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HomeRoad TripsAfricaEast AfricaSudanSudan
Meroe desert

Sudan Road Trip

Khartoum - Meroe - Atbara - Port Sudan - Kassala - Al-Qadarif - Wad Madanī

Expect on your itinerary

Landscape Landscape
Historical sites Historical sites
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Culture Culture
Beach Beach
Urban life Urban life
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Sudan Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages7 km2,031 h/stage5.0

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Sudan Road Trip in Sudan?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,296EUR drive & more 275EUR sleep & more 946EUR eat & more 216EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,437EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 2,733EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,782EUR drive & more 363EUR sleep & more 1,661EUR eat & more 324EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,348EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,130EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 3,564EUR drive & more 500EUR sleep & more 2,376EUR eat & more 432EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 3,308EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 6,872EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,025EUR drive & more 550EUR sleep & more 495EUR eat & more 216EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,261EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 3,286EUR
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Sudan Road Trip Itinerary

The Sudan Road Trip is a unique driving experience that is sure to provide lasting memories. Starting in the capital city of Khartoum, the route takes you through the towns of Meroe, Port Sudan, Kassala, and Al-Qadarif, covering a distance of approximately 2045km. It is recommended to allow nine days to complete the journey and the best time of year to do so is during the winter months. Along the way, you will be able to experience some of the fascinating historical sites and stunning landscapes the country has to offer. UNESCO Heritage Monuments can also be found along the route, offering a chance to explore the country’s rich culture and heritage. Although the road conditions are generally poor, the Sudan Road Trip is suitable for every driver and can be managed with a fair budget. This journey is sure to provide a high level of experience and memories, making it an ideal road trip for those looking for an unforgettable experience.
number of days 9 number of days
route length 2,031 km route length
budget moderate budget
good for adventurer good for
traffic direction on the left traffic direction
accident level high accident level

START Khartoum

Distance 2,031 km Driving time 35.2 h Pace: modest 528.1 kWh Airports KRT
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Khartoum is the capital of Sudan and an excellent starting point for a Sudan Road Trip. The city is located at the confluence of the White Nile and Blue Nile, making it a great spot for sightseeing. Visitors can take a boat ride on the Nile, explore the nearby markets, and visit the many mosques in the area. The city is home to many historical sites, including the Presidential Palace, the National Museum, and the National Zoo. The nearby ancient ruins of Meroe are also worth a visit. For those travelling by air, the closest international airport is Khartoum International Airport (KRT). Car rentals are available at the airport for those who wish to explore the city and the surrounding area. Khartoum is a great starting point for a Sudan Road Trip, with plenty of attractions and activities to explore. There's something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant city.

1 Khartoum - Meroe

Distance 224 km Driving time 2.9 h Pace: fast 67.3 kWh View map Itinerary
interesting  historic site junction of road trips camping sites
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Khartoum, Sudan to Meroe! This 225 km journey, taking less than 4 hours, will take you through some of the most beautiful and historically rich sites in the region. Start your journey in Khartoum, the bustling capital of Sudan and home to the confluence of the Blue and White Niles. Make sure to take some time to visit the National Museum and the nearby archaeological site of Al-Mugran to learn about the country’s rich history. As you continue your journey, make sure to keep an eye out for the archaeological sites of Dangeil, Karima, and Musawarat. These sites are home to some of the most impressive pyramids and temples in the region and are well worth a visit. Your journey will end in Meroe, an ancient city and the capital of the Kingdom of Kush. Here, you can explore the ruins of the ancient city and visit the nearby pyramids. Remember to take your time when on the road and pay attention to the historical sites along the way. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

2 Meroe - Atbara

Distance 95 km Driving time 1.9 h Pace: modest 24.8 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site
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Welcome to the exciting road trip stage from Meroe to Atbara! This stage is 95 km long and will take you less than two hours to complete. Along the way you will be able to visit some of the most interesting places in Sudan. In Meroe, you can admire the ancient pyramids and the ruins of the Meroe Kingdom. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the history of this region. The next stop is Shendi, a city with a lot of cultural and historical heritage. Here you can visit the Shendi Mosque, the Al-Qasr Palace, and the old fort. The next destination is Atbara, a city known for its traditional markets and cultural sites. Here you can visit the Atbara Museum, the Atbara Archaeological Museum, and the Atbara Fish Market. At the end of this road trip stage, you will be able to explore the many attractions of Atbara. You can find more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

3 Atbara - Port Sudan

Distance 488 km Driving time 9.3 h Pace: modest 127.0 kWh View map Itinerary
interesting  historic site
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Embark on an exciting and memorable road trip from Atbara to Port Sudan! This 488 km journey will take you less than 6 hours, and you'll be able to experience the beauty of Sudan's historical sites and picturesque landscapes. Along the route, you'll get to visit UNESCO Heritage sites, so don't forget to take your camera! As you drive, be sure to pay attention to the sights that will make your trip even more memorable. From the ancient ruins of Meroe to the beautiful beaches of Port Sudan, you'll be able to find something to capture your interest. Be sure to also take advantage of the local cuisine, and find a place to camp out in the wilderness. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the itinerary for this stage. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready to explore Sudan!

