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Eritrea’s Only Travel Guide You Need For A Great Trip in 11 Easy Steps

Eritrea’s Only Travel Guide You Need For A Great Trip in 11 Easy Steps

Eritrea’s Background

 

Early evidence of human life living in Eritrea probably extends way before the Semites, who arrived from the South Arabian Kingdom of Saba (Sheba) and assimilated the Cushitic inhabitants in 1000 BC. The kingdom of Aksum had a sophisticated civilization and by the end of the 4th century AD consolidated its control over the northern Ethiopian Plateau and the eastern lowlands.. The capital was located in modern day Tigray in Ethiopia. By the 6th century, Aksum began to fall after its might had once extended as far as modern Egypt and Yemen, giving way to the Ethiopian Zagwe and Solomonid kingdoms to start exerting some control by the 12th century. Eritrea’s central highlands, Mereb Melash, was also governed by Bahr Negash. As the Ethiopian kingdoms gradually shifted focus southward to Gonder and Shewa, the crown’s hold weakend, giving the lords of Tigray a chance to take the highlands.

By the 16th century, with the rise of the Ottoman Empire, the Turks seized the Dahlak Archipelago, then Massawa for more than three centuries, after both Eritrea and Ethiopia were originally invaded by Ahmad Ibn Ibrahim al-Ghazi, the ruler of the sultanate of Adal. After his army was evacuated, the Ottoman Turks captured even more of Eritrea’s coastline. Off the plateau, the nomadic people in the west and north had no foreign ruler until the early 19th century, when the Egyptians invaded Sudan and plundered far into. the Eritrean lowlands. The Turks were driven out of Massawa, and the Egyptians took control by 1865. However, in 1875, an Egyptian army that had made it to the Mereb River was wiped off by Ethiopian soldiers. But, since the opening of Suez Canal, the Red Sea has become a battleground for international competition. This is when the Italian forces started eyeing the region, and encroaching unto the territory until by 1885, the Italian forces arrived in Massawa, Asseb, and beyond, they were opposed by the Turks and Ethiopians, and Tigray’s Emperor, but not by the Egyptians. In 1897 the Treaty of Addis Ababa recognized Italian administration in Eritrea in exchange for Italian recognition of Ethiopian sovereignty.

There were no cities on the Eritrean plateau before colonization, with people concentrating along the Res Sea coast. However, under Italian authority, Eritrea’s cities thrived, with tens of thousands of Italians coming in with their cutting-edge talents and perspectives. Asmara blossomed out of the plateau in a Mediterranean style, and both the port of Massawa and the port of Asseb were rebuilt and upgraded. Road and rail development linked the various districts of the colony, and a minor manufacturing sector also arose, in which Eritreans learned industrial skills. This Italian expansion in Eritrea led way to its army preparing to invade Ethiopia by the mid-1930s and annexed the country. When the British expelled Italy from the Horn of Africa in 1941, the war finally ended. Eritrea’s destiny was heavily influenced by political and diplomatic maneuvering in the decade that followed, while the country was still formally under British rule.

Ethiopia then started their efforts in annexing Eritrea for its two seaports, arguing that Eritrea had always been an Ethiopian jurisdiction. However, Eritrean opposition made it hard on Ethiopia to claim the land. The Muslims of Eritrea faced widespread persecution by Ethiopia’s Christian state. Muslim activists in Eritrea created the Muslim League in 1947 to promote national independence in response to Christian efforts to unite the country, and adopted Arabic as well as sought Arab country’s support. This resulted in a political divide along religious lines, with some Christians supporting union with Ethiopia and Muslims supporting independence from Ethiopia. Further down the road, Eritrea constitution aimed to strike a balance between the country’s many religious and ethnic communities, establishing both Arabic and Tigrinya as official languages, and maintained religious diversity. When Ethiopians meddled, the equilibrium was thrown off, and Muslims were the first to suffer as Arabic was removed from the curriculum and Muslims were denied access to government jobs. After Ethiopia annexed Eritrea as a province, it set off a 30-year independence fight that concluded in 1991 with the victory of Eritrean rebels against state troops; independence was overwhelmingly supported in a vote held in 1993, its borders are still unsafe to this day due to Ethiopian opposition.

