The US: Relationship severed in 1979 and not yet reestablished .

The situation with Iran continues to worsen over time, and there's no certainty that American tourists to this area will be safe if they decide to visit. Visiting is not advised.

Saudi Arabia

An ally of the us in the middle east, but cultural clashes and hard-to-obtain visas pose a challenge.

Journeying to Saudi Arabia poses significant difficulties for many, not just Americans, primarily due to the country's stringent visa policies and cultural disparities. Obtaining a visa for leisure travel is usually a complex process , typically requiring sponsorship from a local entity and often limited in availability for non-essential purposes.

Moreover, Saudi Arabia's adherence to conservative Islamic principles dictates strict codes of conduct and dress, which may clash with Western norms and practices. These cultural differences, coupled with the challenges of navigating a foreign bureaucracy, make visiting Saudi Arabia a tricky prospect. However, those restrictions may not last forever, as Saudi Arabia has previously become more open to international tourism .

• Population: 37.29 Million
• Relations with the US: Full Diplomatic Relations . Embassies are established in both countries.