Eritea, a country in the Horn of Africa is the capital of Asmara and is bordered by Sudan, Ethiopia and Djibouti. The creation of modern day Eritrea is a result of the incorporation of independent Kingdoms and various vassal states of the Ethiopian empire and the Ottoman Empire, which has eventually resulted in the formation of Italian Eritrea.

Eritea is a single-party state. Though its constitution of 1997 stipulated the state as the presidential republic with a unicameral parliamentary democracy, it is yet to be implemented. An Eritean- Ethiopian war was led in 1998 which led to major casualties. Since then certain travel advices are enforced on travel to Eritea.

Political tensions between Eritea and Ethiopia have been high for a while. A serious military clash took place on the Eritean border in March 2012 and May 2012. Safety precautions have been announced for all travelers traveling within 25 kms of Eritea’s border with Ethiopia and Djibouti. Foreign nationals are required to apply in advance for travel permits to leave Asmara. Low level threats are expected from terrorism. Attacks could prevail in places where expatriates and foreign travelers reside. Travelers in these regions are enforced to take extra safety precautions.

Extensive mine fields are located near the border with Ethiopia. Though the landmine caused ceratin casualties in the year 2008, travelers are yet advised to drive on main roads and avoid driving on non-metalled roads, off road driving or walking and hiking in the countryside. Mobile networks can be very low in the region. Mobiles may only be accessed for a limited period outside Asmara and other larger towns.

Sea travelers are also advised to be vigilant. Certain attacks of piracy and armed robbery against ships have been reported in the Horn of Africa area. Mariners should be conscious that permissions and entry visas must be sought in advance before landing in Eritrea.

Certain Entry Requirements:

• British nationals would require a visa for entry in Eritea. It is necessary to have all your travel documents valid for the period of your stay in Eritea. The Eritean authorities take breaches very seriously and travelers may face lengthy delays in regularizing their positions.

• A valid passport for the minimum period of six months would be required on entering Eritea.

• Dual nationals of both Britain and Eritea entering the region on an Eritrean identity card must be aware that an exit visa from the immigration office in Asmara would be required before leaving Eritea.

• Regarding funds, foreign visitors will have to declare all their foreign currencies upon entering the country. Foreign currency form needs to be declared and approved before leaving the airport.

• Travelers should make sure they have adequate travel health insurance and available funds to cover any medical cost during their stay in the country.

General Information:

• The currency in Eritea is Nakfa

• Economy in Eritea is completely cash based. No ATM’s are available and no credit cards will be accepted.

• Photography of government buildings and military institutions in the country will not be allowed

• Travelers are expected to dress modestly especially in the Muslim concentrated areas.

• Homosexual behavior is illegal.