Asmara Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Asmara.
Healthcare System
Eritrea's healthcare system is significantly underdeveloped with limited resources, equipment, and medications. The country faces shortages of medical supplies and trained personnel. Orotta Hospital in Asmara is the main referral hospital, but facilities are basic by international standards.
Hospitals
Orotta National Referral Hospital is the primary facility for serious cases. Several smaller clinics exist in Asmara, but options are extremely limited. Private clinics may offer slightly better service but still lack advanced capabilities.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies in Asmara have very limited stock. Many common medications are unavailable or in short supply. Travelers should bring all necessary medications in original packaging with prescriptions, including extras in case of extended stay.
Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is absolutely essential. Verify that your policy covers Eritrea, as some insurers exclude it. Medical evacuation can cost over $100,000.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring a complete medical kit including all prescription medications, pain relievers, antibiotics, anti-diarrheal medication, and first aid supplies
- Carry copies of prescriptions and medical documentation in case medications are questioned at customs
- Arrange medical evacuation insurance before travel as facilities cannot handle serious medical emergencies
- Drink only bottled or boiled water to avoid waterborne illnesses
- Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date and consider hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies vaccines
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Asmara has very low rates of petty crime compared to other African capitals. Pickpocketing and bag snatching are rare but can occur.
Taking photographs of government buildings, military installations, airports, bridges, and sometimes people without permission can result in arrest, detention, and confiscation of equipment.
Movement outside Asmara requires special permits that can be difficult or impossible to obtain. Unauthorized travel can result in detention.
Roads in and around Asmara are generally in fair condition, but driving standards vary. Limited street lighting at night and presence of pedestrians, cyclists, and animals on roads pose hazards.
Asmara sits at 2,325 meters (7,628 feet) above sea level, which can cause mild altitude sickness in some visitors, particularly upon arrival.
Eritrea has strict laws and surveillance. Visitors can be detained for activities considered suspicious, including unauthorized photography, criticism of the government, or contact with certain individuals.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Black market currency exchange is illegal but sometimes offered. Rates may seem attractive but transactions can result in arrest, counterfeit currency, or being shortchanged.
Unauthorized individuals may offer guide services or help with permits, potentially leading to problems with authorities or overcharging.
Some vendors or taxi drivers may attempt to charge tourists inflated prices, particularly for those unfamiliar with local rates.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Documentation
- Keep your passport, visa, and travel permits with you at all times - checkpoints are common
- Make multiple copies of all important documents and store separately
- Register with your embassy immediately upon arrival
- Keep all receipts from currency exchanges and major purchases
- Carry a letter from your hotel confirming your accommodation
Communication
- Internet access is extremely limited and heavily monitored - don't rely on it
- International phone calls are expensive and may be monitored
- Learn basic phrases in Tigrinya or Arabic as English is not widely spoken
- Inform family of your itinerary before arrival as communication may be difficult
- VPNs and encrypted messaging may not work or could cause problems
Photography and Electronics
- Never photograph military, police, government buildings, or infrastructure
- Always ask permission before photographing people
- Be prepared to show photos on your camera/phone to authorities if asked
- Avoid using drones - they are likely prohibited
- Keep cameras concealed when not actively taking permitted photos
Money
- Bring sufficient cash (USD or EUR) as ATMs are unreliable and credit cards rarely accepted
- Bring small denomination bills in good condition (no tears or marks)
- Exchange only at official banks - black market exchange is illegal
- Budget for cash-only transactions throughout your stay
- Keep money secure and distributed in different locations
General Conduct
- Maintain a low profile and avoid drawing attention to yourself
- Never discuss politics or criticize the government
- Respect local customs and dress modestly
- Be patient with bureaucracy and delays - they are common
- Comply immediately and politely with any official requests
- Avoid demonstrations or gatherings of any kind
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Asmara is generally safe for women travelers, with low rates of harassment compared to many other destinations. Eritrean culture is relatively conservative but respectful. Women traveling alone are uncommon but not unheard of. The main challenges relate to the country's overall restrictions rather than gender-specific safety concerns.
- Dress modestly - cover shoulders and knees, avoid tight or revealing clothing
- Solo women travelers should inform their hotel of their daily plans
- Avoid walking alone late at night, though the city is generally safe
- Be prepared for curiosity from locals as solo female tourists are rare
- Conservative behavior is appreciated - avoid public displays of affection
- Use hotel taxis or arranged transportation rather than hailing cabs on the street
- Join group tours when possible for activities outside Asmara
- Carry a scarf to cover head when visiting religious sites
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexuality is illegal in Eritrea with potential penalties including imprisonment. Same-sex relationships are criminalized under the penal code.
- Do not disclose sexual orientation or gender identity to authorities or locals
- Avoid any public displays of affection with same-sex partners
- Be extremely discreet about personal relationships
- Do not access LGBTQ+ content online as internet is monitored
- Consider whether travel to Eritrea is advisable given the legal and social situation
- Register with your embassy and understand consular limitations if issues arise
- Travel as 'friends' if visiting as a couple and book separate rooms if necessary
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance with comprehensive medical evacuation coverage is absolutely critical for visiting Eritrea. The country's limited medical facilities cannot handle serious health emergencies, and evacuation to Kenya, Sudan, or Europe may be necessary for major medical issues. Additionally, the country's isolation and restricted diplomatic presence make insurance essential for any unexpected situations.
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