Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive in Sudan's capital and ease into the journey with an orientation walk through the city center and visit to الساحة الخضراء.
Morning
Airport arrival and hotel check-in
Arrive at
Khartoum International Airport, complete visa formalities, and transfer to your accommodation in central
Khartoum. Rest and freshen up after your journey. Orient yourself with the neighborhood and exchange currency at authorized dealers for the best rates.
2-3 hours
$15-25
Arrange airport pickup through your hotel in advance for easier arrival
Lunch
A traditional Sudanese restaurant near the city center
Sudanese (ful medames, kisra, asida)
Budget
Afternoon
Visit الساحة الخضراء and Nile confluence exploration
Explore الساحة الخضراء,
Khartoum's green square and public gathering space. Continue to the Mogran area where the Blue and
White Nile rivers meet, creating a visible line where the different colored waters converge. Take photographs of this natural phenomenon and enjoy the riverside atmosphere as locals gather in the late afternoon.
3-4 hours
$10-15
Evening
Sunset by the Nile and welcome dinner
Watch the sunset over the Nile confluence, then enjoy dinner at a local eatery serving grilled meats and traditional stews
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Khartoum (Mid-range hotel near the Nile)
Central location provides easy access to major sites and restaurants while offering Nile views
Register with your embassy upon arrival and always carry photocopies of your passport and visa separately from the originals
Day 1 Budget: $70-85
Dive into Sudanese history and culture through museum visits and explore the vibrant atmosphere of local souqs.
Morning
National Museum of Sudan
Visit Sudan's premier museum housing an extraordinary collection of artifacts from ancient Nubian civilizations, including statues, pottery, and jewelry from the Kingdom of Kush. The outdoor garden features rescued temples from the Nile valley, relocated before dam construction. Allow time to absorb the rich history spanning thousands of years.
2-3 hours
$5-10
Arrive early when the museum opens for fewer crowds and better lighting for photography
Lunch
A casual spot in
Khartoum 2 serving fresh salads and grilled fish
Sudanese and Middle Eastern fusion
Mid-range
Afternoon
Cross to
Omdurman to explore one of Africa's largest traditional markets. Navigate through sections selling spices, textiles, silver jewelry, and traditional crafts. Experience the sensory overload of colors, sounds, and scents. If visiting on Friday, witness the mesmerizing Sufi whirling dervish ceremony at the tomb of Sheikh Hamed al-Nil.
3-4 hours
$10-20
Evening
Dinner and traditional coffee ceremony
Experience a Sudanese coffee ceremony at a local home or cultural center, followed by dinner featuring lamb stew and flatbreads
When shopping in the souq, bargaining is expected but remain respectful; start at about 50% of the asking price
Day 2 Budget: $65-80
Travel to Sudan's Red Sea coast, transitioning from the desert capital to the coastal port city.
Morning
Morning flight to بورتسودان
Take an early domestic flight to بورتسودان (Port Sudan) on the Red Sea coast. The flight offers aerial views of Sudan's diverse landscapes transitioning from desert to coastal regions. Upon arrival, transfer to your accommodation and settle in to the relaxed coastal atmosphere of this historic port city.
3-4 hours including transfers
$120-180
Book domestic flights well in advance as schedules can be limited and seats fill quickly
Lunch
A seafood restaurant near the port serving fresh catches of the day
Fresh Red Sea seafood
Mid-range
Afternoon
بورتسودان city orientation and beach relaxation
Explore the port city of بورتسودان, observing the blend of Arabic, Turkish, and African architectural influences from its history as a major trading hub. Visit the old port area to watch dhows and fishing boats. Spend the late afternoon relaxing on nearby beaches, adjusting to the coastal climate and preparing for diving adventures.
3-4 hours
$5-10
Evening
Sunset walk and coastal dinner
Stroll along the waterfront at sunset, then dine at a local restaurant specializing in grilled fish and Red Sea prawns
Where to Stay Tonight
بورتسودان coastal area (Mid-range hotel with sea views)
Proximity to diving operators and coastal attractions for the coming days
Arrange diving trips for the next few days this evening to secure the best operators and sites
Day 3 Budget: $180-220
Experience world-class diving in one of the Red Sea's most pristine and uncrowded underwater environments.
Morning
Red Sea diving expedition
Embark on a full-day diving trip to explore Sudan's legendary underwater sites, including pristine coral reefs, dramatic drop-offs, and possible encounters with hammerhead sharks, manta rays, and diverse marine life. The Red Sea here rivals any diving destination globally but with far fewer tourists. Both the coral health and fish populations are exceptional.
