Short Guide to Eritrea
Eritrea is like two countries in one. The ´great divide´ is the Great Rift Valley, which cleaves the country in two almost directly through the middle. On each side of this great divide lie two very different landscapes: The easterly desert that meanders into the sea and the lush, arable land to the west.
Taking the eastern path will bring you to the Red Sea. This is one of Eritrea´s biggest drawcards for tourists and you will find plenty of other travellers paddling in the water or snorkelling to catch a glimpse of the abundant sea life.
Eritrea was once controlled by Italy and there are still some very pretty examples of Italian architecture to be found in the capital city of Asmara. Eritrea´s history of colonisation goes back further than this though, and a trip south of Asmara will bring you to the ruins of Qohaito, evidence of a pre-Aksumite civilisation that has barely begun to be completely uncovered.
The infrastructure within Eritrea leaves much to be desired. Hiring a car is futile, as the prohibitive cost of fuel is outdone only by the fact most of the roads are either closed or crumbled into dust due to the lack of upkeep. Do as the locals do and take the train.
Unfortunately, the wonder of Eritrea will probably remain buried until the conflict with neighbouring Ethiopia comes to a halt. The current government holds stringent control over travel, media, business and other enterprises.
So what are you waiting for? find your cheap flights to Eritrea now!
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