Afabet - Discovering Eritrea

Travelling to Afabet

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Afabet, a pretty good destination in Eritrea (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Afabet and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Afabet, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Eritrea, here's everything to know about Afabet for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Afabet

Afabet is a town located in the Northern Red Sea region of Eritrea. It is situated about 120 km southeast of the regional capital, Massawa. The town is known for its historical significance as it served as a major battleground during the Eritrean War of Independence in the 1980s. Today, Afabet is mostly an agricultural town, with its main crops including sorghum, millet, and sesame. The town also has a small market where visitors can buy locally produced items such as pottery and woven baskets.

What to visit in Afabet

Afabet is a town in the northern part of Eritrea. Although it is not a very famous tourist destination, there are a few places that you can visit while you are there. Here are some of the tourist attractions of Afabet: 1. Mount Emba Soira: This mountain is located close to the town of Afabet and is a popular destination for trekking and hiking. It is the third-highest mountain in Eritrea and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
2. The Afabet War Memorial: This monument was built in memory of the Eritrean soldiers who fought and died during the Battle of Afabet in 1988. The battle was a turning point in the Eritrean War of Independence and is considered to be one of the most significant battles in Eritrean history.
3. The Hawatsu Hot Springs: These natural hot springs are located about 30 kilometers from Afabet and are a popular destination for relaxation and healing. Many people believe that the hot springs have healing properties that can help with various ailments.
4. The Red Sea Coastline: Afabet is located close to the Red Sea coastline, which offers beautiful beaches and clear waters for swimming and snorkeling. There are also many fishing villages along the coast where you can experience the local culture and cuisine.
5. The Great Rift Valley: The Great Rift Valley runs through Eritrea and offers stunning landscapes and scenery. There are many hiking and trekking trails that you can explore to experience the natural beauty of this region.
Overall, Afabet may not be the most well-known destination in Eritrea, but it offers some unique attractions that are worth exploring.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Eritrea, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Afabet.

When to go on holiday to Afabet

The best time to visit Afabet, Eritrea, is during the winter months between December and February. During this time, the weather is dry and mild, and temperatures range between 22 and 28 degrees Celsius. However, it's important to note that Afabet is a desert region, so temperatures can still be quite high during the day. It's also worth bearing in mind that Afabet is a remote and sparsely populated area, so it might not be the most ideal destination for a holiday.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Afabet

Afabet is a town located in the Northern Red Sea region of Eritrea. The main transportation options to get to Afabet are: 1. By Air: The nearest airport to Afabet is the Assab international airport, which is located about 163 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or a private car to Afabet. Airlines such as Eritrean Airlines and Ethiopian Airlines offer regular flights to Assab international airport.
2. By Road: You can also travel to Afabet by road. From the capital city of Asmara, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to get to Afabet. The road trip takes around 6 hours to cover a distance of about 285 km.
It is recommended to check with the local travel authorities for the latest travel restrictions and visa requirements before planning your trip to Afabet.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Afabet, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Afabet

Afabet is a small town located in the Northern Red Sea region of Eritrea. Here are some typical foods of Afabet: 1. Shiro – A staple food in Eritrea, made from ground chickpeas or lentils and spices. Served with injera (a sourdough flatbread) or rice.
2. Injera – A sourdough flatbread made from teff flour. It is the most commonly eaten food in Eritrea, usually served with stews, curries or sauces.
3. Zigni – A spicy beef stew made with berbere (a spice blend) and served with injera.
4. Tsebhi Birsen – A goat meat stew slowly cooked in a sauce made from tomatoes, onions, and spices.
5. Ful Medames – A hearty breakfast dish made from fava beans mixed with oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
6. Tibs – Grilled or sautéed meat, often served with vegetables, injera, or bread.
7. Kitcha – A type of flatbread made from barley flour and typically served for breakfast with tea.
8. Saor – A type of thick and creamy yogurt that is often used as a dip for bread or served as a side dish.
9. Hamli – A stewed dish made from leafy greens, often served alongside stews or kitcha.
10. Fattoush – A salad made from mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, fresh herbs, and pita bread. It is typically dressed with lemon juice and olive oil.
You can find general info about typical foods in Eritrea here.

