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Official name: State of Eritrea
Capital city: Asmara
Official languages: Tigrinya, Arabic, English
Population: Around 3.6 million
Currency: Eritrean nakfa (ERN)
Time zone: GMT+3
Driving side: Right
Climate: Diverse - hot and arid along the coast, cooler in the highlands, and semi-arid in the lowlands
Eritrea, situated on the Horn of Africa, combines striking Red Sea coastline with highland plateaus and rugged mountains. Asmara, the capital, is famed for its well-preserved Italian colonial architecture and art deco buildings. While tourism is still limited, visitors discover a blend of cultures, ancient archaeological sites, and opportunities for diving in the Dahlak Archipelago. Eritrea’s strategic location has shaped its complex history and distinctive identity.
Eritrea shares borders with Sudan, Ethiopia, and Djibouti, and has a long Red Sea coastline stretching over 1,000 kilometres. The central highlands are temperate and fertile, contrasting with the hot coastal plains and semi-desert lowlands. The country also controls more than 100 islands in the Dahlak Archipelago, known for their marine biodiversity. The Great Rift Valley influences much of the landscape, bringing dramatic escarpments and volcanic terrain.
Asmara International Airport is the main entry point, though flights are limited. Travel permits are required for foreigners to move outside Asmara, and roadblocks are common. Infrastructure is basic, and while buses and shared taxis operate, they are not always reliable. Eritrea has one of the world’s few surviving steam railways, running occasional tourist trips between Asmara and Massawa. Visitors should plan carefully and be aware of security and movement restrictions.
All visitors require a visa, which must be obtained in advance. Applications are handled by Eritrean embassies and consulates, and requirements may include proof of accommodation and return travel. A valid passport with at least six months’ validity is mandatory. The British Embassy in Asmara is not currently open to the public, so UK travellers should seek assistance via the British Embassy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, if required.
The Eritrean nakfa (ERN) is the official currency. The import and export of local currency is prohibited, and foreign currency must be declared on arrival. Cash is essential, as credit cards and ATMs are not available. Euros and US dollars are the most useful currencies for exchange. Travellers should be prepared for a largely cash-based economy, with limited facilities outside Asmara and Massawa.
Healthcare facilities are very limited and do not meet Western standards. Even in Asmara, medical services may lack equipment and medicines. Serious health issues often require evacuation. Malaria is a risk in lowland and coastal areas but not generally in Asmara, which sits at higher altitude. Other concerns include waterborne diseases, so bottled or treated water should always be used. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry, and additional immunisations are strongly recommended. Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is essential.
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