Discover Eritrea: An 11-Day Tour of the Hidden Gem of Africa

0
  • 10 nights, 11 days
  • min 2 – max 10 participants
  • single icon distance
    Asmara Airport
  • Jan - Dec

Embark on a captivating journey to discover Eritrea! Your adventure begins and ends in Asmara, the heart of this remarkable nation. Eritrea beckons you to delve into its rich cultural heritage, which beautifully weaves influences from diverse civilizations together.

This captivating East African gem welcomes you with an enchanting tapestry of traditions, customs, and artistic expressions that are sure to leave an indelible mark on every traveler. As you set out on this exploration, you’ll unveil the vibrant cultural mosaic that defines Eritrea, offering you a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the country’s beauty and depth personally.

So, prepare your bags and get ready for an extraordinary 11-day journey through Eritrea’s captivating historical and cultural wonders. Join our small group tour and gain a profound understanding of this lesser-explored corner of Africa, where you’ll have the chance to discover the country’s most compelling highlights.

Departure

Scheduled departure, confirmed with a minimum of 2 guests:

Individual departures

Prices

Price details

  • 2 pax: $3200 per person, in a double room
  • 3 pax: $2750 per person
  • If you are a group of more than 4 people. Please contact us in Info@adulistravel.com

Itinerary

Day 1 | Friday : Arrival Asmara

Upon your early morning arrival in Asmara, our dedicated driver will be readily available at the airport to promptly transport you to your designated hotel. During the afternoon, embarking on an immersive exploration, we will guide you through the captivating city of Asmara, revealing its most fascinating and noteworthy landmarks along the way. Uncover the allure of Eritrea as you delve into this enriching journey.

Overnight in Asmara, Crystal hotel or similar.

Day 2 | Saturday : Asmara city tour

Discover Eritrea’s captivating capital, Asmara, through an enchanting city tour. Uncover the extraordinary colonial architectural heritage that has earned it World Heritage status, with more than 400 buildings recognized for their unique architectural significance. Immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere, where Art Deco and Modernist cinemas, theaters, cafes, and even petrol stations stand as testaments to the vision of pre-WW2 developers, who sought to create a remarkable urban landscape for Italy’s burgeoning African Empire. As you explore, you’ll also encounter traces of the Italian way of life, lovingly preserved by the Asmarinos themselves. Join us on an unforgettable adventure through Asmara’s rich history and experience the allure of this remarkable destination.

Overnight in Asmara, Crystal hotel or similar.
Breakfast Included

Day 3 | Sunday : Asmara - Keren

Embark on a captivating journey from Asmara, venturing north through the scenic highlands adorned with picturesque coffee and orange grove-filled terraces, until you reach the captivating city of Keren. Nestled atop a plateau at an elevation of 1,392 meters and encircled by rugged, ochre-colored mountains, Keren stands as one of Eritrea’s most visually striking towns.

The influence of Sudan can be observed in the local attire, language, and delectable cuisine, with Sudanese tea being particularly renowned for its aromatic flavors. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Keren’s Monday livestock market, an unmissable spectacle where camels and other livestock are showcased on a picturesque hillside. The town’s central market also offers a sensory overload of vibrant colors and bustling activity, with a plethora of fresh produce, fruits, and an assortment of other items enticing crowds of eager customers.

During your visit, be sure to explore the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Baobab, which boasts a remarkable tale that played a pivotal role in saving the lives of several Italian soldiers. Additionally, pay a visit to the war cemetery, where Italian soldiers, askaris, and British military personnel rest in eternal peace.

Embark on a captivating city tour of Keren and discover the unique charm and cultural wonders that Eritrea has to offer.

Overnight in Keren, Sarina Hotel or similar.
Breakfast Included

Find out more about Keren

Day 4 | Monday : Keren - Barebtu

Embark on a captivating journey through Eritrea, beginning with an exploration of the vibrant Keren market. This bustling marketplace showcases a myriad of colors and is home to camels and livestock, creating a truly enchanting spectacle.

As the morning progresses, we bid farewell to Keren and venture onwards to Agordat, where a delightful lunch break awaits. Our adventure continues with a visit to the captivating city of Barentu, allowing us to discover its hidden wonders and immerse ourselves in its rich cultural tapestry. Barentu offers a fascinating city tour that promises to leave a lasting impression on travelers seeking to uncover the beauty of Eritrea.

Indulge in an unforgettable experience as we embrace the charm and allure of Eritrea, one destination at a time.

