Eritrea: Current Travel and Safety Information for Travelers (as of August 25, 2026)

As of August 25, 2026, current security advisories confirm that the situation in Eritrea is generally stable, but remains tense in border regions. Travelers are expressly warned against traveling to the border areas with the neighboring countries of Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Sudan. For travelers planning a trip to Eritrea, these advisories are an important part of the preparation process, as they directly affect route planning, length of stay, and the choice of entry method.

In the capital, Asmara, the situation is described as stable and calm. Travel to the interior of the country, however, is strictly regulated and monitored by local authorities. Open criticism of the government or expressions of sympathy for the opposition are prohibited and are consistently punished—a point that visitors should definitely keep in mind to avoid complications during their stay.

Particularly relevant for the border regions: Despite the ceasefire agreed upon in 2022 between the Ethiopian government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front, the security situation in the Ethiopian regions bordering Eritrea remains tense, and repercussions for Eritrea itself cannot be ruled out. The border conflict with Djibouti remains unresolved, and the border between the two countries has been closed since the outbreak of the civil war in Sudan in 2023. Fighting may occur on the Sudanese side, which is why the Eritrean side of the border is being secured by additional military units.

A specific practical recommendation is to enter Eritrea exclusively by air. It is also recommended to stay informed through local media, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings of people, and strictly follow the instructions of local security forces. Sailing in Eritrean territorial waters also remains a risk factor: When entering these waters—even in emergencies—one must expect searches, which can lead to detention if weapons are found on board.

In terms of general crime, Eritrea is considered a relatively safe travel destination. The crime rate is low, and violent crime is rare. However, pickpocketing does occur occasionally, particularly when using so-called “line taxis” (shared taxis) in Asmara. Travelers are advised to avoid traveling after dark or on remote roads, to keep valuables and documents secure, and to make electronic copies of important documents to facilitate the issuance of replacement documents in case of loss.

For travelers planning a trip to Eritrea despite the tense situation in certain regions, careful preparation of entry documents is recommended. We’ll help you complete the necessary visa formalities correctly and efficiently so you can focus entirely on having a safe and well-informed trip. You can easily get started with our application form, and our overview of visa types provides further information on the options relevant to your trip.