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Eritrea village

Eritrea Road Trip

Asmara - Af'Abet - Nakfa - Keren - Agordat - Barentu - Molki - Mendefera - Adi Keyh - Massawa - Idi - Assab - Thio

Expect on your itinerary

Landscape Landscape
Culture Culture
Beach Beach
Road conditions Road conditions
Wildlife Wildlife
Urban life Urban life
Historical sites Historical sites
Comfort Comfort
Eritrea Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages13 km2,408 h/stage2.7

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Eritrea Road Trip in Eritrea?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,512EUR drive & more 325EUR sleep & more 924EUR eat & more 336EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,585EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 3,097EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,268EUR drive & more 438EUR sleep & more 1,474EUR eat & more 504EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,416EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,684EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 3,780EUR drive & more 588EUR sleep & more 2,398EUR eat & more 672EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 3,658EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 7,438EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 3,150EUR drive & more 650EUR sleep & more 770EUR eat & more 336EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,756EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,906EUR
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Eritrea Road Trip Itinerary

Embark on a journey of discovery with the Eritrea Road Trip! This 14-day, 2408km journey through the country of Eritrea begins and ends in the capital city of Asmara. Along the way, you'll explore the towns of Af'Abet, Nakfa, Keren, Barentu, Mendefera, and Thio. These destinations are filled with attractions that are sure to make your trip a memorable one. The best time of the year to take this road trip is during the dry season, from December to March. During this time, you'll get to experience the stunning landscapes of Eritrea, from the rolling hills to the rugged mountains. However, please be aware that the roads in Eritrea can be in poor condition, and you may find yourself driving on partly curvy or narrow roads. This road trip is suitable for all kinds of drivers, and can be managed on a moderate budget. So what are you waiting for? Get ready to explore the beauty of Eritrea with the Eritrea Road Trip!
number of days 14 number of days
route length 2,408 km route length
budget fair budget
good for survivalist good for
traffic direction on the left traffic direction
accident level extreme accident level

START Asmara

Distance 2,408 km Driving time 35.3 h Pace: fast 722.4 kWh Airports ASM
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Asmara is the capital city of Eritrea and a great starting point for the Eritrea Road Trip. It is known for its stunning architecture, making it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Asmara's historical buildings, churches, mosques, and markets offer plenty of sights to explore. The best way to get around Asmara is by car. The closest international airport is Asmara International Airport (ASM), located just seven kilometers away from the city centre. Car rental services are available at the airport, giving travelers the freedom to explore the city and its surroundings with ease. The city offers plenty of attractions to explore, including the Opera House, the National Museum, the Imperial Palace, the Roman Catholic Cathedral, and the Enda Mariam Orthodox Cathedral. Other interesting places to visit are the old Railway Station, the Cinema Impero, and the Fiat Tagliero Building. Asmara is a great starting point for the Eritrea Road Trip. It has a unique atmosphere, and its historical buildings and monuments make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a truly unique experience.

1 Asmara - Af'Abet

Distance 247 km Driving time 5.0 h Pace: modest 64.1 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Welcome to the Eritrea Road Trip stage from Asmara to Af'Abet! This journey of 247 km will take you less than 5 hours of driving and you will get to see some of the most interesting places in Eritrea. Start your trip in Asmara, the capital of Eritrea, and take a stroll through its historical centre, which is filled with Italian colonial architecture. Here you can visit the Enda Mariam Cathedral, the Fiat Tagliero Building, and the Cinema Impero, among other attractions. Continue your journey to Af'Abet, a small village located in the Debubawi Keyih Bahri region. Here, you can visit the Af'Abet Church, a beautiful church built in the 19th century. Also, make sure to visit the nearby mountain of Zikala, where you can enjoy stunning views of the region. On your way, you can also stop at other interesting places, such as the Debre Sina Monastery, the Debre Sina Church, and the Debre Sina Cave. As you drive along the route, be sure to take in the beautiful landscapes of Eritrea. Remember that more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!

2 Af'Abet - Nakfa

Distance 69 km Driving time 1.3 h Pace: modest 17.8 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended dining venues scenic road
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Embark on a unique road trip adventure from Af'Abet to Nakfa that will take you through breathtaking landscapes and charming villages! This stretch of 69km will take you less than 2 hours, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the ride. We recommend you take a 4WD car for this stage, as you will be driving on some unpaved roads. Don't forget to take some pictures of the amazing views along the way! Once you arrive in Nakfa, you will be welcomed by the stunning Nakfa Castle. This historic fortress is a must-see, and a great place to learn about Eritrean culture and history. After that, take a walk around the vibrant market and explore the local crafts and souvenirs. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey and have a safe trip!

