Getting There & Getting About

International Airports

• Asmara (ASM): 6 kin from the city.

• Full list of airports in Eritea with associated airport codes >

Internal Transport

Travellers should note that a permit is required by the Ministry of Tourism to travel to all areas except Dekemhare, Keren, Mendeferra and Massawa. Permits are typically granted on the day an application is submitted.

Internal flights are available between Asmara and Assab, and there is a rail network between Asmara and Massawa. However, there are no train timetables and services are not regular.

Car hire is available through the Eritrean Tour Service in Asmara. Although roads were badly damaged during the fighting, a programme of repairs and modernisation is now underway. There are reasonable paved roads connecting business centres and holiday resorts, although others can be of very poor quality, and may become almost impassable during bad weather. A 4-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended for these roads and tracks.

Shared taxis may be found at the airport and in the capital, Asmara, and private taxis may also be hired for a higher fee. Visitors should also be aware that fees are often almost double at night, and as taxis are not metered it is a good idea to negotiate a price in advance.

Bus services connect all larger towns and cities, with one bus per day to small towns and two a day to larger ones. Buses leave as soon as they are full.