Eritrea

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial +291-1-127-799 for police.
• Dial +291-1-202-099 for the fire department.
• Dial +291-1-202-914; 291-1-201-917; or 291-1- 201-606 (Orotta Hospital) for medical emergencies.

Crime

Eritrea does not publicly provide crime statistics, but crimes do occur and police have limited capacity to investigate.

Most reported criminal incidents in Asmara involve crimes of opportunity. However, car and home burglaries, and sexual assaults are also reported.

Safety tips:

• Avoid walking alone, especially at night.
• Do not display cash and valuable personal property.
• Maintain a low profile. Avoid doing anything that draws attention to you or your family.
• Remain alert to what is going on around you.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing +291-1-127-799.

Review our information for Victims of Crime. 

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care. 
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.
• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.

Technology use abroad

Internet-dependent devices and apps should not be relied upon for navigation or communication. Local SIM cards can only be purchased by visitors through the Eritrean Ministry of Tourism after submission of a copy of the biographic information page of the passport, a copy of the Eritrean visa, 2 passport photos, and 550 Nakfa. The sole telecommunications provider is state-owned. Wi-Fi is limited and inconsistent, even in hotels. Cellular data is unavailable. Phone-based GPS may be ineffective; However, offline maps may be accurate.  Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Use of VPNs and satellite phones is not permitted in Eritrea.
• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable VoIP applications. 
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Illegal devices

There are strict restrictions for the type and quantity of electronics allowed into the country.

• Check with the Embassy of the State of Eritrea in Washington, D.C. for the most current regulations.
• All electronics – including laptops, mobile phones, and cameras – must be declared upon arrival.
• There are reports that binoculars, long-lens cameras, and drones are considered to be illegal.
• Customs officials may confiscate items you didn’t declare when you depart. Non-residents may need to show that they are leaving Eritrea with the declared electronics in their possession.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.
• Staff may not be trained or certified.
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care.
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.  

• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Photography of military or government installations can lead to a warning, harassment, confiscation of your phone or camera, arrest, detention, or interrogation. Do not photograph Eritreans without their permission.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Eritrea seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Illegal drugs

• Convictions for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs result in long prison sentences and heavy fines. 

Arrest notification

If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. embassy immediately.

• Eritrean law enforcement officials routinely block access to foreign nationals in detention.
• The U.S. embassy may not receive notification or be allowed access to you if you are detained.
• You may ask your family members to contact the U.S. embassy on your behalf.
• For dual U.S.-Eritrean nationals, Eritrea does not recognize dual nationality, and travelers may face obligations including taxes and national service of indefinite length.

Detention conditions

A detention facility may not provide you with essential medications or medical care.

• Detainees in Eritrea often can’t get their prescribed or over the counter medications.
• Detainees may also miss out on emergency and routine medical care.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws. 
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. 
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States. 

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice  

Faith-based travelers

The Eritrean government officially recognizes only 4 religious groups: Sunni, Islam, the Tewahedo Eritrean Orthodox Church, the Roman Catholic Church, and evangelical Lutheran churches.

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

Consensual same-sex sexual activity is punishable by incarceration of 10 days to 3 years.

• Antidiscrimination laws relating to lesbian and gay persons do not exist.
• There are no known lesbian or gay organizations in the country.
• Hotels do not allow 2 females or 2 males who are unrelated to share a room unless it has separate beds.
• Review our Gay and Lesbian Travelers page for further details.

Travelers with accessibility needs

People with disabilities face limited access to transportation, public buildings, hotels, and communication accommodations.

• Within Asmara, there are many sidewalks. However, many are uneven and do not have cutouts.
• Some buildings have ramps.
• Due to frequent power outages, elevators may not work.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers 

Domestic violence is punishable as assault and battery. No statistics are available on reports or prosecution of offenders.

• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information on Female genital mutilation and cutting (FGM/C).
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Eritrea Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial the follwoing for emergency medical services.
  • +291-1-202-914;
  • +291-1-201-917 or
  • + 291-1-201-606

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are not widely available.

• Training and response time of emergency responders may be poor.
• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Eritrea. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Eritrea.
• Care providers only accept cash payments.
• Credit card payment is not available.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient. 
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  The Eritrean government also requires yellow fever vaccinations for persons 9 months and older travelling from countries with risk of Yellow Fever.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

Health facilities are available in Asmara and other major cities. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas. Medical facilities and physicians are limited. Medicines are in short supply.

• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission.
• Patients must cover all costs for transferring to or between hospitals. Medical evacuation, which can be very expensive, may be necessary in the event of serious illness or injury.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities. This aligns with the broader limitation of medical facilities and specialist care in Eritrea.

Common diseases

The following diseases are common:

• Dengue
• Diarrhea
• Malaria (in the lowlands only, outside Asmara)

Use CDC-recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito nets. Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for travelers going to malaria-risk areas.

Prescription medications

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

• Bring preventative and over-the-counter medicines with you.
• Check with the Embassy of Eritrea to ensure the medication is legal in Eritrea.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

If you are considering traveling to Eritrea to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.

• Surrogacy is unregulated in Eritrea. 
• People who try to avoid local law risk legal consequences.

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is not safe to drink.
• In some locations, tap water is not available every day.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Altitude

Many cities in Eritrea, such as Asmara, are at high altitude.

• Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take precautions before you travel.
• If you have a pre-existing medical condition, like diabetes or high blood pressure, talk with your doctor before traveling to high altitude cities like Asmara.
• Visit the CDC website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

Stay on main roads. Rural roads and off-road driving can be dangerous.

• Traveling by road is dangerous due to slow motorized carts, pedestrians, bicycles, livestock, fog, poor road maintenance, and poor lighting.
• The roads between Asmara, Massawa, Mendefera, Dekemhare, Barentu, and Keren are paved. Roads to small villages are not.
• Road debris is common during the rainy seasons. This varies depending on which part of the country you are in.  The Filfil Road from Asmara to Massawa has a large amount of mountain debris and has washed away in parts.
• Wild baboons may be sighted on mountain roads. They are not safe to approach.  Do not feed them.  Keep vehicle windows and doors closed.
• Mountain roads, which are narrow and winding with crumbling edges, generally do not have guardrails or signs.  Sometimes these roads have poor visibility of oncoming traffic around hairpin turns.
• Stay on clearly marked roads, as there are mine fields in certain areas of the country.

Traffic laws

You must obtain an Eritrea driver’s license to drive in the country. You may not use your U.S. or international driver’s license. The police may stop drivers randomly to inspect driver’s licenses.

In case of an accident

Contact the local police immediately by dialing +291-1-127799.

• Leave your car in place until the local police arrive to make a report.
• Local garages will be unable to make repairs without a police certificate, even for single vehicle accidents.
• If a crowd forms and becomes hostile, contact the U.S. embassy.

Taxis and ride-shares

Taxis are available in Asmara. Please use clearly marked taxis or those arranged through a hotel or trusted local contact.

• Major ride-share apps do not operate in Eritrea.
• Use extra caution, especially at night. Confirm the destination and fare before departure.

Requests for any deviation from the route can result in significantly higher fares. Taxi drivers will often take additional passengers along the way to your destination.  You may ask a driver in advance not to take other passengers if you pay a higher fare.

Public and commercial transportation

• U.S. personnel at Embassy Asmara are prohibited from using public buses due to safety concerns.
• Buses and taxis run on pre-established routes. They are inexpensive.  Extreme over-crowding makes them unsafe, and pickpocketing is common.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Eritrea’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Eritrea should check the following: 

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Helpful Information

• Monitor local authorities, airline and hotel advisories, and international updates.  
• Disaster response in Eritrea is coordinated through the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, with sector support from the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Land, Water, and Environment.
• Consult WHO, UN, and other international humanitarian or weather-alert sources covering Eritrea.

Weather conditions

Eritrea has 2 rainy seasons.

• Summer: June to September (highlands and western areas)
• Winter: October to March (eastern lowlands and coast)

Natural disasters

• Drought— Drought is Eritrea's most persistent hazard and can affect travel and local supplies year-round.
• Flash floods – Flash floods are most likely during and just after rainy seasons, especially in low-lying areas, dry riverbeds (wadis), and on roads prone to washouts.
• Extreme heat— The Red Sea coast, including Massawa, experiences dangerous heat, especially in the hotter months.
• Dust and sandstorms— Blowing dust and sand can significantly reduce visibility during dry periods.
• Desert locusts— Locust outbreaks can occur, particularly after heavy rains.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates