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Meridiela.

Senafe

A southern highland town below a distinctive rock massif, near several ancient sites.

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Typetown
WhereDebub
Nearest citySenafe
Best seasonYear round
Time to allowHalf a day
Getting thereIn southern Eritrea on the road toward the Ethiopian border; road from Asmara, around three hours
EntryFree; travel permit required

Senafe sits in the southern highlands below Amba Metera, a rock massif rising abruptly above the town that can be climbed for the view out over the escarpment and the lowlands beyond. The town is the base for Metera and Debre Libanos of Ham nearby. Saho and Tigrinya communities meet here and the market draws the surrounding country. The road south runs on toward the Ethiopian border.

What you actually see

  • Amba Metera - the rock massif rising above the town.
  • The escarpment view - the drop toward the lowlands from the heights.
  • The market - the trading point for the southern highland country.
  • The base function - the point for reaching Metera and Ham.

When to go

Year round; the highland climate is mild. The small rains fall around March and April, the main rains June to September. Market days are busiest.

Honest expectations

A travel permit from Asmara is required to come here and checkpoints are enforced. Facilities are basic. The area was affected by the border conflict and some ground remains restricted.

Nearby

Metera is north, and Debre Libanos of Ham is southwest.

What to pack for Senafe

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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.

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