Mamma Mia, Eritrea! | Weekend in Asmara + Massawa, Eritrea

Historically intriguing, culturally compelling, and scenically magical, Eritrea stands as one of the most fascinating countries in Africa, often regarded as one of the most enigmatic destinations on the continent. The country offers a unique blend of natural beauty, diverse heritage, and spirit of resilience. With its varied landscapes ranging from majestic highlands to serene coastal areas, Eritrea is an array of experiences for explorers seeking authenticity and wonder. Despite facing certain challenges in its development, Eritrea's potential shines through in its welcoming communities and breathtaking vistas, inviting travelers to discover its hidden gems and create lasting memories.

Eritrea boasts a rich history that spans millennia, with evidence of human settlement dating back to around 6000 BC. The name Eritrea originates from the Greek word erythraios, meaning red, in reference to the Red Sea that borders the country.

A notable historical landmark is the Masjid as Sahaba, or Mosque of the Companions, located in Massawa, which dates to the early 7th century and is believed by some to be the first mosque built in Africa, constructed by companions of the Prophet Muhammad who sought refuge in the region. During the late 19th century, Eritrea came under Italian colonial rule starting in 1885, serving as a strategic base for Italy's ambitions in Africa. Following Italy's defeat in World War II, the territory was administered by Britain until 1952, when it was federated with Ethiopia under a United Nations resolution. Tensions arose, leading to a prolonged struggle for self determination that culminated in Eritrea achieving independence in 1993 after a referendum, marking the birth of the modern nation and its ongoing journey toward progress and stability.

For a relatively small country, Eritrea impresses with incredible scenery that is perfect for road trips, from the plateaus and soaring peaks of the Abyssinian Highlands to the Filfil Rainforest and the deserted white sand beaches of the Red Sea coast. Culturally, it is a melting pot, home to an array of ethnic groups, and boasting a delicious cuisine familiar to fans of Ethiopian food.

A walk through the old town of Massawa is like stepping back in time, its streets lined with gently crumbling Ottoman buildings and home to the oldest mosque in Africa. The highlight is Asmara, Eritreas scenic capital full of striking and whimsical Art Deco architecture.

Clip https://vimeo.com/211172658

Let’s go!

DAY 1 :: Friday // Arrival in the Capital
Meeting at Terminal 2 at 17:00 for a flight at 19:25. Arrival at Asmara International Airport and immigration clearance, then we will check into our hotel in the city and get some rest.

DAY 2 :: Saturday // Journey to the Coast
After breakfast we travel towards Massawa, descending from the highlands to sea level as we drive through Eritreas famed Green Belt, across 3 climate zones. A small pocket of greenery is the Filfil Rainforest, the most northerly rainforest in all of Africa, home to deciduous trees as well as olive and cedar trees. If the government regulations allow, we will stop by hot springs famous for their healing properties for ailments such as rheumatism. Continuing the journey, we will pass through desert plains before reaching the port city of Massawa.

Massawas old town features a blend of Turkish and Italian architecture, a reminder of the countrys Ottoman and Italian colonial history. We will stroll the run down but peaceful streets and take a look at the old Turkish Palace and the more modern port built by the Italians at the turn of the 20th century. Another highlight is a structure that has been standing for more than 800 years: Masjid as Sahaba (Mosque of the Companions), dating to the 7th century and believed to be the first mosque built in Africa.

Later we will head to Gurgusum Beach, a beautiful stretch of sand on the Red Sea, to enjoy an afternoon of sunbathing and swimming.
Overnight in Massawa.

DAY 3 :: Sunday // Return to the Highlands + Asmara
An early start to make the drive back to Asmara. This time we are gradually ascending back into the highlands, passing through a number of villages and experiencing three climates in just over two hours drive.
On the way we will visit a part of the Eritrean Railway built by the Italians between 1887 and 1932, which includes a notable four arched bridge along its route. We will take a quick look at the four arched bridge and water storage tanks, constructed during the Italian colonial era to supply water for the steam locomotives that operated on the line.
Located at an altitude of 2400 masl, Asmara is the capital of Eritrea and a place of significant history and heritage. A unique feature attracts photographers and architecture enthusiasts from around the world: an African Italian crossover resulting in one of the worlds greatest collections of early 20th century experimental architecture.
Under Italian rule, there was an overhaul of the built environment of Asmara in the 1930s, with architects given free rein to realize their most experimental designs. The quiet colonial town was transformed into Africas most modern metropolis, the Little Rome at the center of Italys planned African empire.

Today, Asmara is still home to more than 400 Art Deco, Futurist and Modernist buildings, and has been officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. We will explore the streets and visit the most intriguing examples throughout the city, ranging from cathedrals and gas stations to cinemas.

Later, we will venture to another unique landmark of Asmara: a tank graveyard, where piles of mangled and decommissioned tanks, trucks, buses and more have been piled high and left to the elements. It is a place ideal for photographs!

In the evening, return to the airport for a flight back home.

Level of difficulty: easy, available for everyone
Activities: sightseeing and getting amazed with Afro-European Art Deco.
Accommodation & meals: 4 star in Asmara, 3 star in Mussawa - double sharing, restaurant meals excluded.

Cost: AED 6,100 incl. direct flights until JAN 10.

Specifically excluded:

• Visa - to be obtained in consulate prior to travel. We can support you throughout the process but you ll need to visit Consulate in Dubai.
• insurance,

See yah in Eritrea x

Trekkup Crew
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