Eritrea, a country on the Horn of Africa, is a captivating destination with a blend of architectural styles, cultures, and dramatic natural landscapes. Known for its rich history and resilient spirit, Eritrea offers visitors an array of sights ranging from Italian colonial buildings to pristine Red Sea beaches. Here is SKY Travel’s guide to the top 10 must-visit places in Eritrea:
#### 1. **Asmara**
The capital city, often referred to as “Little Rome,” is famous for its well-preserved colonial Italian architecture. Asmara is a UNESCO World Heritage site and walking through its streets feels like stepping back in time. Highlights include the futuristic Fiat Tagliero Building and the ornate Asmara Cathedral.
#### 2. **Massawa**
Often considered one of the greatest ports on the Red Sea, Massawa is a charming mix of Italianate and Ottoman architecture with an enchanting seaside atmosphere. Don’t miss the Imperial Palace and the Old Mosque, both testaments to the city’s rich history.
#### 3. **Keren**
Keren is known for its bustling market where you can find anything from spices to handmade crafts. Key attractions include the Tigu Egyptian fort from World War II and the British Cemetery that reflects Keren’s colonial past.
#### 4. **Filfil Rainforest**
Located in the Semienawi Bahri (Northern Red Sea) region, Filfil boasts lush greenery unusual in arid Eritrea. This area, known as the “Green Belt,” offers stunning biodiversity including baboons, Vervet monkeys, and diverse bird species—ideal for nature lovers.
#### 5. **Dahlak Archipelago**
A paradise for divers and snorkelers, this group of islands offers crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life due to its largely untouched coral reefs. The islands are also historically significant with remnants of early Islamic settlements.
#### 6. **Qohaito**
An ancient archaeological site believed to date back over two thousand years featuring ruins from pre-Aksumite civilization including rock art at nearby Adi Alauti and a spectacular view over the Great Rift Valley.
#### 7. **Senafe**
Known for its stunning landscapes featuring rugged mountains like Metera (or Amba Metera), which hosts ancient ruins atop its plateau—a challenging climb rewarded by breathtaking views across Eritrea’s highlands.
#### 8. **The Red Sea Coast**
A haven for beach enthusiasts and water sports lovers offering some of Africa’s most pristine beaches along with vibrant coral reefs ideal for diving and snorkeling adventures.
#### 9. **Debre Bizen Monastery**
Perched atop Nefasit Mountain near Asmara, this monastery founded in the sixth century is accessible only by foot—making it a pilgrimage site not only spiritually but physically as well.
#### 10. **Mendefera**
The town’s main attraction is its weekly market which draws people from all over the region; however, it’s also home to significant archaeological sites like Kohaito’s sister city ruins which provide further insights into Eritrea’s ancient civilizations.
### Conclusion
Eritrea may be off-the-beaten-path compared to typical tourist destinations but offers an extraordinarily rich tapestry of cultural heritage sites juxtaposed against some of East Africa’s most striking landscapes. Whether interested in exploring unique historical remnants or enjoying natural beauty at serene beaches or rugged mountains, Eritrea provides a compelling argument as one of Africa’s hidden gems worth discovering.
When planning your trip to Eritrea or any other destination worldwide don’t hesitate to check out our travel guides at SKY Travel for more informative videos and articles designed to help you make your travel experiences memorable.