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Massawa, ኤርትራ Eritrea إرتريا - Things to Do in Massawa

Massawa

Massawa, ኤርትራ Eritrea إرتريا - Complete Travel Guide

Massawa, Eritrea's historic port city on the Red Sea coast, stands as one of Africa's most architecturally fascinating destinations. This ancient trading hub showcases a remarkable blend of Ottoman, Egyptian, and Italian colonial architecture, with its Old Town built on coral islands connected by causeways. The city's strategic location has made it a crossroads of civilizations for over a thousand years, evident in its diverse cultural heritage and impressive waterfront setting. Today, Massawa offers visitors a unique glimpse into Eritrea's maritime history while serving as a gateway to some of the Red Sea's most pristine coral reefs and beaches. The city's compact Hanoi, known as Massawa Island, features narrow streets lined with coral stone buildings, ancient mosques, and colonial-era structures that survived both time and conflict. Beyond its historical significance, Massawa provides access to excellent diving sites, traditional fishing villages, and the dramatic landscapes of the Eritrean highlands nearby.

Top Massawa

the Historic Old Town

Wander through Massawa's atmospheric Hanoi on the coral islands, where Ottoman-era buildings stand alongside Italian colonial architecture. The narrow streets reveal hidden courtyards, ancient mosques, and traditional Eritrean houses built from coral stone blocks. This UNESCO World Heritage candidate site offers incredible photo opportunities and insights into centuries of maritime trade history.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is free, but hiring a local guide costs around $15-25 per day and provides valuable historical context. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the best lighting and cooler temperatures. Look for guides certified by the Eritrean tourism office.

Red Sea Diving and Snorkeling

Experience some of the Red Sea's most pristine and untouched coral reefs, with visibility often exceeding 30 meters. The waters around Massawa host diverse marine life including reef sharks, manta rays, and colorful coral formations that rival those of more famous Red Sea destinations. Multiple dive sites cater to both beginners and experienced divers.

Booking Tip: Diving costs $40-60 per dive including equipment, while snorkeling trips run $25-35 per person. Book through established operators like Red Sea Diving Center during the cooler months (October-April). Always verify equipment condition and operator safety certifications.

the Imperial Palace and Museums

Explore the former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie and the Massawa Museum, which houses artifacts from the city's diverse cultural heritage. The palace showcases Italian colonial architecture while the museum displays ancient trading goods, traditional crafts, and exhibits on Massawa's role in regional maritime commerce. Both sites provide excellent context for understanding the city's layered history.

Booking Tip: Entry fees are minimal (around $2-5 per site) and no advance booking is required. Museums are typically open 8 AM-5 PM except Fridays. Photography permits may require an additional small fee. Visit during weekday mornings for fewer crowds.

Dahlak Islands Day Trip

Take a boat excursion to the nearby Dahlak Archipelago, where pristine beaches meet crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. These largely uninhabited islands offer a glimpse of untouched Red Sea beauty, with opportunities to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and diverse bird species. The islands also feature archaeological sites with ancient inscriptions and ruins.

Booking Tip: Full-day boat trips cost $50-80 per person including lunch and snorkeling equipment. Book through local boat operators at Massawa port, but arrange 1-2 days in advance. Bring sun protection and confirm weather conditions, as trips may be cancelled during rough seas.

Traditional Coffee Ceremony and Local Markets

Experience authentic Eritrean culture through traditional coffee ceremonies in local homes or cafes, where green beans are roasted, ground, and brewed in an elaborate ritual. Combine this with visits to Massawa's bustling markets, where vendors sell everything from traditional textiles and spices to fresh seafood and local crafts. The markets provide insight into daily life and offer unique souvenirs.

Booking Tip: Coffee ceremonies cost $5-10 per person when arranged through guesthouses or cultural centers. Market visits are free, but budget $10-30 for souvenirs. Morning market visits offer the freshest goods and most activity. Negotiate prices respectfully and carry small denominations of local currency.

Getting There

Massawa is accessible by road from Asmara, Eritrea's capital, via a scenic 115-kilometer drive that takes approximately 2-3 hours through dramatic highland and coastal scenery. Regular bus services operate between the cities for around $3-5, while private taxis cost $40-60. The journey descends from Asmara's 2,400-meter elevation to sea level, offering spectacular views. Massawa also has a small airport with limited domestic flights, though most international visitors fly into Asmara International Airport and travel overland.

Getting Around

Massawa is a compact city best explored on foot, especially the historic Old Town area which is largely pedestrian-friendly. Local minibuses and shared taxis connect different parts of the city for minimal cost (under $1), while private taxis can be hired for around $10-15 per day. Bicycle rentals are sometimes available through hotels for exploring the waterfront areas. For trips to nearby beaches or the Dahlak Islands, boat transportation can be arranged through local operators at the port.

Where to Stay

Massawa Old Town
Taulud Island
Batse Area
Gherar District
Hirgigo Beach Area
Port District

Food & Dining

Massawa's dining scene centers around fresh seafood, with numerous waterfront restaurants serving grilled fish, lobster, and traditional Eritrean dishes like injera with spicy stews. The Old Town features several family-run establishments offering authentic local cuisine at very reasonable prices ($3-8 per meal). Italian influences remain strong, with pasta dishes and pizza available alongside traditional fare. For the best seafood, head to restaurants near the port where the daily catch is prepared simply but expertly. Coffee culture is central to social life, with numerous cafes serving traditional Eritrean coffee alongside light snacks and pastries.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Eritrea

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Tanuki River Landing

4.9 /5
(4115 reviews) 2

Izakaya Nana

4.6 /5
(1923 reviews) 2
bar

Ginya Izakaya

4.5 /5
(1753 reviews) 2
bar

Inakaya Japanese Restaurant

4.6 /5
(1590 reviews) 2

Su Shin Izakaya

4.8 /5
(1186 reviews) 2

Maneki Restaurant

4.6 /5
(1068 reviews) 2

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Massawa is during the cooler months from October through March, when temperatures range from 25-30°C (77-86°F) and humidity is lower. This period offers the most comfortable conditions for exploring the historic sites and enjoying water activities. The hot season from May to September sees temperatures soar above 40°C (104°F) with high humidity, making outdoor activities challenging. The brief rainy season in July-August can bring relief from heat but may affect boat trips and outdoor excursions. Winter months also offer the best diving and snorkeling conditions with calmer seas and excellent visibility.

Insider Tips

Bring a reusable water bottle as the heat can be intense, and stay hydrated while exploring the coral stone streets of the Old Town
Learn a few basic phrases in Tigrinya or Arabic as English is not widely spoken outside of tourist-oriented businesses
Respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and always ask permission before photographing people

Activities in Massawa