Referred to sometimes as the North Korea of Africa, Eritrea’s reputation was built over its restrictive and secretive ways they kept their nation. It is a truly unfrequented country, with almost 6,000 visitors annually, but as little as it gets tourist does not reflect how much hidden treasures are in Eritrea. Even though at first glance, and due to prejudice, you might see it as another chaotic destination in Africa, but, it is unexpectedly laid back and welcoming to what little visitors they get. The locals are warm-hearted, the culture is immensely deeply diverse, and a wealth of attractions are under Eritrea’s roof.

 

“A secretive country with a rare colonial past, hard to get to, yet, an intriguing nation for the avid traveler. Uncover its ruins, colonial buildings, and its appealing nature of laid back beaches and pristine national parks.“

 

After its 30 year war with Ethiopia, Eritrea’s independence in 1991 was just the beginning to its uniqueness. This tiny country in East Africa is bordered by the Red Sea, Sudan, Djibouti, and Ethiopia. You will probably be asked by the locals about your trip, and how are you enjoying Eritrea, they are extremely curious as to what might bring you here. Despite its relatively modest population size of around 6 million, Eritrea is remarkably diverse in terms of its many different ethnic groups. Although Tigrayans make up the bulk of the population, Eritrea is home to a total of eight other distinct people groups: the Tigre, Rashaida, Afar, Saho, Bilen, Beja, Kunama, and Nara. The Tigrayans are the largest ethnic group in Eritrea, and they share the same culture as their northern Ethiopian counterparts in the Tigray region, which is also one of the most visited areas in the nation. Even though Eritrea shares huge similarities with Ethiopia, it still has its distinct charm.

Eritrea is home to a wide variety of ethnic groups, and the country’s history as an Italian colony from 1890 to 1943 gives visitors an experience unlike any other in Africa, as one of the few Italian colonies on the continent. Since the Italians founded the country from scratch and colonized it so recently, the country still bears a strong imprint of Italian culture. This is especially true in the capital city of Asmara, which was constructed from the ground up by the Italians and features art deco architecture, palm tree-lined boulevards, and charming cafes whose outdoor seating areas are always full of Eritreans sipping flavorful macchiatos. Asmara, Eritrea’s capital, is a compelling incentive to travel to the country on its own, thanks to its refined African flair that sets it apart from other African cities. Also, home to the nomadic Muslim Tigre, whom you may encounter if you travel to Keren. It is possible to meet Saho people in Foro or anywhere south of Massawa; their ladies wear brightly colored clothing. You will also have the opportunity to meet several Afar people while in Foro.

As modern as Eritrea may seem from its capital, outside Asmara you will feel like you’ve stepped back in time, where more traditional places are found. The kind and welcoming people makes anyone’s trip to Eritrea ever more pleasing. Being approached by the curious locals to hear your thoughts about their country and the culture, as well as their genuine interest in you. Venture out into the sloping hills, then the blue waters of the Red Sea, to the Italian aura that dominates many spots, then into lively markets. 

Asmara, the capital, with its Italian Art Deco buildings is one of the safest, and tidiest urban areas in Africa. Spend your time strolling the streets, alleys, religious buildings, from churches, mosques, and synagogues. Shop in vibrant markets, and witness the relics of the colonial past. Make the scenic drive into neighboring Keren, meet the Kunama people in the Barentu area, and head to Massawa’s beaches filled with whitewashed buildings and Ottomon relics everywhere. Qohaito’s ruins gives you a glance of the country that goes back to 1 AD full of mystery. The diversity in Eritrea’s small land makes it difficult to put your hand on its vibe. The country’s eclectic blend of styles and influences has made it stand out as one of the most intriguing and unexpected spots in all of Africa. One of the most mysterious countries in Africa, with a rich history, fascinating blend of culture, breathtaking landscapes, and one of the most welcoming locals.

You will find different types of activities to cater to your taste while in Eritrea with its unique combination of natural and cultural characteristics, plus the challenge to get in the country makes it so intriguing. Eritrea’s landscapes are breathtaking, ranging from the recognizable escarpments, plateaus, and towering peaks of the Abyssinian highlands to the desolate, desert beaches of the Red Sea coast. Eritrea is a cultural crossroads with a wealth of fascinating ancient monuments and places.