Overnight in Barebtu basic hotel, Merhaba Hotel or similar.
Breakfast Included

Day 5 | Tuesday : Barentu - Asmara

Begin your day in Barentu with a visit to the vibrant Mogolò market. Immerse yourself in the unique culture of the Cunama population, an Eritrean ethnic group who hold beliefs in pagan gods and live in charming villages characterized by tukul’s cylindrical structures and thatched roofs. Embark on an exciting journey to one of their villages, promising an unforgettable adventure.

To reach the village, a portion of the journey must be completed on foot as minibusses are prohibited along this scenic route. The trek will take approximately 50 minutes, allowing you to soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

After a memorable stay in Barentu, we will continue our road trip to Asmara, the capital city of Eritrea. Along the way, we will make a stop for a delightful lunch in either Agordat or Keren. Arriving in Asmara in the late afternoon, you will have discovered the allure of Eritrea through this captivating Barentu city tour.

Overnight in Asmara, Crystal hotel or similar.
Breakfast Included

Day 6 | Wednesday : Asmara - Massawa city tour

A drive to the Red Sea port of Massawa, dropping from 2400m down to sea level to stay in the Dahlak hotel. We can expect it to be both hot and humid, and nighttime temperatures fall to 25 Grad Celsius.

Visit the port city of Massawa – the City of islands and the ‘Pearl of the Red Sea’, a city that for centuries has been one of the area’s most important ports. With its elegant Turkish-Egyptian-Italian design and shopping arcades, beautiful mosques, tasty fish and shellfish, Massawa is the perfect destination to deal with all tastes. Beautiful coastlines and delightful swimming are readily available simply a short range from the town hall, along with the city’s destinations.

Overnight in Massawa, Dahlak hotel or similar.
Breakfast Included

Day 7 | Thursday : Massawa – Dahlak Islands

After breakfast, an exciting boat trip from Massawa to the beautiful and pristine Dissie and Madote Islands.

Dissie and Madote Islands are part of the Dahlak Archipelago, among the pleasant and most visited Islands They lie 22 miles and 17 miles South off the coast of Massawa, respectively. They have beautiful beaches, corals, and birdlife. There is a possibility of seeing groupers, snappers, lionfish, sea turtles, Dolphins, etc. They are suitable for snorkelling, diving and camping.

Overnight in a tent on Dessie Island. ( camping at Dessie )

Full Board (breakfast, dinner, and lunch with bottled soft drinks, water) 4 pieces per person, per day.

NB: Some necessary information: the cruise to the Dissie and Madote Islands. requires adaptability:

The organization provides large and comfortable igloo tents; each tent is equipped with mosquito nets, an insulating floor. Each participant is provided with a sleeping bag, camp chair, portable toilet, a shower

A cook with a kitchen and other camping equipment and a sailor/assistant completes the camp. We serve tea, coffee (typical breakfast of the Eritrean lowland based). At lunch and dinner, a fresh fish on the island.

For those who want to dive in the Islands, equipment is available for rent. You must have a diving certificate to dive: please ask

Scuba or snorkeling equipment: please ask

Day 8 | Friday : Dahlak Islands - Massawa

After relishing our final swim in this paradisiacal setting, we’ll head back to Massawa, expecting to arrive in the early afternoon. Later in the evening, we’ll have the opportunity to explore the enchanting sights of Massawa by night.

Overnight in Massawa, Dahlak hotel or similar.
Breakfast Included

Day 9 | Saturday : Massawa - Ghindae - Asmara

Begin early in the morning boat trip to Eco-friendly Island, one of the most easily accessible islands from Massawa, consisting of the beach and a mangrove swamp. In the mid-day drive uphill while enjoying the stunning landscapes and to Asmara, as time permits, with stops heading at exciting sites.

Overnight in Asmara, Crystal hotel or similar.
Breakfast Included

Day 10 | Sunday : Asmara - Kohaito - Senafe – Metera – Asmara

Today, we will drive Southeast to see the ancient ruins of Qohaito: these standing stones, evidence of walls, and a rock-cut burial place date from 2500 years back. Quohaito is a pre-Axumite historical site 20 kilometres from Adikeyih, situated at 2,600 m on the edge of the Great Rift Valley. Legend claims it was constructed in 750BC, during the time of Queen Sheba.

