Eritrea isn’t the first destination that comes to mind when most people think of tourism, but this under-the-radar country offers a nice mix of culture, history, and coastal vibes. Finding accommodation here can be a bit tricky as the tourism infrastructure is still developing. However, with a bit of patience and planning, you’ll find some great options whether you’re on a budget or want a more luxurious experience.
Where to Stay in Asmara
Asmara, the capital, is probably where you’ll spend most of your time. Since it’s the hub of Eritrea, you’ll find the widest range of accommodations here. Whether you’re looking for something cheap or luxurious, Asmara has options for both. Here’s a breakdown of the best places to stay.
Budget Options in Asmara
If you’re traveling on a budget, expect to find simple guesthouses and small hotels. Standards can vary, so it’s good to manage your expectations when it comes to amenities and service.
- Sweet Asmara Hotel: This guesthouse offers basic amenities and clean rooms. It’s within walking distance of most local attractions.
- Africa Pension Hotel: A popular choice for budget travelers. The rooms are basic but the location in central Asmara makes it very convenient.
Mid-range Options in Asmara
If you’re willing to spend a bit more, there are small boutique hotels offering better service and more comfortable rooms. Most of these come with free breakfast as well.
- Crystal Hotel: One of the more modern hotels in Asmara, offering clean, spacious rooms with all the necessary facilities. It’s close to Harnet Avenue.
- Sunshine Hotel: This mid-range hotel offers a business-friendly environment with great Wi-Fi. It’s a quick walk to downtown Asmara.
Luxury Options in Asmara
If you’re seeking something a little more upscale, your choices will be limited but still decent. Asmara doesn’t have too many lavish hotels, but a couple of high-end choices stand out.
- Hotel Asmara Palace: Eritrea’s most luxurious hotel is perfect if you want to get pampered. With a pool, gym, and great restaurant, this place has everything a traveler needs for a comfortable stay. The service here is excellent but expect to pay a premium.
- Ambassoira Hotel: Another well-regarded hotel where the rooms are spacious, and the staff goes out of their way to make your stay enjoyable.
Where to Stay in Massawa
Massawa is Eritrea’s main coastal town. It’s a hot and humid place, but the historical architecture and waterfront views make it worth the visit. Accommodations skew much more budget-friendly here, but you still have some decent places to choose from.
Budget Options in Massawa
Accommodations tend to be on the simpler side in Massawa. If you’re looking for budget stays, there are guesthouses and smaller hotels scattered around town.
- Dahlak Hotel: This is a budget-friendly option with basic rooms and great proximity to the port of Massawa. While it’s not luxury by any means, it gets the job done.
- Red Sea Hotel: Another affordable hotel with clean rooms. It’s right next to the waterfront, making it great for evening walks along the shore.
Mid-range Options in Massawa
For something more comfortable but still affordable, Massawa has some mid-range hotels with decent amenities and better standards of service.
- Central Hotel Massawa: Known for its friendly staff and clean, simple design. This hotel is best suited for mid-range travelers who want something convenient but not too fancy.
- Gorgis Hotel: A cozy hotel located just a few minutes from the Old City. The rooms are spacious and comfortable with great views of the Red Sea.
Luxury Options in Massawa
Massawa isn’t known for having 5-star accommodations, but there are a couple of higher-end places where you can splurge a little more.
- Dahlak Island Resort: This resort is a bit more isolated, making it the perfect escape if you want peace and quiet. The rooms are excellent, the pool is refreshing, and the views are stunning.
Where to Stay in Keren
Keren is a sleepy town and doesn’t offer the same number of options as Asmara or Massawa, but you’ll still find some modest places to stay here. Most of the hotels in Keren are pretty basic, so don’t expect too much luxury.
Budget Options in Keren
- Sabur Hotel: Clean, no-frills hotel close to the bus station. It’s a popular choice for travelers looking for an affordable place to crash for the night.
- Keren Inn: A simple guesthouse offering all the essentials at budget prices. The rooms are basic, but they are kept clean.
Mid-range Options in Keren
If you have a bit more to spend, there are a couple of mid-range lodges where you can expect slightly better amenities and more comfort.
- Barakat Hotel: One of the better spots in Keren, offering comfortable rooms with air conditioning. The staff here is also very friendly and helpful.
Unique Stays in Eritrea
Eritrea doesn’t have a huge number of ‘unique stays,’ but there are a few places to consider if you’re after something different from the typical hotel experience. These places stand out either due to their location, architecture, or history.
- Dahlak Island Camping: If you’re feeling adventurous, staying overnight on Dahlak Island is an unforgettable experience. You’ll be surrounded by pristine nature, and it’s all about disconnecting from the outside world.
- The Eritrea Railway Guest Houses: For anyone who is interested in history or trains, you can stay in guest houses located near some of the historical railway stations. These are basic accommodations, but the setting is quite unique.
Accommodation Tips for Eritrea
Most accommodations in Eritrea are simple and modest. Don’t expect ultra-modern facilities in most places outside of top-level hotels in Asmara or resorts on the coast. Wi-Fi is usually slow, and reliable hot water isn’t guaranteed in budget locations.
- Book in Advance: Because Eritrea doesn’t have a booming tourism industry, hotels don’t usually fill up. However, it’s still good practice to book in advance as English-speaking staff can be limited.
- Cash is King: Credit cards are not widely accepted in Eritrea. Make sure you have enough local currency (Nakfa) with you.
- Safety: Eritrea is generally a safe country, but as always, it’s smart to exercise common sense and secure your belongings when staying at a hotel or guesthouse.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Eritrea offers a good range of places to stay, from budget guesthouses to more comfortable mid-range hotels. Luxury is still mostly limited to Asmara and one or two resorts on the coast, so don’t come expecting too many 5-star options. On the other hand, the budget and mid-range options make Eritrea an affordable destination without sacrificing comfort.
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