Eritrea

Overview

There are more significant safety or security concerns than you would usually find in New Zealand, with some areas where you should avoid non-essential travel or avoid all travel. Take care of your personal security at all times.

Other things that New Zealanders travelling or living in Eritrea should be aware of are:

• Violent crime - armed banditry is common near the border with Sudan, and Djibouti along the coast north of Massawa, and on some rural roads.
• Landmines - there are extensive minefields, particularly in border areas which continue to cause occasional injury or death.
• Piracy - has been reported in the coastal waters off Eritrea in the Gulf of Aden, and remains a significant threat.  

New Zealanders travelling or living in Eritrea should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air. Medical facilities may be limited outside Asmara.