Exploring Eritrea's Gems: a 12-Day Tour

Eritrea's Gems: 12-Day Tour with Dahlak Islands Adventure

Venture on this exciting 12-day tour through the country of Eritrea. Explore the architectural wonders of Asmara, the historical embrace of Keren, and the cultural essence of Barentu. The adventure reaches its peak with a unique camping experience in the pristine Dahlak Islands. From the vibrant cities to the islands, each destination comes up with a unique experience. The tour promises a perfect blend of the history, culture, and natural beauty of East Africa.

Day1: Tour Starts In Asmara :

Upon your arrival in Asmara, Eritrea, your day begins with a warm welcome. The tourists are transferred to the luxurious Crystal Hotel or some other equally inviting accommodation. Your journey commences with a warm welcome ensuring a delightful start to your Eritrean tour.

Spend the evening exploring the Asmara Market. It boasts some of the best shops for souvenirs and local products.

Day 2: Asmara - Keren

The tourists journey to the next destination- the Keren Islands. Enjoy a warm welcome at the Sarina Hotel. The city is Eritrea's second-largest city and is located in the foothills of northern Eritrea. We begin our day’s tour by paying a visit to the Keren War Cemetery. The place serves as a poignant reminder of the region's history. 

Up next we visit the lively atmosphere of Keren Market. The marketplace offers an insight into the local life. We also explore the vibrant streets, visit the Mariam Dearit Shrine, and admire the architectural beauty of the Grand Mosque.

Day 3: Enjoy a day at the Al Khulafa Al Rashiudin Mosque, Asmara.

As a part of our tour plan, the tourists will be transported to Asmara to continue with the next chapter of their Eritrean adventure. The town lies at the north-western edge of the Eritrean Highlands. It is the home to an assembly of preserved modernistic architecture and Art Deco designs.

Upon your arrival at Asmara, take a guided city tour of the city, stopping at iconic historical sites, cultural places, and architectural marvels. Tourists can visit the Al Khulafa Al Rashiudin Mosque where they can immerse themselves in the mosque's architectural beauty, appreciating its intricate design and spiritual significance. Visitors are encouraged to respectfully observe prayers and gain insights into Islamic traditions. One can also engage with the local community, fostering cultural exchange and understanding.

Day4: Barentu Delights

A fresh day begins at Barentu. Enjoy your accommodation at the Hotel Merhaba or in a tent.
The town is situated in Eritrea's Gash-Barka Zone. The tribal and religious contrast of the town provides the tourists with some of the most authentic experiences on this journey. The town is a hidden gem for travelers who seek adventures.

Nature lovers can explore the beautiful Gash-Barka National Park, which is home to diverse wildlife such as elephants, zebras, and antelopes. Visitors can enjoy wildlife safaris, bird watching, and hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Barentu also boasts vibrant local markets where visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere, interact with friendly locals, and shop unique handicrafts and souvenirs.

Day5: Barentu Wonders

On the second day at Barentu, we visit the Medhanie Alem Cathedral. This magnificent cathedral is known for its grand architecture, detailing, and rich historical significance. Built during the 19th century, the Cathedral stands as a symbol of Eritrea's religious heritage.

Tourists can also enjoy the Local cuisine which happens to be a highlight. They can savor authentic Eritrean dishes like the injera, tsebhi, and zighni, pleasing their taste buds. 

Day 6: Asmara Delights

Up next, the tourists are transported back to the city of Asmara. The day continues with a visit to the popular Fiat Tagliero. It is one of Asmara’s finest futuristic architecture ever built. Photographers are sure to have a good time during this visit. They can capture photographs of the building's intricate details and striking lines.

Visitors can also enhance their experience by exploring the surrounding area. This includes the vibrant Shuq Market and Independence Avenue. The local culture, authentic Eritrean cuisine, and the city's lively atmosphere provide a unique experience for every tourist.

Day7: Asmara - Massawa

The 7th day begins with the tourists being comfortably carried from Asmara to the beautiful coastal town of Massawa (Mitsiwa). The port city of Massawa is located on Eritrea’s Red Sea coast. The city is our gateway into the rich island diversity of the country. Famed for their pearl fisheries and home to an abundance of marine and bird life, the islanders of Dahlak are one of the friendliest hosts.

