The country is virtually bisected by one of the worlds longest mountain ranges, the Great Rift Valley, with fertile lands to the west and the descent to desert in the East. Off the sandy and arid coastline is situated the Dahlak Archipelago and its fishing grounds. The land to the south, in the highlands, is slightly drier and cooler. Eritrea at the southern end of the Red Sea is the home of the fork in the rift.
Asmera is the capital and it is situated on the eastern edge of Eritreas highland plateau. Asmara enjoys a great climate, clean and picturesque streets, attractive palm trees, and a reputation as one of the safest, calm and alluring capital cities in Africa.
Eritreas capital holds an amazing surprise. The city was designed by Mussolinis architects as a bold experiment in 1930s Modernism, and Italian coffee, cakes and customs live on.
The main port serving Eritrea, Massawa became an urban centre in ancient times. It is the largest natural deep water port on the Red Sea. Massawa is divided into three parts Batse, Tualud, and the mainland. The island Batse comprises the ancient historical centre with interesting houses, hotels, squares and religious buildings and is a marvellous place to wander about.
The mountain city Keren, which means highland is one of the five major secondary towns in Eritrea. It is one of the major agricultural centres of Eritrea, particularly for fruits and vegetables. In addition its dairy herds supply fresh milk, butter and the cheese factory produces provolone and other cheeses
Nacfa the major town in the Sahel region of Eritrea, holds a special significance for the Eritrean people, being the home of the EPLF during their struggle for independence from Ethiopia. It is therefore the heart of collective Eritrean self determination. The currency, Nakfa, is named after this town.
Agordat is located between the Barka River and the Gash River. The area is famous for its banana plantations. The Akat trees or Doum Palms seen along the Barka River are known for their fruit. The mosque, the second largest in Eritrea was build by Haile Selassie in 1963.
Visitors who have ventured to this little known country since its independence in 1993 have discovered a land of green mountains, deserts and coral reefs, populated by many ethnic groups.
The country offers an untamed landscape of astonishing diversity, an interior rich in historical remains, a coastal gateway to some outstanding diving spots, and a broad, hospitable welcome. It will prove irresistible to those seeking adventure.
