The Dahlak Archipelago

The Dahlak Archipelago, scattered across the Red Sea off the Eritrean port of Massawa, is a remote and pristine cluster of over two hundred low coral and sand islands, only a handful of them inhabited by small fishing communities. Ringed by dazzling coral reefs, turquoise lagoons and warm, exceptionally clear waters, these islands are one of the least-visited and most unspoiled marine environments in the world. Beneath the surface teem colourful reef fish, turtles, dolphins, rays and sharks, while the islands hold ancient cisterns and traces of a long history of pearl diving and Red Sea trade. For the adventurous, Dahlak offers deserted beaches and superb diving in near-total tranquillity.

What you actually see

• The coral islands - the scattering of remote sand and coral isles.
• The reefs - the pristine coral and abundant marine life.
• The turquoise lagoons - the clear, warm shallow waters.
• The fishing villages - the small inhabited islands and pearl heritage.

When to go

November to March, the cooler months, offer the most comfortable conditions for boat trips and diving, avoiding the extreme summer heat; the Red Sea here is warm and clear year-round but best enjoyed outside high summer. Diving and snorkelling are the main way to experience the reefs.

Honest expectations

The Dahlak islands are remote and reached only by boat from Massawa, often on multi-day trips with very basic facilities, so they suit adventurous travellers and divers rather than those seeking resort comforts. As one of the least-visited and most pristine coral archipelagos on earth, with deserted beaches and superb diving, though, Dahlak is a genuine and unspoiled treasure.

Nearby

The historic port of Massawa is the gateway to the archipelago.