Eritrea

Eritrea, a country on the Horn of Africa with a coastline on the Red Sea, offers travellers a unique combination of ancient African traditions and a vibrant colonial heritage. This relatively young nation is appealing for its distinctive culture, rich history, and diverse natural landscapes, from coastal plains to mountain plateaus. The nation's capital, Asmara, is a true jewel, known for its unique early 20th-century architecture.

Eritrea's historical heritage is particularly evident in its cities. Asmara, often called "Little Rome," is a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to its magnificently preserved buildings in the Italian modernist, Art Deco, and futurist styles. A walk through its streets is like a journey back in time. Another significant city is Massawa, an ancient port on the Red Sea, where Ottoman, Egyptian, and Italian influences have blended to create a unique atmosphere.

Beyond its cultural treasures, Eritrea also boasts remarkable natural beauty. Its extensive Red Sea coastline and the Dahlak Archipelago offer excellent opportunities for diving and snorkelling amongst untouched coral reefs. The country's inland areas feature a stunning variety of landscapes, from desert expanses to green highlands. Eritrea is a destination for those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, authentic experiences, and an opportunity to immerse themselves in a unique culture in an atmosphere of tranquillity and hospitality.

The national currency of Eritrea is the Eritrean Nakfa (ERN). The Nakfa was introduced in 1997, replacing the Ethiopian Birr. Banknotes are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 Nakfa. They often feature scenes that reflect the country's culture, history, and aspirations for development, such as working people or students. Coins are also in circulation in cent and 1 Nakfa denominations.

Foreign currency, such as US Dollars, Euros, or UAE Dirhams, should be exchanged for Nakfa exclusively at official exchange points. These are typically found in banks or major hotels, primarily in the capital, Asmara. It is strongly advised not to use street money changers, as this carries a risk of fraud and is against local law. The use of credit cards in Eritrea is extremely limited and may only be possible in a few large international hotels and some airline offices. Therefore, travellers are strongly recommended to carry a sufficient amount of cash for their daily expenses throughout the trip.

For residents and citizens of the UAE, a visa is required to enter Eritrea. Unlike many destinations, UAE passport holders do not have visa-free access or options for a visa on arrival for tourism purposes. The visa must be arranged in advance through an Eritrean embassy or consulate.

To cross the border, you will need a passport with a validity of at least six months beyond your planned date of departure from the country. Other commonly required documents include proof of onward or return tickets, hotel booking confirmations, and a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer. As visa regulations and document requirements can change, it is strongly recommended to verify the most current information with the nearest Embassy of Eritrea before your trip.

When planning your trip to Eritrea, you will not need to worry about changing time zones within the country. The entire nation observes a single time zone: East Africa Time (EAT), which is GMT+3. This is one hour behind the UAE's Gulf Standard Time (GST). This means the time in the capital, Asmara, is the same as everywhere else in the country.

With no time differences between regions, you can easily plan your travel and excursions without the need to adjust your watch. This simplifies logistics, allowing you to make the most of your time exploring this fascinating country.

The easiest way to get to Eritrea is by air. The country's main international gateway is Asmara International Airport, located in the capital, Asmara. For travellers from the UAE, flydubai operates direct flights from Dubai to Asmara. Other convenient options include connecting flights with airlines such as EgyptAir via Cairo, Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa, or Turkish Airlines via Istanbul. It is recommended to check with the airlines for the most current schedules and available routes in advance.

Although Eritrea has land borders and a coastline on the Red Sea, entry options via land or sea are currently limited for tourists and are not common ways to arrive in the country. Most travellers choose to fly. In any case, when planning your trip, especially during popular tourist seasons, it is always wise to book your flights and accommodation well in advance to secure the best options and prices.

For your reference, here is a summary of the country's main international airport:

The cities of Eritrea are a kaleidoscope of histories and architectural styles, each offering its own unique perspective on this remarkable country. The nation's heart is undoubtedly Asmara, the capital, renowned for its early 20th-century modernist architecture. Thanks to this unique heritage, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a stroll through its streets is like a journey back in time.

Equally appealing is the port city of Massawa, Eritrea's historic gateway to the Red Sea. This ancient city, with its rich history, captivates visitors with its old-world architecture, where Ottoman, Egyptian, and Italian influences intertwine. In addition to its architectural treasures, Massawa offers beautiful beaches and diving opportunities. For those interested in authentic culture and history, a visit to Keren, the country's second-largest city, is a must. It is famous for its bustling market and iconic sites, such as the chapel of St. Mariam Dearit, which is carved inside a huge baobab tree.

In the south of the country lies another important port city — Assab. It plays a key role in Eritrea's economy and also provides opportunities to experience coastal life and local traditions. Each of these cities is unique in its own way and ready to offer travellers unforgettable experiences, introducing them to the diverse facets of Eritrean culture and history.

Eritrea is a country with a rich history and unique culture, offering travellers an amazing variety of attractions. From architectural masterpieces to breathtaking natural landscapes, every corner of this land holds its own unique story, ready to be shared with its guests. As a country where a significant portion of the population is Muslim, halal food is widely available in major cities, and it is advisable to confirm with restaurants. Visitors to religious sites should dress modestly.

One of Eritrea's main jewels is its capital, Asmara. This city, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, is striking for its magnificent early 20th-century modernist architecture, preserved from the time of Italian influence. A walk through its streets is a true journey back in time, where every building, whether it's the Cinema Impero, the Opera House, or the Catholic Cathedral, is an architectural monument that tells of the city's vibrant past.

