Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Eritrea?
What is the Climate Like in Eritrea?
How Safe is Eritrea?
Visiting Matara
What Should I Pack To Eritrea?
Canadian Embassy to Eritrea
Eritrea is a melting pot of different cultures, giving travellers a glimpse into an incredibly unique life. The country is an beautiful, with clear beaches, towering mountains and vast deserts.
There is also a great amount of biodiversity; elephants, monkeys, leopards, lions, turtles, and birds are found there.
When entering the cities, tourists can admire a diverse mix of modern and colonial architecture. Even the people of Eritrea are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Despite the current political and economic troubles Eritrea is facing, it remains an amazing place for visitors.
Do I Need Vaccines for Eritrea?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Eritrea. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccines for Eritrea: typhoid, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, cholera, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, and influenza.
| Vaccine | How Disease Spreads |
|---|---|
| Typhoid | Contaminated Food or Water |
| Hepatitis A | Contaminated Food or Water |
| Hepatitis B | Contaminated Body Fluids (Sex, needles, etc.) |
| Cholera | Contaminated Food or Water |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito-borne |
| Rabies | Infected Animals |
| Meningitis | Usually Airborne Droplets |
| Influenza | Airborne Droplets |
Proof of Yellow fever vaccination may be required if you enter Eritrea from a country with the virus.
Dengue, malaria and chikungunya are present in Eritrea. Mosquito repellents and netting should be brought with you. Antimalarials are recommended for travellers to the country as well.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Eritrea?
Canadian travelers visiting Eritrea must have a passport valid for six months beyond the date of departure and a visa. Travelers can apply for a tourist visa, which is valid for up to three months in Eritrea, online. Additionally, the government of Eritrea requires all travelers entering from a country with a risk of yellow fever to show proof of yellow fever vaccination.
| Is A … | An Eritrea Entry Requirement? |
|---|---|
| Passport | Yes |
| Passport Validity | Minimum 6 months validity |
| Blank Passport Pages | One page for entry stamp |
| Tourist Visa | Yes |
| Vaccinations | Recommended |
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What is the Climate Like in Eritrea?
The climate in Eritrea depends greatly on where in the country you visit.
- Eastern Coast – It is very hot from June to September, with temperatures frequently in the hundreds. From December to February there is a great deal of rain, with temperatures ranging from the mid-teens to low-30’s.
- Highlands – The hottest month is May, with temperatures around 30. The winter can be incredibly cold with temperatures close to freezing at night.
- Western lowlands – Temperatures and precipitation is like that on the coast.
How Safe is Eritrea?
Exercise caution in the country and avoid the Eritrean-Ethopian border, Southern Red Sea Region, and Eritrea-Djibouti border. There is a large military presence in these areas due to tensions between Eritrean and neighboring countries.
Crime in the country is also increasing, such as burglary and other crimes of opportunity. Travellers should always maintain situational alertness, have evacuation plans ready and travel in groups.
Visiting Matara
Matara is a small village and archaeological site located in Eritrea. At one point evidence suggests that Matara was a city along a trade route that ran from Aksum to Adulis. Archaeological investigation has revealed evidence from over 1,000 years of habituation. In the village is the Hawulti, an 18-foot-tall obelisk that has the oldest example of Ge’ez script. Those interested in history will love exploring this historic area.
What Should I Pack for Eritrea?
Eritrea is a still developing nation, meaning it is best to bring some items with you on your trip.
- Money Belt – Due to the crime levels in the country, a money belt will allow you to keep your money and passport safe.
- Plug Adaptors – Eritrea power sockets are type C and L, meaning an adapter is needed when travelling.
- Portable Chargers – Electrical power can be unreliable in Eritrea. Bring a backup battery to keep your phone at full charge.
- Jacket – If you’re visiting in the winter, particularly in the highlands, temperatures can get incredibly cold. Pack warm clothes to layer on top of your outfit.
Canadian Embassy to Eritrea
When travelling it is very helpful to find out exactly where the Canadian Embassy or consulates are located. Keep the address written down in case you have a legal problem, you lose your passport, or you want to report a crime. Be sure to keep a copy of your passport with you in case you lose the original.
Canadian Consulate in Eritrea
Abeneh Street 745,
House No. 152/154,
Tiravolo, Asmara, Eritrea
Tel.: 291 (1) 18 18 55
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
