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Eritrea

Standard Coverage

East Africa • ERI

Last updated: October 13, 2026

Travel Information
AI-Generated

Eritrea is a unique and lesser-visited destination in the Horn of Africa, known for its well-preserved Italian colonial architecture and stunning Red Sea coastline. Travelers will find a country rich in history and culture that offers a raw, off-the-beaten-path experience far from typical tourist crowds.

Visa Requirements

Visa Required

All travelers must obtain a visa from an Eritrean embassy or consulate prior to arrival, as visa-on-arrival is generally not available.

Typically Required Documents

  • Passport valid for at least six months
  • Completed visa application form
  • Two passport-sized photographs
  • Letter of invitation or proof of travel arrangements
  • Proof of yellow fever vaccination

Popular Attractions

1

Asmara: The capital city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its incredible collection of Art Deco, Futurist, and Rationalist buildings.

2

Massawa: This historic port city on the Red Sea is known for its blend of Ottoman and Italian architecture and its proximity to beautiful coral reefs.

3

Dahlak Archipelago: A pristine group of islands off the coast, these are perfect for snorkeling and diving in untouched marine environments.

4

Keren: A vibrant market town nestled in the highlands, known for its diverse ethnic cultures, camel market, and historical colonial sites.

5

Qohaito: This archaeological site contains ancient ruins dating back to the Aksumite Empire, offering spectacular views of the Great Rift Valley.

Local Customs & Etiquette

Always ask for permission before taking photographs, especially of people or government buildings.

Dress modestly in public, particularly in rural areas or religious sites, to show respect for local traditions.

Eritreans are very hospitable, so it is polite to accept a small cup of coffee if offered during a social interaction.

Avoid discussing sensitive political topics or criticizing the government, as these subjects are strictly restricted.

Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon and should be avoided in all settings.

Remove your shoes before entering someone's home or a place of worship.

Safety Tips

Always carry your travel permits, as you may be asked to present them at military checkpoints when moving between towns.

Stick to main roads and avoid traveling near the borders, as some areas may have security restrictions or landmines.

Keep your passport and important documents in a secure place, carrying only a photocopy while sightseeing.

Ensure you have a reliable way to communicate, but be aware that internet connectivity can be very slow or unavailable.

Only drink bottled water and avoid ice to prevent gastrointestinal issues during your stay.

Register with your home country's embassy upon arrival to ensure you receive updates regarding the local security situation.

AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.

Entry Requirements

Yellow Fever

Source: CDC

Not Required
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Yellow Fever

Source: CDC

Not Required

Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.

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Yellow Fever

Source: CDC

Required

Proof of vaccination is required for travelers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.

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Recommended Vaccines & Precautions

Core Vaccines

Routine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)

Source: CDC

All ages

Ensures protection against common diseases and is recommended for all travelers.

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Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)

Source: CDC

All ages

Ensure that routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.

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MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)

Source: CDC

All ages

Ensure that routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.

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Hepatitis A

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for all travelers due to potential food and water safety concerns.

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Routine vaccines

Source: CDC

All ages

Ensure you are up to date on routine vaccines before travel, including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella, polio, and your yearly flu shot.

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Tdap vaccine

Source: CDC

All ages

Ensure you have received your Tdap booster if you haven't within the last 10 years.

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MMR vaccine

Source: CDC

All ages

Make sure you're protected against measles, mumps, and rubella before traveling.

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Tdap

Source: CDC

All ages

Boosters recommended for adults and children to prevent tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis.

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MMR

Source: CDC

All ages

Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.

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Typhoid

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for travelers who may eat or drink outside of major restaurants and hotels due to potential food/water safety concerns.

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Malaria prevention measures

Source: CDC

All ages

Discuss malaria prevention with your healthcare provider based on your travel itinerary.

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Food and water safety precautions

Source: CDC

All ages

Travelers should practice safe eating and drinking habits to avoid infections.

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Routine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, etc.)

Source: CDC

All ages

Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.

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Routine Vaccines

Source: CDC

All ages

Ensure all routine vaccinations are up-to-date before travel.

Includes MMR, Tdap, chickenpox, polio, and annual flu shot.

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Routine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)

Source: CDC

All ages

Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.

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For Most Travelers

Hepatitis A

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for most travelers due to the risk of exposure through food and water.

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Food and water safety precautions

Source: CDC

All ages

Prevent foodborne and waterborne illnesses.

Eat only hot, cooked foods; drink bottled, sealed, or treated water; avoid tap water and ice.

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Typhoid

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities and rural areas.

Risk is higher in areas with poor sanitation.

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Rabies

Source: CDC

adult

Recommended for travelers who may have extensive contact with animals, especially in rural areas.

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Travel insurance

Source: CDC

All ages

Highly recommended for health and safety coverage during travel.

Check coverage for emergency evacuation.

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COVID-19 vaccine

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for protection against COVID-19.

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Malaria prophylaxis

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for travelers going to malaria-risk areas in Eritrea.

Consult a healthcare provider for specific medications.

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Insect bite precautions

Source: CDC

All ages

Important to prevent diseases transmitted by mosquitoes such as malaria.

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Hepatitis B

Source: CDC

All ages

Especially important for travelers who may have sexual contact with the local population or need medical care.

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COVID-19 vaccination

Source: CDC

All ages

Ensure COVID-19 vaccinations are current in accordance with travel health recommendations.

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Routine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, etc.)

Source: CDC

All ages

Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before traveling.

View source

MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)

Source: CDC

adult

Vaccination is recommended for those who have not been vaccinated previously or lack immunity.

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Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)

Source: CDC

adult

Ensure your Tdap vaccine is up to date before traveling.

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Insect bite prevention

Source: CDC

All ages

To prevent mosquito-borne illnesses such as malaria.

Use repellent, wear long sleeves, and use bed nets.

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Food and water safety

Source: CDC

All ages

To prevent diarrheal diseases and foodborne illnesses.

Drink only bottled or boiled water and avoid raw or undercooked foods.

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Itinerary-Specific

Meningococcal

Source: CDC

adult

Consider vaccination for travelers visiting areas with increased risk of meningococcal disease.

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COVID-19

Source: CDC

All ages

Stay updated with COVID-19 vaccination guidelines before travel.

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Rabies

Source: CDC

All ages

Consider if your activities involve frequent contact with animals or outdoor activities in remote areas.

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Food and water safety precautions

Source: CDC

All ages

To avoid gastrointestinal illnesses, travelers should be cautious with food and water consumption.

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Insect bite prevention

Source: CDC

All ages

To reduce the risk of insect-borne diseases, such as malaria and dengue.

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Cholera

Source: CDC

All ages

Vaccination may be recommended for travelers to areas with active cholera outbreaks.

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Rabies

Source: CDC

adult

Consider vaccination if you will be involved in outdoor activities.

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Hepatitis B

Source: CDC

All ages

Consider if you might have sexual contact with new partners or undergo medical procedures.

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Meningococcal

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended if traveling during the dry season or if visiting areas with documented outbreaks.

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Malaria Information

Risk Area: Asmara and highlands above 2000 meters

Chemoprophylaxis: None

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Risk Area: Rural areas below 2000 meters

Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine

Seasonality: Year-round

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Risk Area: Entire country (excluding areas above 2000 meters)

Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine

Seasonality: Year-round, with increased risk during and after the rainy season

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Risk Area: Entire country including urban areas and coastal regions

Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine

Seasonality: Year-round

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Risk Area: No malaria risk

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Official Sources

Authoritative Resources:

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