Eritrea🇪🇷
Eritrea, located in the Horn of Africa, is bordered by Sudan to the west, Ethiopia to the south, and Djibouti to the east. Its distinct location gives it access to the Red Sea to the east. Relations with neighbors have been tense due to ongoing border disputes, particularly with Ethiopia. The country’s landscape is varied, including the temperate highlands, sandy coastal plains, and deserts. Known for its rich history and diverse culture, Eritrea is home to nine ethnic groups each with their unique traditions and languages. Eritrea's capital city, Asmara, is noted for its Italian colonial buildings, like St. Joseph's Cathedral, as well as art deco structures. However, Eritrea is also known for its lack of press freedom and human rights concerns.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid discussing politics, particularly criticism of the government. Freedom of speech is severely limited.
- Avoid non-essential travel to border areas due to the risk of unexploded ordnance and landmines.
- Avoid traveling alone at night and in secluded areas due to the risk of crime.
- Avoid voicing support for LGBT rights as this could lead to hostility.
- Avoid poorly cooked or raw food; foodborne and waterborne diseases are common.
- Avoid drinking tap water as it's not safe for consumption.
- Avoid public displays of affection between same-sex couples as homosexuality is considered a crime.
- Avoid unauthorized photography of government buildings or military establishments.
- Avoid any involvement with drugs as penalties for drug offences are severe.
- Avoid showing disrespect towards local customs and traditions.
Overall
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Crime 🔫
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Crime levels are moderate in Eritrea. Petty crimes such as pick-pocketing and snatch theft can occur, particularly in crowded areas and major cities like Asmara. Violent crime against foreigners is rare but there are occasional reports of robbery and burglary. It's advised to remain vigilant at all times.
Terrorism 💣
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The risk of terrorism in Eritrea is relatively low. No significant domestic terror incidents have been reported in recent years. However, due to ongoing political tension with neighboring countries, the risk cannot be completely eliminated.
War ⚔️
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Eritrea has a history of conflicts with neighboring countries, especially with Ethiopia. The Eritrea-Ethiopia border conflict took place from 1998 to 2000 which resulted in several casualties. Although a peace agreement was signed in 2018, tensions remain on the disputed border areas.
Natural Disasters 🌊
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Eritrea is prone to certain natural disasters such as drought and desert locust infestations. Flooding can also occur in some regions during the rainy season. However, major disasters like earthquakes, tsunamis or hurricanes are rare.
Medical Care 🏥
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Eritrea's healthcare system is weak with limited medical facilities, outdated equipment, and a shortage of trained medical professionals. Emergency services are inadequate, and serious medical cases often require evacuation to a country with adequate facilities.
Tap Water Quality 💧
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Tap water in Eritrea is not safe to drink due to inadequate water treatment facilities. It's recommended to consume bottled or boiled water and avoid ice in beverages.
Disease Burden 🤒
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Malaria, dengue fever, and cholera exist in Eritrea, especially in rural and lowland areas. Tuberculosis is also prevalent. The country is part of the African meningitis belt, with outbreaks of the disease occurring regularly. Basic preventive measures such as vaccinations and use of mosquito nets are advised.
Corruption 💸
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Corruption is a significant problem in Eritrea. The country scored poorly in the Transparency International's corruption index. Corruption practices, including bribery, can be encountered in various areas such as public services and customs.
Safety for Women ♀️
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While not rampant, gender-based violence is a concern in Eritrea and it is underreported. Though generally, foreign women are not targeted directly, it is recommended for solo female travelers to exercise caution, especially at night.
Safety for Queer People 👬
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Eritrea is not a safe destination for queer individuals. Homosexuality is illegal, punishable by imprisonment, and society is generally not accepting of the LGBTQ+ community.
Censorship 📺
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Eritrea is known for severe media censorship. It consistently ranks at the bottom of the Reporters Without Borders Press Freedom Index. Access to the internet is limited and heavily monitored. Critical journalism and political opposition are not tolerated.
Public Transportation 🚌
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Public transport in Eritrea is lacking in infrastructure and in schedules. Buses and minibuses are often overcrowded and experience frequent breakdowns. While some accidents have been reported, serious incidents are relatively rare.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
While Eritrea is generally peaceful and devoid of mass tourist-targeted crime, its safety concerns lie primarily in political tension, limited press freedom and human rights concerns. Infrastructure lacking in sectors like healthcare and public transportation, as well as the threat of natural disasters such as drought and locust infestations also pose risks. It's crucial to stay vigilant and respect local customs and laws.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
There are a few foreign embassies in Eritrea, mainly in its capital city, Asmara. These include the embassies of Italy, United Kingdom, Egypt and Sudan among others.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Before traveling to Eritrea, recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Rabies, Meningitis, Polio, and routine vaccinations.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
Snakes, scorpions, and venomous spiders are found in Eritrea. It’s essential to watch out for these creatures especially in rural and desert areas.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Most foreigners are required to have a visa to visit Eritrea. Furthermore, travel permits are required for travel outside of Asmara.
💲 Currency
The currency in Eritrea is the Eritrean Nakfa (ERN). ATMs are not widespread and credit cards are rarely accepted.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Credit Card acceptance in Eritrea is scant. Therefore, cash is the primary mode of transaction.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Given the political situation and lack of job opportunities, Eritrea isn't ideal for work and travel.
Costs of Traveling and Living
The cost of traveling and living in Eritrea is relatively low compared to most western countries. However, given the limited tourism infrastructure, options for accommodation, dining and travel may also be limited.