For lovers of nature and the underwater world, Eritrea offers the Dahlak Archipelago. This group of more than a hundred islands and islets in the Red Sea is famous for its untouched coral reefs, rich marine life, and crystal-clear water. It is an ideal place for diving, snorkelling, and a peaceful beach holiday away from the hustle and bustle of the city—a true paradise for explorers of the deep.

You can immerse yourself in the country's ancient history by visiting Qohaito. This impressive archaeological complex, situated on a high plateau, holds the remains of an ancient city that was once an important trading centre of the powerful Aksumite Kingdom. Here you can see the ruins of ancient temples, majestic palaces, and residential buildings, as well as mysterious pre-Aksumite rock paintings.

No less interesting is the historic port city of Massawa on the Red Sea coast. Its old town, picturesquely spread across two islands, Sheikh Said and Taulud, charms with a unique blend of Ottoman, Egyptian, and Italian architecture. The narrow, winding streets, ancient mosques, and houses built from coral stone create the unique atmosphere of this ancient and once-bustling port.

The best time to visit Eritrea largely depends on your plans and the region you intend to explore. The high tourist season is generally from October to March. During this period, the weather is most favourable for travel. In the highland areas, including the capital Asmara, you can expect dry, sunny weather with comfortable daytime temperatures and cool evenings. On the Red Sea coast, in cities like Massawa, the intense heat subsides and humidity is lower, making a visit much more pleasant. This is the ideal time for sightseeing, trekking in the mountains, and experiencing the country's culture.

The low season covers the months from April to September. The central highlands, such as the area around Keren, experience their main rainy season during this time (usually from June to September). While the rains can make some roads difficult to navigate, they also bring the landscape to life, making it exceptionally green and vibrant. At the same time, the coastal and western lowland regions, like Assab, are subject to extreme heat and high humidity, which may be uncomfortable for some travellers. A benefit of travelling in the low season is that there are fewer tourists, although Eritrea is not generally overcrowded.

It is important to remember that Eritrea's climate varies significantly depending on the region, ranging from temperate in the highlands to a hot desert climate on the coast and in the western lowlands. Therefore, it is advisable to check the weather forecast for the specific places you plan to visit before your trip. It is also worth noting local holidays, such as Independence Day (24 May), and major religious festivals. These include the Orthodox Christian celebration of Timket (Epiphany) in January and Islamic holidays like Eid al-Fitr. These events can enrich your journey with unique cultural experiences but may also affect the availability of some services.

The culture of Eritrea is rich and diverse, and understanding local customs will help make your journey more pleasant and respectful. Greetings are very important; a handshake is customary, often using both hands as a symbol of respect, particularly towards elders. Eye contact is valued as a sign of sincerity but should not be overly intense. Hospitality is a cornerstone of the culture. Being invited into an Eritrean home is a great honour, and a small gift for the hosts, such as fruit or sweets, is always appreciated. A special place in the culture is held by the coffee ceremony; this is not merely a beverage but a significant social ritual, and declining an invitation to coffee may be seen as disrespectful.

In public places, and especially when visiting religious sites such as Christian churches and mosques, modest dress is recommended. Shoulders and knees should be covered, and it is advisable for women to carry a headscarf to cover their hair. As is common in many Muslim cultures, food is often eaten with the right hand, as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean. It is customary to wash hands before and after meals. Due to the country's significant Muslim population, halal food is widely available, though it is always wise to confirm. Try to avoid public displays of strong emotion, loud arguments, or criticism of local customs. It is best to ask for permission before photographing people. A key national holiday that reflects the country's spirit is Independence Day on 24 May, which celebrates gaining sovereignty. Religious festivals, both Christian (such as Christmas and Easter) and Muslim (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha), are also widely celebrated, highlighting the multi-faith nature of Eritrean society.

Eritrea offers travellers diverse experiences, especially for those who appreciate outdoor activities and discovering a unique culture. The Red Sea coast, including the renowned Dahlak Archipelago, is an excellent location for diving and snorkelling, allowing exploration of the rich underwater world. The country's mountainous regions provide opportunities for fascinating trekking and observing local nature.

The cultural programme in Eritrea is largely connected to its historical heritage. In the capital, Asmara, you can spend hours admiring the unique Art Deco architecture, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While there are few large theatres or concert halls, you can visit local museums and galleries to gain a deeper understanding of the country's history and art. As for shopping, the colourful city markets are the place to find authentic souvenirs, such as handmade crafts, traditional clothing, spices, and of course, aromatic Eritrean coffee.

Evening entertainment in Eritrea is mainly centred around restaurants that offer both local and international cuisine, with many providing halal options. There are also cosy cafes and relaxed lounges where you can unwind after a busy day. Nightlife here is generally calm and sociable. For family holidays, the country offers an immersion into a unique culture and natural environment that can be an unforgettable adventure for children, although there are few specialised theme parks. The main focus is on shared exploration and new experiences.

Planning a trip? Wonderful! To ensure the financial aspects of your journey do not come as a surprise, it is important to remember that currency exchange rates are constantly changing. Therefore, we strongly advise monitoring the latest rates both before you fly and throughout your trip. You can use the data provided below for this purpose — we monitor exchange rates 24/7 and strive to provide the most current information.