Eritrea

Eritrea is a distinctive travel destination perched along the Red Sea in the Horn of Africa, where layered history, striking architecture, and unspoiled coastline combine to create an experience that feels both nostalgic and quietly adventurous. Often overlooked in mainstream tourism, the country appeals to travellers who value cultural depth, historic character, and destinations that remain refreshingly uncrowded.

Tourism in Eritrea is shaped largely by its heritage and natural beauty. The capital, Asmara, is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most architecturally remarkable cities. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it showcases an extraordinary concentration of Italian modernist buildings dating back to the early twentieth century. Cinema halls, cafés, and government structures reflect Art Deco and Rationalist influences, giving the city an atmosphere that many describe as stepping into a preserved chapter of architectural history. Wide boulevards and palm-lined streets further enhance its relaxed, walkable appeal.

Asmara’s café culture is another highlight. Italian influence endures not only in design but also in culinary traditions, with espresso bars and gelaterias contributing to a distinctly European ambience set against an African backdrop. Markets and small shops provide glimpses into daily life, offering handcrafted goods and locally produced textiles.

Beyond the capital, Eritrea’s coastline stretches for more than 1,000 kilometres, dotted with islands that remain largely untouched. The Dahlak Archipelago, comprising over 200 islands, is particularly alluring for travellers drawn to marine exploration. Clear waters, coral reefs, and abundant fish species create favourable conditions for snorkelling and diving. The relative absence of large-scale development means many beaches feel secluded, offering a rare sense of tranquillity.

Massawa, the country’s principal port, introduces visitors to a different historical layer. Once an important Ottoman and Italian trading centre, the city features coral-stone buildings and shaded arcades that speak to centuries of maritime exchange. Though parts of Massawa bear the marks of time, its waterfront setting and cultural significance continue to intrigue historically minded travellers.

Accommodation in Eritrea is modest but functional, reflecting a tourism sector that prioritises authenticity over luxury. In Asmara, several well-established hotels provide comfortable rooms, reliable dining, and attentive service. While travellers should not expect extensive resort-style amenities, many properties deliver a welcoming environment that supports restful stays.

Guesthouses and smaller lodgings offer an appealing alternative, often characterised by personal hospitality and a strong sense of place. Along the coast, accommodation options are simpler, yet they position visitors close to the Red Sea’s calming horizons — an advantage that often outweighs the absence of high-end facilities.

Reaching Eritrea typically involves flying into Asmara International Airport, which connects the country to select regional and Middle Eastern destinations. From there, road travel links major cities, and the relatively compact highland region makes overland journeys manageable.

Travellers should note that visiting Eritrea often requires advance planning, including visas and travel permits for certain areas. Working with knowledgeable local operators can help streamline logistics and enhance cultural understanding.

The climate varies by elevation: the highlands enjoy milder temperatures, while coastal regions can become intensely warm, particularly in summer. Many visitors therefore favour the cooler months for exploration.

What ultimately distinguishes Eritrea is its atmosphere of preservation. It is a country where architectural treasures remain intact, coastlines stretch quietly toward the horizon, and traditions endure without excessive commercialisation. Travel here is less about hurried sightseeing and more about absorbing a sense of continuity between past and present.

For travellers willing to embrace a slower rhythm, Eritrea offers a journey marked by understated beauty — a destination that invites reflection, rewards curiosity, and reveals the enduring charm of places that have yet to be reshaped by global tourism.