A 7-day group trip to Eritrea – Africa’s most reclusive nation, which is one of the least visited and most tightly controlled on the continent. Yet behind its borders, there is a treasure trove of landscapes, ancient sites and colonial era landmarks to be enjoyed.
The nation has a 1,100km coastline, with vast expanses of pristine beaches and remote, idyllic islands. To its interior, there is harsh desert, deep gorges and canyons, along with mountainous highlands.
It’s a part of the world that historically was the gateway between the Arab and African worlds, leaving a rich cultural legacy that you still feel in the nation today.
We begin by exploring the capital Asmara, famed for its Art Deco architecture, left over from Italian rule, along with its markets, which throng with life. We then head north, through stunning mountainous roads to Keren, visiting its livestock markets, temples and Italian and Commonwealth cemeteries.
From here we drop down towards the coast, experiencing three distinct climatic zones, on our way to Massawa, where we enjoy a dip in the shimmering waters of the Red Sea. This area has played an important role in trading between the continents and you learn more about this story at its Museum and port.
It’s at this point we take a boat trip to Green Island – a beautiful slice of nature off the coast of Massawa, home to gorgeous beaches, a bounty of marine-life and bird populations. We then finish the trip by returning back to the capital, Asmara.
Arrive in Asmara.
Transfer to hotel.
Overnight in Asmara.
Full day in Asmara.
Spend the day exploring Asmara’s remarkable Art Deco heritage, with highlights including St. Mary’s Church, the St. Mary Cemetery viewpoint overlooking the city, the Grand Mosque, the Catholic Cathedral, and the historic Post Office.
The day may also include visits to the Eritrean National Museum and the Tank Graveyard.
Overnight in Asmara.
Drive to Keren, the second largest city in the country, along the fine tarmac road curved out from mountainous plateaus.
You will visit Keren’s historical Italian and Commonwealth war cemeteries, as well as the Mariam Dearit temple which is curved out from an ancient Baobab tree.
Overnight in Keren.
This morning we visit Keren’s lively Monday camel and livestock market and explore the town’s well-known handicraft stalls.
Then drive east along the Massawa-Nefasit route, experiencing three distinct climates along the way-cool highlands, moderate midlands, and the warm coastal lowlands-before descending to Massawa.
Upon arrival, enjoy an afternoon of swimming and relaxation at the Gurgusum Beach.
Overnight in Massawa.
Full day in and around Massawa.
Explore the city’s historic sites, including the Old Turkish Palace, the Italian-built Modern Port, and a thousand-year-old mosque. Visit the Red Sea Museum to learn about the region’s maritime history and coastal culture.
Continue south to the ancient port sites of Adulis and Zula, once major hubs of Red Sea trade. In the 1860s, these ports were used by the British military to transport elephants, donkeys, and troops during their campaign into Ethiopia.
Overnight in Massawa.
Morning visit to Green Island, exploring the pristine beaches and unique nature.
We then return to Asmara.
Overnight in Asmara.
Transfer to airport.
End of day.
