Restrictions in Eritrea

The US Department of State continues to strongly recommend deferring travel to Eritrea.

Avoid travel near the Eritrea-Ethiopia border and southern Red Sea region. Current tensions between the two countries have led to a buildup of military presence along their borders. 

All visitors and residents who wish to travel outside Asmara’s city limits must apply with the Eritrean government 10 days in advance for permission. Permission is usually granted to areas such as Massawa and Keren, which are known tourist destinations, but requests to areas near the borders and to regions not frequently traveled by diplomats are typically turned down.

Travel to religious institutions, for example, monasteries, requires separate travel permission, even when such facilities are located in or near approved destination cities. Foreign travelers not adhering to the terms of travel permits have reported being detained by law enforcement authorities, and their drivers have been jailed.

A number of Eritrean-US dual citizens have been arrested, and some may continue to be held without apparent cause. Those incarcerated may be held in very small quarters without access to restrooms, bedding, food or clean water. At times, armed persons may round up individuals who are not carrying documentation of their identity and military status.