Tio

Tio is a tiny, remote fishing village on the Red Sea coast of the Southern Red Sea Region, located roughly midway between Beilul and Edd. It is among the most isolated settlements in Eritrea, accessible only by rough 4×4 track or by boat. The village consists of a handful of stone and thatch huts occupied by Afar fishing families, set on a pristine white-sand beach fringed by turquoise waters.

There are no shops, no electricity grid, and no formal infrastructure. Tio is the archetype of a remote coastal getaway — a place where the modern world feels very distant. The best time to visit is during the cooler dry months from October to February.

By Plane

Assab International Airport (ASA) is the nearest airfield, about 200 km north. No flights operate.

By Car / Road

A sandy 4×4 track connects Tio to the P-1 highway near Assab. The drive from Assab takes approximately 3 hours (180 km). A high-clearance 4×4 is essential, and the track can become impassable after rain. There is no public transport.

The entire village is walkable in 10 minutes. No vehicles or roads within the settlement.

• Tio Beach — An immaculate arc of white sand and coral rubble, with crystal-clear water ideal for swimming.

• Coral Reefs — The nearshore waters host healthy coral formations visible while snorkelling.

• Traditional Afar Huts — Simple dome-shaped dwellings made from palm thatch and driftwood.

• Snorkel off the beach — the nearshore reef is colourful and easily accessible.

• Walk along the coast to completely deserted coves and seabird nesting areas.

• Observe traditional fishing techniques used by local Afar fishermen using handlines from small dugout canoes.

Local fishermen may offer freshly caught grilled fish for a small fee. Otherwise, visitors must bring all their own food and cooking equipment.

Bring ample bottled water from Assab. No safe drinking water is available on site.

Camping on the beach is the only option. Bring a tent, mosquito net, and all supplies. There is no accommodation or shelter.

• Beilul (40 km north, 1 hour by 4×4) — Historic coastal town with Ottoman ruins.
• Assab (180 km north, 3 hours) — Regional capital with port and supplies.
• Edd (100 km south, 2 hours) — Border-area fishing town.