Transportation in Eritrea

Asmara's transport scene is small but functional. Shared minivans called line-taxis are the everyday workhorse, cheap, crowded, and they leave when full from the main downtown stand near the cathedral. Private taxis are a splurge by comparison but still modest. Negotiate the fare before you get in because meters are rare. Inter-city movement relies on long-distance buses and occasional shared Land Cruisers. Both depart from the chaotic bus lot east of the market and tickets are bought on the spot. First-timers should know that schedules are approximate and vehicles fill early, arrive at the departure point well before dawn for popular routes. Carry small notes. Drivers rarely have change. Avoid the unofficial "brokers" who swarm the bus lot promising seats for a fee. Walk straight to the vehicle and buy from the driver or conductor. From Asmara International, the only honest option is the official taxi rank outside arrivals. Agree the price before the bags go in. There is no public transport to the terminal, so if you're on a tight budget, arrange a pick-up with your hotel or guest-house, many will send a driver for a fraction of the airport taxi rate.