To enjoy Eritrea the most, you will want to stay on the move in order to see and do as much as you can of what the nation has to offer for tourists. In this Cruisit Eritrea’s travel guide, we give you a plan that falls halfway in the middle, with a good mix of leisure and discovery. Enter the country and fully experience and explore this hidden East African dream destination. Eritrea’s trip plan that we provide below is best experienced in the country’s high season, but you can also enjoy the shoulder season as much. Your African fantasies will come true, with warm days beside pristine beaches in the company of legend, and surrounded by lush peaks and the dramatic depression of the Danakil, not to mention tens of wildlife species to discover.

Also, in our travel guide to Eritrea, we will provide you with all the information you will need to navigate the country at ease. Eritrea’s highlights, tips, transportation, top places and attractions, a handcrafted itinerary in the cities of Eritrea, and more will be provided for you as you read through. If you are excited enough by now, let us dig right in!

Top Places in Eritrea

Our Lady of the Rosary Church

While Asmara was the capital of Italian Eritrea in the 1920s, building began on Our Lady of the Rosary Church in 1923 as the Apostolic Vicariate of Eritrea’s major church, called “the cathedral” because to its grandeur and Lombard Romanesque architecture. No diocesan bishop ever made the church his home, hence it’s not a cathedral.

Dahlak National Park

Dahlak Kebir is the biggest of the Dahlak Archipelago located off the coast of Eritrea in the Red Sea. The park’s streams have 325 fish species. Several abandoned islands have become nesting grounds for seabirds due to their seclusion and surrounding food supplies. On four islands, 2,500 people live among the wildlife. These villagers still herd goats and camels and fish. Former independence soldiers serve Eritrea’s growing diving tourism business. Visits to Dahlak Marine National Park require prior authorization from the park service.

Emba Soira

Emba Soira, Eritrea’s highest mountain, is 3,018 meters (19,490 feet) above sea level  in the Eritrean Highlands,  and part of the Great Rift Valley, which stretches across Eritrea and into the Red Sea. The mountain lies in central Eritrea’s Debub district. A paved road leads from Senafe, 135 km south of Asmara, to Emba Soira. From there, a perilous 20-kilometer dirt trek leads to the top. The final leg takes many hours of hiking to complete.

Tank Graveyard

Visit the Asmara tank graveyard to see rusty tanks, lorries, and other destroyed vehicles stacked in winding rows. Ammunition fragments and Russian metal plates bearing C.C.C.P. may be found strewn throughout the paths.

Fiat Tagliero

A true Art Deco building. originally planned as a straightforward gas station for dr. Tagliero (the Fiat concessionary in Asmara), the building was designed by eng. Pettazzi to resemble an airplane, complete with a tower housing administrative offices, a cashier’s desk, and retail space, supported by two enormous cantilevered reinforced concrete wings measuring 15 meters in span each. Ask the locals about the history of this structure, and you will be amazed by the different narratives you will uncover.

7-day Itinerary in Eritrea

Day 1

 

Arrive in Asmara!

Asmara was established in the 12th century when a group of villages banded together to defend themselves against robbers; now it is a thriving metropolis home to more than 500,000 people. The city was ruled by the Italians in the early 19th century, the British following World War II, and Ethiopia beginning in 1950, among other empires and countries in ancient times. Asmara was the capital of a country that did not have its own government for over two hundred years till it was freed from Ethiopia in 1991.

Historic Italian architecture can be found on nearly every block in modern-day downtown Asmara. Mussolini, the Italian dictator, spent lavishly in the early 1930s to transform the city into the epicenter of a new Roman Empire across Africa. Almost the whole downtown area was redone, with nothing holding back the architects’ creativity. While several churches were constructed in the historic Romanesque style, many workplaces were designed in the cubist and futurist traditions.

You will definitely enjoy your stay in Asmara. Head into town, preferably with a prearranged transportation, and leave your luggage at your hotel. After you’ve finished, if you have time, go for a walk around the neighborhood to familiarize yourself with the region.

  • Backpacker: African Village
  • Budget: Top Five Hotel
  • Mid-range: Crystal Palace, Sunshine Hotel, Hotel Asmara Palace
  • Luxury: 

Hotel Asmara Palace

When it becomes dark, a foreign city may be twice as dangerous - especially if you don't understand the language and are unfamiliar with the area. There is little reason to be alarmed about walking alone in the country since there isn't enough crime recorded in Asmara to warrant worry. You can walk safely at day, however avoid walking at night and be alert in crowded areas or unlit alleys or streets. You can always take taxis, if you don't feel comfortable, Be wary of petty crime by taking precautions mentioned in the safety section above.