3 Nakfa - Keren

Distance 135 km Driving time 3.0 h Pace: modest 35.2 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended dining venues scenic road interesting  historic site
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Nakfa to Keren, Eritrea! This 135km journey will take you less than three hours to complete, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the ride. For a more comfortable experience, a 4WD car is advisable. Along the way, be sure to take in the stunning views of the Eritrean countryside and keep an eye out for any historical sites. You'll also pass through a few small towns, so make sure to take a break and explore. Some of the most interesting places to visit in Nakfa include the Nakfa War Memorial and the historic Nakfa Castle. When you reach Keren, don't miss out on visiting the Keren War Memorial and the Keren Museum. There's plenty more to discover in these two cities, so make sure to check out the Itinerary for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy the journey!

4 Keren - Agordat

Distance 84 km Driving time 1.0 h Pace: fast 25.3 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues
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Welcome to the Keren-Agordat road trip stage! This stage is part of a larger tour, and it will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes of Eritrea. The trip starts in Keren, a city with a rich history and plenty of attractions to explore. Visit the Keren War Cemetery and the Keren Museum to learn more about the city's past. Then, head to Agordat, a small city located 84 km away from Keren. Along the way, you will be able to admire the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and you will reach your destination in less than one hour. In Agordat, you can explore the city's old market and visit the Agordat Cathedral, which is known for its unique architecture. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

5 Agordat - Barentu

Distance 66 km Driving time 0.8 h Pace: fast 19.9 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues interesting cultural site
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Welcome road-trippers! Today's stage of your journey takes you from Agordat, Eritrea to Barentu, a journey of 66km that can be completed in less than an hour. Agordat, Eritrea is home to the beautiful Agordat Cathedral, a stunning example of Eritrean architecture, and the Agordat National Museum, a great place to learn about the history and culture of Eritrea. As you travel from Agordat to Barentu, you'll pass through the picturesque towns of Keren and Asmara, so make sure to take a break and enjoy the views. Once you arrive in Barentu, you can explore the Barentu Museum and the Barentu Cultural Centre, a great place to learn about the local culture and history. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Have a great journey!

6 Barentu - Molki

Distance 90 km Driving time 1.7 h Pace: modest 23.3 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended dining venues scenic road
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Barentu to Molki, a 90 km journey that will take you fewer than 2 hours! This stretch of Eritrean countryside is a must-see for any road-tripper. A 4WD car is advisable for this section of the tour, as the road is often bumpy and winding. Enjoy the scenic views of the countryside as you drive along. Be sure to take plenty of photos of the beautiful rolling hills and vast landscapes. Once you reach Molki, you can explore the local markets and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Visit the historical sites, such as the Molki Mosque, and take in the sights and sounds of this ancient city. For a more peaceful experience, take a stroll through the local park and relax in the shade of the trees. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road to experience the beauty of Eritrea!

7 Molki - Mendefera

Distance 106 km Driving time 3.2 h Pace: slow 24.5 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended dining venues sections of narrow road stretches of gravel road
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Molki to Mendefera? This 106 km journey will take you less than 4 hours, but you'll get to experience some of the most interesting places in Eritrea. We recommend you use a 4WD car as some of the roads may be narrow. Along the way, you can visit Molki's famous old churches, the stunning views of the Tserona Valley, and the beautiful Lake Asale. In Mendefera, you can explore the historical sites of the city, such as the ancient monastery of Debre Bizen and the old fortress of Mendefera. Make sure to take some time to enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for your Molki to Mendefera road trip!

8 Mendefera - Adi Keyh

Distance 163 km Driving time 1.9 h Pace: fast 48.9 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Mendefera to Adi Keyh? This 163 km journey will take you less than two hours, and will give you a chance to explore the best of Eritrea. Start your journey in Mendefera, where you can visit the Church of St. Mary, the impressive Mendefera Museum, and the beautiful Harnet Square. As you make your way to Adi Keyh, make sure you stop at the Gheleb Dam, a great spot for fishing and a great place to take pictures. You will also pass through Asmara, the capital of Eritrea, where you can explore the city's many attractions, such as the Asmara Zoo, the Asmara Opera House, and the Asmara Grand Mosque. Finally, you will reach Adi Keyh, a small town located in the highlands of Eritrea. Here you can visit the Adi Keyh Monastery, a beautiful and peaceful spot, and the Adi Keyh Market, a bustling market where you can buy local handicrafts and souvenirs. This is just one of the many stages of your Eritrean road trip, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your journey today!