Full day (7-8 hours)
$80-120
Book with reputable PADI-certified operators; confirm equipment quality in advance
Lunch
Packed lunch on the dive boat
Sandwiches and fresh fruit
Budget
Afternoon
Continuation of diving expedition
Complete your second dive of the day at a different site, exploring wrecks or reef systems. The afternoon dive might include famous sites known for large pelagic species. Between dives, relax on the boat, enjoy the pristine coastal scenery, and share experiences with fellow divers in this remote diving paradise.
Included in morning activity
Included in morning cost
Evening
Recovery and casual dinner
Rest after diving, then enjoy a light dinner at a casual beachside eatery; avoid alcohol after diving
Where to Stay Tonight
بورتسودان coastal area (Same hotel as Day 3)
Convenient for multiple diving days and recovery between dives
Sudan's Red Sea is one of the world's best-kept diving secrets; the Jacques Cousteau wreck and Sanganeb Atoll are must-sees for experienced divers
Day 4 Budget: $110-150
Another day exploring the Red Sea's incredible marine biodiversity and coral systems.
Morning
الكوخ الغاطس الزجاجي experience or snorkeling
Visit الكوخ الغاطس الزجاجي (the glass-bottom submerged hut) for a unique underwater viewing experience, or opt for a snorkeling excursion if you prefer to stay closer to the surface. The crystal-clear waters offer excellent visibility, and even snorkelers can observe vibrant coral gardens, colorful reef fish, and potentially sea turtles in their natural habitat.
3-4 hours
$30-50
Book this attraction in advance as availability can be limited
Lunch
A beachfront cafe serving grilled seafood and salads
Coastal Sudanese
Budget
Afternoon
Beach relaxation and local market visit
Spend the afternoon at leisure on the beach, swimming in the warm Red Sea waters. Later, visit local markets in بورتسودان to shop for coral jewelry (ensure it's sustainably sourced), spices, and local crafts. Interact with friendly vendors and observe daily life in this coastal trading city.
3-4 hours
$10-20
Evening
Farewell to the coast dinner
Enjoy a final seafood feast at a popular local restaurant, trying specialties like samak mashwi (grilled fish) with tahini sauce
Where to Stay Tonight
بورتسودان coastal area (Same hotel as previous nights)
Final night on the coast before returning inland
Purchase high-quality Sudanese dates and Red Sea salt as souvenirs; they're authentic and travel well
Day 5 Budget: $75-100
Fly back to the capital and prepare for the journey to Sudan's ancient archaeological sites.
Morning
Take a morning flight from بورتسودان back to
Khartoum. Transfer to your hotel and rest from the early start. Use the late morning to organize supplies and equipment needed for the upcoming journey to the northern archaeological sites, including sun protection, water bottles, and appropriate clothing.
3-4 hours including transfers
$120-180
Morning flights are more reliable; book the earliest available option
Lunch
A restaurant in central
Khartoum serving traditional Sudanese mixed grill
Sudanese barbecue
Mid-range
Afternoon
Visit منتزه البستان and trip preparation
Relax at منتزه البستان, a pleasant park offering green spaces and a break from the city's bustle. Enjoy the gardens and local atmosphere as families gather. Afterward, finalize arrangements for your northern journey, confirm transportation, and stock up on snacks and supplies for the desert excursion ahead.
3-4 hours
$10-15
Evening
Early dinner and rest
Have an early dinner at a local restaurant, then rest well in preparation for the early departure north
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Khartoum (Comfortable mid-range hotel)
Convenient for early morning departure to the northern archaeological sites
Stock up on bottled water, sunscreen, and snacks in
Khartoum; options are limited in the northern desert regions
Day 6 Budget: $160-200
Travel north through the Nubian Desert to reach Sudan's most spectacular archaeological sites.
Morning
Departure for the northern archaeological region
Begin an early morning journey north by private vehicle or organized tour toward the Karima and Meroë region. The drive takes you through changing desert landscapes, past traditional Nubian villages, and along the Nile's path. Stop at viewpoints to photograph the dramatic scenery and observe rural Sudanese life along the route.
6-7 hours with stops
$40-60
Book this journey as part of a multi-day archaeological tour package for better logistics and guide expertise
Lunch
Packed lunch or stop at a roadside cafe in a small town
Simple Sudanese fare
Budget
Afternoon
Arrival and sunset at Jebel Barkal
Arrive in the Karima area and visit the sacred mountain of Jebel Barkal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This flat-topped mountain was considered sacred by ancient Nubians and Egyptians. Explore the temples at its base and, if energy permits, climb for panoramic desert views. Watch the sunset paint the mountain in golden hues.
