Wheelchair Accessible Adventure Travel

Eritrea

Although Eritrea is further off the beaten track than most travellers with limited mobility would dare to venture, it is not out of the question. With enough planning in advance, sense of adventure and ability to improvise, it is quite possible to visit this country. Eritreans are used to disability, and their inherent African hospitality will ensure you are never short of help.

Accommodation
Only top of the range hotels in Eritrea have accessibility features. Occasionally, (more by accident than through design) bathrooms in budget accommodation will be wheelchair accessible, but where this is not the case you should be prepared to be carried, or use the bedroom for your ablutions.
The best advice is to research your options thoroughly in advance and you should find that most good tour operators take time to listen to your needs. If you prefer to travel independently, many establishments can be found on the internet and contacted by email.

Transport

By Air - for people with mobility problems, entering and exiting aircraft may not be as slick a procedure as you are used to. It is unlikely that there will be an aisle chair or wheelchairs available, especially in smaller provincial airports, and staff are not used to handling disabled travellers.
Buses - buses are cramped, with no facilities for wheelchairs and getting off and on can be a hectic affair. You will need to ask for help from fellow passengers to lift you to your seat, it will often be crowded and there will not be an accessible toilet. Therefore, unless you can walk at least to some degree, taxi is going to be your only easy way of getting around.
By Car - unless you use local taxis, most vehicles will be 4x4s or minibuses, which are higher than normal cars making transfers more difficult. Although drivers and guides are normally happy to help, they are not trained in this skill. You must thoroughly explain your needs before transferring and stay in control of the situation.
Distances are great and roads are often bumpy, meaning people prone to skin damage need to take extra care. Place your own pressure-relieving cushion on top of (or instead of) the original car seat and if necessary, pad around knees and elbows.

Health
Doctors will know about 'everyday' illnesses, but you must understand and be able to explain your own particular medical requirements. African hospitals are often basic, so if possible, take all necessary medication and equipment with you. It is advisable to pack this in your hand luggage during flights in case your main luggage gets lost.
If heat is a problem for you, be careful to book accommodation with fans or air-conditioning, and a useful cooling aid is a plant-spray bottle.

Security
The usual security precautions apply, but it is also worthwhile remembering that, as a disabled person, you are even more vulnerable. Stay aware of who is around you and where your bags are, especially during car transfers and similar. These activities often draw a crowd, and the confusion creates easy pickings for an opportunist thief.