Top Activities in Eritrea for Travelers

Adulis, once a bustling port city, now lies in ruins, offering a silent testimony to Eritrea's ancient trade networks that connected the Roman Empire to the Aksumite Kingdom. Visitors to Adulis can wander among the remnants of this historic hub, imagining the vibrancy of life that once flourished here. The ruins serve as a poignant reminder of the region's significance in the annals of history, inviting exploration and contemplation of the civilizations that once involved in commerce and interaction along the Red Sea's shores.

The Mai Wu'ui hot springs, located in a serene landscape, provide visitors with a natural retreat with therapeutic waters thought to have healing properties. This peaceful oasis provides a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing travellers to relax and rejuvenate amidst the natural beauty of Eritrea. The hot springs are a monument to the country's numerous natural features, offering a serene haven for people looking to connect with nature and enjoy a moment of relaxation in a relaxing atmosphere.

Asmara's Italian Quarter stands as a vibrant reminder of the city's colonial past, where Mediterranean flair meets African spirit. This district is distinguished by its well-preserved colonial-era buildings, showcasing art deco and futurist architecture, alongside Italian-style cafes that offer a slice of European culture in Eritrea. A stroll through the Italian Quarter is an architectural journey, offering insights into Asmara's unique cultural fusion and providing a picturesque setting for exploration and culinary delights.

Filfil, known as Eritrea's Green Belt, offers a lush contrast to the nation's predominantly arid landscapes. This verdant area is a biodiversity hotspot, home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and environmentalists. Hiking through Filfil's dense forests and enjoying the cool, fresh air provides a refreshing escape from the desert heat, highlighting the ecological diversity and natural beauty that Eritrea has to offer.

Perched at the Eritrean Highlands' brink, roughly 40 miles from the Red Sea's closest port, Asmara, the capital and largest city, is celebrated for its Modernist architecture, a legacy of Italian colonization. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Asmara is alive with vibrant marketplaces, educational institutions, mosques, and churches, amidst palm-dotted avenues. The city's relaxed atmosphere, complemented by cafes and bakeries, is cherished by many. Despite occasional power outages due to economic strains, safety remains uncompromised.

The Dahlak Marine National Park, a peaceful refuge within the Dahlak Archipelago, is a paradise for marine life aficionados. This area, which is only accessible via special permits, delivers an unparalleled interaction with Eritrea's abundant biodiversity in the northern Red Sea Region. The park, which is home to dugongs, dolphins, and over 325 fish species, also gives the opportunity to see underwater volcanic structures and historic shipwrecks. Former liberation fighters who have become experienced scuba guides lead dive trips here, providing a layer of historical richness to the underwater adventure.

Qohaito, Eritrea's finest archeological site, provides a glimpse into ancient civilizations with its rich collection of rock art, tombs, and ruins going back to the fifth millennium BCE. This enormous location, accessible only with a permission, encompasses a region that promotes exploration and meditation on the historical significance of the Great Rift Valley's edge. Visitors are urged to visit the rim of Qohaito Canyon, where, on clear days, the great expanse of the Red Sea serves as a spectacular background, adding natural beauty to the archeological excursion.