Things To Do
in Edd
Edd is a small town located in the Northern Red Sea region of Eritrea. It is known for its historical significance as a former Italian colonial outpost. The town has a diverse population, with a mix of different ethnic groups and languages spoken.
Edd's economy is primarily based on agriculture and fishing, with a scenic coastal location that attracts some tourism.
- "Selam" - Hello
- "Kemey alek?" - How are you?
- "Yekenyeley" - Thank you
- "Nihna kadam" - We are going
- "Tiruf" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning by visiting the famous Asmara Cathedral, a stunning example of Italian fascist architecture. Take in the intricate details and learn about its history.
In the afternoon, head to the National Museum of Eritrea to see artifacts that represent the country's rich past. Don't miss the chance to explore the intriguing exhibitions.
As evening falls, find a local restaurant to enjoy traditional Eritrean cuisine. Try injera and doro wat while soaking in the local ambiance.
Kick off your day with a hike in the breathtaking mountains surrounding Asmara. Enjoy the fresh air and stunning views as you explore the trails.
In the afternoon, visit the picturesque town of Keren, known for its vibrant markets and beautiful landscapes. Take some time to shop for local handicrafts.
Return to Asmara for a relaxing dinner at a rooftop café. Enjoy panoramic views of the city while sampling delicious local dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Diverse landscapes ranging from coastal areas to highland plateaus.
- Strategic location by the Red Sea, beneficial for trade.
- Community-driven lifestyles, fostering strong social ties.
- Political and economic challenges can affect stability.
- Limited access to healthcare and education in some regions.
- Infrastructure development is still ongoing and may be lacking.
- Human rights concerns and restrictions on personal freedoms.
Best Activities in Edd
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails of the Edd Mountains, offering breathtaking views and a chance to experience the natural beauty of Eritrea.
Enjoy a camping trip in the Keren area, where you can relax under the stars and experience the tranquility of the Eritrean landscape.
Observe various species of birds at Tio Lake, a perfect spot for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts.
Participate in cultural tours around Edd, where you can interact with local communities and learn about their traditions and customs.
Take a photography excursion to capture the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of the Edd region.
Places to Visit in Edd
Visit one of these nice places.
The capital city offers stunning views of its unique architecture and surrounding hills, making it an excellent location for photography.
Known for its beautiful Red Sea coastline, Massawa provides picturesque views of the sea, islands, and the old city with its Ottoman-era buildings.
This national park features dramatic landscapes, deep valleys, and high peaks, perfect for nature photography and capturing breathtaking views.
A group of stunning islands in the Red Sea, the archipelago offers pristine beaches and vibrant marine life, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Famous for its colorful markets and surrounding hills, Keren provides great opportunities for capturing local culture and scenic landscapes.
Food in Edd
Edd Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple dish featuring injera, a spongy sourdough flatbread, served with a variety of flavorful stews such as tsebhi (spiced meat stew), alicha (vegetable stew), or shiro (ground chickpea stew). This dish is a must-try for a true taste of Eritrean cuisine. You can savor this traditional dish at local eateries like Asmara Restaurant and Edd Cultural Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Zigni is a spicy and aromatic beef stew seasoned with berbere (Eritrean spice blend) and served with injera. It offers a rich and robust flavor that is popular among locals and visitors alike. Head to Edd Spice House or Geza Zigni for an authentic zigni experience.
These are traditional Eritrean dishes that feature a blend of flavors and textures. Fata consists of torn pieces of injera mixed with yogurt and seasoned butter, while tafachi combines bread, milk, and sugar, resulting in a delightful dessert. Fitfit is a refreshing salad made with torn pieces of injera mixed with tomatoes, onions, and a zesty dressing. Discover these delightful dishes at Edd's local eateries, including Habesha Tasty and Tigrigna Delights.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the bustling Edd Central Market to immerse yourself in the vibrant street food scene. You can sample an array of snacks and small bites, including sambusas (crispy turnovers filled with savory fillings), roasted corn, and grilled meats. The market also offers an assortment of fresh fruits, aromatic spices, and local delicacies, providing a true taste of Eritrean street food culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Eritrean culture, elders are highly respected. It’s important to greet older individuals first and use appropriate titles when addressing them.
Handshakes are a common greeting among men, while women may greet each other with a handshake or a hug. It’s polite to inquire about someone’s health and family during the greeting.