Day 2

 

Explore Asmara

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast before embarking on a tour of Asmara. Explore the city’s best architecture on Harnet Street, and learn about ancient civilizations at the National Museum. Be stunned by the next stage of coexistence with the Christian churches, Jewish synagogues, and Muslim mosques all within a three-block radius in Asmara. Religious sites in Eritrea include the Coptic Church of St. Mary, Asmara Cathedral, the Khulafa al Rashedin, the Asmara Synagogue, and the Enda Mariam Coptic Cathedral.

Likewise, the colonial Italian buildings is a World Heritage Site that visitors should not miss. One of the nicest structures in Asmara is the Fiat Tagliero, but you should also check out the 1937-built Cinema Impero, the WWII Tank Graveyard site, and the Opera House. Then, after you’ve done some shopping in Asmara Market (be sure to go throughout the day to avoid missing the vendors as they pack up), you can take in some vintage bowling at The Bowling Alley.

Day 3

 

Off to Keren

Keren is an important historical and cultural center and should be included on any trip to Eritrea with Asmara and Massawa. Keren has been called “the center of Eritrea.” Keren’s atmosphere is very different from that of the capital, Asmara, and the second largest city, Massawa, therefore it’s important to travel there to get a whole picture of Eritrea. Hence, without further ado, let’s get into the best Keren attractions. After breakfast, hit the road towards Keren, a town perched atop a plateau in the midst of arid mountains. While in Keren, stop by the Monday cattle and camel market that brings buyers and sellers from all around. Check out the British and Italian Army Cemetery, the Catholic Cathedral of Keren, and the Assehaba Mosque. Tukul, the region’s historic architecture is also visible while entering the region.

  • Backpacker: 
  • Budget: Sicilia Hotel
  • Mid-range: Keren Hotel
  • Luxury: 

Sarina Hotel

When it becomes dark, a foreign city may be twice as dangerous - especially if you don't understand the language and are unfamiliar with the area. There is little reason to be alarmed about walking alone in the country since there isn't enough crime recorded in Keren to warrant worry. You can walk safely at day, however avoid walking at night and be alert in crowded areas or unlit alleys or streets. You can always take taxis, if you don't feel comfortable, Be wary of petty crime by taking precautions mentioned in the safety section above.

Day 4

 

Head to Massawa

Next up, after breakfast, hit the road towards Massawa. The only remaining tropical forest in Eritrea may be found in Filfil, which you’ll pass through on your way. Opportunities to observe birds in their natural habitat are among the area’s most famous features. 

The Semenawi-Bahri area, of which the rainforest is a part, is steep and tapers out onto the coastal plains. The area is rich in unique plant and animal life, and the winding route built through the region’s mountains provides stunning vistas at every turn.

  • Backpacker: 
  • Budget: Luna Hotel
  • Mid-range: Dahlak Hotel
  • Luxury: 

Red Sea Hotel

When it becomes dark, a foreign city may be twice as dangerous - especially if you don't understand the language and are unfamiliar with the area. There is little reason to be alarmed about walking alone in the country since there isn't enough crime recorded in Massawa to warrant worry. You can walk safely at day, however avoid walking at night and be alert in crowded areas or unlit alleys or streets. You can always take taxis, if you don't feel comfortable, Be wary of petty crime by taking precautions mentioned in the safety section above.

Day 5

 

Exploring Massawa

See Massawa, a city built on a series of islands, steeped in the history of several dynasties. After breakfast, learn more about its fascinating past. Massawa is renowned as the “Pearl of the Red Sea.” It’s just around 60 miles (or 100 kilometers) from the capital of Asmara, yet it feels worlds apart. Sadly, the Ethiopian bombardment towards the end of Eritrea’s battle for independence reduced Massawa to the status of a ghost town rather than a metropolis. There is still a wealth of attractions and activities to enjoy in Massawa. Massawa is the ideal vacation spot for intrepid tourists because of its charming Old Town built in the Turkish style, its shopping arcades, its gorgeous mosques, and its delectable seafood. The city is home to numerous tourist hotspots, but it also has some of the best swimming and surfing in the world, only a short drive from downtown.

