A fascinating insight into one of Africa’s newest and least-visited nations. From the Art Deco architecture of Asmara to the bustling town market in Keren, Eritrea is a truly different and rewarding destination. On this journey in the Horn of Africa we ride the mountainous Italian-era steam train, experience the faded charms of the Arabic port of Massawa and explore the tropical forest of Filfil.
Itinerary
[+] Detailed Itinerary
Day 1:
Join tour Asmara
Overnight Standard Hotel (H+)
Day 2:
Free morning in Asmara; afternoon orientation tour of city
The morning is left free to relax, then this afternoon we will take a short orientation tour of Eritrea’s impressive capital. Considered by many to be one of the safest cities in Africa, Asmara is an interesting mix of Italian colonial and African and its streets positively overflow with spectacular buildings, covering a multitude of architectural styles, from Neoclassical and Art Deco, to Futurist.
Overnight Standard Hotel (H+)
Included meals: Breakfast
Day 3:
Drive to Keren; visit markets and town
This morning we drive north to the lovely market town of Keren, situated in the shadow of the Sahel Mountains. Strategically located, Keren has always been an important trading centre and grew with the arrival of the Italian railway. Today it is still popular and its markets are amongst some of the best in the country. We will visit the bustle and noise of the camel market today, a sight not to be missed. We also visit the town’s war cemeteries. The scene of heavy fighting between the British and Italians during the Second World War, the town has a number of graveyards dedicated to the fallen. One of Keren’s more interesting sites is the wonderfully named Madonna of the Baobab. This ancient tree is believed to denote the spot from which fertility springs and the shrine inside it was built in the late 19th century by the Sisters of Charity. It is also usually possible to pay a visit to the local deaf school.
Overnight Standard Hotel (H+)
Included meals: Breakfast
Day 4:
Drive to Massawa
We head towards the coast today to Massawa which has always had an important connection with Arabia, just across the Red Sea. For that reason the town itself retains a distinctly Arab feel to it. The port has been a centre of trade for centuries with Arabs, Egyptians, Turks and European powers all fighting for possesion of its natural deep harbour. On arrival we will check into our hotel and take a tour of the city. Massawa actually sits on two islands and its architecture has been much influenced by its colonising invaders. There are examples of Ottoman, Egyptian and Italian architecture throughout and, whilst Ethiopian bombing during the recent conflicts for independence destroyed much of the town, it still retains a distinctive air of the exotic.
Overnight Standard Hotel (H+)
Included meals: Breakfast
Day 5:
In Massawa
Today is left free for you to explore more of this interesting port. You may wish to continue where we left off yesterday and wander the narrow lanes, discovering new treasures amongst the mosques and merchant houses, villas and palaces of Massawa and Taulud Islands. You may choose to visit the nearby Gurgussum beach and/or learn more about Eritrea’s history at the local museum or go on an optional boat trip to Green Island.
Overnight Standard Hotel (H+)
Included meals: Breakfast
Day 6:
Drive to Asmara; afternoon free
This morning we leave the coast and head up to Asmara. En route it may be possible (subject to minimum numbers) to ride part of the journey on Eritrea’s famous steam engine. The train has been recently restored and still runs on the original Italian railway line, built in the early 20th century along a precipitous route which even today is still viewed as an impressive feat. Back in Asmara you have an afternoon to enjoy Eritrea’s bustling capital. Perhaps stroll through the diverse architecture of this most absorbing of cities and in the evening join the locals in experiencing its famed cafe culture.
Overnight Standard Hotel (H+)
Included meals: Breakfast
Day 7:
Drive to Adi Keyh; visit Qohaito archaeological site
Today we travel south through impressive mountain scenery to visit the archaeological sites of Qohaito which reached prominence under the Axumite kingdom. Set high in the hills above the port of Adulis, Qohaito (2700m) was once a thriving city and a summer retreat for affluent merchants. The site is spread over a 2.5km area and contains a number of ruins, including the Saphira Dam, a 67m long structure that is said to pre-date the Axumite period. There might also be time to discover some of the many examples of ancient rock art in the area and to enjoy the dramatic views down towards the Red Sea coast, looking out for the routes once taken by caravans of camels on their 5- day journey between Qohaito and Adulis. Please note that the accommodation available in this area is very basic.
Overnight Basic Hotel (H)
Included meals: Breakfast
Day 8:
Drive to Asmara via Seyheneyti
Today we return to Asmara. We will have the opportunity once again to see the plain of Deghera also known as the Valley of the Sycamores for the magnificent Sycamore Figs that line the plain. For centuries, these trees have been used as a meeting place for village elders and community debates and advisory sessions from the elders still take place here. We aim to pay a visit to the Textile School in Segheneyti before returning to Asmara where you may want to do some last minute shopping in the markets.
Overnight Standard Hotel (H+)
Included meals: Breakfast
Day 9:
Tour ends Asmara
Please note: breakfast is only included for Land Only clients.
Included meals: Breakfast