3-4 hours
$15-25
Evening
Traditional Nubian dinner
Dine at a local guesthouse or camp, experiencing Nubian hospitality and traditional dishes under the stars
Where to Stay Tonight
Karima area (Simple guesthouse or desert camp)
Proximity to northern archaeological sites and authentic experience
The northern sites are remote; bring cash as ATMs are unavailable, and credit cards aren't accepted
Day 7 Budget: $85-110
Explore the royal pyramids and tombs of the ancient Kushite Kingdom, rivals to Egypt.
Morning
Nuri royal pyramids
Visit the pyramid fields of Nuri, burial site of Kushite kings including Taharqa, one of the most powerful pharaohs of the 25th Dynasty who ruled both Nubia and Egypt. Walk among these steep-sided pyramids, distinctly different from Egyptian ones, with virtually no other tourists. The isolation and preservation create an unforgettable archaeological experience.
3 hours
$20-30
Lunch
Picnic lunch among the archaeological sites
Packed meal
Budget
Afternoon
El-Kurru royal tombs
Explore El-Kurru, one of the royal cemeteries of the Kingdom of Kush. Descend into decorated underground burial chambers featuring well-preserved wall paintings depicting the afterlife journey. These tombs predate the more famous pyramids and offer insight into the development of Kushite royal burial practices and their Egyptian influences.
2-3 hours
$15-25
Evening
Stargazing and desert campfire
Experience the incredible desert night sky, virtually free from light pollution, followed by traditional tea and conversation
Where to Stay Tonight
Karima area (Same guesthouse or camp as Day 7)
Centrally located for exploring multiple archaeological sites in the region
Bring a flashlight for exploring tombs; the paintings inside are spectacular and you'll often have them entirely to yourself
Day 8 Budget: $70-90
Visit Sudan's most iconic site: the remarkable pyramid fields of Meroë, with more pyramids than all of Egypt.
Morning
Travel to Meroë
Journey to Meroë, the capital of the Kingdom of Kush from around 300 BCE to 350 CE. The drive takes you deeper into the desert, with anticipation building as you approach one of Africa's most spectacular archaeological sites. Arrive at the pyramid fields and begin exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
3-4 hours including travel
$30-40
Lunch
Lunch at a simple rest house near the pyramids
Basic Sudanese dishes
Budget
Afternoon
Meroë pyramid exploration
Spend the afternoon wandering among over 200 pyramids, the burial sites of Kushite kings and queens. Unlike Egypt, you can walk right up to and even inside some pyramids. Photograph the iconic stepped pyramids against endless desert sands. Visit the royal baths and temple remains. The site's remoteness means you might have these ancient wonders almost entirely to yourself.
4-5 hours
$25-35
Evening
Sunset at the pyramids
Stay for the magical sunset when the pyramids glow golden, then dine at your accommodation under the stars
Where to Stay Tonight
Meroë area (Desert camp or basic guesthouse near the pyramids)
Unique opportunity to stay near one of Africa's greatest archaeological wonders
Wake before dawn to photograph the pyramids at sunrise when the light is perfect and you'll be completely alone
Day 9 Budget: $80-105
Make the journey back to
Khartoum, reflecting on the incredible archaeological experiences of the past days.
Morning
Final morning at Meroë and departure
Rise early for a final sunrise visit to the pyramids if you wish, capturing the site in the soft morning light. After breakfast, begin the long journey back to
Khartoum. The return drive offers time to process the remarkable sites you've witnessed and observe more of Sudan's desert and river landscapes.
6-7 hours with stops
$40-60
Lunch
Roadside stop or packed lunch during the journey
Simple local food
Budget
Afternoon
Arrive back in
Khartoum in the late afternoon. Check into your hotel and enjoy the comfort of city amenities after several days in remote areas. Take a leisurely walk along the Nile, perhaps visiting areas you missed earlier, or simply rest and organize photos from your northern adventure.
2-3 hours
$10-15
Evening
Treat yourself to a nice dinner at a better restaurant, celebrating your archaeological journey with Sudanese specialties
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Khartoum (Comfortable mid-range hotel)
Return to city comforts and prepare for the western journey ahead
Have your hotel launder clothes tonight; you'll want fresh clothing for the remaining days
Day 10 Budget: $90-120
Travel west to the Darfur region to explore the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Jebel Marra.
Morning
Flight to El Fasher
Take a domestic flight to El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur. This journey takes you to Sudan's western region, characterized by different landscapes and cultures. Upon arrival, meet your local guide and transfer toward the Jebel Marra area, a volcanic massif rising from the surrounding plains with unique ecosystems.