Day 6

 

On the Way to Asmara

After breakfast, you’ll have a relaxing drive back to Asmara, stopping briefly at Mendefera along the way. Mendefera was established in the fifth century BCE and was a pivotal location in the expansion of the Aksumite civilization. Throughout its grand history, Mendefera was ruled by several European superpowers, notably the Italians and the British. The town’s main road is flanked by hills on each side, providing stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape. At the end of the day, you will fly into Asmara.

Day 7

 

Final Hours

Enjoy your final few hours in Asmara before departing for home or your next destination. You may take one more trip around the Asmara market to pick up some mementos if you have the time. At the appointed time, you should gather your things and say goodbye to Eritrea before heading to the airport.

The Most Popular Food in Eritrea

Because Eritrea and Ethiopia were formerly the same country until the 1990s, their traditional food is rather similar, with only slight changes in names and components. As a result of Eritrea’s period as an Italian colony, the country’s cuisine contains numerous unusual twists on conventional Italian dishes. One of these delights is pasta with a sauce infused with the Ethiopian spice berbere. The most notable difference between Eritrea and Ethiopia is the abundance of Italian restaurants selling true Italian food such as al dente pasta and specialties such as caprito al forno (roasted lamb) and parmigiana.

Injera

All native meals start with a slice of Injera. Eritreans call their sourdough bread “Injera” because of its health advantages. It’s a popular in Sudan and East Africa. Traditional Injera was made from Ethiopian teff. Since it was found in Egyptian pyramids, many researchers believe teff originated around 3350 BC. The Injera pans were also dated to 600 AD. When teff runs low, it can be replaced with millet, sorghum, or barley. Enjoy stew or salad with Injera or have it with honey, another African treat.

Fata

Fata is Eritrea’s panzanella. Traditional fata doesn’t include tomatoes. Instead, they smother crusty bread in steaming tomato stew.  Fata is an Italian-Eritrean salad which  merged the best of Eritrean and Italian cuisines. Panzanella originated in 16th-century Italy. Eritreans don’t imitate all Italian dishes. Cooks use bottled tomato sauce and crusty bread instead of fresh tomatoes. They add cayenne pepper, garlic, allspice, and others to make it tastier. Garnished with full-fat yogurt to cool down the heat.

Shoro

Shoro or Shiro is n Eritrean stew served with injera. The stew or tsebhi, are a popular Eritrean staple. This spicy stew uses ground beans or chickpeas which can appeal to vegeterians with multiple variations. Tegabino Shiro is cooked using chickpeas, fava beans, and other spicy legumes. Serving it in a clay pot retains heat. Bozena Shiro is a good protein option. The dish generally  tastes like hummus. Berbere is used to add taste along with tomatoes, onions, and garlic.

Kulwa

The food of Kulwa is quite tasty. You may choose between beef and lamb for the pieces. These pieces are cooked in a mixture of ghee, berbere spices, onions, tomatoes, and other aromatics. After cooking, the meal is traditionally eaten with injera and a flavorful sauce. They say it goes great with honey wine, the local beverage of choice.

Ful

Mashed beans is a staple in Eritrean breakfast. This traditional morning meal is called shahan ful made of fava beans that are cooked in water until tender then gets mashed into a purée and topped with tomatoes. Some restaurants offer shahan ful with a dollop of yogurt and some bread rolls on the side. During the seasons of Lent and Ramadan, the meal gains even more popularity.

What's the Travel Budget for Eritrea

Final Thoughts on Eritrea

Eritrea has a rich history that can be seen all over the country, dating back to at least 1000 BC according to recorded history, with its various colonial buildings and heritage, dazzling and unusual landmarks, unbelievable warmth, exciting melodies and celebrations, and vivid picture-perfect surroundings of highlands and pristine beaches best for kicking back, but also wildlife and marine life sightings. One of the finest and least-visited places in Africa to have as a trip. Incredible natural beauty, unique fauna, and historic sites make Eritrea a must-see destination for every adventurer. Do you want to go to Eritrea?

Have you been to Eritrea? In the space provided below, we invite you to express your thoughts and insights.

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