Traveling to Eritrea might not be on everyone’s radar just yet, but for those with a taste for off-the-beaten-path adventures, this 3-day tour offers a compelling way to experience the country’s unique blend of history, architecture, and landscapes. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a clear picture of what makes it special—and worth considering.
We particularly love how this tour combines culture with scenic drives through Eritrea’s diverse regions. The chance to explore the UNESCO-listed city of Asmara, wander the historic streets of Massawa, with its Ottoman and Italian influences, and visit the poignant Keren War Cemetery sounds both enriching and photogenic. The inclusion of two nights’ hotel stays ensures you get enough time to soak in each locale without rushing. The only caveat? The price point of around $1,144 per person might seem high for some, but considering the comprehensive nature of the trip—including all transfers and breakfast—it offers solid value for an organized, guided experience.
This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers eager for an authentic look at Eritrea’s major sights, with a preference for comfort and guided insights. If you’re someone who appreciates well-organized trips with knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, this could be a great choice.
Key Points
- Cultural and historical insights provided at war cemeteries and colonial architecture.
- Scenic drives through varied climates and landscapes, with spectacular mountain views.
- Two nights’ hotel stays allow deeper exploration and less hurried travel.
- Expert guides like Selohom, praised for their professionalism and deep knowledge.
- Convenient logistics with airport transfers and mobile tickets.
- Limited group size (max 15 travelers), ensuring a more personalized experience.
The Itinerary in Detail
Day 1: From Asmara to Massawa
Your adventure kicks off early in Asmara, a city renowned for its Art Deco architecture and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visiting Cathedral Our Lady of the Rosary offers a glimpse into Eritrea’s religious and cultural fabric, with a guided tour that highlights its architectural charm. The guide’s insights help you appreciate the significance of the buildings in the context of Eritrea’s history. Expect to learn about how Italian colonial influence shaped the city’s cityscape, which remains remarkably well-preserved.
The drive from Asmara to Massawa is a highlight itself. Traversing the Masswa-Nefasit route, you’ll experience a gradual descent from 2,400 meters to sea level over about three hours. During this drive, you’ll witness a remarkable climate change—cool highlands transitioning to moderate and then hot coastal heat—enhancing the sense of journey. Reviewers mention the drive’s spectacular scenery, with many describing it as a visual feast of mountains, valleys, and changing vegetation.
A brief coffee break in Ghinday provides a chance to relax and take in the scenery, while dinner in Massawa introduces you to local flavors. Massawa itself is a city with a Turkish and Italian architectural flavor, featuring historic sites like an old Turkish Palace and the modern port built by Italians. The reviews describe Massawa as fascinating but also somewhat damaged, with notable efforts to preserve its Ottoman roots.
Day 2: Massawa to Keren
Starting with a visit to the Memorial Plaza for Victims of the Massawa Battle, you’ll gain a somber, respectful insight into Eritrea’s recent history. The guide will likely share stories about the colonial struggles that shaped the region, giving context to the war cemeteries you’ll visit later.
The afternoon takes you to Keren, around 2-3 hours’ drive from Massawa. The journey offers spectacular mountain scenery, with hairpin turns and winding roads that thrill even seasoned travelers. Reviewers note the beautiful landscapes and the sense of altitude as you ascend into the highlands. Keren is known for its war cemetery, which is a poignant reminder of Eritrea’s tumultuous past. The guide’s commentary here is often praised for adding depth to the visit, helping travelers understand the significance of these sites.
Keren also offers a vibrant local market scene and a chance to see life in the highlands, contrasting sharply with the coastal areas. The city’s war cemetery, a key stop, is described as a meaningful and quiet spot, with reviews mentioning it’s a location that leaves a lasting impression.
Day 3: Returning to Asmara via Keren
The final day involves a scenic trip back to Asmara, with a focus on the Keren War Cemetery. The drive highlights Eritrea’s diverse geography, with views of mountains, valleys, and rural villages. Many travelers comment on the spectacular scenery during this ascent, with winding roads that make the journey memorable.
