The 12 Prettiest Places in Eritrea to Visit

Eritrea caught me completely off guard. The moment I stepped into Asmara’s streets, with those wild Italian art deco buildings glowing in the morning light, I knew this place was special. There’s something surreal about sipping a perfect espresso in a 1930s cafe, then walking out into the heart of East Africa—this city grabbed me and wouldn’t let go.

The most beautiful places in Eritrea blend Italian colonial architecture with raw African landscapes in ways that’ll make your jaw drop. From watching the sunset paint Massawa’s Ottoman buildings golden to taking that incredible train ride through mountain passes on a railway built in 1930, this country serves up surprises at every turn. Here are 12 spots that showed me why Eritrea is one of Africa’s most fascinating yet rarely visited countries.

Prettiest Places to Visit in Eritrea

Looking to explore Eritrea’s most beautiful places? From the historic architecture of Asmara to the stunning coastline of the Dahlak Archipelago, Eritrea is packed with stunning scenery. Stroll through the vibrant streets of Massawa, marvel at the ancient ruins of Qohaito, or explore the cultural richness of Keren. Discover the charming allure of Filfil Forest, the tranquil beauty of Senafe, or the breathtaking views from the Gash-Barka region. Whether you’re into history, beaches, or natural landscapes, here are 12 of Eritrea’s most breathtaking spots!

1. Asmara

• 📍 Location: Capital city of Eritrea, situated on the central highlands at an elevation of 7,628 feet
• 🏆 Best For: Architecture enthusiasts 🏛️, history lovers 🕰️, coffee connoisseurs ☕
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Art Deco buildings, riding the historic Eritrean Railway, enjoying macchiato at outdoor cafés
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant temperatures and clear skies ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Asmara Palace Hotel – Luxury accommodation with panoramic city views

Wondering what a perfectly preserved 1930s Italian city would look like in Africa? Asmara answers with its UNESCO-listed modernist architecture that will make design lovers weak at the knees. This high-altitude gem features stunning Italian-era buildings, creating an open-air museum of architectural wonders unlike anything I’ve experienced elsewhere.

The futuristic Fiat Tagliero building resembles an airplane frozen in time, while Cinema Impero maintains its original Art Deco splendor. The Orthodox Cathedral dazzles visitors with its ornate interior. Take a slow ride on the vintage Eritrean Railway through breathtaking mountain scenery for unforgettable views of the countryside.

Stroll the wide jacaranda-lined boulevards and enjoy perfect macchiatos at sidewalk cafés like the historic Cafè Roma. The blend of African and Mediterranean cultures creates an atmosphere that captivates visitors seeking something beyond typical African destinations. Plan at least two days to absorb Asmara’s unique character.

2. Keren

• 📍 Location: Anseba region of Eritrea, about 91 km northwest of Asmara
• 🏆 Best For: Culture enthusiasts 🧕, market lovers 🛍️, photographers 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the vibrant Monday camel market, exploring British and Italian war cemeteries, hiking surrounding hills
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to February for comfortable temperatures and clear mountain views 🏔️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Crystal Hotel – Elegant lodging in Asmara with distinctive Art Deco architecture and convenient access to the historic city center

Imagine a town where time slows down and centuries-old trading traditions still thrive. Keren offer this experience in a picturesque valley surrounded by dramatic granite mountains. This laid-back town offers an authentic glimpse into Eritrean life beyond the capital with cultural richness that feels refreshingly genuine.

The famous Monday Camel Market stands as East Africa’s most photogenic livestock gathering, where traders arrive with their animals, creating a spectacle that transported me back centuries. Visit the unique St. Maryam Dearit Chapel built inside a massive baobab tree. For panoramic views of the valley, climb to Tigu Fort overlooking the town.

Keren’s blend of cultures and relaxed pace make it perfect for travelers seeking authentic connections and memorable photographs of everyday Eritrean life.

