Travel From Eritrea to Ethiopia: What Tourists Need to Know

Planning to travel from Eritrea to Ethiopia? This journey between two Horn of Africa neighbors offers a unique opportunity to explore vibrant cultures, historic sites, and stunning landscapes. For travelers considering moving between these two Horn of Africa nations, understanding the current political climate, border status, and travel requirements is crucial.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about traveling from Eritrea to Ethiopia.

Can You Travel from Eritrea to Ethiopia?

Yes, travel between Eritrea and Ethiopia is possible, but the status of land borders and flights can vary depending on political relations. It's essential to check the latest travel advisories and border updates before your journey.

Do Eritrean Citizens Need a Visa to Enter Ethiopia?

Yes. An Ethiopian visa for Eritrean citizens is required. Eritreans can apply Ethiopian visa by:
- Apply for an Ethiopian tourist e-Visa before traveling, especially if arriving by air. The e-Visa is only valid when entering at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.
- Reach out to the Ethiopian Embassy in Asmara or the nearest consulate for up-to-date entry policies.

Required documents usually include:

• Valid passport (6+ months)
• Passport-sized photo
• Visa application form
• Travel itinerary or invitation letter

For other nationalities, check if your country qualifies for Ethiopia’s e-Visa (available online).

Eritrea to Ethiopia travel essentials — visa, border tips, transportation routes, and breathtaking views along the way

How to Travel from Eritrea to Ethiopia?

1. By Land (Bus & Private Vehicle)

Distance: ~120 km from Asmara to Mekelle (Tigray, Ethiopia).
Currently, most Eritrea–Ethiopia land border crossings, including Zalambessa–Serha, remain closed to regular travelers. Crossing by bus, taxi, or private car is not available unless for special diplomatic or humanitarian purposes.

Process:
Exit Eritrea (passport control).
Enter Ethiopia (visa check, possible security screening).

Transport:
Buses: Limited, but shared taxis operate near the border.
Private car: Easier but requires permits.

2. By Air (Limited Flights)

The most reliable and practical way to go from Eritrea to Ethiopia is by flying.

Flights from Asmara to Addis Ababa

Direct commercial flights between Asmara and Addis Ababa have been suspended for most travelers. Ethiopian Airlines has occasionally resumed the route during periods of improved relations, but as of now, flights are irregular or unavailable.

• Cost: $200–$400 one-way.
• Flight Time: Around 1.5 hours
• Frequency: May vary depending on season and diplomatic status

Note: Flight schedules may change due to political tensions or reduced demand, so always confirm with the airline in advance.

From Eritrea to Ethiopia: your visual guide to traveling from Eritrea to Ethiopia by road or air

3. Alternative Routes (Via Djibouti/Sudan)

If the direct border is closed, some travelers:

• Fly Asmara → Djibouti → Addis Ababa.
• Take a long route via Sudan (Kassala → Metema border).

Main Travel Options

Mode	Details	Estimated Time	Typical Cost
By Air	Flights from Asmara to Addis Ababa. Multiple airlines operate this route.	~9 hours (incl. layovers)	~$527–$814 round-trip
By Road	Drive via border crossing (if open). Route: Asmara to Addis Ababa (1,067km).	15–16 hours	$65–$100

Safety & Travel Tips When Traveling from Eritrea to Ethiopia

1. Border Security & Checkpoints

Military presence is high—carry ID at all times.
Avoid travel to conflict zones (e.g., parts of Amhara or Tigray) and avoid photography near border zones.

Explore the landscapes between Eritrea and Ethiopia

2. Currency & Payments

Eritrea uses the Nakfa (ERN); Ethiopia uses the Birr (ETB). The Eritrean Nakfa (ERN) is a closed currency and cannot be freely exchanged outside Eritrea. Travelers should not rely on official conversion rates to Ethiopian Birr (ETB) and are advised to carry U.S. dollars for exchange in Ethiopia instead.

3. Local Time

There is no time difference between Eritrea and Ethiopia. Local time in Addis Ababa is the same as in Asmara at UTC+03:00 - in the East Africa Time Zone.

4. Language

Eritrea: Tigrinya, Arabic, and English
Ethiopia: Amharic (official), with many regional languages
English is widely spoken in tourist and business settings

5. Religion & Customs

Ethiopia and Eritrea share Orthodox Christian traditions, especially among the Tigrinya and Amhara communities
Dress modestly when visiting churches or rural areas
Be respectful when discussing political topics

FAQs: Eritrea to Ethiopia Travel

Is there a bus or road route from Eritrea to Ethiopia?
Currently, no public road routes are consistently open. All land travel options are restricted unless you're part of a special diplomatic or humanitarian mission.

Can I enter Ethiopia from Eritrea without a visa?
No, Eritrean citizens require a visa to enter Ethiopia under most circumstances.

Are flights between Eritrea and Ethiopia safe?
Yes, flights are safe and handled by reputable carriers, mainly Ethiopian Airlines. However, flight availability may depend on political relations.

How long can I stay in Ethiopia on a tourist visa?
Tourist visas typically allow 30 to 90 days of stay. Extensions may be available at immigration offices in Ethiopia.

Is it safe to cross by land from Eritrea to Ethiopia?
Generally, yes, but check political conditions before traveling.

What’s the fastest way from Eritrea to Ethiopia?
By air, from Asmara to Addis Ababa, is the quickest and most reliable method.

Are all border crossings between Eritrea and Ethiopia open?
No. Land border openings are irregular and may close without notice. Always verify before departure.

Final Thoughts: Is It Possible to Travel from Eritrea to Ethiopia?

Travel from Eritrea to Ethiopia is absolutely possible—especially by air—but it requires careful planning, awareness of the political situation, and the correct documentation.

If you're looking for help with your Ethiopian visa to visit this country, feel free to contact us!