Eritrea Travel Safety

Road safety

Avoid travelling in rural areas after nightfall. Paved roads connect the major cities of Asmara, Barentu, Dekemhare, Keren, Massawa and Mendefera, but roads to small villages are unpaved. Road signs and safety guard rails are often non-existent. There are risks involved in driving, due to the presence of animals, numerous pedestrians and cyclists on the road.

Landmines

Landmines continue to cause occasional injury and death. Many areas are mined. Exercise caution in remote areas or off main roads. Avoid walking and hiking in the countryside.

Public transportation

Public transportation, especially buses, is often overcrowded.

Taxis

Many taxis are available, but they often take several passengers and follow predetermined itineraries. If you pay a higher fare, you may ask a driver in advance not to take other passengers.

Women's safety

Based on the crime situation of the Eritrae, women should be vigilant all the time and aware of the surroundings. Avoid dark or non-tourist areas at night. Instead try to be around larger crowds, whether they are fellow tourists or local citizens. Females should be cautious while dealing with strangers and acquaintances. Women may be subject to unpleasant male attention, sexual harassment and verbal abuse. Avoid flash of money or valuables in public. Exercise a high degree of caution during travel.

Piracy

Pirate attacks occur in coastal waters and, in some cases, farther out at sea. Mariners should take appropriate precautions. For additional information, consult the Live Piracy Report, published by the International Maritime Bureau.

Crime

Street crime, including petty theft and robbery, is infrequent in Asmara and in other towns and villages. However, there has been an increase in pickpocketing and harassment against foreigners. Crime is more common in border areas. You should take the usual security precautions and avoid showing signs of affluence. Banditry occurs along the coast north of Massawa.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time. Terrorist targets could include government buildings, places of worship, schools, airports and other transportation hubs, as well as public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners. Be aware of your surroundings at all times in public places. Stay at hotels that have robust security measures, however, keep in mind that even the most secure locations cannot be considered completely free of risk.

LGBT

The laws of Eritrea prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Although the penalities are unclear but those conivicted can face lengthy imprisonment. LGBT travellers should carefully reconsider the risks of travelling to Eritrea.

Illegal or restricted activities

Penalties for possession or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict. It is forbidden to photograph government buildings and military facilities.

Driving

To drive in Eritrea, you must have a local driver's licence. To obtain one, you must present a valid foreign driver's licence or an International Driving Permit.