3. Danakil Depression

• 📍 Location: Northeastern Eritrea and extending into Ethiopia, part of the Afar Triangle
• 🏆 Best For: Adventure seekers 🧗‍♀️, geology enthusiasts 🌋, photographers 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Witnessing sulfur springs and acid pools, salt mining operations, otherworldly landscapes
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to March during the cooler season (temperatures still exceed 100°F) 🔥
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Delina – Charming lodging offering authentic Eritrean hospitality with convenient access to Asmara’s historic center

Want bragging rights for visiting Earth’s most alien landscape? The Danakil Depression ranks among the hottest and lowest places on the planet. This geological wonderland features a kaleidoscope of colors from sulfur yellow to acid green that seem straight from another world. I’ve never seen landscapes that so completely challenge what I thought possible on Earth.

Dallol’s technicolor hot springs and bubbling acid pools create genuinely otherworldly scenes for photographers. The vast salt flats stretch to the horizon, where Afar people mine salt blocks using methods unchanged for centuries. Their camel caravans moving across the blinding white landscape create unforgettable images.

Nighttime brings spectacular star viewing in the clear desert sky. Visit as part of an organized expedition with specialized vehicles and plenty of water supplies. The extreme conditions have unparalleled photographic opportunities and lifelong memories for adventurous travelers.

4. Debre Bizen Monastery

• 📍 Location: Perched atop Mount Bizen, about 25 km east of Asmara
• 🏆 Best For: Religious pilgrims 🙏, hikers 🥾, history enthusiasts 📜
• 📸 Top Experiences: Trekking the mountain path, viewing ancient manuscripts, witnessing monastic life
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: January-March for the Feast of Debre Bizen celebration and comfortable hiking weather ⛰️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Asmara Palace Hotel – Comfortable accommodations in Asmara with arranged transportation to the monastery, as overnight stays at the monastery itself are limited to male pilgrims

Looking for a spiritual journey that requires an actual journey? Debre Bizen Monastery perches dramatically at 7,900 feet with views stretching to the Red Sea. This 15th-century Orthodox monastery houses irreplaceable manuscripts and ancient artifacts within stone walls that have stood for centuries against time and the elements.

The challenging two-hour uphill hike rewards visitors with stunning mountain scenery populated by baboons and exotic birds. Only men may enter the actual monastery complex, while women can enjoy spectacular views from a nearby designated area. I found the glimpse into this unchanged monastic lifestyle profoundly moving.

Time your visit for the annual Feast of Debre Bizen in January to witness colorful celebrations drawing pilgrims from across the country. This memorable cultural excursion offers both physical challenge and spiritual reward for those willing to make the climb.

5. Hawatsu Reservoir and Copse

• 📍 Location: Highland region of Eritrea, about 40 km southeast of Asmara
• 🏆 Best For: Nature lovers 🌳, birdwatchers 🦅, picnickers 🧺
• 📸 Top Experiences: Spotting endemic birds, lakeside walks, enjoying highland picnic views
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April-May after seasonal rains for lush greenery and active wildlife 🌿
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Asmara Palace Hotel – Elegant colonial-era luxury with panoramic city views and Art Deco architecture in Eritrea’s historic capital

Need a refreshing escape from urban exploration? Hawatsu Reservoir provides a peaceful natural retreat with its tranquil waters creating an oasis of green in the predominantly arid landscape. This man-made lake has evolved into an important ecological zone showcasing the highlands’ natural beauty and biodiversity.

The calm waters reflect surrounding hills and attract numerous bird species throughout the year. Birdwatchers can spot Eritrean endemics like the White-winged Cliff Chat and Eritrean Seedeater. The surrounding woodland provides welcome shade and habitat for small mammals and reptiles that thrive in this protected environment.

Local families often gather here on weekends for traditional coffee ceremonies and picnics. Informal paths allow easy exploration of the shoreline and wooded areas. 

6. Massawa

• 📍 Location: Red Sea coast of Eritrea, about 110 km east of Asmara
• 🏆 Best For: History buffs 🏛️, beach lovers 🏖️, diving enthusiasts 🤿
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Ottoman architecture, snorkeling coral reefs, visiting the Dahlak Archipelago
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to April for tolerable temperatures and ideal diving conditions 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Grand Dahlak Hotel – Oceanfront accommodation with colonial charm

Crave a place where centuries of history meet world-class diving? Massawa has both in this steamy coastal gem where Ottoman, Egyptian, Italian, and indigenous influences create an atmospheric old town. This historic port survived earthquakes and war to become a fascinating cultural destination and gateway to pristine Red Sea adventures.

