Introducing recommended tourist spots in the enchanting land of Sudan

Are you familiar with the country of Sudan in Africa? It shares a border with Egypt to the south and faces the Red Sea to the east. It is famous for being home to the world's longest river, the Nile. Officially called the Republic of Sudan, its capital city is Khartoum. The country’s land area is big, but its population is significantly smaller. Arabic is the official language in Sudan, but English is widely spoken, making it possible to get by with English.

Every year, many tourists visit the Republic of Sudan. From UNESCO World Heritage Sites emerging from the desert to surprising port cities that defy expectations, Sudan is filled with fascinating attractions. In this article, we will introduce some of the must-visit tourist spots in Sudan one by one!

*As of April 2023, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a Level 4 evacuation advisory. Please check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for further details.

1. Afra Mall

When visiting Sudan, you’ll definitely want to buy some souvenirs! Shopping abroad is one of the highlights of traveling. As you walk along Africa Street in Khartoum, you will come across Afra Mall. However, Afra Mall is not just an ordinary marketplace. It is a massive multi-purpose commercial complex, much like an outlet mall with a variety of stores.

While its main feature is the shopping mall, Afra Mall also offers a food court and a play area for children, making it an enjoyable spot for many tourists. There is even a bowling alley and an ice-skating rink inside. With so many facilities, it is one of Sudan's most popular tourist destinations. If you have some free time during your stay in Sudan, spending half a day here could be a great part of your travel itinerary.

2. Meroe Pyramids

When thinking of Africa, pyramids inevitably come to mind! These mystical structures captivate visitors. Sudan is home to a spectacular tourist destination known as the Meroë Pyramids. Compared to the famous pyramids of Egypt, they have a distinctly different appearance. While Egyptian pyramids are massive and solid in structure, Sudanese pyramids are slimmer and more pointed, creating a unique and fascinating sight for tourists.

Unlike Egypt, Sudan doesn’t just have a single pyramid; instead, multiple pyramids are scattered across the area. Collectively, these are part of the Archaeological Sites of the Island of Meroë, which is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site—one of only two World Heritage Sites in Sudan. The sight of these ruins scattered across the vast desert is breathtaking. You might even encounter camels while exploring the area. Don’t miss out on experiencing one of Sudan’s most remarkable landscapes!

3. Port Sudan

When you think of Sudan, the first image that likely comes to mind is the desert. Since many of its famous tourist attractions, such as the pyramids, are located in desert areas, it’s understandable why this perception is so strong.

That’s why the third must-visit spot in Sudan is Port Sudan, a coastal city that offers a striking contrast to the country’s desert landscape. Located along the Red Sea, Port Sudan shatters the common notion that Sudan is all about sand and arid terrain. However, what makes this city special is not just the sea—it is the breathtaking, crystal-clear greenish-blue waters that make it a top travel destination. Because of its stunning coral reefs, diving is a highly recommended activity here.

If you plan to spend a significant amount of time exploring this destination, don’t forget to book accommodations in advance!

4. Omdurman

Since we previously introduced Sudan’s coastal city, let's now explore one of its major commercial hubs.

Omdurman is one of Sudan’s most vibrant and prosperous cities, known for its thriving commerce. As a result, it is also regarded as one of Sudan’s top tourist destinations. If you visit Omdurman, one place you should definitely check out is the local market. Unlike large shopping centers, bustling marketplaces offer a more authentic glimpse into local life. Observing the types of everyday goods sold in these markets allows visitors to experience Sudanese culture firsthand.

Besides its lively markets, Omdurman is home to various historical and cultural sites, including churches and museums. With so many points of interest, it’s a must-visit city when exploring Sudan!

5. National Museum

After exploring Sudan’s ruins and witnessing the daily lives of its people, you may find yourself wanting to learn more about its history and cultural background. That’s where the Sudan National Museum in Khartoum comes in. This museum houses an extensive collection of historical artifacts from Sudan’s past, offering valuable insights into what life was like in ancient times.

Even if you are not fluent in the local language, the exhibits speak for themselves—displaying rare and remarkable objects that provide a deeper understanding of Sudanese history. A visit to the museum takes about an hour and a half to fully appreciate, making it a great stop for those new to Sudanese history. It’s an especially recommended destination for first-time visitors to the country!

◎ Summary

Now that you’ve learned about Sudan’s highlights, do you see its charm? With its vast landscapes and fascinating tourist spots, the country offers a sense of adventure and romance. Those who love natural attractions will especially find Sudan captivating. This guide introduced five must-visit destinations, but if you have the time, consider exploring even more of Sudan’s hidden gems!

However, keep in mind that Sudan has a desert climate in certain regions, which means significant temperature fluctuations. Be sure to take care of your health while traveling.

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Introducing recommended tourist spots in the enchanting land of Sudan