Welcome to Eritrea. Upon arrival at Asmara International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel to settle in. The afternoon is dedicated to a guided exploration of this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for having one of the world's highest concentrations of early 20th-century modernist architecture.
Your journey through the city's pastel-hued streets features the Lombard Romanesque elegance of the Santa Maria Cathedral and the intricate cultural heritage of the Coptic Church, Enda Mariam. You will also marvel at the Fiat Tagliero Building, an iconic Futurist petrol station famous for its bold, aeroplane-inspired wings. To experience the pulse of the city, you will visit the Medeber Market, a historic open-air workshop where local artisans masterfully repurpose metal and wood. The day concludes with a relaxing evening at a local hotel.
OVERNIGHT:
Asmara hotel
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
A century ago, the Italians built what was then considered a futuristic railway in Eritrea and in recent years, steam locomotives have returned to the tracks of this former Italian colony. Whilst much of the railway infrastructure is in a state of bad repair, when you step aboard the steam locomotive, you'll be transported back in time and take a journey along a route which straddles mountains, covered in prickly pears and experience breath-taking views. As the train isn't always operational, we have kept this experience as an optional extra which can be booked and paid for through your tour guide, the rate will be approximately $60.00 - the exact rate will be confirmed at the time of booking).
Should be train be out of operation, we'll spend some additional time in Asmara this morning, before starting our journey to Keren where we'll spend the night.
OVERNIGHT:
Keren hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
None
Today begins with a journey to Keren, the heart of the Bilen people, nestled within a dramatic basin of granitic mountains. If your visit coincides with the famous cattle market, you will witness a bustling crossroads that draws people from across the region, creating an atmosphere that is both industrious and timeless. This market is the city's most vivid attraction, where you can explore the covered food stalls, the silver and gold smiths' quarters, and the lively markets dedicated to textiles and cosmetics. The tour continues to the river bed, the traditional site for the wood and coal trade, offering a glimpse into an authentic slice of African life.
Historical exploration remains a focal point as you visit the Italian and British war cemeteries, where soldiers and Eritrean Askari are laid to rest. You will also see the governor’s country seat, the Romanesque Saint Michael church, and the ancient Fortress standing at 1,460 metres. A profound spiritual highlight is the Sanctuary of Mariam Dearit, or Our Lady of the Baobab. This unique chapel is built directly into the hollow of a majestic, ancient tree and serves as a site of pilgrimage for tens of thousands of both Christians and Muslims. Managed by Cistercian monks, it stands as a beautiful symbol of inter-religious harmony. After soaking in the nostalgic charm of Keren, you will return to Asmara in the afternoon.
OVERNIGHT:
Asmara hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
None
Your journey continues with a dramatic drive from Asmara to the port city of Massawa. In just 100 kilometres, the road plunges 2,450 metres from the cool highlands to the warm shores of the Red Sea. Upon arrival and receipt of the necessary permits, you will board a motorboat to begin a multi-day expedition into the Dahlak Archipelago, often described as the "Pearls of the Red Sea."
The exploration is designed to showcase some of the richest coral reefs in the region. While a typical itinerary might include a base camp at Durgaam with excursions to Durghella, Dahret, and Dohul, the final route remains flexible. To ensure the best possible experience, your captain will determine the daily schedule based on current weather conditions, sea forecasts, and island access permissions.
A cruise through the Dahlak Islands is an authentic adventure that requires a spirit of adaptability. You will stay in igloo tents equipped with mattresses, pillows, and fresh linens, while the crew provides tables and chairs for communal areas. Please be aware that fresh water is a precious resource in this remote environment; therefore, daily showers and formal toilet facilities are not available. Dining is a highlight of the coastal experience. An accompanying cook will prepare fresh fish, traditional Danakil bread, and varied meals featuring pasta, rice, and seasonal fruit. For breakfast, you can enjoy staples like jam and biscuits or opt for a local favourite such as "foul" (fava beans) or a spicy green chilli omelette. A selection of bottled water, soft drinks, and beer is provided daily. Evenings offer a chance to unwind by the campfire with a glass of Areki, the local anise-flavoured spirit. Under one of the world's most spectacular starlit skies, you might even witness the magical glow of phosphorescent plankton illuminating the shoreline, a breathtaking end to a day of discovery.
