Tour to Eritrea: Dahlak Archipelago and Rashaida Nomads

Immerse yourself in an unforgettable adventure in Eritrea, beginning with your arrival in Asmara, the country’s capital, renowned for its Art Deco architecture and cozy cafés. You will visit the military equipment cemetery, symbolizing Eritrea’s path to independence, and then travel to Massawa, where Eastern traditions blend with colonial elegance, discovering the culture of the Rashaida people.

Your journey includes a sea trip to the Dahlak Archipelago, where you can enjoy crystal-clear waters and spend a night under the stars on Dessie Island. Upon returning to the mainland, you will stop in Nefasit near the Debre Bizen Monastery to experience the spirit of ancient Eritrea. The tour concludes with a farewell walk through Asmara and a coffee break at the famous Tirestele bar before your transfer to the airport for your return flight.

This tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the rich culture and natural beauty of Eritrea.

Day 1. Your adventure begins with arrival in Asmara, the capital of Eritrea, where the highland air and mild climate create a special atmosphere. The city welcomes guests with elegant Art Deco architecture, narrow streets where the breath of the past can be felt at every corner, and cozy cafés filled with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. After meeting at the airport, you will be transferred to a characterful hotel surrounded by greenery, offering a comfortable rest after the long journey. In the evening, you will stroll along the central streets of Asmara, admire buildings from the Italian colonial era, and feel history come alive before your eyes. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2. The morning in Asmara begins with a tour of its remarkable landmarks. You will visit the military equipment cemetery, a powerful symbol of Eritrea’s difficult path to independence. Sunlight filtering through the dust of time gives this place a unique atmosphere. Afterwards, you will set off along mountain roads toward Massawa. Breathtaking views of green valleys, steep slopes, and winding serpentines accompany you throughout the journey. Upon arrival in the ancient port city, you will enter a world where Eastern traditions blend with colonial elegance. Turkish palaces, centuries-old mosques, and coral-stone houses transport you to another era. The evening concludes with an introduction to the Rashaida people, whose vibrant traditional clothing and age-old customs create a distinctive cultural color. Overnight at the hotel.

More about the Rashaida nomads:

The Rashaida are an ethnic nomadic group with deep roots in the history of East Africa. They originally migrated to the region from Yemen and Saudi Arabia approximately four centuries ago. Traditionally, the Rashaida engage in herding and trade, moving along the Eritrean coast toward Sudan. They are known for their unique culture, which combines Arab traditions with local customs. The Rashaida preserve their language and way of life, maintaining a strong connection to the arts, music, and dress of their Arab heritage, and continue to follow a nomadic lifestyle.

Day 3. The sea journey to the Dahlak Archipelago begins with the first rays of the sun. On the horizon, the silhouettes of islands emerge, surrounded by transparent waters reflecting the blue sky. On one of the untouched beaches of Madote Island, you will have the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear water, admire coral reefs, and feel a deep connection with nature. By evening, as the sun sinks below the horizon, you will arrive on Dessie Island. A cozy tent camp will be prepared for you under the stars. The silence, broken only by the gentle whisper of the waves, and the vast starry sky will give you an indescribable sense of harmony. This night will be spent immersed in nature on Dessie Island. Overnight in tents.

Day 4. The morning begins with a return to the mainland. On the way to Asmara, you will marvel at the changing landscapes—from coastal plains to mountain passes where each peak seems to reach for the sky. Along the route, there will be a stop in the village of Nefasit, at the foot of the legendary Debre Bizen Monastery. This spiritual center, enveloped in mystical silence, rises to an altitude of 2,450 meters. Here you will feel the spirit of ancient Eritrea and enjoy breathtaking views. By evening, you will arrive in Asmara, where you can relax and enjoy the calm of the city. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 5. Your final day in Asmara is a farewell to this remarkable city. You will take a walk through its historic streets, where Art Deco buildings such as Albergo Italia, Cinema Roma, and Villa Roma tell the story of the Italian era. After the walk, you will enjoy a coffee break at the legendary Tirestele bar. It serves some of the finest coffee in Africa, with every cup infused with tradition and history. At 14:00, you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight.

• International flights
• Visa
• Medical insurance and emergency evacuation
• Lunches and dinners
• Tips
• Single room accommodation
• Early check-in / late check-out at the hotel before or after the program (we always try to negotiate additional bonuses for our guests; often early check-in or late check-out is provided free of charge)
• Any deviations from the program
• Any expenses related to changes in the program

Documents:

• International passport
• Airline tickets
• Medical insurance
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate
• Malaria prevention medication

Clothing and footwear:

• Hiking boots / sneakers, 2 pairs
• Fleece suit or a similar set of warm clothing
• Bandana or buff
• Sun hat / cap
• Long-sleeve shirts / tops
• Light trekking pants
• Shorts
• T-shirts

Miscellaneous:

• Power bank
• Sunglasses
• Rain jacket / poncho
• Sunscreen SPF 50
• Lip balm SPF 10–15
• Personal first-aid kit
• Personal hygiene items, wet wipes, flip-flops
• Insect repellent
• Malaria medication
• Swimwear
• Mosquito bed net