10 Practical Tips for Traveling in Eritrea
Practical Tips
2026-10-03
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Permits, cash, photography, communication—these details determine whether this unconventional trip goes smoothly.
- Safety First: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has repeatedly issued safety advisories recommending against travel. If you must go, monitor the latest consular updates and purchase insurance covering emergency evacuation and medical transport. Share your itinerary with family.
- Permits Are Your Passport: You’ll need a travel permit for every destination outside Asmara. Treat permits as the first priority when planning your itinerary—checkpoints won’t accept last-minute additions.
- Cash Is King: International cards and mobile payments are not accepted. Carry sufficient new US dollars or euros and declare them as required. Your exit will be checked against your declaration form for any discrepancies.
- Photography Red Lines: No photos at airports, military facilities, government buildings, or of police and military personnel. Always ask for permission before taking pictures of people in cities. Violators may have their equipment confiscated.
- Limited Communication: Internet access and international roaming are restricted. Set fixed contact times with family in advance. Take offline screenshots of important addresses and permit details.
- Layered Clothing: Temperatures can drop to around 10°C in the highlands early and late in the day, while the Red Sea coast can exceed 35°C. Packing for all seasons isn’t excessive. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm—the highland UV is intense.
- Coffee Ceremony Etiquette: If invited to a coffee ceremony, stay for all three rounds of brewing. Leaving early is considered rude. Accepting a refill from the host is a form of thanks.
- Medicine and Hygiene: Local pharmacies have limited supplies. Bring ample gastrointestinal, cold, and mosquito repellent medications for your trip. Drink sealed bottled water, choose freshly cooked hot food from street vendors, and take strong mosquito precautions during the rainy season along the coast.
- Respect the Military Atmosphere: Avoid discussing politics or conscription. Cooperate patiently at checkpoints and show courtesy when your documents are inspected.
- Stay Flexible: Train services, maritime access, and inter-regional permits may change without notice. Plan your schedule at about 70% density for the smoothest experience. Confirm key arrangements with your tour operator a day in advance.