The old quarter on Batsi Island features narrow streets lined with coral-block houses and Turkish buildings, creating a haunting beauty. The remarkable Imperial Palace stands as a testament to centuries of strategic importance. I could spend days wandering through this architectural time capsule before cooling off in the crystal-clear sea.

World-class diving and snorkeling await among vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. The Dahlak Archipelago offers 126 islands with unspoiled beaches and underwater adventures for those with boat transportation. Visit during winter to avoid the summer heat that regularly exceeds 100°F. 

7. Mt. Emba Soira

• 📍 Location: Debub Region, southern Eritrea, in the highlands near the Ethiopian border
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, nature enthusiasts 🌿, adventure seekers 🧗
• 📸 Top Experiences: Summiting Eritrea’s highest peak, photographing rare flora, visiting traditional villages
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to March during the dry season for clearest views 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay:  Crystal Hotel – Modern luxury accommodations in the heart of Asmara with traditional Eritrean hospitality and stunning city views

Mt. Emba Soira beckons thrill-seekers with its towering 9,885-foot summit, crowning Eritrea as the ultimate high-altitude adventure. The challenging trek rewards hikers with panoramic views across the southern highlands and into Ethiopia. You’ll spot unique flora and occasionally indigenous wildlife like klipspringers along the way.

I was amazed by how the landscape transforms as you ascend through different ecological zones. Local guides enhance the experience with knowledge of hidden paths and cultural insights about highland communities. Remember to pack layers. Warm days give way to cool nights at these elevations, especially during winter months when frost sometimes appears near the summit.

8. Nakfa

• 📍 Location: Northern Red Sea Region, about 190 km northwest of Asmara in the highlands
• 🏆 Best For: History enthusiasts 🏛️, photographers 📸, cultural travelers 🧳
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring war trenches, visiting historical sites, experiencing mountain town life
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to February for comfortable temperatures 🌬️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Asmara Palace Hotel – Elegant colonial-era accommodations with panoramic city views and authentic Eritrean hospitality in the heart of Asmara

Nakfa transports history buffs to the frontlines of revolution, where dramatic mountain strongholds tell the powerful story behind Eritrea’s national currency. This remote settlement sits among dramatic peaks that once provided natural protection during the liberation war.

History comes alive in the network of trenches and bunkers carved into mountainsides. The Revolutionary Museum houses compelling artifacts documenting the nation’s path to freedom. I found myself moved by the memorial sites honoring those who sacrificed during the struggle.

Beyond history, Nakfa offers stunning mountain scenery with hiking through terraced farmlands and traditional villages. The journey itself is an adventure, with winding roads offering spectacular vistas at every turn.

9. Qohaito

• 📍 Location: Southern Eritrea, about 121 km south of Asmara near Senafe
• 🏆 Best For: Archaeology buffs 🏺, history enthusiasts 🏛️, photographers 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Aksumite ruins, viewing the “Ethiopian Pompeii,” hiking cliff-edge viewpoints
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to March for clear skies and comfortable temperatures ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Asmara Palace Hotel – Comfortable base in the capital with arranged day trips to Qohaito, featuring traditional Eritrean hospitality and cultural experiences

Qohaito unveils a hidden ancient metropolis that rivals Machu Picchu, with 3,000-year-old ruins dramatically perched 2,600 meters up on a cliff-edged plateau. This former Aksumite hub features impressive ruins across a stunning natural setting.

The plateau showcases a pre-Christian temple, intricate rock art, ancient dams, and numerous unexcavated structures. Don’t miss the iconic Sphinx of Qohaito or the Egyptian-style tomb chambers. My favorite spot is the eastern edge, where sheer cliffs plunge 2,000 meters to coastal plains below.

Photographers will love the golden morning light bathing these ancient stones. Local guides help navigate the extensive site while sharing insights into ongoing archaeological discoveries revealing secrets of this once-thriving city.

