Things To Do
in Ak’ordat
Ak’ordat sits on the central Eritrean highlands, where rugged scenery meets a calm, traditional town life. The town blends stone architecture, hilltop views, and a slow pace that invites lingering strolls. Markets, cafes, and nearby monasteries reveal Eritrean culture through daily interactions and crafts.
Expect hot, dry days with cooler evenings and clear night skies ideal for stargazing.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in Ak’ordat with a hearty breakfast featuring local Eritrean delicacies. Afterward, take a guided walking tour to explore the unique architecture and rich history of the town, immersing yourself in the local culture. Visit the nearby market to experience the vibrant daily life and pick up some handmade crafts.
In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional Eritrean restaurant, sampling dishes like injera and tibs. After lunch, head to the nearby hills for a hiking excursion, where you will be welcomed by stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, lush vegetation, and diverse wildlife. Consider visiting a local artisan workshop to learn about traditional crafts and meet the artisans at work.
As the sun sets, return to the town for a cozy dinner with locals, enjoying cultural exchanges and traditional music. Embrace the warm atmosphere as night falls, perhaps participating in a bonfire or storytelling session under the starlit sky. Reflect on your day's adventures and make plans for the next day's explorations.
Start your day with a visit to a nearby historical site, learning about the significant events that shaped Ak’ordat. An early morning walk through the peaceful streets allows you to admire the traditional homes and interact with friendly locals starting their day. Enjoy some freshly brewed coffee or tea at a local café, mingling with residents.
Savor a traditional lunch at a standout eatery that serves authentic dishes, focusing on regional specialties. In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour to nearby archaeological sites to uncover the ancient history of the region. Enjoy the rest of the day exploring the beautiful natural parks with diverse flora and fauna.
Dine at a rooftop restaurant, taking in the panoramic views of the town illuminated by night. Engage in conversations with fellow travelers and locals, sharing stories and experiences. Cap off the evening with a local music performance, celebrating Eritrean rhythms and dances.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $0.5-2 |
| 🧊Bottled water | $0.5-1 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $2-5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich highland scenery
- Warm hospitality and culture
- Limited tourist infrastructure in Ak’ordat
- Travel regulations in Eritrea can restrict spontaneity
- "Tigrinya: Selam" - Hello
- "Arabic: Marhaban" - Hello
- "Arabic: Shukran" - Thank you
- "Tigrinya: Yekenyeley" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Ak’ordat
Visit one of these nice places.
Sunlit alleyways with whitewashed walls and traditional doors, perfect for portraiture and street scenes.
Edge viewpoints over the plateau with sweeping views of the valleys and distant mountains.
Morning market scenes with colorful fabrics, spices, and daily life.
Food in Ak’ordat
Ak’ordat Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy meat stew served on a large injera flatbread; a staple of Eritrean feasts.
Must-Try!
A tangy tomato-based fish stew often served with injera.
A hearty plant-based stew commonly enjoyed with bread and onions.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional stalls selling grains, legumes, spice mixes, and fresh produce; great for tasting street bites.
Local vendors offering fresh injera and flatbread for take-away.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet locals with a friendly 'Selam' or 'Marhaban' and a gentle handshake; avoid rushing conversations and maintain eye contact.
Dress modestly in public spaces; in homes, follow local guests' lead and remove shoes if invited inside.
Safety
Tipping in Ak’ordat
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is modest and not mandatory; leave a small amount at restaurants or for guides if service is good.
Cash in Nakfa is widely preferred; credit cards are not widely accepted; some hotels and larger shops may accept mobile payments where available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear skies, cooler mornings, and excellent visibility for photography and city strolls.
Short rains and higher humidity; trails can be slippery; lush greenery in surrounding areas.
Ak’ordat at Night
Hiking in Ak’ordat
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate trail along the plateau edge offering panoramic views of valleys and distant mountains.
Airports
How to reach Ak’ordat by plane.
The main international gateway to Eritrea; serves a limited number of regional and international flights and is the primary access point for visitors.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Tigrinya-speaking communities with surrounding villages and clans forming the social fabric.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very popular locally; matches and casual games occur on weekends and in schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ak’ordat.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose lentil and chickpea stews; ask for vegetable-based tsebhi and avoid meat-based dishes.