4-5 hours including transfers
$150-200
Confirm security situation and travel permits well in advance; this region requires special permissions
Lunch
A local restaurant in El Fasher serving western Sudanese cuisine
Darfuri specialties
Budget
Afternoon
Approach to Jebel Marra foothills
Travel to the foothills of Jebel Marra, Sudan's highest mountain range formed by volcanic activity. The landscape shifts dramatically as you gain elevation, with terraced agriculture, fruit orchards, and cooler temperatures. Visit local villages where the Fur people maintain traditional lifestyles, cultivating the fertile volcanic soils.
3-4 hours
$20-30
Evening
Village homestay or local guesthouse
Experience Fur hospitality with a traditional dinner and cultural exchange in a mountain village setting
Where to Stay Tonight
Jebel Marra foothills (Simple village guesthouse or arranged homestay)
Authentic cultural experience in Sudan's mountainous west
The Jebel Marra region requires special travel permits and a local guide; arrange everything through a reputable tour operator in
Khartoum
Day 11 Budget: $200-240
Trek through volcanic landscapes, visiting crater lakes and waterfalls in this unique mountain ecosystem.
Morning
Jebel Marra crater lakes trek
Embark on a guided trek to the volcanic crater lakes at the summit of Jebel Marra. The hike takes you through changing vegetation zones, from cultivated terraces to natural forests and finally to the dramatic crater rim. The twin lakes, one fresh and one saline, fill ancient volcanic calderas and offer spectacular views.
4-5 hours
$30-50
Lunch
Packed lunch enjoyed at the crater rim with panoramic views
Trail food
Budget
Afternoon
Waterfall visit and village exploration
Descend to visit one of Jebel Marra's seasonal waterfalls, a rare sight in Sudan's generally arid landscape. The volcanic rock formations create dramatic cascades during the wet season. Return through villages, observing traditional architecture, agricultural practices, and the unique culture of the mountain-dwelling communities.
3-4 hours
$15-25
Evening
Traditional Fur cultural evening
Participate in traditional music and dance, learning about Fur culture and history from local community members
Where to Stay Tonight
Jebel Marra foothills (Same village guesthouse as Day 11)
Continue the immersive mountain community experience
Bring warm layers; Jebel Marra's elevation creates surprisingly cool evenings compared to the rest of Sudan
Day 12 Budget: $75-100
Journey back to the capital, visiting the Palace of Sultan Ali Dinar Museum en route.
Morning
Palace of Sultan Ali Dinar Museum
Return to El Fasher and visit the Palace of Sultan Ali Dinar Museum, housed in the former palace of the last Sultan of Darfur who resisted British colonial rule until 1916. The museum displays artifacts from the Sultanate period, traditional weapons, royal regalia, and exhibits about the region's history and culture, providing context for your Jebel Marra experience.
2-3 hours
$10-15
Lunch
A restaurant in El Fasher before your flight
Western Sudanese
Budget
Afternoon
Take an afternoon flight back to
Khartoum, completing your circuit of Sudan from north to west. The aerial view provides perspective on the vast distances and diverse landscapes you've traversed. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure, perhaps shopping for last-minute souvenirs.
4-5 hours including transfers
$150-200
Evening
Farewell dinner on the Nile
Enjoy a special farewell dinner at a restaurant with Nile views, reflecting on your Sudan journey
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Khartoum (Comfortable hotel near the airport)
Convenient for final day activities and departure preparations
Confirm your international flight 24 hours in advance and arrive at the airport extra early for departure day
Day 13 Budget: $190-240
Last morning in Sudan with optional activities before your international departure.
Morning
Magic Land or final shopping
Depending on your flight time, visit Magic Land, a recreational area offering a change of pace, or explore
Khartoum's craft markets for final souvenir shopping. Look for traditional Sudanese items like woven baskets, silver jewelry, frankincense, and spices. Alternatively, revisit a favorite spot from earlier in your trip for final photographs and memories.
2-3 hours
$10-30
Lunch
A final meal at a favorite restaurant or airport cafe
Sudanese favorites
Mid-range
Afternoon
Airport departure
Transfer to
Khartoum International Airport with plenty of time for check-in procedures. Complete exit formalities and reflect on your extraordinary journey through one of Africa's least-visited but most rewarding destinations. Depart with memories of ancient pyramids, pristine reefs, volcanic mountains, and legendary Sudanese hospitality.
3-4 hours
$15-25
Evening
International departure
Depart Sudan with unforgettable memories and perhaps plans to return to explore even more
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (N/A)
Departure day
Keep some Sudanese pounds for airport purchases, but exchange excess currency before security as it's difficult to exchange outside Sudan
Day 14 Budget: $50-80