Where to Stay in Asmara
Safe neighborhoods, social hostels, and practical tips for women travelling alone
Our pick for solo female travellers
Stay in Gejeret
Provides a more authentic and less touristy experience with opportunities to interact with locals and find budget-friendly options.
Best Neighborhoods for Solo Female Travellers
Ranked by relevance for solo female travellers visiting Asmara
Gejeret
BudgetA more residential and local neighborhood with a growing number of cafes and shops.
- +More authentic local experience
- +Generally more affordable
- +Quieter than the city center
- -Fewer tourist amenities
- -Can feel less polished
🛡️ Safe during the day; at night, exercise standard precautions, especially if walking alone, as some areas are less well-lit.
Barka
Mid-rangeThe historic heart of Asmara, characterized by its Italian colonial architecture and bustling atmosphere.
- +Centrally located and easy to navigate
- +Rich in historical sites and architecture
- +Good access to local eateries
- -Can be noisy
- -Infrastructure can be dated
🛡️ Generally safe during the day with moderate caution needed for petty theft in crowded areas; at night, stick to well-lit main streets and avoid deserted alleys.
Maekel
Mid-rangeA mix of administrative buildings, residential areas, and developing commercial spaces.
- +Slightly more modern feel
- +Good for experiencing daily Eritrean life
- +Less tourist-focused
- -Fewer major attractions within immediate walking distance
- -Can be spread out
🛡️ Generally safe during the day; nighttime requires awareness of surroundings, particularly in less populated residential blocks.
Daily Budget (Budget)
ERN 1500/day
Hidden Gems in Asmara
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Mercato
FREEExperience the vibrant pulse of local life at the central market. Here, you can find everything from fresh produce and spices to local crafts and textiles, offering a true slice of daily Eritrean commerce.
Bizen Monastery
FREEA bit outside the city, this historic monastery perched on a mountain offers breathtaking views and a profound sense of tranquility. The journey there is an adventure in itself, often involving a scenic hike.
Safety in Asmara
SafeSolo Female Travel
Asmara is generally considered very safe for solo female travelers, even at night. However, as with any city, it's wise to maintain awareness, avoid walking alone in unlit or deserted areas late at night, and dress modestly to respect local customs.
At Night
The city is relatively quiet at night. Main streets are generally safe, but it's advisable to stick to areas with more people and good lighting. Avoid poorly lit side streets.
Emergency
111 (Police), 112 (Ambulance/Fire)
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by taxi drivers if fare is not agreed upon beforehand.
- 2Currency exchange scams are rare but possible; use official exchange points or banks.
1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Asmara