Welcome to Eritrea 😊

Quick Facts About Eritrea

Money and Finances

The currency in Eritrea is the Eritrean nakfa (ERN). Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 cents and notes in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 nakfa.

ATM Network

ATMs are not widely available in Eritrea. It is recommended to carry enough cash for your needs or exchange currency at banks or hotels.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are not widely accepted in Eritrea. It is recommended to carry enough cash for your needs or exchange currency at banks or hotels.

Internet and Phones

Internet access in Eritrea is strictly controlled by the government. The average internet speed is very slow and can be unreliable. Government interference in internet use is common.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

There are only two mobile telephony operators in Eritrea - EriTel and MTN. The cost of a mobile phone plan is relatively high in comparison to other African countries. There may be some compatibility issues with foreign SIM cards.

Dialling to Eritrea

To call Eritrea from another country, dial +291 followed by the local phone number. Eritrea has no area codes - all phone numbers have seven digits.

Transport Around Eritrea

Air Travel

Eritrea has one major international airport, Asmara International Airport, which is located in the capital city of Asmara.

Train Travel

There is no inter-city train network in Eritrea.

Metro / Local Trains

There is currently no metro system in Eritrea.

Buses

Eritrea has a limited bus network that operates primarily in Asmara. Example ticket prices vary depending on the length of the journey, with prices ranging from 5-30 nakfa (0.30-2 USD). Journey times also vary depending on the destination.

Rideshare

There are no rideshare companies operating in Eritrea.

Driving by Car

Driving in Eritrea can be challenging due to poor road conditions and aggressive driving habits. The speed limit on most roads is 60 km/h (37 mph) and Eritrea drives on the right-hand side of the road.

Local Customs

In Eritrea, it is common to greet each other with a handshake or the traditional Ethiopian/Eritrean greeting of kissing three times on alternate cheeks. Tipping is not expected in Eritrea, but appreciated as a gesture of goodwill. Men and women generally do not address each other by their first names in formal settings. When speaking with strangers, it is important to be respectful and avoid sensitive topics such as politics and religion. In more conservative areas, it is customary for women to dress modestly and cover their heads.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

Eritrea has a basic healthcare system with limited resources. The government provides free healthcare, but the facilities may lack equipment, medicines and qualified medical staff. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses in case of emergency. The approximate cost of a visit to a doctor is around $30-40.

COVID Situation

Eritrea has recorded a low number of COVID-19 cases and has taken strict measures to control the spread of the virus. The government has implemented restrictions on public gatherings, closed schools and universities, and enforced social distancing measures. As of now, the country has recorded 255 COVID-19 cases and 150 recoveries.

Common Health Risks

Malaria is a common health risk in Eritrea, especially during the rainy season. It is advisable to take anti-malaria medication and use mosquito nets to avoid mosquito bites. Food and water hygiene standards may be poor, which can lead to food poisoning and other gastrointestinal illnesses. Therefore, it is recommended to drink only bottled or boiled water and to eat hot, well-cooked food. Additionally, visitors should be aware of the risk of Dengue fever, due to the presence of the Aedes mosquito in the country.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol consumption is legal in Eritrea, but public drunkenness and disorderly behavior may result in arrest and detention.

Recreational Drugs

Recreational drug use is illegal in Eritrea and can result in severe punishment, including imprisonment.

Pre-Marital Relationships

There is no specific law affecting pre-marital relationships in Eritrea, but generally, pre-marital sex is considered culturally taboo.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal and punishable by imprisonment in Eritrea.

Firearms / Guns

Gun ownership is heavily regulated in Eritrea and requires a license from the government. Unauthorized possession of firearms can lead to imprisonment or even the death penalty.