Buri Peninsula

The Buri peninsula runs south from Massawa into the Red Sea, a stretch of semi-desert, salt flat and volcanic ground that carries what is left of Eritrea's larger dry-country wildlife: African wild ass, Soemmerring's gazelle, dorcas gazelle and ostrich. It is proposed as a protected area. There is almost no road and no settlement of any size, and the heat outside the cool months is severe.

What you'll find

• The African wild ass - one of the last wild populations of the species.
• The gazelle herds - Soemmerring's and dorcas on the open ground.
• The salt flats - the pans running behind the coast.
• The emptiness - a peninsula with almost no settlement or road.

When to go

November to February is the cool season and the only practical window. Summer heat is extreme and dangerous. Wildlife concentrates near what water there is.

Things to know

Access needs a permit, four wheel drive and a guide, and trips are rare. Wildlife is scarce and sightings are unlikely. There is no water, shade or facility anywhere.

Nearby

Massawa is north, and the Danakil runs south.

Key facts