whatdo

Things To Do
in Keren

Day Trips

Tours

Attractions

Prices

Keren is a vibrant city located in central Eritrea, known for its historical significance and cultural richness. The city boasts a variety of architectural styles, reflecting its diverse heritage and influences. Keren is home to bustling markets, where locals gather to buy and sell goods, creating a lively atmosphere.

Visitors to Keren can explore ancient ruins, experience traditional Eritrean cuisine, and immerse themselves in the city's unique blend of past and present.

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5.0(18)

Asmara City Tour

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4.5(6)

3 days tour Asmara - Massawa - Keren

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4.9(10)

4 days tour Asmara - Keren - Massawa

  • "Selam" - Hello
  • "Kemey alek?" - How are you?
  • "Yekenyeley" - Thank you
  • "Nihna kadam" - We are going
  • "Tiruf" - Goodbye

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $25 - $80
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
  • ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Keren's Markets
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the vibrant local market in Keren. Experience the colorful stalls and interact with friendly vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a nearby café, where you can savor traditional Eritrean dishes. After lunch, take a stroll through the city to admire the unique architecture and historical sites.

evening
:

End the day with a visit to a local restaurant for dinner. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and possibly catch some traditional music or dance performances.

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9 Days Eritrea and Beyond Explore Asmara Keren Massawa Djibouti

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7 Days Private Eritrea Tour

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Eritrean Highlights Safari 8 Days / 7 Nights

day 2
Nature and Scenery
morning
:

Begin the day with a hike to the surrounding hills of Keren, offering stunning views of the landscape. Pack some snacks and drinks to keep energized.

afternoon
:

After your hike, return to town and visit the Keren War Cemetery. Reflect on the history and significance of the site while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

evening
:

Dine at your hotel or a local eatery, choosing from a variety of Eritrean cuisine. Relax and recount the day’s adventures under the starry sky.

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8 Days in Eritrea Asmara Ancient Sites and Red Sea Paradise

Keren Day Trips

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage with diverse traditions and history.
  • Stunning natural beauty, including mountains and landscapes.
  • Growing agricultural sector with potential for development.
  • Strong sense of community and local traditions.
  • Limited access to modern amenities and infrastructure.
  • Economic challenges and high unemployment rates.
  • Political instability and restricted freedoms.
  • Potential issues with access to healthcare and education.

Best Activities in Keren

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hiking in the Keren Mountains

Explore the beautiful natural landscapes and rock formations while enjoying outdoor exercise and fresh air.

Visiting Keren War Cemetery

Pay respects to fallen soldiers and learn about the history of Eritrea at this historical site.

Exploring the Keren Market

Experience the local culture and shop for unique items at this bustling marketplace in Keren.

Tours

Uncover the best of Keren with these unforgettable tours.

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8 Days in Eritrea Asmara Ancient Sites and Red Sea Paradise

Keren Tours

Places to Visit in Keren

Visit one of these nice places.

Keren War Cemetery

A peaceful and picturesque spot with a view of the city.

Keren Market

A bustling and colorful location with plenty of photo opportunities.

Keren Cathedral

Offers great architectural and panoramic views of the city.

FilFil Forest

Scenic natural area with great opportunities for outdoor photography.

Food in Keren

Eritrean cuisine, particularly in Keren, is known for its diverse flavors and unique combination of spices. It is heavily influenced by the blending of indigenous culinary traditions with Turkish, Italian, and other Middle Eastern cooking styles. One of the most significant aspects of the local food culture is the emphasis on communal dining, where friends and family come together to share meals and enjoy each other's company.

Keren Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Injera with Tsebhi

This is a staple dish of Eritrean cuisine. It consists of spongy, sour flatbread called injera served with a stew, traditionally made with spiced meat, vegetables, and lentils.

Must-Try!

Fiery Doro Wat

A spicy chicken stew with a rich, complex flavor, often served with injera.

Zigni

A traditional Eritrean dish of spicy beef stew with vegetables and various aromatic spices.

Ful medames

A hearty breakfast dish made from slowly cooked fava beans and served with onions, tomatoes, and green chili peppers. It's often eaten with bread or injera.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Shida Market

One of the busiest and most vibrant markets in Keren. It offers a wide variety of fresh produce, spices, and street food stalls serving local delicacies such as sambusas, grilled meat skewers, and roasted corn.

Medeber Market

This market is known for its bustling atmosphere and is a great place to experience authentic Eritrean street food, including vegetarian and meat-based dishes. Visitors can sample Ful, a popular breakfast food, and a variety of grilled meats and kebabs.