Antiques consist of an etched stele 4-5 meters high and buildings of the Axumite period, and much older cave writing and burial places. Later, we proceed further north to the community of Senafe, near the Ethiopian boundary, where a rough 20 km track brings about the country’s 2nd highest possible mountain, Emba Soira, 3,018 m. After absorbing the sights of the mountainscapes, we return to Asmara late afternoon

NB: This excursion is subject to confirmation for obtaining permits. If they are not obtained, the excursion will reach the Valley of Sycamores just outside the town of Segenity.

Overnight in Asmara, Crystal hotel or similar.
Breakfast Included

Day 11 | Monday : Asmara - Departure

Free to discover Asmara in your leisure time. Transfer to the airport for Departure.

End of Tour!!!

Includes /Excludes

Price Includes

  • Accommodation in tourist category hotels, in a double room - 9 Nights; 1 night in the Dahlak islands Comfort type mobile tented camp.
  • All transfers by private car/minibus, excursions to Kohaito by off-road vehicle
  • Treatment of B&B (bed and breakfast) except during the Dahlak cruise where it is FB (breakfast, lunch, dinner and 4 bottled of water per person per day).
  • Breakfast each day
  • English/Italian speaking tour guide
  • Entrance fees, taxes and permits.

Price Excludes

  • Air ticket fare and Entry visa
  • Meals, extra drinks and tips
  • Steam train excursion
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal spending and any optional tours

FAQ

Payment Method

We highly advise securing your reservation by booking ahead of time. To finalize your tour booking, a pre-payment of a 5% deposit is necessary, which can be transferred to our bank accounts in either USD or EURO. The remaining amount is due upon arrival and can be paid in cash. Alternatively, you have the option to settle the full payment in advance through a bank transfer. In either case, we will provide you with an invoice containing all the required banking details.

Cash - Credit cards - ATM

When carrying US dollars in cash, please ensure that the banknotes you bring have been issued after 2016. Note that older versions are typically not accepted and may be subject to unfavorable exchange rates.

In Eritrea, Visa and MasterCard credit cards are limited in acceptance, primarily at hotels and banks. However, it’s important to be aware that there are often long queues at these establishments. Therefore, we strongly recommend that you bring the necessary sum in cash to cover your expenses.

Please be aware that cash machines and ATMs are not available, so having adequate cash on hand is essential for a smooth and hassle-free experience during your visit.

Can I get the refund?

In the event that Adulis Travel does not provide one of the services In the program, we will offer an opportunity to refund the services not provided, except in force majeure cases or adverse weather conditions, delays or cancellations of international or domestic flights, road conditions, or, if you are denied, obtaining a Travel permit. (All tourists must have a travel permit to travel outside Asmara)

What is the best time to travel to Eritrea?

The optimal time to visit Eritrea is typically from October to April, encompassing the post-rainy season period. Early October, right after the rainy season, is especially favorable. During this time, you’ll encounter a stunningly green and lush country adorned with extraordinary wildflowers in full bloom.

Eritrea’s climate exhibits significant variation depending on the region you choose to explore. There are three primary areas of distinction:

  1. The Plateau: Characterized by a spring-like climate year-round, with average temperatures remaining below 25°C.

  2. The Eastern Lowland: Here, you can expect average temperatures around 30°C, with a lengthy rainy season extending from October to January. Humidity levels remain high throughout the year.

  3. The Western Lowland: Featuring a dry climate with limited rainfall, temperatures fluctuate from 40°C in the summer to 20°C in the winter. July and August are the two hottest months, occasionally reaching highs of 50°C.

On the plateau, the rainy season is divided into two periods: the “small rains” in April-May and the “big rains” in July-August. Conversely, in the lowland regions, the primary rainy season occurs during December and January.

For an ideal Eritrean experience, consider planning your visit during the October to April timeframe when you can relish the country’s lush landscapes and temperate climate, offering a delightful journey through its diverse regions.

Complete the form & request your personalized travel quote. Whatever your travel idea, we will create something wholly unique and tailor-made for you.
Map

Price
From$2,750
Full Name*
Email Address*
Your Enquiry*
* I agree with Terms of Service and Privacy Statement.
Please agree to all the terms and conditions before proceeding to the next step
Save To Wish List

Adding item to wishlist requires an account

703

Book With Confidence


No-hassle best price guarantee
Customer care available 24/7
Hand-picked Tours & Activities

Need Help?


+46.73.267.0493 – WhatsApp

contact@adulistravel.com

Yonatan W

Yonatan W

Typically replies within an hour

I will be back soon

Hi, thanks for contacting Adulis Travel! How can I help you?
Need Help?