A long layover in Massawa is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Massawa International Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 70 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Before heading into Massawa, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Eritrea vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Massawa is roughly 70 minutes from MSW via Taxi/Shared Minibus. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in ERN. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Getting from MSW to Massawa
The most straightforward way into Massawa is the Taxi/Shared Minibus, which takes about 70 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 90 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi/Shared Minibus is usually the smarter call.
Luggage Storage at MSW
Specific locker facilities at MSW aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Massawa itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Massawa, budget roughly $27 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $11 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $6 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Massawa, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Massawa, two standouts are:
- Massawa Old Town (Massawa Island) — No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace.
- Gurgusum Beach — Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside MSW — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- MSW Terminal Waiting Area
- Aircraft Spotting
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: Gurgusum Seafood Restaurant and Dahlak Hotel Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Massawa.
- At the airport: Airport Cafe/Snack Bar and Coffee & Tea Stand will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at MSW for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Massawa or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Need a Nap? Options at MSW
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at MSW, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Massawa is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Massawa.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.