Once back in Asmara, the tour concludes with an airport transfer. This structured but relaxed schedule means you leave with a solid overview of Eritrea’s landscapes, history, and architecture—all in just three days.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and professionalism, with reviewers mentioning guide Selohom specifically. Her ability to share context and her friendly demeanor seem to elevate the experience, making the visits more meaningful. The scenic drives through Eritrea’s mountains and coastlines are described as “spectacular,” offering plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
The hotel accommodations are included, giving you a base to rest and explore without the hassle of finding your own lodging—particularly helpful in a country where international options might be limited. Breakfasts are complimentary, allowing you to start each day energized.
The small group size (max 15 travelers) keeps the experience intimate and allows for more personalized attention from guides. This is especially valuable in a country like Eritrea, where local insights can enrich your understanding of the sites visited.
Considering the Price
At over $1,100 per person, this tour might seem steep for some travelers. However, when you factor in all transfers, hotel stays, guided tours, and breakfasts, it offers significant value. Organized trips like this often provide a smoother experience—handling logistics, permits, and transportation—so you can focus on enjoying the sights.
Reviewers note that this trip is well-organized, with good time management that allows sufficient exploration of each site. The inclusion of expert guides makes it easier to navigate Eritrea’s sometimes complex travel requirements, like obtaining Travel Permits outside of Asmara.
Practical Tips for Potential Travelers
- Book in advance, as the tour is often reserved 22 days ahead.
- Be prepared for variable climates—dress in layers for the highlands and coastal heat.
- Since lunch and dinner are not included, budget accordingly for meals.
- Make sure to obtain your Travel Permit if you’re traveling outside of Asmara (handled by Adulis Travel).
- Travelers should be comfortable with long drives (up to 8 hours per day), which are part of the experience but require patience.
- The group size is small, so bringing your patience and flexibility will enhance the trip.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This trip suits adventurous travelers who want to see Eritrea’s main sights without the hassle of self-organizing logistics. It’s perfect for those interested in history, architecture, and scenic drives, especially if they value guided insights and comfortable accommodations.
If you’re open to long travel days and enjoy a small-group setting, you’ll find this tour offers excellent value for the experience. It’s also ideal for first-time visitors to Eritrea who want a structured, informative overview of the country.
Final Thoughts
This 3-day Asmara-Massawa-Keren tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Eritrea’s diverse landscapes and historic sites. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable overnight stays, and a focus on authentic experiences, it balances adventure and comfort.
While the price might be on the higher side, the value comes from expertly managed logistics, insightful commentary, and the chance to see some of Eritrea’s most compelling sights without the stress of planning every detail.
This tour is a strong choice for travelers eager to explore Eritrea’s architecture, history, and scenic mountain landscapes in a manageable and engaging way. If you love discovering new, lesser-known destinations with a good guide by your side, this could be a trip you’ll remember for years.
FAQ
Is airport pickup included in the tour?
Yes, airport transfers are included, making your arrival and departure more convenient.
What’s the best way to book this tour?
Booking is typically done at least a few weeks in advance, often 22 days beforehand, to secure your spot.
Are meals included besides breakfast?
No, lunch, dinner, and alcoholic drinks are not included, so you’ll need to budget for additional meals.
How many people will be in the group?
The tour caps at 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Do I need a Travel Permit to visit outside Asmara?
Yes, travelers need a travel permit for regions outside Asmara, which is handled by Adulis Travel.
What’s the main highlight of this trip?
The scenic mountain drives, the UNESCO-listed architecture in Asmara, and the historic sites in Massawa and Keren.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those uncomfortable with long drives or mountain ascents should consider their comfort level.
What is the price point reflective of?
It includes all transfers, two hotel nights, guided tours, and breakfast, offering good value for a guided itinerary in Eritrea.
What should I pack?
Layered clothing for varying climates, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and personal essentials.