Discovering Asmara's Architectural Gems
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Asmara Arrival & Hotel Check-in: Arrive at Asmara International Airport, be met by your guide, and transfer to your comfortable hotel to check in and freshen up. (Mention pick-up time flexibility or assistance if applicable)
Duration: 20 minutes
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Cathedral Our Lady of the Rosary
Afternoon (1 hour): Begin your Asmara adventure at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Rosary. Marvel at its stunning Lombard-Romanesque architecture and towering bell tower. Learn about its rich history and Italian colonial influence.
Duration: 60 minutes
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Fiat Tagliero
Afternoon (1.5 hours): Immerse yourself in Asmara's modernist scene with a visit to the iconic Fiat Tagliero Building. This futuristic masterpiece, built in 1938, is a testament to the city's unique architectural heritage.
Duration: 1.5 hours
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Liberation Avenue (also called Harnet Ave)
Afternoon (1 hour): Stroll along the bustling Liberation Avenue (Harnet Ave), lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Soak in the vibrant atmosphere and enjoy some local Eritrean coffee.
Duration: 60 minutes
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Enda Mariam Orthodox Church
Evening (1.5 hours): Explore the significant Enda Mariam Orthodox Church, dedicated to St. Mary. Witness its beautiful architecture and learn about the important role of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church in Eritrean culture.
Duration: 1.5 hours
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Asmara Theater and Opera House
Evening (1 hour): Cap off the day with a visit to the Asmara Theater and Opera House. This historic building, constructed in 1920, showcases Eritrea's strong Italian influence in the performing arts.
Duration: 60 minutes
Keren's Camel Market & Exploring Its History
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Keren
Morning (3 hours): Begin a scenic drive (approximately 91 km) from Asmara to the charming town of Keren. Enjoy the changing landscapes and learn about Eritrea's diverse geography.
Duration: 3 hours
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Keren War Cemetery
Afternoon (3 hours): Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the Keren Camel Market, held every Monday morning, where you can witness the age-old tradition of bartering over livestock such as camels, sheep, and cows. Following this, pay your respects at the Keren War Cemetery, a memorial site honoring Commonwealth soldiers who lost their lives during the battle for Keren.
Duration: 3 hours
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Mariam Dearit Shrine
Afternoon (1 hour): Visit the unique Mariam Dearit Shrine, a small Catholic shrine nestled within a majestic 500-year-old baobab tree.
Overnight: Check into your hotel in Keren and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Duration: 60 minutes
Tribal Festival & Discovering Massawa's History
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Massawa
Morning (4 hours): Start your day with a unique cultural immersion at the Blieni tribe’s religious festival in Halib Mentel. Witness traditional dances, music, and ceremonies, and gain a deeper understanding of Eritrean tribal customs. (Note: This festival occurs on specific dates only.) After the festival, drive approximately 120 km to the historic port city of Massawa. Enjoy the scenic coastal views along the way as you relax during the drive.
Afternoon (free time): Check into your hotel in Massawa and have some free time to explore at your own pace. Relax on the beach, try some delicious seafood, or wander through the charming streets.
Duration: 4 hours
Exploring Massawa's Treasures & Return to Asmara
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Former Imperial Palace
Morning (3 hours): Begin with a guided tour through the Old Town of Massawa, delving into its rich history and admiring the unique Ottoman-era architecture and coral-built houses. Then, explore the fascinating ruins of the Former Imperial Palace, once a symbol of power and grandeur, and imagine the palace's past splendor.
Duration: 3 hours
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St. Mariam Cathedral
Afternoon (1 hour): Visit the significant St. Mariam Cathedral, a beautiful example of Christian architecture in Massawa.
Duration: 60 minutes
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Covered Bazaar
Afternoon (3 hours): Enjoy a scenic drive back to Asmara. Once you arrive, spend some time exploring the bustling Covered Bazaar, known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse range of goods.
Duration: 3 hours
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Tank Graveyard
Evening (1 hour): Reflect on Eritrea's complex history at the Tank Graveyard, a poignant reminder of past conflicts.
Duration: 60 minutes
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Asmara
Departure: Arrive back in Asmara and head to the airport for your departure flight. (Mention any assistance with departure procedures if applicable)
Duration: 30 minutes