Weather

The climate in this region is characterized as semi-arid, influenced by its elevation and location. The area experiences two main seasons: a rainy season and a dry season. Typically, the rainy season occurs from June to September, bringing most of the annual precipitation, which averages around 400 to 600 mm. The dry season lasts from October to May and is marked by significantly lower rainfall. Temperatures can vary, with warm to hot conditions prevailing throughout the year. Daytime temperatures often exceed 30°C (86°F) in the warmer months, while nights can cool significantly, especially in the winter months. The region benefits from its altitude, which can lead to more moderate temperatures compared to lower-lying areas. Overall, the climate supports a mixed landscape of agriculture and grazing, with farmers relying on the rainy season for crop production. The semi-arid conditions also mean that water resources can be limited, impacting both agriculture and livestock.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting customs

In Keren, it is important to greet people respectfully, particularly elders, by using traditional phrases and gestures. Handshakes are commonly used, but it's essential to follow the local customs and cues for proper greetings.

Respect for elders

Respecting elders is highly valued in Eritrean culture, including in Keren. It's important to show deference and consider the opinions and advice of older individuals. This can be demonstrated through attentive listening and thoughtful responses.

Dress code and modesty

In Keren, modest dress is typically favored, especially in more traditional or rural settings. Visitors should be mindful of local standards of modesty and dress appropriately, particularly when visiting religious sites or attending community events.

Safety

Safety in the region is influenced by several factors, including political stability, local social dynamics, and economic conditions. Generally, areas like Keren experience low crime rates, particularly concerning violent crime, making them relatively safe for residents and visitors alike. Petty crime can occur, as in any location, so it's advisable to remain vigilant and take standard precautions. The local authorities are typically present, and community ties are strong, contributing to a sense of security among the population. However, travelers should stay informed about current conditions and any travel advisories from their respective governments, as situations can change. Cultural sensitivities should also be respected to ensure a positive experience in the area. Engaging with locals and being aware of community norms can enhance safety and promote mutual respect. Overall, while the environment can be generally safe, awareness and caution are prudent, especially for those unfamiliar with the local context.

Tipping in Keren

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Keren, Eritrea, tipping is not a common practice. However, in some upscale restaurants and hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill, and additional tipping is not expected.

Payment

Cash is the primary mode of payment in Keren, Eritrea. Credit cards are not widely accepted, and it's advisable to carry sufficient cash for transactions. Some establishments may accept payment in foreign currency, but it's always best to use the local currency, the nakfa.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

January to March

Best time to visit Keren with mild temperatures and little rainfall.

April to June

Warm temperatures with sporadic rainfall, ideal for experiencing the lush greenery.

July to September

Hot and dry weather perfect for exploring the town and nearby attractions.

October to December

Cooler temperatures with occasional showers, but still a good time to visit.

Keren at Night

Nightlife in Keren often exudes a quiet and relaxed ambiance. As one of Eritrea's smaller cities, it does not boast the bustling nightlife scenes found in major metropolises. Instead, social interactions usually take place in local cafes and restaurants, where people gather to enjoy traditional Eritrean coffee and tsome beverages, savor local cuisine, and converse. In the evening, you might find families and friends taking leisurely walks through the streets or sitting outside their homes, enjoying the cooler nighttime temperatures. Occasionally, cultural or community events may be held, providing entertainment and a chance for socializing. The atmosphere is generally safe and community-focused, reflecting the close-knit nature of the locals. While Keren might not offer nightclubs or a wide range of late-night entertainment options, its nightlife charm lies in the simplicity and warmth of its community gatherings and the serene setting under the starry African sky.

Hiking in Keren

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Barka River Valley

A beautiful region with trails that run along the Barka River, offering scenic views and diverse wildlife.

Semenawi Berhedan National Park

A national park located in the highlands of Eritrea with stunning landscapes, mountainous terrain, and various hiking routes.

Asmera to Keren Trail

A hiking trail connecting the capital Asmera to Keren, featuring varying altitudes and breathtaking vistas along the way.

Gash-Barka Region

Expansive hiking opportunities in the Gash-Barka region, known for its unique ecosystems and rugged terrain.

Mount Naka

A prominent mountain near Keren that offers adventurous hikes with rewarding views from the peak.

Aiports

How to reach Keren by plane.

Asmara International Airport (ASM)

Located in Asmara, approximately 80 kilometers from Keren, this is the main international airport of Eritrea.

Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport (JIB)

Located in Djibouti City, Djibouti, about 200 kilometers from Keren, this airport serves as a major hub for flights in the region.

Hargeisa Egal International Airport (HGA)

Located in Hargeisa, Somaliland, roughly 400 kilometers from Keren, it offers various international flights.

Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD)

Located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, approximately 850 kilometers from Keren, this is one of the busiest airports in Africa.

Walkability

The walkability of an area is influenced by various factors such as urban planning, infrastructure, population density, and the availability of amenities. In many towns and cities, walkability can be assessed based on how easy and safe it is for residents to navigate on foot. In the context of Keren, one can observe that the town has a layout that facilitates walking, with many essential services and amenities located within a reasonable distance of residential areas. The streets can be narrow and winding, characteristic of traditional Eritrean towns, which may enhance a pedestrian-friendly environment despite potential challenges such as uneven pavement. The climate, which includes a dry season and moderate temperatures, can also affect walkability. During cooler parts of the day, walking is often more pleasant, encouraging foot traffic. Additionally, the presence of markets, shops, schools, and social spaces within walking distance adds to the town's pedestrian appeal. However, like many places, walkability can be impacted by other factors such as road conditions, traffic, and urban development priorities. Ensuring safe pedestrian pathways and maintaining infrastructure is key to promoting a walkable environment. Overall, the blend of cultural, social, and physical elements contributes to the walking experience in this vibrant community.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Tigrinya

The largest ethnic group in Keren, primarily involved in agriculture and trade.

Bilen

An ethnic group that resides in the region, with a significant presence in Keren.

Saho

A pastoralist community that also engages in agriculture, found in the Keren area.

Hedareb

An ethnic group known for their unique culture and traditions, living in the outskirts of Keren.

Rashaida

A small but notable ethnic group in the region, known for their trade and nomadic lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Keren and Eritrea as a whole, with many local teams and a strong community support.

Cycling

Cycling has gained popularity, particularly due to the country's mountainous terrain and events like the Eritrean National Cycling Championship.

Athletics

Track and field events have a strong following, with local athletes participating in various competitions both nationally and internationally.

Basketball

Basketball is popular among the youth, with several courts available for recreational play and local competitions.

Volleyball

Volleyball is also enjoyed in Keren, with many communities organizing matches and tournaments.

Traffic

In this vibrant city, traffic is characterized by a blend of both modern vehicles and traditional means of transportation, reflecting its unique cultural and economic landscape. Roads are often bustling with a variety of transport, including buses, taxis, and privately owned cars, while bicycles and pedestrians also play a significant role in daily commuting. The streets are typically narrow and can become congested, particularly during peak hours. It's common to see an array of activity, from local vendors setting up shop to residents navigating their way through the bustling environment. The presence of livestock can occasionally add to the mix, bringing an element of rural life into the urban setting. Public transportation options, such as shared taxis and minibuses, are popular among the locals, offering an affordable means of travel. However, the condition of the roads can vary, with some areas more developed than others, which may influence traffic flow and travel times. Overall, navigating the traffic scene requires a degree of patience and awareness of the diverse interactions between different modes of transport and the community's vibrant daily life.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Keren.

Hotels Apartments

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While Eritrean cuisine tends to be meat-heavy, there are plenty of vegetarian options such as lentil stews, vegetable curries, and salads. Some restaurants also offer vegetarian injera dishes and vegan-friendly options.

Gluten-Free Options

Most traditional Eritrean dishes are gluten-free as they are based on teff flour. However, it's essential to communicate dietary restrictions clearly when ordering, as some dishes may contain wheat-based ingredients or thickeners.

Healthcare

Healthcare in this region faces numerous challenges, including limited resources and infrastructure. The healthcare system is often characterized by a shortage of medical professionals, inadequate facilities, and a lack of essential medical supplies. Access to healthcare services can be uneven, particularly in rural areas where facilities may be far from communities. Primary healthcare services are typically provided through a network of health clinics and hospitals, with the government focusing on increasing access to basic health services. Preventative care and community health initiatives are also important components, aimed at improving maternal and child health and controlling infectious diseases. Despite these challenges, there are efforts to strengthen healthcare services through partnerships with international organizations and NGOs, which often support vaccination campaigns and health education programs. Additionally, traditional medicine still plays a significant role in healthcare practices among the local population. Overall, while there are strides being made to improve the situation, significant obstacles remain in providing comprehensive and effective healthcare to all residents.

Discover Eritrea

Read more in our Eritrea 2024 Travel Guide.

Eritrea Travel Guide