Eritrea

The capital Eritrea and most populous city in the country, Asmara is best known for its eclectic architecture and high elevation. Top activities include viewing the historical Cattedrale di Asmara, Medebar Market, and Asmara Theater and Opera House.

A deeply historic site dating back to its construction in the 1300s, the Debre Bizen Monastery is the best-known monastery in Eritrea. While difficult to reach, it is a true beacon of Christian hope for Eritrean people and commands magnificent views of the surrounding hills all the way down the coast of the Red Sea.

Originally a small seaside village and the capital city of Eritrea until 1897, Massawa served as a crucial port for many centuries. With clear and bright skies for the majority of the year, you’ll have ample time to dip your toes in architectural history, as Massawa is home to numerous shrines, mosques, palaces, and cultures.

The Dahlak Archipelago is a group of 124 small islands occupying space in the Red Sea near Massawa. Painted with rich tones of blue and teal, this destination is one you can surely delight in with its abundance of pearls.