Home › Destinations › Port Sudan
Port Sudan, السودان - Things to Do in Port Sudan

Things to Do in Port Sudan

Port Sudan, السودان - Complete Travel Guide

Port Sudan is Sudan's primary seaport and second-largest city, strategically located on the Red Sea coast. This bustling maritime hub serves as the country's main gateway for international trade and offers visitors a unique blend of Sudanese culture, Red Sea coastal beauty, and authentic urban experiences away from typical tourist crowds. The city's economy revolves around its massive port operations, making it a fascinating destination for travelers interested in experiencing real working Sudan. While Port Sudan may not have the ancient monuments of other Sudanese cities, it compensates with its vibrant markets, diverse population, beautiful Red Sea coastline, and authentic cultural experiences. The city serves as an excellent base for exploring Sudan's Red Sea coast, with opportunities for diving, fishing, and experiencing traditional Sudanese coastal life. Visitors will find a city that's genuinely lived-in and working, offering insights into modern Sudanese life alongside glimpses of the country's rich cultural heritage.

Top Things to Do in Port Sudan

Explore the Central Souq

Wander through Port Sudan's bustling central market, one of the most authentic shopping experiences in Sudan. The souq offers everything from traditional Sudanese crafts and textiles to spices, gold jewelry, and everyday goods used by locals.

Booking Tip: No advance booking needed - visit early morning (7-9 AM) for the best atmosphere and cooler temperatures. Bring cash in Sudanese pounds and be prepared to bargain. Guided cultural tours cost around $20-30 per person.

Red Sea Diving and Snorkeling

Experience some of the Red Sea's pristine coral reefs and marine life from Port Sudan's coast. The waters here are less crowded than Egyptian Red Sea destinations but offer equally spectacular underwater scenery with vibrant corals and diverse fish species.

Booking Tip: Book through established dive centers in advance, especially during peak season (October-April). Full day diving trips cost $60-100 including equipment. Look for operators with PADI certification and good safety records.

Visit the Port and Maritime Museum

Learn about Port Sudan's crucial role in Sudan's economy and the Red Sea's maritime history. The port area offers fascinating insights into one of Africa's major shipping hubs, while the small maritime museum showcases the region's seafaring heritage.

Booking Tip: Port visits require advance permission through tour operators ($15-25 per person). The maritime museum is open Sunday-Thursday 9 AM-2 PM with a small entrance fee. Photography restrictions apply in port areas.

Red Sea Fishing Excursions

Join local fishermen or charter boats for deep-sea fishing in the Red Sea's rich waters. The area is known for excellent catches including grouper, snapper, and various game fish, offering both recreational and cultural experiences.

Booking Tip: Half-day fishing trips cost $40-80 per person, full-day excursions $100-150. Book through hotels or local operators, best during early morning departures. Includes basic equipment but bring sun protection and snacks.

Traditional Coffee House Experience

Immerse yourself in Sudanese coffee culture at traditional coffee houses throughout the city. These social hubs offer strong Sudanese coffee, tea, and the chance to observe local life while enjoying traditional music and conversation.

Booking Tip: No booking required - simply walk in during afternoon/evening hours. Coffee costs under $1, and it's customary to sit for extended periods. Some coffee houses offer traditional music performances on weekends.

Getting There

Port Sudan is accessible by air through Port Sudan New International Airport, which receives domestic flights from Khartoum and occasional international flights. Most international visitors fly into Khartoum International Airport and take a connecting domestic flight (1 hour) or drive (approximately 6-7 hours). The city is also reachable by road from Khartoum via the main highway, though the journey requires a reliable vehicle and should be undertaken during daylight hours. Train service exists but is irregular and not recommended for tourists.

Getting Around

Port Sudan is best navigated using taxis, which are readily available and inexpensive for short trips around the city. Rickshaws (bajaj) are common for shorter distances and offer a more local experience. Car rental is possible but requires familiarity with local driving conditions and Arabic signage. Walking is feasible in the central areas, particularly around the souq and waterfront, but the heat can be intense during midday hours. Most attractions are within a relatively compact area near the port and city center.

Where to Stay

City Center near the Port
Al-Thawra District
New Extension Area
Deim al-Nour
Al-Malakiya District
Red Sea University Area

Food & Dining

Port Sudan's dining scene reflects its position as a cosmopolitan port city, with restaurants serving Sudanese, Ethiopian, Eritrean, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Local specialties include fresh Red Sea fish, traditional Sudanese stews, and excellent flatbreads. The city center offers numerous small restaurants and street food vendors serving affordable, authentic meals. Hotel restaurants provide more familiar international options, while the port area has several establishments popular with sailors and international visitors. Tea and coffee culture is strong, with numerous traditional coffee houses serving as social gathering spots throughout the day.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Sudan

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Windows Restaurant

4.9 /5
(844 reviews)

Bean There Cafe

4.5 /5
(830 reviews) 2
cafe

Shogun Japanese Restaurant

4.6 /5
(567 reviews)

Tandoor Restaurant

4.5 /5
(575 reviews) 2

Sushi Club

4.6 /5
(493 reviews)

Barten

4.6 /5
(298 reviews)

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Port Sudan is during the cooler months from November to March, when temperatures are more manageable and rainfall is minimal. During this period, daytime temperatures range from 25-30°C (77-86°F), making outdoor activities and sightseeing more comfortable. The summer months (June-September) can be extremely hot with temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F), though this is when the Red Sea is warmest for diving and swimming. The brief rainy season occurs from October to November, which can bring occasional flooding but also cooler temperatures and clearer skies.

Insider Tips

Carry cash in Sudanese pounds as credit cards are rarely accepted, and exchange money at official banks or hotels rather than street dealers
Dress conservatively, especially when visiting markets or religious areas - long pants and covered shoulders are essential for both men and women
Friday afternoons and evenings are quiet as it's the main prayer day, but Saturday through Thursday the city is fully active with normal business hours

Explore Activities in Port Sudan