Is cash still widely used?
Cash is the only option. Eritrea is one of the world’s most isolated countries, and foreign card infrastructure does not exist. Visitors must bring all necessary USD or EUR cash and exchange to nakfa at official bank rates.
ATMs and withdrawing cash
Foreign cards do not work in Eritrean ATMs. Bring all necessary foreign currency before entry.
- USD and EUR are the most practical currencies to bring
- Exchange at official bank branches in Asmara
- Currency controls are strict — keep all exchange receipts
Card acceptance
None for foreign visitors.
Tips for travelers
- Eritrea requires a visa and can be challenging to enter independently
- Asmara has extraordinary Italian Art Deco architecture — a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Photography restrictions apply — check current rules before visiting
- Bring exactly the amount of cash you need — surplus nakfa cannot be exported