Eritreans value hospitality, so if you're invited to someone’s home, it's customary to accept. Bring a small gift, such as fruit or sweets, as a sign of appreciation.
Safety
Tipping in Edd
Ensure a smooth experience
In Eritrea, tipping is not a common practice and is generally considered optional. However, in the service industry, such as in restaurants or hotels, leaving a small tip (around 10%) is appreciated if the service is satisfactory. It is not mandatory, and customers often round up the bill or leave small change as a gesture of gratitude.
Payment methods in Eritrea predominantly include cash transactions, with the Nakfa being the official currency. Credit and debit card usage is limited, and many businesses may not accept cards. Mobile payment options are becoming more popular but are still not widely used compared to cash. Larger establishments, especially in urban areas, may accept cards, but it's advisable to always carry cash when visiting smaller shops or rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Winter is the best time to visit Edd as the weather is mild and pleasant. Expect daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration. This season also has less rainfall.
Spring sees temperatures beginning to rise, reaching up to 30°C in late May. The landscape can still be lush early in the season, providing beautiful views. However, be prepared for some hotter days as summer approaches.
Summer can be quite hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. This season can also bring humidity and increased rainfall, particularly in July and August. It is less favorable for travel, but if you can handle the heat, you may encounter fewer crowds.
Autumn is a transitional season, with temperatures starting to cool down again. Expect daytime highs around 28°C. The landscape may still be dry, but early autumn can offer comfortable traveling conditions before the onset of winter.
Edd at Night
Hiking in Edd
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The Erba Mountains offer stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems, making it a great spot for hiking enthusiasts looking to explore the natural beauty of Eritrea.
A scenic trail that connects the capital city of Asmara with Keren, passing through rolling hills and cultural sites, ideal for those wanting to experience both nature and Eritrean heritage.
Located in the Southern region, Senafe provides various hiking trails that lead to breathtaking vistas and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.
The coastal area near Massawa features trails with beautiful views of the Red Sea, perfect for those looking to combine hiking with beachside relaxation.
Debarwa is known for its hilly terrain and scenic landscapes. The hiking routes here are less frequented, offering a tranquil experience immersed in nature.
Aiports
How to reach Edd by plane.
The main international airport serving Asmara, the capital city of Eritrea.
Located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, this is one of the largest airports in East Africa and serves as a major hub for international flights.
The primary airport serving Djibouti City, Djibouti, and a key entry point for travel to the Horn of Africa.
An international airport located in Hargeisa, Somaliland, that connects the region to various international and domestic destinations.
Situated in Mogadishu, Somalia, this airport is significant for international travel in the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Eritrea, primarily found in the highland regions, and they predominantly speak Tigrinya.
Predominantly found in the western lowlands, this group speaks Tigre and is one of the major ethnic communities in Eritrea.
An indigenous group primarily located in the southern region of Eritrea, known for their pastoral and agricultural lifestyles.
Mainly found in thewestern regions of Eritrea and speak the Hedareb language, they are part of the broader Afro-Asiatic language family.
A smaller ethnic group mainly located in central Eritrea, primarily speaking the Bilen language.
A nomadic group originally from the Arabian Peninsula, now residing in Eritrea primarily along the coastal areas.
An ethnic group primarily located in the western region of Eritrea, known for their distinct cultural practices and language.
Primarily located in the western lowland areas, the Nara people practice agriculture and have their own language and traditions.
Includes various small groups and communities throughout Eritrea that contribute to the nation's diverse cultural fabric.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Eritrea, with a strong following and a vibrant local league. The national team participates in regional competitions.
Eritrea has a rich cycling tradition, with many successful cyclists who have gained international recognition. Cycling events are common and popular among locals.
Athletics, particularly long-distance running, has a significant following, with several athletes representing Eritrea in international competitions.
Basketball is growing in popularity, especially among the youth, with several local teams and leagues existing within the country.
Martial arts, including judo and taekwondo, have gained popularity in Eritrea, with training academies and clubs promoting these sports.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Edd.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Eritrean cuisine prominently features meat-based dishes, many restaurants and eateries in Edd offer vegetarian and vegan options to cater to diverse dietary preferences. Look for restaurants with vegetable-based stews, lentil dishes, and fresh salads to enjoy a satisfying plant-based dining experience.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can still savor Eritrean cuisine by opting for injera made from alternative gluten-free grains such as teff. Some restaurants in Edd offer gluten-free injera and dishes prepared with gluten-free ingredients to accommodate individuals with gluten sensitivities.