Eritrea sits on the Red Sea at the Horn of Africa, where its coastline and highlands meet a mix of cultures and strategic routes. Knowing its neighbors helps make sense of regional travel, trade and history.
There are 3 countries that border eritrea, ranging from Djibouti to Sudan; for each neighbor, the information is organized as Flag (emoji),Border direction,Border length (km) — you’ll find the details below.
Which countries border Eritrea and how are they listed here?
Eritrea shares land borders with Djibouti, Ethiopia and Sudan; the list below presents each neighbor with a flag emoji, the cardinal border direction relative to Eritrea, and the border length in kilometers for quick comparison.
Do I need special documents to cross between Eritrea and its neighbors?
Border crossing rules differ by country and border point—visas, entry permits, and sometimes special permissions are commonly required—so check the latest embassy or consulate guidance before traveling and plan for checkpoints or limited crossing hours.
Countries that Border Eritrea
Country | Flag (emoji) | Border direction | Border length (km) |
---|---|---|---|
Sudan | 🇸🇩 | West | 636 |
Ethiopia | 🇪🇹 | South | 1,033 |
Djibouti | 🇩🇯 | Southeast | 125 |
Descriptions
Sudan
Stretching through arid landscapes, this border is a key route for trade and migration. The primary crossing point is between Teseney in Eritrea and Kassala in Sudan. The area has historically seen significant movement of refugees and nomadic groups between the two nations.
Ethiopia
Eritrea’s longest and most historically significant border, it was the focal point of the Eritrean-Ethiopian War. Major crossings at Zalambessa, Rama, and Bure have been periodically opened and closed following the 2018 peace agreement, reflecting the complex relationship between the nations.
Djibouti
This short but strategic border is located near the Bab-el-Mandeb strait, a crucial global shipping lane. The border has been a source of tension, particularly over the Ras Doumeira peninsula, leading to a border dispute that has required international mediation to resolve.