Things To Do
in Port Sudan
Port Sudan sits on the Red Sea coast as Sudan's primary maritime gateway, a bustling port town framed by palm-studded shores and a working harbor. The city blends fishing, trade, and a growing, if modest, tourist scene along its corniche and nearby historic sites. You can dive into vibrant market life, sample fresh seafood, and use Port Sudan as a base to explore the Suakin ruins and coral reefs.
Its laid-back pace and desert scenery nearby offer a distinctive Red Sea coastal experience with a strong local character.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day at the bustling Souq al-Huda, where local vendors sell spices, textiles, and traditional crafts. Take your time to interact with the friendly shopkeepers as they share stories about their products and the local culture. After exploring the market, visit the nearby Imam al-Mahdi Mosque to admire its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere.
Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Sudanese dishes like fuul and kisra. Post-lunch, explore the historic Old Port area, where you can see remnants of colonial architecture and hear stories of the city's maritime history. Don't miss the chance to capture photographs of the picturesque harbor views as you stroll along the waterfront.
As the sun sets, head to the vibrant Corniche where locals gather to socialize and enjoy the sea breeze. Indulge in fresh seafood at one of the nearby restaurants, taking in the stunning views of the Red Sea. Finish your evening with a leisurely walk along the promenade, soaking in the lively atmosphere and perhaps enjoying some local music.
Start your day with an early breakfast before heading to a local dive center for a briefing on the day's diving excursion. After gearing up, you'll embark on a boat trip to some of the most stunning dive sites in the Red Sea, known for their vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Enjoy the thrill of diving in crystal-clear waters as you encounter colorful fish and maybe even a sea turtle.
After your morning dives, enjoy a packed lunch on the boat while soaking up the sun and taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding sea. Continue your diving adventure with a second dive in a different location, exploring unique underwater landscapes and possibly spotting a wreck. The experienced instructors will ensure you have an unforgettable experience while keeping safety a priority.
Return to the shore and freshen up at your accommodation before heading out for dinner. Treat yourself to a delicious meal featuring freshly caught seafood at a seaside restaurant, where the ambiance is enhanced by the sound of waves. After dinner, unwind at a local café, sipping on traditional Sudanese tea and reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $0.5-2.5 |
| 🏨1 night in mid-range hotel | $40-90 |
| 🚖Taxi short ride | $3-8 |
| 🛒Groceries per day | $10-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal scenery and fresh seafood
- Atmosphere of a working port with cultural flavor
- Gateway to Suakin ruins and nearby reefs
- Limited nightlife and variable infrastructure
- Healthcare quality can vary; may require travel for major services
- "As-salāmu ʿalaykum" - Hello / Peace be upon you
- "Wa alaykum as-salām" - And upon you be peace (response)
- "Min fadlak" - Please (to a male)
- "Min fadlik" - Please (to a female)
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Na'am" - Yes
- "Laa" - No
- "Kam hatha?" - How much is this?
- "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hal tatakallam al-ingliziya?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Port Sudan
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic harbor views with the Red Sea, fishing boats, and dramatic sunsets; a classic spot for coastal city photography.
Historic limestone facades and desert-adjacent seaside ruins offering a maritime-meets-heritage atmosphere for wide shots.
Rocky shoreline with tidal pools and turquoise water, ideal for close-up sea life and landscape frames.
Food in Port Sudan
Port Sudan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish cooked with a generous portion of fresh Red Sea fish, spices, and onions; commonly found in seaside restaurants and fish markets.
Must-Try!
A traditional flatbread served with a tangy onion-tish (mullah) sauce or stew, a common pairing for fish and other hearty dishes.
Freshly caught fish simply grilled with lemon, garlic, and local herbs; best enjoyed near the harbor or on beachside terraces.
Hearty stews featuring spiced fish or prawns, often served with kisra or rice and a squeeze of lime.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively waterfront market where vendors hawk fresh catches; great to observe bargaining and sample quick fish snacks from stalls.
Casual stalls along the waterfront offering fried fish bites, samosas, and simple grilled snacks with tea or juice.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Modest attire is appreciated in public spaces; beachwear is appropriate only at beaches or private resorts.
Ask before taking photos of people; use your right hand for greetings and exchanges; observe Ramadan etiquette and venue-specific norms.
Safety
Tipping in Port Sudan
Ensure a smooth experience
Small tips are appreciated for good service: 5-10% in restaurants if service charge isn’t included; small tips for hotel staff and guides.
Cash (SDG or USD) is widely used; card payments are not universally accepted; carry some local currency for markets and small vendors; ATMs can be limited.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot with high humidity; expect peak heat midday. The best times for outdoor activities are early morning and late afternoon; sea breezes help near the coast.
Pleasantly cooler days with milder evenings; comfortable for walking and sightseeing; sea conditions remain good for boat trips when available.
Spring and autumn offer balanced weather and fewer crowds; great for exploring markets, ruins, and diving trips when operators run.
Port Sudan at Night
Hiking in Port Sudan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Dune walks and dune-climb routes along the coast; best during cooler hours and with proper sun protection.
A walking route near the Suakin ruins offering sea views and a sense of coastal history.
Airports
How to reach Port Sudan by plane.
Main regional gateway serving Sudan's Red Sea coast; connects to Khartoum and a few regional destinations.
Major national hub with broader international connections; often used for long-distance travel and transfers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The region features a mix of Arab communities and Beja influences; diversity is reflected in language, dress, and markets.
A significant presence of locals connected to the port, fish markets, and commerce; welcoming to visitors who engage respectfully.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and informal games are common in communities.
Occasional beach-based activities and informal sports along the coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Port Sudan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include Kisra with dips, ful (fava bean stews), lentil-based dishes, and rice with vegetables. Ask for oil-free sauces and confirm there’s no fish stock in broths.