Eritrea is a northeast African country on the Red Sea coast. It shares borders with Ethiopia, Sudan and Djibouti. The capital city, Asmara, is known for its Italian colonial buildings, like St. Joseph’s Cathedral, as well as art deco structures. Italian, Egyptian and Turkish architecture in Massawa reflect the port city’s colorful history.
Day 01: Arrive Asmara city tour
At your arrival at the Asmara International Airport, after processing custom formalities you will be transferred at your hotel.
In the afternoon you will start with the discovery of Asmara. A guided tour will lead you to the most interesting and unusual places that Asmara, UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers.
(Overnight in Asmara)
Day 02: Asmara – Keren
A drive from Asmara to the town of Keren, the second largest city, situated at 91 kilometers to north west of Asmara takes a gradual descent to an altitude of 1390 meters. It has a moderate climate. The fine tarmac road, built by the Italians is like a hairpin curved out from mountainous plateaus.
The town is surrounded by mountains and one would wish to have an experience of mountain climbing if one has the necessary training. The city was built by the Italians. Because of its moderate climate many visitors use to enjoy for a couple of days or even weeks. In the 1960’s and early 1970 The town had a wonderful American club with a swimming pool. There was also snake farm owned by an Italian The town is also well known for its baobab temple. The majestic tree has stood for centuries and it is so graceful to watch it and pay respects. Visitors would also visit the Italian and Common Wealth war cemeteries.
(Overnight Keren)
Day 03: Keren – The Green Belt – Massawa
Driving to Massawa through the green belt would take the path primarily towards the Keren road. Then turning towards the east the journey would gradually descend through the much admired filfil- solomuna road, usually called the Green belt.
The road initially built by the Italians as a weather road has been turned into a fine tarmac by the Government of Eritrea Visitors may feel as if they are driving above the clouds as they could apparently watch the clouds down the hill.
Further driving towards the east the descending will continue. Visitors could have a stop-over at the Mai Wu’uii (the famous hot spring) found some 40 kilometers from Massawa. Continuing the journey visitors will witness the desert plains before reaching the port City of Massawa.
( Overnight at Massawa )
Day 04: Massawa Gurgusum beach rest and recreation.
Massawa enjoys a combination of Turkish and Italian Architects, an apparent indication of the Ottoman and Italian colonial history.
There is, among others, an old Turkish Palace and the Modern Port built by the Titians at the turn of the 20th Century. A more than one thousand years mosque is still standing to this day. A great attraction to many visitors
The famous Gurgusum beach is one of the finest beaches in the world. It is clean and safe.
Massawa is relatively cool during October to March. However during April to September it will be hot and humid. Visitors can adjust their time table accordingly.
( Overnight in Massawa )
Day 05: Massawa – Ghindae – Asmara
Driving back at an early morning from Massawa to Asmara is an enjoyable ascending from 0 sea levels to a gradual climbing to Ghindae and Nefasit.
Then finally the journey will take the visitors to Asmara.
( Overnight Asmara )
Day 06: Asmara – Adikeyh – Asmara
A journey towards the south East of Asmara will take the visitors to Dekemhare, 40 kilometers, Segeneiti, 65 kilometers, Adi Keyh 115 kilometers. Turning to the left through a weather road of 12 kilometers visitors will enjoy the archaeological site in Kohaito. An ancient dam, traces of ancient palace, Rock paintings and tombs. Included is also the breath taking view of the Grand Canyon.
While returning back to Asmara visitors will have an observation of the several majestic baobab tree found in the town of Segeneiti, 65 kilometers from Asmara or almost half way to Senafe. The 5 Nakfa note commemorates one of the biggest baobab tree in the town.
( Overnight in Asmara )
Day 07: Asmara – Adi Quala – Asmara
The town of Mendefera derived this name from the local language Tigrinya meaning “nobody dared“, after the resilience shown by the locals when they defended themselves on the hill against the Italian advance. The town is dominated by two hills on either side of the main road.
Among the things to see in Mendefera include the market, the ancient Mosque and the old Saint George Church (San Giorgio Church).
Travel further to Adi Quala, a pleasant market town 32 km from Mendefera and 88 km from Asmara. It is covered with vegetation and a slew of agricultural plains, small stores, cafes and scenic panoramas.
( Overnight in Asmara )
Day 08: Free day in Asmara
Transfer to airport for Departure.
| City | Nights | Hotels |
| Asmara | 01 | Asmara Palace Hotel |
| Keren | 01 | Sarina Hotel |
| Massawa | 02 | Central Hotel |
| Asmara | 03 | Asmara Palace Hotel |
Includes:
– Meeting and assistance by our representative.
– 07 nights accommodation as per program
– Meals: Breakfasts & Dinners
– Entry fee as per mentioned
– English Speaking guide
– All transfers, sightseeing & excursion by private vehicle.
– All present government taxes.
• International Flights.
• Personal Expenses.
• Camera / Video Camera Fees.
• Medical Aid.
• Tips.
• Travel Insurance.
• Accommodation in good hotels.
• Check-in / out time is 12 noon at most of the hotels.
• Extension to other places is also possible with a minimal extra cost. – Additional nights are available at each place with minimal supplement.
• A visa is required and must be obtained prior to your departure from your Country.
• If quoted hotel is not available, we will provide one of a similar category and standard.
• Small deviations in the tour program are sometimes necessary, depending on weather, road conditions, flight schedules and room availability.
• In case the government changes presently applicable taxes, increase in airlines prices, fuel surcharge our rates will need to be adjusted accordingly.
• In Asia, there is no relevance between the distance and time of travelling, as it depends upon the condition of the roads and congestion of the traffic.
• While every effort will be made to maintain the itinerary, in view of local strikes etc that are beyond our control all schedule and itineraries are subject to last moment changes.
• Clients must be fully insured, as the company cannot accept liability for loss or damage to client’s property, medical emergencies or any other loss suffered by them whilst on tour.
• In Case of issuing Domestic or International air tickets, SGV is not responsible for any refund if the flight is delayed or cancelled, as it is the responsibility of airline.
