Southern Highlands
Ancient ruins among dramatic peaks ⛰️🏺
⚠️ SAFETY WARNING: Due to the presence of landmines, military activity, and high tensions near the border, government agencies (including the UK, USA, CA, and AU) advise against all travel to the Southern Highlands, particularly within 25km of the Ethiopian border. The risk of armed conflict or detention is significant. Families are strongly urged to consult their own government's official travel advisory before considering a trip, as circumstances and risk assessments vary.
For those with a deep interest in history and the necessary security clearance, the Southern Highlands reveal Eritrea's ancient past. The region is dominated by the Qohaito Plateau, located at a high altitude near the town of Adi Keyh. Here, visitors can see the ruins of the Temple of Mariam Wakiro and an ancient dam, surrounded by the reddish hues of the sandstone mountains. The site stands on the edge of a massive canyon, offering breathtaking views that drop away towards the coast.
Further south near Senafe lies Metera, another significant archaeological site featuring a pre-Christian obelisk and the remains of a palace complex. The area provides evidence of the sophisticated civilizations that thrived here long before the modern era. The geography is striking, characterized by amba (flat-topped mountains) and deep valleys, including the famous Sycamore Valley which features an immense, ancient sycamore tree often used as a local meeting point.
Travel here is strictly logistical. There is little to no tourist infrastructure tailored to children, and the focus is entirely on heritage and landscape. Because of the critical safety advisories, this region is not suitable for casual family holidays. Any visit requires an official guide, strict adherence to permit routes, and a high degree of situational awareness regarding the border zone risks.
Click a region to explore
Activities & Best Times
Hiking, wildlife, outdoor exploration, ecotourism
Kohaito Plateau is impressive but lacks trekking infrastructure, guides, and marked trails. Travel permits are required. Compared to global trekking destinations, the experience is raw and inaccessible. No editorial attractions in the database to support a 'very_good' rating.
Learning experiences, scientific sites, historical education
Pre-Aksumite sites (Qohaito, Metera) are historically significant but lack interpretation boards, professional guides, visitor centers, or any educational infrastructure. No editorial attractions in the database. Compared to established archaeological tourism destinations, the educational visitor experience is basic.
Scenic drives, countryside tours, route-based travel
Scenic escarpment drives are genuine but travel permits restrict tourist movement, road conditions are variable, and there are no roadside facilities. Same accessibility constraints as Asmara road trips. No editorial attraction evidence supports this rating.
Sport tourism, fitness activities, active recreation
The high-altitude plateaus are exceptional for cycling and rugged mountain hiking, reflecting Eritrea's world-renowned cycling culture. Peak months offer dry roads and mild temperatures (20-28°C); the summer rainy season makes active outdoor pursuits difficult and less safe.
Urban tourism, museums, historical sites, architecture
This region has no cities of significance. The classification notes itself state 'lacking major modern cities.' Highland village cultural experiences are authentic but extremely basic with no tourist infrastructure. 'Marginal' is more appropriate and helps differentiate from Asmara's genuine urban cultural offering.
Events, celebrations, seasonal attractions
Authentic Orthodox Christian celebrations like Meskel (September) and Timkat (January) offer unique cultural insights in highland villages. These are genuine, non-commercial events, though the infrastructure to accommodate international visitors during these times remains basic.
Spa retreats, wellness centers, peaceful getaways
The serene atmosphere and 'above the clouds' mountain air provide a peaceful getaway for families seeking quietude. While the environment is naturally relaxing, the lack of world-class spa facilities or wellness-specific infrastructure limits its appeal for international luxury travelers.
Attractions (9 total)
Road Trips & Scenic Drives
Asmara-Senafe Scenic Highway
Asmara
135km paved mountain highway (approx. 3.5 hours) traversing the Eritrean Southern Highlands. The route winds through high-altitude terrain, passing the Art Deco town of Dekemhare, the archaeological gateway of Adi Keyh, and terminating at the ancient ruins of Metera near Senafe. Key highlights include the massive sycamore trees of the Dekemhare valley and the dramatic 1,200-meter drop-offs of the nearby Qohaito Plateau.
Visit website →Castle / Palace / Historic Site
Metera Archaeological Site
Senafe
A significant historical site home to a five-meter-tall Aksumite stela and the excavated ruins of an ancient city.
Qohaito Archaeological Site
Adi Keyh
An expansive ancient Aksumite plateau featuring the ruins of the Temple of Mariam Wakiro and unique rock art.
National Park / Nature Reserve
Qohaito Plateau
Adi Keyh
An expansive high-altitude plateau featuring ancient Axumite ruins, prehistoric rock art, and spectacular views over the Great Rift Valley escarpment.
Mount Amba Sawaira
Senafe
The highest peak in Eritrea, offering adventurous families rugged hiking trails and panoramic vistas of the surrounding Southern Highlands.
Hiking & Cycling Routes
Qohaito Plateau Archaeological Circuit
Adi Keyh
15km moderate day walk exploring the ancient Sabaean city of Qohaito. Duration is roughly 5 hours with an elevation gain of 300m across the plateau at 2600m altitude. The route connects the Safira Dam, the Egyptian Tomb, and the edge of the Great Canyon. No formal rental companies exist on-site; visitors must bring gear or arrange tours from Asmara.
Visit website →Adi Keyh to Senafe Road Cycle
Adi Keyh
25km moderate road cycling route following the P3 highway through the southern highlands. Duration is 1.5 to 2 hours with approximately 400m of undulating elevation gain/loss. This route offers iconic views of the Metera monolith and Mount Soira. Bike rentals are not available locally and must be sourced from cycle shops in Asmara such as Asmara Cycle (no website).
Visit website →Mount Soira Summit Hike
Senafe
12km challenging day hike to the highest point in Eritrea (3018m). Typical duration is 6-7 hours with an elevation gain of approximately 850m. The trail follows rugged mountain ridges with steep sections and loose rock. No local rental shops; equipment and guides are typically arranged in Asmara through the Ministry of Tourism. Best hiked between October and March.
Visit website →Natural Feature / Scenic Site
Mount Soira
Adi Keyh
The highest peak in Eritrea, providing adventurous travelers with spectacular vistas of the Great Rift Valley and the rugged surrounding terrain.