Eritrea
East Africa · Africa
- Capital
- Asmara
- Currency
- Eritrean Nakfa (ERN Nfk)
- Language
- Tigrinya, Arabic and English widely used
- Timezone
- UTC+3
- Safety rating
- 5/10
- Best time to visit
- The cooler highland months from September to April are pleasant, while the coast is best avoided in the scorching summer.
Overview
Eritrea's capital Asmara is a UNESCO-listed gem of Italian Art Deco and Modernist architecture, earning it the nickname 'Africa's Little Rome.' The Red Sea coast around Massawa and the Dahlak Archipelago offers unspoilt diving, while highland scenery and vintage trains add character. It is a fascinating, rarely visited time capsule.
Visa requirements
Visas must be arranged in advance through an Eritrean embassy, and internal travel permits are required for most destinations outside Asmara.
Safety information
Asmara is calm and street crime is low, but the country is tightly controlled and travel permits are required to leave the capital. Avoid border regions and never photograph military or government sites.
Travel tips
Bring cash to exchange into nakfa, as cards do not work and currency rules are strict. Arrange internal travel permits in advance, and avoid photographing anything official or military. Internet and mobile data are very limited, so plan to disconnect.