Eritrea

Asmara, Eritrea

JW
John Ward
  • Email address verified
16 reviews
Mar 9 - 13, 2025
Group size: 1 - 15
Eritrea
Asmara, Eritrea

John Ward
  • Email address verified
16 reviews

Mar 9 - 13, 2025
Group size: 1 - 15

About this trip

The North Korea of Africa. A police state, and one of the least visited countries in the world, Eritrea is a little gem. Tough to get to, tough to get in to, and hidden on Africa's west coast, little Eritrea packs a punch for a few reasons. 

Why Visit Eritrea?


One of the least visited countries in the world

Eritrea remains one of Africa’s most undiscovered treasures, offering an authentic experience away from the usual tourist trails.

Architectural Marvels

Asmara, the capital, is renowned for its well-preserved Italian colonial architecture, earning it a UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

Diverse Landscapes

From the pristine beaches of the Red Sea coast to the dramatic highlands and arid deserts, Eritrea’s varied landscapes are stunning.

Rich History

Eritrea’s historical sites, including ancient ruins and centuries-old monasteries, provide a deep dive into the region’s past.

EVERY COUNTRY IN THE WORLD!

On the slow march to visit every country in the world, you can't skip little Eritrea. So let me help get you there!

For me personally...


For me personally, I haven't visited Eritrea since my journey to every country in the world, way back in 2017. The visa was (and still often is) almost impossible. I had been rejected countless times in the few embassies. A friend gave me a contact who would allow me to SKIP THE VISA PROCESS, and get me a visa-on-arrival. Wow! I did that, it worked and voila, I was in my 54th and FINAL african country.


To this day, I use the same contact to get all you guys in the country!

Is it Safe to visit Eritrea in 2025?

Eritrea's Government runs the country explicitly. You can't criticize, or you're locked up. And it's vert difficult for locals to leave. Hence the use migration and the migrant crisis across Europe involving so many Eritreans. 

Further to that, they have their issues with Ethiopia too. 

However, for the handful of foreigners who go there? It's safe as houses. Like Turkmenistan, North Korea etc there is almost no crime, aside from petty theft. 

Eritrea Tour FAQ


Can any nationality join this tour to Eritrea?

Yes, everyone and anyone is welcome! Normally my groups are 16 people from 10+ countries, come join the party. 

What about the Eritrean Visa Process?

I've got you covered. Don't worry! I just need passport copies etc. 

How Do I Get To Eritrea?

Depending on the state of the Government, we may all have to take the same flight in. I'll confirm that at a later date. 

Generally speaking, we'll be flying in from Dubai, Addis Abbaba or Istanbul. 

Can I come a day early/leave a day late?

Nope. 

Can I join this trip Solo?

YES! In fact 90% of the people who join my trips come solo. You can either pay a single supplement to have your own room, or I'll pair you up with another traveler of the same gender. Don't worry!

Can I have my own room or do I have to share?

You will be paired with someone of the same gender, or you can get your own room for an additional fee of $600.

What's the Cancellation Policy?

The deposit is non-refundable. Full payment is due 2 months before the trip starts. You can cancel anytime in the lead-up to full payment. After that, there are no refunds (I'll have done all your permits etc, so it's difficult on the backend). 


If your visa is rejected, I'll refund everything minus $100 visa admin fees. And if the eVisa system changes in the interim, I'll offer full refunds to everyone. 


What’s included

  • All Accommodation
  • All Breakfasts
  • All transport
  • Airport transfers
  • Local guide throughout
  • Western Guide
    ('Guide' doing a fair bit of heavy lifting here, considering the guide is me! haha!)
  • All entrance fees

What’s not included

  • International airfare
  • Visa fees
    Ranges from $67 to $300+
  • Tips
    Recommended Euro/USD of $100-$150
  • Additional Nights
    If you wish to arrive a day early, or stay a day later.

Available Packages

Trip Price
Deposit:$250

4 nights, 5 days. Everything except tips and booze included. 

$1,999
Deposit:$250

Available options

Single Supplement
$600
5 left

The trip is based on per-person sharing. Don't worry though, if you prefer your own private room, this option is for you.

Itinerary

Day 1
Arrive in Asmara

Once we have determined which flights we'll all arrive on, we'll aim to arrive in the morning. 


From here, it's time to check out the very cool Art Deco architecture that still stands from the brief Italian colonial period. Eritrea struggles economically, so proper coffee and gelato is a strange sight!


As the day progresses, we'll head to Keren, Eritrea's second city and overnight there. 

Your Organizer


JW
John Ward
16 reviews
Irish blogger @ onestep4ward.com. Every country in the world, 7 summits, North and South Pole. Now helping some crazy friends go to places they probably shouldn't.

Reviews

Everything about Mauritania was perfect; the group, the experience, the country and its people. Nothing that I expected but everything that I wanted. Thank you Johnny and team.
By Aavishkar M for Mauritania & The Iron Ore Train on Dec 30, 2023
I absolutely loved this tour of Mauritania. The people in our group were phenomenal, the locals are probably the most kind and welcoming people I’ve ever met. And the train was epic of course :) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
By Courtney J for Mauritania & The Iron Ore Train on Dec 18, 2023
Amazing in every way!! Spending time exploring an amazing country with fantastic people. We always felt looked after so well. Brilliant trip!!
By Janice B for Mauritania & The Iron Ore Train on Dec 14, 2023
I admittedly don't usually love tours, but Johnny nailed every part of this trip once again and he has a brilliant skill in making everyone feel included while having one of the wildest adventures in a friendly and fun country.
By Anthony M for Mauritania & The Iron Ore Train on Dec 14, 2023
A jam-packed trip that took us through the capital, a night train and other fantastic cities in Turkmenistan. Johnny managed to keep it casual and fun while making sure we were all on time. This trip is way more than just The Gates of Hell, it's a crash course into Turkmen culture.
By Anthony M for Turkmenistan (and the Gates of Hell) NOVEMBER on Dec 14, 2023
Show More Reviews