The Dahlak Archipelago, Eritrea's Untouched Island Paradise

Scattered across the southern Red Sea, the Dahlak Archipelago is one of Africa's best kept secrets. Made up of over 200 islands, only a handful are inhabited, and even fewer see regular visitors. If you're looking for somewhere that feels genuinely undiscovered, you've found it.

History & Culture

The Dahlak Islands have been inhabited for thousands of years, with a history stretching back to ancient trading routes that once connected the Red Sea world. The islands were a significant port of call for merchants travelling between Africa, Arabia and beyond, and the remnants of that history, from ancient cisterns to old burial grounds, are scattered quietly across the landscape for those curious enough to explore.

Nature & Marine Life

Below the surface, the Dahlak Archipelago is extraordinary. The Red Sea here is teeming with coral reefs, sea turtles, dolphins, and an abundance of fish species rarely seen elsewhere. The waters are warm, clear, and almost entirely free of tourist traffic, making this one of the most pristine diving and snorkelling destinations on the planet. Above water, the islands offer a raw, windswept beauty, with white sand beaches, mangroves, and a stillness that's increasingly hard to find anywhere in the world.

Things to Do

• Snorkel or dive among untouched coral reefs in crystal clear Red Sea waters

• Island hop across the archipelago by traditional boat

• Explore ancient ruins and historical sites that few travellers ever see

• Spot sea turtles, dolphins and rare marine life in their natural habitat

• Simply disconnect, sit on an empty beach, and do absolutely nothing

Ready to explore The dahlak islands with a local guide?