Is Afabet an expensive destination for tourists?

As a travel assistant, I can tell you that Afabet is not a popular tourist destination in Eritrea. It is a small town located in a remote area, and there are limited tourist facilities available. Therefore, it may not be an expensive destination for tourists, but it can be difficult to access and may lack tourist attractions. It would be best to research the region and consult with a travel agent familiar with Eritrea for more information on planning a trip to Afabet.

Where to find accomodation in Afabet

Afabet is a small town located in the northern part of Eritrea, so the options for accommodation are limited. The closest major city with accommodation options is Keren, which is about 70 km south of Afabet. You can find hotels, guesthouses, and lodges in Keren, which can serve as a base for exploring Afabet and the surrounding area. Alternatively, there are basic guesthouses and campsites in and around Afabet. However, it's always a good idea to book accommodation ahead of time, especially during peak travel season in Eritrea, which is from October to February.
You can check hotel prices at Afabet here:
Booking.com

Is Afabet a safe destination for tourists?

Afabet is not typically considered a tourist destination in Eritrea. It is a small town located in a remote area of the country with limited tourist infrastructure. In general, Eritrea has a low crime rate and is considered relatively safe for tourists. However, it is always important to exercise caution and common sense when traveling to unfamiliar places, particularly in remote areas. It is recommended to research the local customs and cultural expectations, dress appropriately, and travel with a reputable tour guide or travel companion. Additionally, it is important to stay informed about any potential security risks in the region, including political instability or social unrest, and to follow the advice of local authorities and your embassy.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Eritrea here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Afabet.

What type of travelers will enjoy Afabet the most?

Afabet, Eritrea is a small town in a remote desert region and is primarily known for its historical significance as the site of a major battle during Eritrea's war for independence. It may not offer many typical tourist attractions or amenities, making it a less popular destination for casual travelers seeking leisure or entertainment.
That being said, if someone is interested in history, archaeology or anthropology, Afabet and the surrounding areas may offer a unique opportunity to learn about Eritrean culture and the country's struggle for independence. It could be ideal for solo travelers who are interested in exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations and immersing themselves in local culture.
It doesn't mean that Afabet is completely unsuitable for families or couples, but they should approach a visit with a different set of expectations. Families may want to consider the trip only if they are experienced with traveling in this type of region and are comfortable with the limited amenities available. Couples who are interested in history and exploring uncharted territories may also enjoy a visit to Afabet.

How to get around Afabet

The most common mode of transportation in Afabet, Eritrea is via minibuses or shared taxis. These vehicles are typically cheap and can be hailed from the side of the road. However, there are no formal bus companies or schedules in the area, so travelers should expect to wait for vehicles to fill up before departing. It is also possible to hire private taxis for a more comfortable and personalized experience. Walking or biking is also an option for shorter distances within the town.

What to see around Afabet

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Afabet, Eritrea: 1. Massawa: It is a port city located along the Red Sea coast, known for its Ottoman-era architecture, colonial-era buildings, and palm-lined beaches.
2. The Dahlak Islands: These are a group of islands situated in the Red Sea and renowned for their crystal clear waters, colorful coral reefs, and diverse marine life.
3. Debub Region: It is a southern region of Eritrea known for its scenic mountain ranges, wildlife sanctuaries, and ancient archaeological sites such as the Qohaito ruins.
4. Keren: It is a city located in the mountains and known for its vibrant market, decorative mosques, and the War cemetery that honours the fallen soldiers.
5. Asmara: The capital city of Eritrea is a beautiful city with a unique blend of African and Italian architecture, cafes, restaurants, museums, and landmarks. I hope this helps in organizing your day trip!
For every travel information about Eritrea you can click here.

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