9 Adi Keyh - Massawa

Distance 220 km Driving time 2.5 h Pace: fast 66.0 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues
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Embark on an amazing road trip from Adi Keyh to Massawa and explore the wonderful landscape of Eritrea. This 220km journey, which will take you less than three hours, will take you through some of the most beautiful places in the region. Start your trip in Adi Keyh, a small city located in the Debub Region, and visit the Debre Bizen Monastery, which is known for its beautiful architecture and its sacred artifacts. Then, make your way to the nearby Kebessa Mountains, where you can admire the stunning views of the region and explore the ancient ruins. Continue your journey to Massawa, one of the most beautiful cities in Eritrea. Here, you can visit the historic Old City, which is full of unique architecture and monuments. Don't miss the chance to explore the beautiful beaches and the colorful markets. This stage of your road trip is just the beginning of your journey. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, you can find it in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, don't wait any longer and start your adventure now!

10 Massawa - Idi

Distance 373 km Driving time 4.2 h Pace: fast 111.9 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Massawa to Idi! This 373 km journey is filled with stunning views and a few winding roads. You can expect to make it to your destination in under 5 hours. Along the way, you'll be mesmerized by the views of the Red Sea and the captivating landscape of Eritrea. Be sure to keep an eye out for the scenic roads that will take you through the desert and mountains. Once in Idi, you can explore the ancient ruins of the city and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. You can also take a visit to the nearby villages and explore the culture of the locals. Don't forget to take a few photos of the breathtaking landscapes! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

11 Idi - Assab

Distance 182 km Driving time 2.6 h Pace: fast 54.7 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road interesting  historic site attractive landscape
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Idi to Assab! This 182 km journey will take you less than three hours, and will provide you with some of the most amazing views in Eritrea. Start your journey in Idi, and make sure to take a moment to admire the beautiful architecture of the city. As you drive, you will be surrounded by stunning landscapes, and you will even be able to spot some historical sites. Make sure to take some pictures along the way! Your next stop is the city of Assab, where you can explore the local culture and enjoy some delicious local cuisine. Don’t forget to take a look at the stunning beaches and the vibrant nightlife! As you drive, be sure to pay attention to the road and take in all the sights. Remember that more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip from Idi to Assab!

12 Assab - Thio

Distance 306 km Driving time 4.0 h Pace: fast 91.7 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road
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Welcome to the Assab to Thio road trip stage! This is a great part of a larger tour, and you'll get to explore the best of Eritrea in just under 4 hours. The journey is 306 km long, and you'll be driving through some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. Start your tour in Assab and take in the sights of the Red Sea. Then, make your way to Thio, where you can admire the gorgeous views of the mountains and the lush greenery. On your way, you'll be able to take in the stunning views of the coast and the rugged landscape of the countryside. Be sure to keep an eye out for the local wildlife, as you may spot some rare species. There are also plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the breathtaking views of the area. Once you reach Thio, you'll be able to explore the town's unique culture and history. From its traditional architecture to its vibrant markets, this is a great place to learn about the culture of Eritrea. Don't forget to take in the stunning views of the mountains and the lush greenery. You'll also be able to explore the local cuisine, which is sure to delight your taste buds. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to explore the best of Eritrea on this amazing road trip!

13 Thio - Asmara

Distance 367 km Driving time 4.2 h Pace: fast 110.1 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Embark on a 367km road trip from Thio,Eritrea to Asmara and experience some of the most breathtaking views in the country. The driving time is estimated to be fewer than 5 hours, so you can take your time to explore the many attractions along the way. Start your journey in Thio and take a walk through the historical sites such as the remains of the old Italian fort, or the local church. You can also take a break and enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the small cafes in the area. As you drive towards Asmara, make sure to keep your eyes open for the scenic views of the countryside. The rolling hills and the winding roads will make you feel like you are in a postcard. Once you arrive in Asmara, you can explore the city’s many attractions, such as the Asmara Grand Mosque and the National Museum. There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops to explore. This is just one of the many stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready for an unforgettable road trip from Thio to Asmara and explore the beauty of Eritrea!

