Aseb

Eritrea, Africa

Aseb, also known as Assab, is a charming port city in Eritrea, renowned for its stunning Red Sea beaches and rich maritime history. Visitors can explore its Italian colonial architecture, relax on pristine shores, and indulge in local seafood cuisine. The nearby Dahlak Archipelago offers exquisite diving opportunities teeming with vibrant marine life. With its mix of cultural heritage and natural beauty, Aseb is an appealing destination for those seeking tranquility and adventure in an off-the-beaten-path location.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-4 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Mekele

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Aseb

1

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Aseb Beach

Enjoy sunbathing and swimming in the Red Sea.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the Aseb Museum

Learn about Eritrea's rich culture and history.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Old Town of Aseb

Wander through historic streets and stunning architecture.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Aseb Fortress

Discover the ruins of an ancient Ottoman fortress.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste Eritrean Cuisine

Savor traditional dishes in local restaurants.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Port of Aseb

Watch fishing boats and enjoy the coastal views.

No booking required
7

Est. 4 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Explore the Dahlak Archipelago

Take a boat trip to pristine islands and coral reefs.

Booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Witness the Sunset at Aseb

Experience breathtaking sunsets over the Red Sea.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Participate in Local Festivals

Join in vibrant cultural celebrations and events.

No booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Italian Cisterns

Explore the remains of colonial cisterns and architecture.

No booking required
11

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at Local Markets

Find unique crafts and souvenirs in vibrant markets.

No booking required
12

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Explore the Coral Reefs

Snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with life.

Booking required
13

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Historic Church of Aseb

Admire beautiful architecture and spiritual heritage.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-13 (#184 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Nakfa

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Tigrinya

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Zigini

Spicy meat stew served with injera. (National dish)

Injera

VE

Sourdough flatbread, staple of Eritrean meals.

Shiro

VE

Chickpea stew, often served with injera.

Kitcha Fit-Fit

VE

Fried flatbread mixed with spices and vegetables.

Ga'at

VE

Thick porridge made from flour and water.

Phrases to learn

English

Tigrinya

Hello

Selam

(Seh-lahm)

Yes/No

Ewe / Aynen

(Eh-weh / Ai-nehn)

Thank you

Yekenyelay

(Yeh-kehn-yay-lah)

Excuse me

Yiqirta

(Yee-keer-tah)

How much?

Kinday yik'íl?

(Kin-day yih-kil)