Traveling to Eritrea is unlike visiting most other countries: safety alerts, travel permits, and cash planning are three essential prerequisites.
Safety and Travel Restrictions (Must Read First)
Several safety advisories have been issued for Eritrea, recommending that travellers carefully assess the risks and consider postponing non-essential trips. If travel is essential, consult the latest travel advisories from your country’s foreign ministry and the nearest Eritrean embassy or consulate before departure. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes emergency evacuation and medical transport, and stay in regular contact with family.
Foreign travellers must obtain prior authorisation from Eritrean authorities to travel outside Asmara to other regions such as Massawa and Keren. Travelling without this permission may result in being stopped and questioned, and trips almost always need to be arranged through a locally licensed travel agency.
Visa and Entry
Most foreign visitors must apply for a visa in advance at an Eritrean embassy or consulate. Required documents typically include a detailed itinerary and host information. The visa approval process can be lengthy, and applications may be refused. Be sure to declare foreign currency cash truthfully upon entry. Allow at least one to two months for the visa application process.
Best Time to Visit
- December to March: The cool season in the highlands, with mild days and cool nights in Asmara—this is the most comfortable time to visit.
- October to April: The Red Sea coast is relatively mild, making it a good time for visits to Massawa and the Dahlak Archipelago.
- June to August: Rainy season in the highlands and extremely hot along the coast, with temperatures in Massawa that can feel like 45°C—travel is not recommended.
Budget Reference (Per Person)
| Category | Daily Cost (Excluding International Flights) | Description |
|---|
| Budget | 60–90 USD | Local guesthouses, street food, and bus travel |
| Comfortable | 120–180 USD | Foreign-run hotels, private car hire, and licensed guides |
| High-end | 250 USD and above | Fully arranged tours, diving liveaboards in the Dahlak Islands |
Etiquette and Taboos
- Photography is strictly prohibited at military facilities, airports, government offices, and around police or soldiers—always confirm the setting before taking photos.
- Tigrinya and Muslim communities coexist; remove your hat when entering a church and dress conservatively in mosque areas.
- Accepting an invitation to drink coffee is an important social custom—do not refuse the first cup of macchiato offered by your host.
- Be cautious when discussing politics, military service, or similar sensitive topics, and avoid heated discussions with locals.
Packing Checklist
- Cash: New US dollar or euro bills for your entire trip budget; divide them between two places and keep a copy of the customs declaration form.
- Documents: Carry paper copies of your visa, travel permit, insurance policy, and hotel reservation—checkpoints may ask to see them.
- Clothing: Lightweight down or fleece jacket for the highlands, a sun hat, and one swimsuit and one stinger suit each for the Red Sea leg.
- Medicine and Power: Bring enough gastrointestinal medicine and mosquito repellent; sockets are European-style two-round-pin, bring an adapter.