Eritrea Travel Guide

Eritrea is a hidden gem located in the Horn of Africa, bordered by Sudan, Ethiopia, and Djibouti, with a lengthy coastline along the Red Sea. This young nation, gaining independence from Ethiopia in 1993 after a thirty-year war, boasts a stunning landscape that ranges from lush forests and endless deserts to vibrant coral reefs and volcanic islands. Eritrea's capital, Asmara, known for its well-preserved colonial Italian architecture, offers a unique glimpse into the country's layered history and presents a blend of Italian, Ottoman, and Egyptian architectural influences, evident in structures such as the Fiat Tagliero Building and St. Joseph's Cathedral.

For travelers, Eritrea offers an intriguing array of cultural and natural attractions. The country's diverse ethnic groups provide a rich tapestry of cultures and traditions, most notably seen during colorful festivals and in the variety of languages spoken throughout the region. Furthermore, the Dahlak Archipelago, a group of over 100 islands in the Red Sea, provides an almost untouched sanctuary for diving and snorkeling, home to vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. The port city of Massawa, with its mixture of Ottoman and Italian architectural styles, acts as the gateway to these islands and offers a historic and labyrinthine Old Town that invites exploration. Visiting Eritrea offers a journey through a landscape full of surprises, steeped in history yet largely unexplored by mainstream tourism.

Best places to visit in Eritrea

Asmara

The capital city of Eritrea, renowned for its well-preserved colonial Italian architecture and café culture.

Asmara Travel Guide

Massawa

A port city on the Red Sea, known for its Ottoman and Italian architectural styles, and gateway to the Dahlak Archipelago.

Massawa Travel Guide

Keren

Known for its diverse ethnic groups and bustling market, providing a vivid picture of Eritrea’s cultural composition.

Guide coming soon

Dahlak Archipelago

A collection of over 120 pristine islands known for their rich marine life, offering excellent diving opportunities.

Guide coming soon

Filfil

Home to the Filfil Selam rainforest, which is part of the Green Belt region of Eritrea known for its biodiversity.

Guide coming soon

Qohaito

An ancient archaeological site that was once part of the Aksumite Empire, featuring ruins that date back thousands of years.

Guide coming soon

Nakfa

Historical town notable as a stronghold and symbol of Eritrean liberation during the war for independence.

Guide coming soon

Senafe

Known for its archaeological sites and rocky landscape dominated by the imposing Metera (or Amba) rock.

Guide coming soon

Barentu

Capital of the Gash-Barka Region, offering insight into the lives of various ethnic groups such as the Nara and Kunama people.

Guide coming soon

Teseney

Dynamic border town with a mixture of cultures, known for its trade and as a critical conjunction point with Sudan.

Guide coming soon

Eritrea Travel Safety

How Safe is Eritrea

Eritrea image gallery