Tap water in Eritrea is not suitable for consumption without proper treatment.
Eritrea’s water network is basic, with many areas relying on untreated wells or surface water. Fluctuating supply and minimal purification increase the chances of contamination through human or animal waste.
Quick Overview
Tap Water Concern: Our Advice Tap Water Drinkable? ❌ No, use bottled water Common Risks: Bacteria, parasites, viruses Brush Teeth? ❌ No, use bottled water Wash Fruits/Vegetables? ❌ No, use filtered or bottled water Use Ice in Drinks? ❌ No, avoid unless purified Safe to Shower? ✅ Yes Filter Bottle Needed? ✅ Strongly recommended
Verified through CDC and WHO data, along with reports from municipal water services.
Worried About Tap Water? Consider Using a Filter Bottle
We’ve evaluated the best filter bottles for travelers using real user reviews, lab data, and product performance. They’re ideal for staying healthy, limiting plastic use, and avoiding daily bottled water expenses—and if you want to bring one on your next trip, you’ll find our trusted picks listed below.
Health Risks for Travelers
Even if the tap water is safe for residents, foreign travelers often face higher health risks due to exposure to unfamiliar organisms and differing hygiene standards.
You may be exposed to:
- Bacteria like E. coli, causing traveler’s diarrhea
- Parasites such as Giardia or Cryptosporidium, from untreated or contaminated water sources
- Viruses like norovirus and hepatitis A, spread through unclean water systems
- In some countries, chemical toxins from old pipes or agricultural runoff
Contamination is most common in:
- Regions without consistent municipal treatment
- Areas impacted by seasonal flooding or unreliable sanitation
- Buildings with aging infrastructure or poorly maintained tanks
Remember: clear water isn’t always safe water. Invisible contaminants can still cause serious issues, from mild digestive discomfort to prolonged illness.
If you experience persistent symptoms while traveling in Eritrea, consult a local doctor or pharmacist. In many tourist areas, English-speaking care is available.
More About Tap Water in Eritrea
Eritrea has made solid progress in water and sanitation access. Over half of its communities are now free of open defecation. The country has also built an extensive network of dams, reservoirs, and ponds to improve water availability for both farming and household use. Farmers are encouraged to adopt water-efficient techniques to help stretch limited resources further.
FAQs About Tap Water in Eritrea
Is it safe to brush your teeth with tap water?
Using tap water to brush your teeth could expose you to local bacteria your body isn’t used to—better to be cautious.
Can I use tap water to wash my face?
Tap water should be fine for external use like washing your face—just avoid contact with your mouth or open wounds.
Is it safe to use ice in drinks?
Ask if the ice is made from bottled or treated water—if not, it’s safer to go without.
Can I shower safely with tap water?
Even if the water isn’t drinkable, it’s usually fine for washing your body.
If you’re looking to be on the safe side—or just want to be kind to your skin and hair while you’re abroad—a travel-friendly shower filter can be a smart add-on. You can usually screw it right onto the showerhead in just a minute. Just make sure the connection point is exposed. Some showers are built into the wall, and in that case, a filter won’t do much good. Check the latest price here.
Can I wash fruits and vegetables with tap water?
It’s safer to rinse produce with bottled or filtered water, especially if you plan to eat it raw.
Is bottled water expensive in Eritrea?
Bottled water is usually affordable in Eritrea, though prices may be higher in tourist areas.
Those exploring Eritrea often cross into or come from Sudan, Ethiopia, or Djibouti. It’s smart to know what to expect in terms of water safety across the whole region.