The Eritrean railway system extends about 306.4km (190.5 miles), stretching from the port city of Massawa to Agordat via the capital city, Asmara. Its route ascends from sea level to 2394 meters (7854 feet) above sea level and descends to an altitude of 650 meters( 2132.5 feett) in Agordat. The sharp increase and decrease in altitude within a short distance, the beautiful scenery it crosses and artistically built bridges and tunnels makes the line uniquely spectacular.

 

The construction of the railway line began in the autumn of 1887, reached Asmara in December 1911, and the Agordat terminus in February 1928. There are 30 stations, 1548 curves and 39 tunnels. The railway line was originally intended to continue to Tesseney and beyond and rails were laid as far as Bisha (31km/19miles from Agordat). The railway system was the largest employer, had well equipped workshops and garages, and an efficient communication network. It was rendering services for 24 hours in each direction on the Asmara-Massawa line. However, with the end of the Italian colonial rule over Eritrea, the glorious rail network was put into jeopardy and finally it was closed by successor colonial powers—the British and Ethiopians respectively.

 

After 20 years of destruction and despite other priorities, the Government of Eritrea launched a project to rehabilitate the railway system in May 1994. The first phase of the project (to rebuild the Massawa-Asmara line) was completed in February 2003.

 

At present, the Eritrean railway service has started providing tour services to local and foreign tourists as per their requirements and capacity, using steam and diesel trains. Apart from the chartered services, the Eritrean railway has started to provide round trip services that anyone can join from Asmara to Nefasit and Arberebue on Sundays.