Things To Do
in Eritrea
Eritrea is a country on the Red Sea coast in the Horn of Africa known for its dramatic landscapes and architectural heritage. It blends Italian colonial influences with Afro-Arabic culture, evident in towns like Asmara and along the coast. From highland escarpments to historic forts on Massawa’s shoreline, Eritrea offers striking scenery and a resilient cultural identity.
Travelers should verify visa requirements and current safety guidance before visiting, as conditions can change.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure in Eritrea's capital, Asmara, by visiting the breathtaking Liberty Square, surrounded by stunning Italian architecture. Enjoy a freshly brewed Eritrean coffee at a local café while soaking in the ambience of the vibrant city. Don't miss a stroll through the nearby colorful markets to experience the hustle and bustle of daily life.
In the afternoon, delve into Eritrea's rich history by visiting the National Museum of Eritrea, which showcases artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the nation's past. Afterward, take a scenic walk through the lush Green Belt Park, where locals gather to relax and enjoy nature. Admire the beautiful gardens and consider a leisurely lunch at a traditional eatery nearby.
As the sun sets, head to the famous Asmara Cinema, an architectural gem, for a glimpse of the local film scene. Afterward, partake in the Eritrean dining experience by trying delicious dishes like zigni and injera at a popular restaurant. Wind down your day with some live music at a bar, immersing yourself in the lively local culture.
Travel to the coastal town of Massawa, where your day starts with a lovely breakfast overlooking the Red Sea. Enjoy a morning walk along the waterfront, taking in the fresh sea breeze and visiting the historic buildings that showcase the town's Ottoman and Italian influences. A visit to the Massawa Seafront Market provides an opportunity to interact with friendly locals and sample some fresh seafood.
After soaking in the sun, spend the afternoon relaxing on the sandy beaches of Massawa, known for their crystal-clear waters. Engage in some water sports like snorkeling or simply enjoy the views as you sip on refreshing drinks from beachside cafes. As the day begins to warm up, explore the nearby islands such as Nakura or Erythraea for a little adventure.
In the evening, savor the fresh catch of the day at a beachfront restaurant while enjoying the stunning sunset. After dinner, stroll through the charming streets of Massawa and explore the bustling nightlife, filled with vibrant music and dance. Join locals in celebration for a true taste of Eritrean culture and hospitality.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🚌Short taxi ride | $2-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
| ☕Cappuccino | $1-3 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $50-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich culture and architecture
- Warm hospitality and coffee culture
- Beautiful highland scenery and coastal views
- Relatively low crowds compared to neighboring destinations
- Limited nightlife outside major cities
- Limited public transportation and infrastructure
- Visa and permit requirements can complicate travel
- Health facilities outside Asmara are limited
- "Selam (ሰላም)" - Hello
- "Kemey haleḳ?" - How are you?
- "Yekenyeley (የከንዬይ)" - Thank you
- "Be'etam, ebdu" - Please
Places to Visit in Eritrea
Visit one of these nice places.
UNESCO-listed streets filled with pastel façades, geometric lines, and atmospheric light—perfect for architecture and street photography.
Historic waterfront streets and fortified buildings with striking contrast between blue sea and stone walls.
Wide boulevards and fountains offering dramatic light during golden hour and candid street scenes.
Colorful textiles, spices, and coffee vendors provide vibrant portrait and market photography opportunities.
Food in Eritrea
Eritrea Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tender beef simmered in berbere spices, typically served atop injera.
Must-Try!
A chili-based stew with berbere, available in meat or lentil variations, served with injera.
A creamy, hearty stew made from ground chickpeas and onions, rich in spices.
Fluffy injera paired with a warming lentil sauce seasoned with spices.
Strong, aromatic coffee prepared in a traditional ceremony, often served with popcorn or nuts.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for spices, coffee, kisra bread, and local snacks; ideal for people-watching and photo opportunities.
Fresh fish and coastal snacks sold along the waterfront; great for trying seafood specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people warmly; use respectful language and address elders politely. Modest dress is appreciated in many areas.
Ask for permission before taking portraits or photos in religious or traditional settings.
Khat chewing is common in some communities; be mindful of local norms and laws regarding its use.
Safety
Tipping in Eritrea
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in hotels and restaurants, but not always expected; leave small tips for good service.
Cash is the most widely accepted form of payment (Nakfa or USD). Credit cards are not common outside major hotels; ATMs are limited outside Asmara.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Heat is common along the coast; highlands remain cooler. Prepare for strong sun, occasional rain, and higher humidity near water.
Cool and dry in the highlands; coastal areas can be humid. Pack a warm layer for evenings and early mornings.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for outdoor exploring and walking tours.
Warm days and cool evenings; good light for photography and sightseeing without peak heat.
Eritrea at Night
Hiking in Eritrea
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Highest peak near Asmara offering panoramic views of the highland plateau.
Rugged trails with overlooks and hillside ruins, suitable for day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Eritrea by plane.
The main international gateway for Eritrea, with limited international flights and domestic connections.
Coastal airport used for regional and domestic travel; access may be limited outside peak periods.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant Tigrinya-speaking population with significant Tigre, Saho, Beja, and Bilen communities; Arabic and English are used in business and tourism.
Predominantly Orthodox Christian and Muslim communities, with local customs shaping daily life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport with widespread local clubs and community games.
Common in schools and urban centers; occasional tournaments and leagues.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Injera-based meals with lentil, chickpea, and vegetable wots are readily available; request shiro or misir wot for variety.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Eritrea.