OVERNIGHT:
Dahlak Island Camping
MEALS:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
The Dahlak Archipelago comprises of over 200 islands, in the pristine waters of the Red Sea. Known for its unique ecosystem, some say that it even rivals world renowned destintions such as The Maldives. The waters surrounding the Dahlak Islands are teeming with marine life, including unique fish species, corals and echinoderms. The archipelago can also offer rare glimpses of species such as Manta Rays, Turtles and Dolphins. We'll spend today exploring the islands further and spend another night beneath the starry skies.
OVERNIGHT:
Dahlak Island camping
MEALS:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
Sadly, our time in the Dahlak Islands comes to and end today as we leave the boat in Massawa. Time permitting, we may have the opportunity to take a short city tour before we return to Asmara where we'll spend our final night in Eritrea. Why not use this evening to purchase any last minute souvenirs, or visit a local restaurant for a farewell dinner with your new friends.
OVERNIGHT:
Asmara hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
None
You'll have some free time in Asmara today, until you are transferred back to the airport for departure. For those looking to spend a little longer in Eritrea, we do offer a 2-night Asmara extension, which includes tours to visit Kohaito, Adi Quala and more.
OVERNIGHT:
N/A
MEALS:
included with
3 nights in Asmara, 1 night in Keren hotels
2 nights camping on the Dahlak Islands including equipment
Dahlak Island cruise including all meals and 4 drinks per day
All transport and transfers
24-hour airport arrival & departure transfer service (on tour days)
Services of a local tour leader throughout (English & Italian speaking)
All sightseeing tours as per itinerary
Entrance fees for visits included in the itinerary
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
Visa invitation letter for most nationalities
excluded by
International flights (available on request)
Eritrea visa fees (an invitation letter will be provided)
Optional journey on restored colonial train
Additional paperwork for Visa on Arrival service (for countries with no Eritrean Consulate)
Travel insurance (compulsory - available from Encounters Travel)
Meals not indicated in the itinerary
Drinks, snacks and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
Tips for tour leader & driver
Any other items not mentioned above
Detailed Description
For too long, Eritrea has been missed off of the bucket list of most travellers,. But this proud East African nation, which offers a real 'off the beaten path' travel experience is eagerly waiting to be explored!
Starting in Asmara, the capital of Eritrea and a UNESCO World Heritage site, we'll explore the early 20th century architecture, much of which dates back to the Italian period, so why not grab an Italian coffee in one of the local coffee shops. We'll also visit the Santa Maria Cathedral, Coptic Museum and of course, the Medeber Market.
As we leave the capital, our first stop is Keren, known as a crossroads between the High and Low Land regions and very well known for its silver filigree work. The city of Keren itself, is home to the Bilen people, attracts visitors from the local area for the regular cattle market, which makes for an interesting photo opportunity. Whilst exploring the city, we'll make stops at the Italian and British war cemeteries, the mosque and a number of local churches before spending time in the vibrant covered food market.
Heading east, we move on to Massawa, located on the shores of the Red Sea. From here we'll begin our 3 day camping excursion to the beautiful Dahlak Islands. We'll board a motorboat in Massawa, which will take us to some of the most interesting and richest coral reefs in the area. We'll set up a base camp on one of the local islands, where our accommodation will be in igloo tents.
As we disembark from the boat in Massawa, we may have time to partake in a city tour before returning to Asmara where our trip comes to an end. For those looking to spend a little longer in Eritrea, we do offer a 2-night Asmara extension, which includes tours to visit Kohaito and Adi Quala.
Our tour of Eritrea connects well with a number of our other tours in the region, such as those in Egypt and Jordan. If you'd like some advice on how to link these trips together, please speak with our sales team who will be happy to help
