Budget/Backpacker Travel Guide: Eritrea
Experience authentic local culture on a shoestring budget with hostels, street food, and public transport
Daily Budget: $31-92 per day
Complete breakdown of costs for budget/backpacker travel in Eritrea
Accommodation
$15-35 per night
Basic guesthouses, budget hotels, and shared rooms in family-run establishments
Food & Dining
$8-20 per day
Local eateries, street food, traditional injera meals, and market food stalls
Transportation
$3-12 per day
Public buses, shared taxis, and walking for local distances
Activities
$5-25 per day
Self-guided walking tours, local markets, free cultural sites, and occasional museum entries
Currency: ERN Eritrean Nakfa (though USD is widely accepted and often preferred for tourism services)
Budget/Backpacker Activities in Eritrea
Curated experiences perfect for your budget/backpacker travel style
Money-Saving Tips
Eat at local markets and traditional eateries instead of hotel restaurants (typically 60-80% cheaper)
Use public transportation and shared taxis instead of private vehicles (saves 70-85% on transport costs)
Stay in family-run guesthouses rather than international hotels (usually 40-60% less expensive)
Book accommodations well in advance during peak seasons for 20-35% discounts
Purchase food and drinks from local shops instead of tourist areas (generally 50-70% savings)
Join group tours instead of private tours when possible (typically 40-60% cost reduction)
Carry cash as many places don't accept cards and ATM fees can add up quickly
Common Budget Mistakes to Avoid
Relying solely on hotels for meals instead of exploring local food options (can double your food budget)
Not carrying enough cash and depending on limited ATM availability (can lead to expensive emergency solutions)
Booking last-minute accommodations during busy periods (typically 50-100% price premium)
Taking private taxis for all transportation instead of using public options (3-5x more expensive)
Not accounting for permit and documentation fees which can add unexpected costs