Day 1: Arrival in Asmara
Your adventure begins in the capital city of Asmara. After you land, take things easy today. Use the first day to settle in, get familiar with the surroundings, and rest up after the flight.
In the afternoon, you can take a gentle walk around the city center. Admire Asmara’s art deco buildings, especially around Harnet Avenue. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has tons of impressive Italian architectural influence.
Make sure to have your first taste of Eritrean coffee at a nearby café. Coffee is a huge part of the culture here.
Day 2: Exploring Asmara
Start the day with a walk through the historic center. Visit the Cathedral of Asmara, then head to the Great Mosque of Asmara. The mix of religious architecture speaks volumes about the city’s diversity and history.
For lunch, pop into a local restaurant to try injera, a staple of the Eritrean diet. Make sure to pair it with spicy wat (stew).
In the afternoon, visit the National Museum of Eritrea. It is a great place to learn about the country’s deep history and culture. Spend the evening wandering around the local markets before heading back to your hotel.
Day 3: Keren
Travel to Keren, about two hours away by car or bus. Keren is known for its colorful markets and is a great town to explore, especially if you’re interested in a more relaxed atmosphere.
Visit the Keren War Cemetery, a sobering reminder of the battles that took place here during World War II. Then, head to the Mariam Dearit Shrine, which is a symbol of the blending of Christianity and local traditions.
In the afternoon, check out the camel market if it’s open. It’s one of the largest in the region! You’ll get some incredible photo opportunities here.
Day 4: More Time in Keren
Today is a slower day in Keren. Enjoy a peaceful walk around town in the morning. Stop by the 6th-century Debre Sina Monastery if you’d like a bit of history.
For the rest of the day, leave time for some relaxation or exploration on your own. Wander through Keren’s streets, interact with locals, or find a quiet café to spend some time sipping tea.
Day 5: Filfil Rainforest
Head towards the Filfil Rainforest, also called the Green Belt. It’s just on the way to Massawa, and it’s a beautiful place for some nature-based relaxation.
This lush area is great for hiking and birdwatching. You can take a slow drive through the forest and stop for pictures, or if you’re into hiking, explore the trails on foot.
In the afternoon, continue your drive to Massawa and settle in for the night.
Day 6: Massawa
Massawa is a stunning coastal town with great historical significance. Start your exploration by wandering through the old town, where the Turkish, Arab, and Italian influences are easy to spot in the architecture.
Check out the Imperial Palace, though just seeing it from the outside is fine. Spend time walking by the Red Sea, and take in the atmosphere around the port.
As the day winds down, find a seafood restaurant for dinner. Massawa has some of the best seafood you’ll find anywhere in Eritrea.
Day 7: Day trip to the Dahlak Archipelago
Take a day trip to the Dahlak Archipelago. These islands are perfect for anyone looking for an off-the-grid experience.
Most trips involve taking a boat from Massawa. Spend the day on one of the islands, snorkeling, swimming, or just relaxing on the beach. There is incredible marine life here, so definitely bring your snorkel gear if you can.
You’ll head back to Massawa by evening, tired but content after a day of island relaxation.
Day 8: Return to Asmara
Head back to Asmara in the morning, taking the scenic drive back up the mountains. Once you’re back in the capital, take the rest of the day to rest or explore the city on your own.
If you missed any key spots during your first few days, now’s the chance to check those out.
Day 9: Visit Adulis Ruins
If you’re a history buff, today is a special treat. Visit the ancient ruins of Adulis, located about two hours from Massawa.
These ruins were once a vital trading port of the ancient Aksum Empire. There’s not much left in terms of structures, but the significance of the place and its history still makes this a visit worth taking.
After the ruins, you can return to Massawa or head back to Asmara for dinner at a local eatery.
Day 10: Decamere
Take a short trip to Decamere, a quiet town near Asmara. It’s mostly known for its vibrant market, which makes it a fun afternoon trip.
Spend a couple of hours exploring and picking up some local handicrafts or maybe sampling some local street food.
Afterward, return to Asmara and relax for the evening.
Day 11: Senafe and Metera
Head south to the town of Senafe, a couple of hours from Asmara. This area is home to another important archaeological site called Metera, which has origins dating back to the Aksumite Empire.
The drive to Senafe is scenic, with beautiful views of the countryside. At Metera, you can explore ancient stelae (monuments). It’s an easygoing day but filled with important history and cool finds.
Return to Asmara for the night.
Day 12: Drive to the Dankalia Region
If you’re up for seeing some truly wild landscapes, today you head towards the Dankalia region. It’s an adventure, but the salt flats, heat, and lunar-like scenery are unbelievable.
Dankalia is not for everyone because conditions can be extreme, so make sure you are well-prepared with plenty of water and sun protection.
If it’s too hot, you can opt for returning earlier to Massawa for an extra beach day.
Day 13: Relaxation Day in Massawa
After all the hiking and exploring, it’s time to take a breather before your trip back home. Spend today relaxing by the water in Massawa.
You can spend the day on the beach, rent a small boat to cruise around, or enjoy a mini shopping spree in the markets for some last-minute souvenirs.
In the evening, enjoy your final night at one of Massawa’s seafood restaurants.
Day 14: Departure from Asmara
It’s time to say goodbye to Eritrea. Travel back to Asmara, pack up, and grab your last sips of Eritrean coffee before heading to the airport for your flight home.
After two weeks of discovery, you’ll leave with a deeper connection to the country’s history, culture, and stunning natural beauty.
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