Must See

Asmara

Situated on a high plateau, the capital of Eritrea has a pleasant climate, which led the colonising Italians to choose it as their main base. The city was simply a collection of four villages 200 years or so ago, but today it is full of striking Italian architecture, with bougainvillaea lining the streets. Fine architectural examples include the neoclassical Governor's Palace; a Catholic cathedral built in 1922 and thought to be the finest example of the Lombard-Romanesque style outside of Italy; the Romanesque 1920s Opera House and the imposing frontage of the Cinema Impero.

Massawa

Massawa is a Turko-Egptian city that may be reached from the capital by descending 2,438 metres to sea level, passing breathtaking views of coastal desert. It also passes the famous Orthodox Monastery of Debre Bizen.

Massawa has the largest deep water port in the Red Sea and is made up of three parts: two islands (Batse and Tualud) and the mainland part of Massawa, connected to one another by a series of dams. Sadly damaged during the struggle for independence from Ethiopia, the old town is being rebuilt in keeping with its original style. Some parts remain impressive, with buildings made of coral rock with mashrabeya (wooden screened windows).

Tualud Island has some fine examples of Italian architecture, including St Mariam's Cathedral. There is also a badly damaged 15th century palace (Ghibi), which is in need of restoration. The Port Club has sporting facilities, a museum, a restaurant and a small library.

Batse Island is a good area for cafes, bars and restaurants; visitors can take a small boat to Isola Verde Island (also known as Sheikh Said), a favourite picnic spot.

Qohaito

An impressive archaeological site covering an area of 2.5 km (1.5 mi) by 15 km (9 mi). Although only 20% of the ruins have been excavated, main sights include the remains of the Temple of Mariam Wakiro (an early Christian church), temples and tombs. The largest and most significant find however is the Saphira Dam - 60 metres long and thought to be 1,000 years old. Near Qohaito are several rock-art sites, including a shelter with over 100 painted figures.

Dahlak Archipelago

Over 350 islands lie off the coast of Eritrea, where divers can find an underwater world packed with fish and coral life. Wreck-diving is also possible and charter yachts are available for hire in Massawa. Only four islands are inhabited, with a total population of just 2,500, who still maintain their traditional lifestyle of fishing and herding goats and camels. However, travellers cannot visit alone or without permission.