Eritrean Highlights - 2010/11 Itinerary

Cultural Contrasts of Asmara
We begin our journey in Eritrea's striking and friendly capital. Set on a high fertile plateau with an almost perfect climate, Asmara, although undeniably African, has also retained its distinctly Italian feel; a very tangible legacy of its colonial days. It remained largely intact following the more recent struggles that have troubled the area and there is time here throughout our tour to explore the amazing Art Deco and Italian architecture, vibrant market, cathedral and mosques, as well as to relax with a cappuccino at one of the many cafes that dot the wide boulevards.

Keren & Debre Sina
Our first excursion is north through the highlands past steep terraces of coffee and orange groves to Keren, set on a plateau surrounded by dusty ochre mountains. One of Eritrea's most attractive towns, Keren is also the heart of Eritrea's agricultural community. We visit the lively Monday market, British and Italian War cemeteries and shrine of St. Mariam Dearit, unusually set into a baobab tree! On our way to Massawa we visit the 6th century Debre Sina Monastery.

Massawa & Nefasit steam train
Travelling via the tropical forest of Filfil, a dramatic drive down from the highlands takes us to the Arabic port of Massawa. Here we stroll among the many white Turkish, Egyptian and Italian buildings and through the maze of narrow alleyways to soak up the atmoshphere and maybe sample some the mouth-watering seafood available. On our return to Asmara there's the opportunity to take a unique journey on Eritrea's famous Italian-era steam train through the mountains between Asmara and Nefasit, covering over 20 tunnels and 65 bridges! We head south for our final excursion to discover the ruins of Qohaito, thought to date back 2000 years to the mysterious Axumite civilisation that once dominated the region.