10. Red Sea

• 📍 Location: Eastern Eritrea, stretching along 1,200 km of coastline from Sudan to Djibouti
• 🏆 Best For: Divers 🤿, snorkelers 🥽, beach lovers 🏖️, seafood enthusiasts 🦞
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring coral reefs, visiting the Dahlak Archipelago, relaxing in Massawa
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to May for ideal water conditions and visibility 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Dahlak Hotel – Historic seaside accommodation with Red Sea views and easy access to Massawa’s cultural attractions

Eritrea’s Red Sea coast offers diving enthusiasts what the Caribbean lost decades ago – a virtually untouched underwater paradise with visibility that will redefine your standards for crystal clear. Crystal-clear waters host over 1,000 fish species and 220 types of coral in vibrant displays of color and shape.

The crown jewel is the Dahlak Archipelago, with over 200 islands scattered across azure waters. Many remain uninhabited, offering deserted white-sand beaches and untouched coral gardens. I could spend weeks exploring these islands where few tourists have ever set foot.

Base yourself in atmospheric Massawa, where Ottoman, Egyptian, and Italian influences create a fascinating backdrop for seafood feasts. Multi-day sailing trips can be arranged to explore remote islands with exceptional diving opportunities.

11. Semenawi Bahri National Park

• 📍 Location: Central Eritrea, about 50 km northeast of Asmara along the eastern escarpment
• 🏆 Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts 🦁, birdwatchers 🦅, hikers 🥾, nature photographers 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Spotting rare wildlife, hiking cloud forest trails, visiting traditional villages
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to February for active wildlife 🌿
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Sunshine Hotel – Charming accommodations offering scenic views of the Red Sea coastline and easy access to Eritrea’s cultural attractions

Semenawi Bahri National Park offers an African safari experience with a twist, where cloud-shrouded mountains harbor leopards and rare primates in a spectacular ecosystem that transforms with elevation. This “Green Belt” transforms from arid landscapes to lush jungle-like vegetation through the seasons.

Wildlife spotting includes Hamadryas baboons, leopards, greater kudu, and over 200 bird species. Dramatic elevation changes create distinct vegetation zones from cactus-studded lowlands to juniper forests. I’ve never seen such biodiversity in such a compact area.

Hiking trails connect traditional villages where farmers maintain ancient agricultural practices. The views from the Filfil viewpoint are breathtaking, sometimes extending all the way to the Red Sea coast while eagles soar on rising thermals.

12. Dahlak Marine National Park

• 📍 Location: Northeastern Eritrea, in the Red Sea about 50 km from Massawa
• 🏆 Best For: Divers 🤿, marine enthusiasts 🐠, island hoppers 🏝️, adventure travelers 🧳
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring coral reefs, visiting uninhabited islands, spotting rare marine life
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to April for calm seas and optimal diving visibility 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Albergo Italia – Historic colonial-era hotel in the heart of Asmara offering elegant accommodations and authentic Italian ambiance since 1899

Dahlak Marine National Park rewards intrepid travelers with what feels like their own private Maldives – 200+ islands with barely a footprint on their white sands and coral reefs teeming with marine life seen by only a privileged few. This protected sanctuary offers glimpses into an underwater world largely unchanged for centuries.

The isolation has preserved extraordinary biodiversity, with vibrant coral gardens hosting everything from tiny nudibranchs to massive whale sharks. Wreck divers will find sunken Italian and Ottoman vessels fascinating. I was stunned by how clear the visibility remains year-round.

The islands feature pristine white beaches, mangrove forests, and seabird nesting grounds. Some host small fishing communities maintaining traditional lifestyles. Special permits are required, making this a true off-the-beaten-path adventure for those seeking natural environments away from tourist crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Eritrea

Looking to expand your knowledge about the most scenic spots in Eritrea? Here are some common questions I get a lot about Eritrea’s top tourist attractions.

Which city is beautiful in Eritrea?

Asmara, the capital city, is often considered the most beautiful city in Eritrea. Known for its Italian colonial architecture and vibrant culture, Asmara is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and aesthetics. It’s one of the most beautiful cities in Eritrea that offers a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities.

What is Eritrea most famous for?

Eritrea is most famous for its diverse landscapes, ranging from the arid Danakil Depression to the lush Semenawi Bahri National Park. It’s also known for its rich history, including ancient cities like Qohaito and its struggle for independence, symbolized by towns like Nakfa. These make Eritrea a country of stunning locations and historical significance.

