Explore Zulasol (12 days) Tour

Embark on a full-day city tour of Asmara, visiting landmarks such as the Fiat Tagliero Building, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, and the bustling Central Market. Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Sembel and Arbate Asmara, known for their lively atmosphere and charming cafes. Experience the unique ambiance of Asmara’s famous Art Deco cinemas and enjoy a film screening if available.

A riveting train trip with steam locomotive through the mountains from Asmara downhill to Nefasit and uphill back to Asmara with Africa’s oldest yet recently renovated railway. It is considered one of the greatest rail journeys in Africa and will be enjoyed even by those who are not train enthusiast.

In the afternoon, travel from Asmara to Keren- one of Eritrea’s most attractive towns. As time allows, visit the charming town of Keren which was once favorite resort for European visitors because of the temperate climate and fertile soil, and a place where the decisive battles of WWII carried out between the British and the Italians.

Some of the things to see in Keren include: the famous Mariam Dearit inside a Baobab, the British and Italian cemeteries of World War II, the old Railway Station from 1930’s, the 19th century and St. Antony Romanesque Church and the old Mosque.

Depart from Asmara and drive to the city of Keren, renowned for its historical significance and vibrant markets. Visit the Battle of Keren Memorial and learn about the region’s role in World War II. Explore the colorful Keren Market and interact with local vendors. Enjoy traditional Eritrean cuisine for dinner and spend the night in Keren. In the afternoon, travel from Keren to the Red Sea Coast and the port city of Massawa.

En route venture to Filfil Nature Reserve, known for its lush greenery, scenic landscapes, and diverse wildlife. Enjoy hiking trails through the reserve, taking in the fresh air and natural beauty. Discover the enchanting Filfil Waterfall and take a refreshing dip if weather permits. Spend the night in Filfil, surrounded by nature’s tranquility.

Travel to the coastal city of Massawa, renowned for its rich history and architectural wonders. Explore the narrow alleys of the historic Old Town and admire the Ottoman-style buildings. Visit the Massawa Museum and learn about the city’s maritime heritage. Relax on the beautiful beaches or take a boat trip to nearby islands.

Embark on a boat trip to Dissie and Madote Islands, known for their pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing on the island’s secluded beaches. Indulge in a delicious seafood lunch prepared by local fishermen.

Boat trip back to Massawa.

In the morning, visit ancient port of Adulis that was once a renowned gateway to ancient civilization, a major trade route, once numbering among the greatest ports of the ancient world that has links to the Roman, Egyptian and Greek World Empires.

Visit Gulf of Zula – a deep cleft in Eritrea’s coastline which is the birthplace of the Great Rift Valley on the African continent.

Drive back to Massawa.

In the morning, visit the port city of Massawa – City of islands and the “Pearl of the Red Sea”, a city which for centuries has been one of the region’s most important ports. With its exquisite Turkish-style architecture and shopping arcades, beautiful mosques and delicious sea food, Massawa is the perfect destination to cater for all tastes. In addition to the city’s attractions, pristine beaches and enjoyable swimming are available just a short distance from the city center.

Visit the colorful Rashaida tribes the last Semetic people to arrive in Eritrea.

The magnificent Rashaida women are known for their black and red geometrically patterned dresses, their long and heavy veil – burga – elaborately embroiled with silver threads, beads and sometimes seed peals. Late in the afternoon, drive back from Massawa enjoying the spectacular scenery of peaks and valleys all the way to Asmara.

The town of Mendefera derived this name from the local language Tigrinya meaning “nobody dared“, after the resilience shown by the locals when they defended themselves on the hill against the Italian advance. The town is dominated by two hills on either side of the main road.

Among the things to see in Mendefera include the market, the ancient Mosque and the old Saint George Church (San Giorgio Church). Travel further to Adi Quala, a pleasant market town 32 km from Mendefera and 88 km from Asmara. It is covered with vegetation and a slew of agricultural plains, small stores, cafes and scenic panoramas.

One place of interest not to be missed during visits to the town is the extraordinary Italian Mausoleum, boasting fascist motifs, ringed by stone lions and iron chains. It was built during Mussolini’s fascist era, during the 1930’s when Eritrea was an Italian colony, a memorial to 8000 Italian troops who died while trying and failing to invade Ethiopia in March 1890.

Drive from Asmara, via Dekemhare to Adiekyh, Thrilling trekking to Qohaito (Kohaito), some 15 km off-road from Adikeyh. Visit this famous historical site that features a superb array of archaeological sites that recount volumes of history. Some of the wonders to see in Qohaito include: Safira Dam, Rock-paintings, Monolith stelae, the foundation of ancient palaces, etc.

Travel from Adikeyh to Senafe. Exciting trekking to Metera (Matara/ Belew Kelew), equivalent to an important ancient town named Koleo from 2nd century AD, situated 20km south of Qohaito, house some of Eritrea’s most important historical sites.

Some of the things to be seen in Metera are a 2.5m tall enigmatic stele known for its pagan, pre-Christian symbol of the sun over the crescent moon – a south Arabian divinity, engraved on the top of the eastern face and it faces eastward, which is unique in Eritrea; a royal palace, a tomb chamber, etc.

Drive uphill while enjoying the magnificent scenery and lush vegetation all the way to Asmara. En route visit the town of Segeneiti- a lush fertile area. Visit the huge Sycamore tree locally known as Daaro revered by the locals –for its beauty, for its generous shade, for its fruitful home for beehives and for providing important social purpose– as it form a place where the community can assemble for discussions and debates. The tree has been immortalized on the five-nakfa note.

Enjoy the remaining day at your leisure, exploring the sights and sounds of Asmara or relaxing at your hotel. If desired, you can opt for additional activities such as visiting local markets, trying traditional Eritrean cuisine, or participating in cultural events. On the final day, transfer to the airport for your departure from Eritrea.