Best time to visit

Eritrea is a year-round destination for the highlands while at other places it depends on the place one spends most of one's holidays in or the activities one wishes to undertake. Eritrea is the land where one can experience three seasons in just two hours - from the rugged mountain peaks of Emba Soira to the arid desert heat of the Danakil Depression (100 meters below sea level and which is one of the hottest places on earth) to the cool breezes of the Red Sea.

September to February	For the highlands (i.e. Asmara, Keren)
November to March	For the lowlands / coastal areas
December to February	For camel safaris in the lowlands

 

What to wear

While clothing will depend on the time of the year, and whether one is in the highlands or on the coast, it is the best to remember that Eritreans like to dress their best at all times, with suits being usual in offices.

For tourists, light cotton clothing, sunglasses and a hat will be required in the lowlands, while in the highlands, light or medium-weight clothing is appropriate. Women are recommended not to wear shorts and strappy T-shirts outside hotel beaches and swimming pools. During the rainy season, a light raincoat and umbrella may prove useful, and a sweater is best for chilly evenings. The sun can be very strong in high altitudes and a high-factor tanning oil and/or protective clothing (long sleeves) is important.

 

NOTE: The local markets and shops sell a wide range of textile products, which are practical in both hot and cold weather. It may prove useful to take some extra dollars instead of some extra clothing to Eritrea. Buying it in Eritrea will not only stimulate the local economy. The clothes you buy in Eritrea may also be a nice souvenir.