  Asmara

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Asmara, the capital of Eritrea, is the final destination of the Eritrea Road Trip. With its unique blend of African, Arabic, and European cultures, Asmara is a city that captivates travelers. The city is known for its Art Deco and Modernist architecture, making it a great place to explore. The Fiat Tagliero Building, with its wings resembling an airplane, is a must-see. The Cinema Impero is another remarkable sight, with its striking façade, it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is also home to several churches, mosques and synagogues, reflecting its diverse religious history. The Enda Mariam Orthodox Cathedral is the largest church in Eritrea and is a popular destination for tourists. Asmara is also a great place to get a taste of local cuisine. The city is known for its delicious street food, such as the popular kitcha fit-fit, made with injera bread, and zighni, a spicy stew. Asmara is served by Asmara International Airport (ASM). The airport is located approximately 8 kilometers from the city center, and is the closest international airport to Asmara. For those traveling by car, the Eritrea Road Trip is a great way to explore the country. The trip will take you through the cities of Massawa, Keren and Tesseney, before ending in Asmara. So, if you're looking for a unique travel experience, Asmara is the perfect destination. With its diverse culture, architecture, and cuisine, it's sure to make for an unforgettable journey.

Eritrea Road Trip at a glance

We believe that the presented Eritrea Road Trip has become a superb inspiration for your future holidays.
Our tour can be used as a base that you can recreate in its entirety or only partially and that can be enriched with diverse beauty spots.
If car travel is the preferred travel mode for you, there are a number of essential road rules to follow and a number of things to be mindful of to make your journey smooth and safe. Considering hiring a vehicle or camper rental? These will definitely come in handy during your holiday experience.
When sightseeing around Eritrea, there are multiple traffic regulations to be bore in mind. When moving around Eritrea in a car, try to stay away from alcohol at all costs. Tourists should remember that the permitted blood alcohol level is extremely low and equals only 0.5‰. When driving around urban areas, the maximum allowed speed is 50km/h. Outside the cities, there is a possibility to travel at the maximum permissible speed of 80km/h. On motorways, 100km/h is the speed limit that you should stick to. We recommend driving with your headlights on at daytime and equipping your car with a fire extinguisher and first aid kit to increase the safety of you and your passengers.
The majority of holidaymakers wonder about the costs of the whole trip. The road trip costs can be easily adjusted to your expectations by choosing the appropriate budget option. A wide range of budget configurations is showed below.
If you go for the cheapest offer, you need to pay the maximum of 325 EUR for gasoline to cover the planned 14 stages across Eritrea. Travel expenses connected with economy overnight stays will cost up to about 924 EUR. Those who opt for this option will spend around 336 EUR on food and restaurants. Travellers will have to pay about 1,512 EUR if they aim for the cheapest car rental offer as well. Thus, going for vehicle rental will increase the expenses of the road trip from around 1,585 EUR to more or less 3,097 EUR.
Travellers who seek greater comfort and the standard option will pay approximately 438 EUR for the fuel needed to cover the itinerary. Cost amounting to 1,474 EUR can be expected by all drivers who are considering standard accommodation options. On food and restaurants within the standard range of services, you will have to spend more or less 504 EUR. Travellers who want to cover the trip in a standard rental vehicle can expect a cost of roughly 2,268 EUR. Summing up the standard offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total roughly 4,684 EUR for holidayers who would like to try car rental and 2,416 EUR for those who are not interested in rental.
The highest level of comfort of the premium option will live up to the expectations of the most demanding travellers. When it comes to this offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total roughly 7,438 EUR for drivers who are considering vehicle hire and 2,416 EUR for those who do not need a rental vehicle. Travellers who want to cover the tour in a premium hire car should expect a cost of around 3,780 EUR. When it comes to the top standard option of the adventure, the gasoline cost will be up to more or less 588 EUR. Tourists who will go for top services in all aspects of their adventure should expect to pay roughly 2,398 EUR for accommodation options and about 672 EUR for restaurants and food.
Eritrea Road Trip is also superb for camper lovers. When it comes to this travel means, the costs will be up to approximately 3,150 EUR. Travellers will spend more or less 650 EUR on fuel allowing to cover all stages of the tour. Drivers who are interested in camper rental should expect to pay more or less 770 EUR for accommodation and about 336 EUR for expenses connected with food.
You can check all of the expenses in the section Road Trip Costs.
The best travel opportunity when exploring the part of Eritrea mentioned in our road trip idea is between October and March. There are countless picturesque scenic drives and road trips that we offer on our website if Eritrea Road Trip has inspired you. We hope that the great variety of ideas will definitely live up to the expectations of the most demanding travellers.

Facts for safer driving in Eritrea

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 50 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 80 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 100 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime on
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls no
seat belts seat belts yes

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