Eritrea: beyond the beaten path

Italian architecture, African traditions, and Red Sea corals

7 days
Overview

Eritrea: beyond the beaten path

An off-the-beaten-path journey to discover Eritrea, an authentic and surprising country. From Asmara, the UNESCO-listed capital renowned for its 20th-century Italian architecture, the tour continues to Keren, a cultural crossroads famous for its markets and silver filigree craftsmanship. The route then leads to Massawa on the Red Sea, gateway to the pristine Dahlak Islands. Here, enjoy a unique experience of sailing and camping among coral reefs and crystal-clear waters before returning to Asmara, where the journey concludes. This itinerary is ideal for those seeking adventure, authenticity, and little-explored destinations.
Price:
starting from

Euro 3.210

BOOK
Days
7 days
Tour language
English and Italian
Countries
Eritrea
Route
From Asmara to Asmara
Tour type
Small group
Group size
From 2 to 12 participants
Accomodation
Hotels and camps
Meals
6 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners
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Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival, Asmara
Upon arrival in Asmara, your driver will meet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. In the afternoon, join a guided tour of Asmara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (the tour starts around 2:00 PM; if your flight arrives later, it is recommended to add an extra night before the tour to avoid missing the planned visits). Highlights include the Romanesque Cathedral of St. Mary and the Nda Mariam Coptic Church. You will also have time to visit the historic Medeber Market and the unique Fiat Tagliero Garage. Return to the hotel in the evening. Meals: not included
Day 2 From Asmara to Keren
A century ago, the Italians built what was then considered a futuristic railway in Eritrea, and in recent years steam locomotives have returned to travel along the tracks of this former Italian colony. Although much of the railway infrastructure is in poor condition, boarding the steam train offers a journey back in time through mountains dotted with prickly pear and breathtaking views. As the train is not always operational, this experience is offered as an optional extra, bookable and payable through the local guide. If the train is not running, more time will be spent visiting Asmara before departing for Keren, where you will spend the night. Meals: breakfast (lunch and dinner not included)
Day 3 Keren
The city of Keren, inhabited by the Bilen people, lies in a wide basin surrounded by granite mountains. The main attraction is the lively and colorful local market, frequented by nearby tribes. You will explore the covered market, streets of tailors and silversmiths, and reach the river where wood and charcoal markets are located. In Keren, you will also visit the Mariam Dearit Shrine, home to a Black Madonna embedded in a baobab tree. The tour concludes with visits to Italian, Askari, and British war cemeteries before returning to Asmara for the night. Meals: breakfast (lunch and dinner not included)
Day 4 Massawa and Dahlak Island
Leave Asmara and descend to the coastal city of Massawa. From here, board a speedboat to explore some of the Red Sea’s gems, the Dahlak Islands. The exact route will be decided by the captain based on weather conditions, but you will visit some of the most interesting and vibrant coral reefs in the area. During the 2-night excursion, you will set up camp on one of the islands and use it as a base to explore nearby islands. Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Day 5 Dahlak Island
The Dahlak archipelago consists of over 200 islands immersed in the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea. The surrounding waters are rich in marine life, including unique fish species and coral. The archipelago also offers the rare opportunity to spot manta rays, turtles, and dolphins. Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Day 6 Massawa and Asmara
Disembark in Massawa. Time permitting, enjoy a short visit to the city before returning to Asmara, where you will spend your final night in Eritrea. The evening is a perfect opportunity to purchase last-minute souvenirs or dine in a local restaurant and bid farewell to the new friends made during the trip. Meals: breakfast (lunch and dinner not included)
Day 7 Departure, Asmara
Departure, Asmara Free time in Asmara until transfer to the airport for your return flight. Meals: breakfast (lunch and dinner not included)

Includes

Guided tour with an English and Italian-speaking guide, accommodation in hotels and camps, transfer to/from the airport, meal plan as indicated, activities and transfers as per itinerary.

Does Not Include

Flights to/from Eritrea, airport taxes, cancellation/medical/luggage insurance (mandatory), optional excursions, tips, personal expenses, and anything not mentioned in “Includes.”

Important

Participation prices are updated at the time of publication. Please contact our Travel Designers to check for any changes and to find out whether special offers or promotions are currently available.

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