Enjoy the evening ride through the waters as the tourists are transported to the next tour destination, The Dahlak Archipelago. Accessible only by boat and rarely experienced by visitors to the country, the island visit offers a unique opportunity to discover a Red Sea culture. It boasts of a landscape very different from the rest of Eritrea.

Day 8 Dahlak Archipelago

On the 8th Day, we take a tour of the Dahlak Marine National Park. This archipelago and its surrounding waters are a haven for dolphins, dugongs, sharks and turtles, several seabirds, and some 325 different species of fish. In these idyllic islands, the tourists spend the night "wild glamping". As part of our tour arrangements, we arranged for all the camping equipment required at the Dahlak camp: a comfortable igloo tent (height mt 1.80), a camp bed, a sleeping bag a fully equipped camp kitchen, and a cook. 

Day 9 Dahlak Archipelago- Asmara

On the 9th Day, we continue our tour of the Dahlak islands. The native people here maintain their traditional lifestyle of herding goats and camels, as well as fishing. Enjoying the simple rustic charms of an island camp. The tour also provides the tourists with a chance to swim and snorkel in the clear waters, island visits, and interact with the locals.

On the completion of the Dahlak Island tour, the tourists will be transported back to the Capital city of Asmara where the next part of the tour continues.

Day 10: In and Around Asmara

On the 10th Day, we further explore the city of Asmara- one of the most entrancing cities in Africa. An iconic building that defines most of the notable Italian-era buildings in Asmara is the Asmara Cathedral. It is believed to be one of the finest Lombard-Romanesque-style churches outside of Italy. Tourists can immerse themselves in history and culture, and admire the architectural splendor and designs of this iconic church.

Day 11: Asmara

On the 11th Day, the tourists visit the Nda Mariam Coptic Church. A combination of Eritrean and Italian religious styles can also be found in the Church. It houses an impressive mosaic structure depicting various religious scenes. Featuring murals of the apostles, scenes from the life of Christ, and stories from the Old and New Testament it is one of the most well-known places to visit in Eritrea.  

We finish our tour with a visit to the cemetery of Asmara a place filled with light, color, and sound. It’s another one of the best places to gain a historical insight into the Italian influence in Eritrea. The cemetery also offers stunning views of the night skyline.

Day 12: Departure day

Bid adieu to Eritrea on the departure day of your 12-day tour. There shall be a farewell organized by the tour programmers to mark the end of the tour. The program adds a special touch, ensuring your departure is as memorable as the moments you experienced throughout the tour.

Additional Information:

• Dates: 2024: 3/2 * 2/3 * 20/4 * 4/5 * 1/6

• The tour starts every first week of the month, on Saturday.

• The tour starts and ends in Asmara.

• Price: USD 2.375,00 per person, sharing double room/tent

• Single supplement: USD 230,00

• Supplement for Albergo Italia in Asmara, double room: USD 80,00, twin room: USD 120.00, single room USD 195,00.

• Supplement for Asmara Palace Hotel in Asmara (best country hotel), double/twin room: USD 235,00,

• Single room USD 275.00
  
  
  Price includes:
  

• Six nights in Asmara, B&B accommodation, Crystal Hotel, or similar

• One night in Keren, B6B, Sarina hotel, or similar

• Two nights in Barentu, B6B, Hotel Merhaba or in tent

• dinner including local drinks among bottled water, soft drinks, and beer (4 drinks per person per day).

• All camping equipment at Dahlak camp: comfortable igloo tent (height mt 1.80), camp bed.

• sleeping bag. fully equipped camp kitchen and cook.

• Transfer from Asmara to Massawa (Mitsiwa) and return

• Transfer from Asmara to Keren and return

• Transfer from Asmara to Barentu and return

• Welcome at arrival and farewell at the departure

• English/Italian speaking guide, except on free days

• Local taxes, tourist permits, entrance fees, and Dahlak tax
  
  Excludes:
  

• Entry Visa

• Meals and drinks during the tour on the mainland, on Dahlak island full board drinks included

• Excursion by colonial train

• Optional 4WD excursion to Kohaito archaeological sites and Adi Quala

• Tips and gratuities

• Travel insurance: is a MUST to have a comprehensive travel insurance covering cancellation,

• Curtailment, medical, emergency travel, and assistance, as this is compulsory on all our trips.