Barentu - Discovering Eritrea

Travelling to Barentu

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Barentu, 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 Barentu 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 Barentu, 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 Barentu for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Barentu

Barentu is a city located in the Gash-Barka region of Eritrea, which is located in the Horn of Africa. It is situated on the western edge of the Ethiopian highlands and has a population of around 26,000 people. Barentu is an important commercial center, with markets and shops selling a wide variety of goods. The city is also known for its historic sites, such as the ruins of a Portuguese fort and the ancient palace of the local king. Barentu is known for its hot and dry climate, and visitors are advised to pack appropriate clothing and drink plenty of water.

What to visit in Barentu

Barentu is a beautiful city located in the southwest part of Eritrea. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Barentu: 1. Barentu Museum - This museum is dedicated to preserving the history, culture, and traditions of the Barentu people. It features a collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that showcase the region's rich heritage.
2. Mount Emba Soira - This mountain is one of the highest peaks in Eritrea and is located approximately 25 km south of Barentu. It is a popular destination for hikers and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
3. Keren-Adi-Bari Dam - This is a large reservoir located on the outskirts of Barentu. It was built in the 1980s to provide irrigation to the surrounding farmland and has now become a popular spot for boating and fishing.
4. The Barentu Friday Market - This is a weekly market that takes place in the center of the city every Friday. It is a lively and bustling affair, with vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts.
5. The Barentu Plain - This vast plain stretches out from the city and is characterized by rolling green hills, fields of crops, and small villages. It is a perfect destination for those who want to experience the rural way of life in Eritrea.
Overall, Barentu is a wonderful destination for travelers interested in history, culture, and nature. Its beautiful landscapes, unique attractions, and welcoming locals make it a captivating place to visit.
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 Barentu.

When to go on holiday to Barentu

The best time to visit Barentu in Eritrea is during the dry season, which runs from November to February. During this time, the weather is mild and rainfall is at its lowest. The temperatures during this period range from 20°C to 30°C, making it a great time to explore the city and surrounding areas. The rest of the year, particularly from May to September, is the wet season, which sees heavy rainfall and increased humidity, making it less ideal for outdoor activities.

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

How to get to Barentu

Barentu is a town located in the Gash-Barka Region of Eritrea. You can get to Barentu by taking a flight to the nearest airport, the Barentu Airport. However, there are limited flights to this airport, so you may need to consider other options.
One alternative is to take a bus or a taxi from the capital, Asmara, which is approximately 183 km away. The journey can take several hours depending on the road conditions and the mode of transportation.
Additionally, you can also consider taking a train from Asmara to Barentu. However, train schedules can be irregular, so it is advisable to check the train schedule beforehand.
Lastly, you can hire a private car for your journey to Barentu. This option is more expensive but offers greater convenience, especially if you are traveling with a group or carrying a lot of luggage.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Barentu, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Barentu

Sure, here are some typical foods from Barentu, Eritrea along with a brief description of each: 1. Injera: This is a staple food in Eritrea made from teff flour that is fermented and then cooked into a sourdough flatbread. It is usually eaten with stew or curry dishes.
2. Zigni: A spicy beef stew made with berbere spice mix, tomatoes, and onions with injera on the side.
3. Tibs: A meat dish (beef, chicken, or lamb) that is sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and green peppers.
4. Kitcha Fitfit: A traditional dish made of broken pieces of injera mixed with a spicy sauce made of berbere spices, tomatoes, onions, and green peppers.
5. Foul: A vegetarian dish consisting of boiled fava beans mixed with tomatoes, onions, and spices.
6. Shiro: A popular vegetarian dish made with chickpea powder and a blend of spices like berbere, garlic, onions, and tomato, served with injera.
7. Hilbet: A traditional dish made with a combination of greens, pepper, and mild spices.
8. Tsebhi Derho: A chicken stew made with a special blend of spices, including ginger, garlic, coriander, and turmeric.
9. Coffee: Eritrea is known for its traditional coffee ceremony, where coffee beans are roasted, ground, and brewed at the table while guests are served traditional snacks.
These are just a few examples of the delicious and flavorful foods that are typical of Barentu, Eritrea.
You can find general info about typical foods in Eritrea here.

Is Barentu an expensive destination for tourists?

Barentu, Eritrea is not a well-known tourist destination, and there are limited tourist facilities available. Therefore, it is difficult to make a general statement about the cost of traveling to Barentu. However, Eritrea is generally considered to be an affordable destination compared to other countries in the region. That being said, the cost of travel and accommodations will largely depend on your personal traveling style and preferences. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices from different travel providers before making plans to ensure you are getting the best value for your money.

Where to find accomodation in Barentu

Barentu is a city located in the Gash-Barka region of Eritrea. Therefore, the best areas to find accommodation to visit Barentu would be in the city of Barentu or nearby towns such as Teseney or Agordat. These towns offer a range of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and lodges. However, it's important to note that the availability of accommodation in this region may be limited, so it's recommended to book well in advance.
You can check hotel prices at Barentu here:
Booking.com

Is Barentu a safe destination for tourists?

Barentu, Eritrea is generally safe for tourists, but it is always important to exercise caution and use common sense. It is recommended to avoid any political demonstrations and large gatherings, and to be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark. It is also recommended to follow any travel advisories issued by your home country's government. Overall, with proper preparation and awareness, Barentu can be a safe and enjoyable destination for tourists.
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 Barentu.

What type of travelers will enjoy Barentu the most?

Barentu, Eritrea is a great destination for those who love nature and adventure. It is suitable for couples, young people and families as well since there are various activities and attractions that cater to different preferences. Couples can explore the beautiful scenery, enjoy the hiking trails, visit the local markets, and have a romantic dinner in one of the local restaurants. Young people who seek adventure can have fun exploring the mountains and the wildlife, camping, and trying out the local cuisine. Families can enjoy the nature parks, take a tour around the city, learn about the culture and history, and have a relaxing and enjoyable time together. Overall, Barentu is a great destination for everyone who loves adventure, nature, culture, and relaxation.

How to get around Barentu

In Barentu, most locals prefer to travel by bus or taxi as the primary modes of transportation. However, it is also possible to rent a car or motorcycle in this city. Additionally, walking can be a feasible mode of transportation for shorter distances.

What to see around Barentu

Sure, here are a few suggestions for day trips from Barentu in Eritrea: 1. Keren - Located about 1.5 hours from Barentu, Keren is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Eritrea. There you can visit the Keren Museum, the famous Mariam Dearit Temple, the British War Cemetery, and the market.
2. Mai Nefhi - If you're looking for a more natural setting, Mai Nefhi Park is a great place to visit. It's about 2 hours from Barentu and features beautiful hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views.
3. Asmara - The capital city of Eritrea, Asmara, is about 3-4 hours from Barentu but worth the trip. It boasts of a unique Italian colonial architecture, art deco buildings and several restaurants and cafes.
4. Tessenei - Located about 1 hour from Barentu, Tessenei is a small town that offers a peaceful and relaxing environment. You can visit the local market and enjoy the scenery around the town.
5. Nakfa - For history buffs, Nakfa is a must-visit destination. It's about 3 hours from Barentu and was the site of intense fighting during the Eritrean War of Independence. The town has a museum and a number of monuments dedicated to the war.
For every travel information about Eritrea you can click here.

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