Eritrea

The Land of Resilience
and the Red Sea

Flag of Eritrea

Eritrea, a country in the Horn of Africa, is renowned for its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and complex history. Home to iconic landmarks like the Art Deco architecture of Asmara, the ancient port of Massawa, and the Dahlak Archipelago, Eritrea offers a unique blend of historical sites and natural beauty. The country's geography ranges from coastal plains to highland plateaus.

Eritrean culture is a vibrant mix of nine ethnic groups, reflected in its traditional music, art, and cuisine featuring dishes like zigni and injera. Known for its warm hospitality, as a hub for Italian colonial architecture, and for its challenging political situation, Eritrea presents a captivating destination that combines stunning landscapes with a rich cultural tapestry.

Travel Documents

Documents

Toll

Driving

Currency

Laws

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Eritrea.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Eritrea.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: No countries are fully visa-exempt for Eritrea. All travelers require a visa unless otherwise specified by diplomatic agreement.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from all nations must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Eritrea, either through an embassy or upon arrival (subject to approval and pre-arrangement).

Special Entry Provisions

  • No specific provisions exist for holders of Schengen, US, or UK visas or residence permits to enter Eritrea without a visa; an Eritrea-specific visa is required.
  • Travelers must have confirmed onward or return tickets, proof of sufficient funds for their stay, a letter of invitation (if required), and a yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from a risk area.

ID Card Entry

  • No countries are permitted to enter Eritrea using only a national ID card. A passport is mandatory for all travelers.

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for up to 30 days (extendable with approval). Can be single or multiple entry, with validity up to 1 year.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 30 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa durations vary; tourist stays are typically capped at 30 days unless extended, and extensions can be difficult to obtain.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; contact the nearest Eritrean embassy or consulate.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements (e.g., vaccination certificates or testing) via the Ministry of Health.
Toll

Driving in Eritrea

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, Eritrea has no official toll roads. Major routes like the Asmara-Massawa road are publicly funded, but tolls may be introduced on key routes in the future due to infrastructure needs.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates: Not applicable yet; monitor updates from the Eritrea Road Authority.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Eritrean Nakfa (ERN) would be accepted if tolls are introduced.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Unlikely to be accepted initially; cash is king.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: No system currently exists.

Driving in Eritrea

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants, though enforcement is limited.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40 km/h
    • Rural roads: 60 km/h
    • Highways: 80 km/h
  • Road conditions: Poor outside major cities like Asmara; unpaved, damaged, and unlit roads are common, especially during the rainy season (June to September).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license for stays up to 3 months; longer stays require an Eritrean driver’s license.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Eritrea has no vignette system, but road taxes or checkpoints may apply—check locally.
  • Road Safety: Roads are hazardous due to poor maintenance, aggressive drivers, and occasional military checkpoints. Avoid night driving outside urban areas.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is unreliable in rural areas; keep an updated physical map and a reliable communication device.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies (service may be limited, especially in rural areas).

Useful Links

Eritrea Currency

The official currency of Eritrea is the Eritrean Nakfa (ERN).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 ERN
  • Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 cents; 1 ERN
  • Symbol: Nfk

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, Asmara International Airport, and major hotels in Asmara.
  • ATMs are extremely limited and only available in Asmara for direct ERN withdrawals (major UK, US, and Euro cards may not be accepted due to restrictions on foreign currency).

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred and often the only option, especially outside urban areas.
  • Credit/debit cards are rarely accepted, limited to a few major hotels and banks in Asmara.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans, though card use may be unreliable due to currency controls.
  • Carry sufficient cash for all purchases, as electronic transactions are scarce.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when exchanging, but cash is the primary method.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Bank of Eritrea website: https://www.bankoferitrea.com/en/exchange-rates
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Eritrea

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Eritrea, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Severe penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs, including life imprisonment or execution. No tolerance for small amounts.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is illegal and punishable by fines or detention.
    • Smoking banned in public buildings and on public transport.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing sensitive political or religious issues, especially related to the government, independence, or Ethiopia-Eritrea relations.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are illegal, with penalties up to 3 years in prison. 2SLGBTQI+ travelers should carefully consider the risks of traveling to Eritrea.
  • Photography: Restricted near government buildings, military sites, checkpoints, or sensitive installations. Always ask permission before photographing individuals, as it may be perceived as a security threat.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over $10,000 USD (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, firearms, endangered species products.
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 7 days at the airport via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR).

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Eritrea Tourism Office or local police stations (if safe and accessible).

Beach Access

  • No specific legal mandate for public beach access, but coastal areas like those along the Red Sea are generally open to the public where applicable and safe.

Key Resources

Eritrea Safety

Eritrea is not generally safe for travellers due to strict government control, limited freedoms, and potential security risks, but some areas may be accessible with extreme caution and local guidance. Travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Eritrea.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is rare but possible in crowded areas like markets in Asmara. Violent crime against tourists is extremely uncommon, but arbitrary detention or harassment by authorities can occur.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Highly unsafe; avoid traveling alone due to strict government oversight, gender norms, and potential security risks. Local guidance is essential.

Road Safety

  • Driving is risky due to poor road conditions, military checkpoints, and aggressive drivers.
  • Avoid night driving outside urban areas due to unlit roads and security risks.
  • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory, but enforcement is limited.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Tap water is unsafe; use bottled or purified water.
    • Eat well-cooked food to avoid diarrhea, cholera, or typhoid.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Required: Yellow fever (for all travelers over 1 year old).
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, polio, hepatitis B, rabies, malaria prophylaxis, and COVID-19.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Malaria, dengue, and African sleeping sickness are widespread; use repellent and bed nets.
  • Altitude Sickness: Minimal risk, as no areas exceed 3,018 meters (Emba Soira).

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Extremely limited; private facilities like the Orota Hospital in Asmara offer basic care, but rural areas lack advanced care. Medical evacuation is often necessary.
  • Pharmacies: Available in Asmara; stock essential medications, but supplies can be unreliable.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes comprehensive medical evacuation, as local facilities are inadequate.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 112 (patchy service, especially in rural areas).
  • Police: 113 | Ambulance: 115 | Fire: 114.
  • Tourist Assistance: Contact the Eritrean Ministry of Tourism (+291 1 112 345) or local authorities (if safe).

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural travel; confirm insurance coverage and avoid public transport outside urban areas.
  • Hiking: Use local guides for remote areas like Emba Soira, but avoid unless necessary due to security risks.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid discussing sensitive political or government-related issues.
  • Air Quality: Generally good, but monitor dust levels during dry seasons (October to May).

Key Links

Flying to Eritrea

© 2024-2025 Atlas Guide