Things To Do
in Massawa
Massawa sits along Eritrea's Red Sea coast, a sheltered harbor famous for coral-stone architecture and centuries of maritime trade. The city blends Italian colonial remnants with Arab-influenced seafronts, narrow lanes, and colorful fisherman’s houses perched above turquoise water. Its waterfront hosts mosques, forts, and bustling markets that whisper of resilience and cross-cultural exchange.
Massawa is best explored on foot, where sea breezes, shaded courtyards, and sunset vistas reveal a unique, coastal Eritrean atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Old Port of Massawa, where you can admire the ancient coral stone architecture that dates back to the 19th century. Stroll through the streets lined with colorful buildings, taking in the vibrant local culture and history. Don't forget to stop by the Massawa Museum to learn more about the city's rich past and its significance in Eritrean history.
After lunch at a local eatery, head over to the impressive Ottoman-era buildings, such as the Emperor Haile Selassie Mosque, which showcases intricate architectural details. Take your time exploring the bustling souk, where you can shop for traditional crafts and local products. As the sun begins to dip, enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront, soaking in the stunning views of the Red Sea.
As night falls, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a seaside restaurant, where you can savor fresh seafood dishes while listening to the gentle waves. Enjoy the ambient atmosphere as the city comes alive with local music and laughter. Conclude your evening with a stroll along the boardwalk, taking in the stars above and the glow of the city lights reflecting on the water.
Start your morning at the stunning Dahlak Archipelago, where you can take a boat trip to explore the pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Spend some time snorkeling among the vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish, experiencing the underwater beauty of the Red Sea firsthand. Enjoy a picnic breakfast on the beach, surrounded by the serene sounds of the ocean.
In the afternoon, engage in thrilling water sports such as windsurfing or kayaking, available at various water sports centers along the coast. Alternatively, relax on the beach with a good book or take a refreshing swim in the warm waters. As you unwind, enjoy the picturesque scenery of the archipelago and its untouched natural beauty.
As the sun sets over the horizon, enjoy a beach bonfire with fellow travelers, sharing stories and laughter under the starlit sky. Indulge in a delicious barbecue dinner featuring local seafood and traditional Eritrean dishes. Let the soothing sound of the waves and the warmth of the fire create a memorable end to your adventurous day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚌One-way local transport | $0.50-1 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-2 |
| 🎟️Entrance to attractions | $1-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich maritime culture and scenery
- Affordability and straightforward travel logistics
- Accessible on-foot exploration of the waterfront
- Strong sea-air atmosphere and sunsets
- Limited nightlife and advanced healthcare facilities
- Occasional heat and humidity
- Less English widely spoken outside major hotels
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكراً" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "كم السعر؟" - How much is this?
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Massawa
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful, coral-stone buildings and Italian-era facades along the harbor create striking seafront photos.
Historic forts overlook the Red Sea with dramatic sea cliffs and sunset backdrops.
Traditional wooden dhows and lively markets line the water, offering dynamic street photography opportunities.
Food in Massawa
Massawa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant seafood and rice dish with onions, garlic, and spices, popular along the Red Sea coast.
Must-Try!
Fresh catches marinated in berbere and grilled, often served with injera or bread.
Traditional flavorful stews paired with injera; vegetarian options feature chickpea-based shiro or spicy tsebhi.
Beef stewed in a rich berbere sauce served atop soft injera; a hearty Eritrean classic.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling morning market by the harbor with fresh catches, bargaining, and seafood snacks.
Snack carts along the corniche offering fried fish bites, grilled skewers, spices, and fresh fruit.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, especially in religious and traditional areas; shoulders and knees should be covered.
Ask permission before photographing people, particularly elders or religious sites.
Greet with a smile and a handshake; use the right hand when giving or receiving items, and be polite with phrases when engaging locals.
Safety
Tipping in Massawa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; in restaurants and with guides, a 5-10% tip is common where service is provided. Porters and drivers may expect small tips.
Cash is king in most venues; credit cards are rarely accepted outside hotels. ATMs are limited, so bring cash and small denominations.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and humid with strong coastal winds; sea breezes offer relief, but bring sun protection and hydration; occasionally light rain may occur.
Pleasantly warm days, cooler evenings, low humidity; ideal for sightseeing and outdoor walking.
Hotter days with warming nights; great for beach time early in the morning or late afternoon.
Massawa at Night
Hiking in Massawa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate hikes along the coastline offering panoramic Red Sea views and sea breezes.
Short kayaking or boat trips can offer shoreline hikes and scenic vantage points around nearby islets.
Airports
How to reach Massawa by plane.
Main international gateway to Eritrea; connects to regional hubs and services domestic flights within the country. Ground transfer to Massawa by road takes approximately 2-3 hours depending on road conditions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Massawa’s population reflects Eritrea’s diversity, with Tigrinya-speaking communities, Arabic-speaking residents, and coastal groups who maintain Arab-influenced traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Eritrea, with local teams and community games across towns including coastal cities.
Snorkeling, swimming, and boat-based activities are common along the Massawa coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Massawa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Eritrean dishes offer vegetarian options; look for shiro, lentils, lentil stews, and injera-based plates. Ask for vegetable sambus or cabbage dishes and avoid meat sauces; many places can tailor dishes to vegetarian needs.