Is it safe to visit Eritrea?

While Eritrea is generally considered safe for tourists, it’s always advisable to check current travel advisories and consult local authorities. It’s one of those places to see in Eritrea where a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring a smooth trip.

What is the safest city in Eritrea?

Asmara, the capital city of Eritrea, is generally considered the safest city in the country for both residents and tourists. The city is known for its low crime rate, especially in comparison to many other African capitals. Several factors contribute to Asmara’s relative safety:

1. Strong Community Ties: The close-knit community in Asmara looks out for one another, which contributes to the overall safety of the city.
2. Presence of Security Forces: There is a visible presence of police and security forces in Asmara, which acts as a deterrent to potential criminal activities.
3. Cultural Norms: Eritrean culture, in general, places a high value on respect and hospitality, which translates to low levels of aggression or violent crime, especially towards visitors.
4. Low Levels of Petty Crime: While petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur anywhere, they are relatively rare in Asmara.

What are the visa requirements for Eritrea?

Visa requirements can vary depending on your nationality. It’s essential to check the latest visa policies before planning your trip to Eritrea’s beautiful places.

What is the best time to visit Eritrea?

The best time to visit depends on what you want to see. For beach and water activities, the months between November and April are ideal. If you’re interested in hiking and outdoor adventures, the cooler months from October to February are best. It’s one of those Eritrea destinations where timing can enhance your experience.

How do I get around in Eritrea?

Public transport is available but limited in some areas. For more flexibility, renting a car is a good option. It’s a place to visit in Eritrea where having your own transport can make a significant difference in what you can see and do.

What is the best thing about Eritrea?

Eritrea, with its unique blend of cultures, history, and landscapes, has several standout features. Here are some of the most notable aspects of the country:

1. Cultural Diversity: Eritrea is home to nine ethnic groups, each with its own language, customs, and traditions. This diversity is reflected in the country’s festivals, music, dance, and cuisine.
2. Asmara’s Architecture: The capital city, Asmara, is renowned for its well-preserved Italian modernist architecture. In recognition of its architectural significance, Asmara was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017. The city is often referred to as “Little Rome” because of its Italian colonial-era buildings, cafes, and boulevards.
3. Red Sea Coastline: Eritrea boasts a stunning Red Sea coastline with pristine beaches, clear waters, and diverse marine life. The Dahlak Archipelago, a group of over 100 islands, offers opportunities for diving, snorkeling, and exploring untouched marine habitats.
4. Historical Sites: Eritrea has several archaeological and historical sites, including the ancient port city of Adulis and the ruins of Qohaito, which date back to pre-Aksumite civilizations.
5. Warm Hospitality: Many visitors to Eritrea highlight the warmth and hospitality of the Eritrean people. Despite the challenges the country has faced, the resilience and friendliness of its residents stand out.
6. Traditional Coffee Ceremony: Eritrea, like its neighbor Ethiopia, has a rich coffee culture. The traditional coffee ceremony is an integral part of Eritrean social life and offers a unique experience for visitors.
7. Natural Beauty: Beyond its coastline, Eritrea offers diverse landscapes, from the highlands of the central region to the western lowlands and the eastern escarpments. These areas are home to various flora and fauna.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Eritrea

Eritrea is a land of contrasts and surprises, offering a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to all kinds of travelers. From the mesmerizing historical sites in the city of Qohaito to the natural splendors of places like Semenawi Bahri National Park, Eritrea is a country that defies easy categorization. Whether you’re an adventure junkie, a history buff, or someone who simply wants to relax by the Red Sea, you’ll find what you’re looking for in this East African gem.

The country’s commitment to conservation, evident in protected areas like the Dahlak Marine National Park, adds another layer to its appeal. It’s not just a travel destination; it’s a place that invites you to engage with its landscapes, its history, and its people in a meaningful way. Eritrea is a country that captures the essence of both adventure and serenity, making it one of the best places to visit in Eritrea for a well-rounded travel experience.

So, pack your bags, grab your camera, fly to Africa, and get ready to explore the most beautiful places in Eritrea. Trust us, it’s a journey you won’t want to miss.