Africa
Is Eritrea safe?
L2Exercise increased caution
Is Eritrea safe?
Tensions with Ethiopia could flare; the UK advises against travel within 25 km of land borders. In Asmara, crime is low but state restrictions are heavy.
Key facts
- US travel advisory: Level 2: Exercise increased caution, updated 2023-07-30.
- Homicide rate: 15.6 per 100,000 people (2012, UNODC via World Bank).
- Road deaths: 37.9 per 100,000 people a year (2019, WHO).
- Solo women: Generally safe in Asmara, with modest dress expected. Harassment is uncommon.
Risks, scams and laws
Main risks
- Border tensions with Ethiopia
- Landmines near the borders
- Arbitrary detention and permit checks
- Heat and limited emergency care
Laws visitors break by accident
- Photographing military sites, government buildings or police is prohibited.
- Internet and mobile access are tightly controlled.
- Same-sex relations are criminalised.
Quick answers
Is Eritrea safe for tourists?
Tensions with Ethiopia could flare; the UK advises against travel within 25 km of land borders. In Asmara, crime is low but state restrictions are heavy.
Is Eritrea safe for solo female travelers?
Generally safe in Asmara, with modest dress expected. Harassment is uncommon.
Sources
- World Bank: intentional homicides
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Eritrea
- World Bank open data
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