Massawa

Massawa was once the largest and safest port on the east coast of Africa but suffered terrible damage during the war. Massawa used to be the headquarters of the Ethiopian navy. It was fought over by both sides during the struggle for Eritrean independence. To this day Massawa remains the largest natural deep-water port on the Red Sea. It is now Eritrea's main port and access to the rest of the world and is being rehabilitated. The dockyard is back in operation and handling an impressive tonnage of merchandise. Numerous houris from Yemen and Saudi Arabia intermingle with larger ships.Massawa is the departure point for trips to the Dahlak islands and diving expeditions. One can enjoy the sights with the minimum of hassle and maximum safety. Fishing craft are slowly returning. Massawa is a historical and cultural melting pot. Sheikh Said Island (or Green Island) is just opposite Taulud, ... Read more

Massawa was once the largest and safest port on the east coast of Africa but suffered terrible damage during the war. Massawa used to be the headquarters of the Ethiopian navy. It was fought over by both sides during the struggle for Eritrean independence. To this day Massawa remains the largest natural deep-water port on the Red Sea. It is now Eritrea's main port and access to the rest of the world and is being rehabilitated. The dockyard is back in operation and handling an impressive tonnage of merchandise. Numerous houris from Yemen and Saudi Arabia intermingle with larger ships.Massawa is the departure point for trips to the Dahlak islands and diving expeditions. One can enjoy the sights with the minimum of hassle and maximum safety. Fishing craft are slowly returning. Massawa is a historical and cultural melting pot. Sheikh Said Island (or Green Island) is just opposite Taulud, the first of Massawa's islands reached by crossing the first causeway. It is ideal for a day trip/picnic and not expensive to reach.