4 Port Sudan - Kassala

Distance 565 km Driving time 9.8 h Pace: modest 146.9 kWh View map Itinerary
interesting  historic site attractive landscape
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Embark on a journey of discovery on a road trip from Port Sudan to Kassala. This 566km route will take you through the heart of Sudan and will take less than 7 hours. Along the way, you can marvel at the beauty of the Red Sea coast, explore the culture of the Nubian people, and take in the stunning views of the desert. Start your journey in Port Sudan, where you can explore the markets and the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Then, head to the Nubian villages and visit the ancient ruins of the Nubian people. As you drive through the desert, take in the breathtaking views of the sand dunes. Continue your trip to Kassala, where you can explore the ruins of the ancient city and visit the local markets. Visit the nearby villages and take in the stunning views of the mountains and the desert. On your way, make sure to take in the sights and sounds of Sudan. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes, explore the historical sites, and visit the local markets. At the end of your journey, you will be rewarded with an unforgettable experience. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready for an exciting adventure and explore the wonders of Sudan!

5 Kassala - Al-Qadarif

Distance 219 km Driving time 4.5 h Pace: modest 57.0 kWh View map Itinerary
interesting  historic site attractive landscape
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Welcome, road-trippers! This is one of the most exciting stages of your tour - a 226km drive from Kassala, Sudan to Al-Qadarif. It should take you fewer than 3 hours to get there, so you'll have plenty of time to explore the attractions along the way. To start, you'll find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Kassala, a monument to those who fought for Sudan's independence. You'll also be able to learn about the city's history and culture at the Kassala Museum. As you make your way to Al-Qadarif, you'll pass through the beautiful Al-Qadarif National Park, where you can take in the stunning views of the lush green landscape. You may even spot some of the park's wildlife, including antelopes, gazelles, and ostriches. Once you reach Al-Qadarif, you can visit the Al-Qadarif Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in the country. You can also explore the city's markets, where you'll find a variety of local crafts and souvenirs. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage. Enjoy your journey!

6 Al-Qadarif - Wad Madanī

Distance 243 km Driving time 4.5 h Pace: modest 63.3 kWh View map Itinerary
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Embark on an exciting journey from Al-Qadarif to Wad Madanī, a 243km road trip that will take you less than 4 hours to complete. Start your adventure in Al-Qadarif, where you can visit the Al-Qadarif National Museum, the Old Town, and the Al-Qadarif Grand Mosque. As you continue your journey, you will come across the Wadi Abu Dom Dam, a great spot for a picnic. When you reach Wad Madanī, you can explore the beautiful Wad Madanī Mosque, the colorful markets, and the Wad Madanī Museum. Don't forget to visit the nearby archaeological sites of Debba and Abu Dom. All of these places offer a unique experience and plenty of opportunities for memorable photos. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable road trip from Al-Qadarif to Wad Madanī!

7 Wad Madanī - Khartoum

Distance 195 km Driving time 2.3 h Pace: fast 58.6 kWh View map Itinerary
interesting  historic site junction of road trips camping sites
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip starting in Wad Madanī and ending in Khartoum? This 201 km journey will take you less than 4 hours to complete, but you will find plenty of interesting places to visit along the way. Start your journey with a visit to the Wad Madanī Museum, a great place to learn about the history of the region. You can also take a stroll around the Wad Madanī market, where you can find local handicrafts, spices, and traditional clothing. Continue your road trip by heading to the city of El Obeid, where you can explore the Al-Hajjaj Mosque and the El Obeid Museum, which contains a fascinating collection of artifacts from the region. On your way to Khartoum, make sure to stop in the town of Shendi, which is home to the ancient ruins of Shendi Mosque. This is a great place to learn about the history of the region and take some amazing photos. Finally, you will reach your destination, Khartoum. Here, you can explore the city's many attractions, such as the Khartoum National Museum and the Khartoum Zoo. This stage of your road trip is sure to be an unforgettable experience. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a great journey!

  Khartoum

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Khartoum is the capital of Sudan, and the end point of the “Sudan Road Trip”. The city is located at the confluence of the Blue and White Nile, and is home to a variety of attractions and activities. The National Museum of Sudan is a great place to learn about the country's history and culture, and the nearby site of the Mahdi's Tomb is a popular pilgrimage site. The bustling streets of Omdurman are full of markets, shops, and restaurants, and the nearby White Nile River is an excellent spot for a peaceful stroll. Khartoum is also home to some of the best traditional Sudanese cuisine, with restaurants offering a variety of dishes including kisra (a type of flatbread), fuul (fava beans cooked with garlic, onion, and spices), and roasted lamb. For those looking for something a bit more modern, there are plenty of international restaurants to choose from. For those traveling by air, Khartoum International Airport (KRT) is the closest international airport to the city. It is located approximately 16 miles (25 kilometers) from the city center, and is served by a variety of international airlines. Khartoum is an exciting and vibrant city, and is the perfect end point for a “Sudan Road Trip”. With its rich culture, delicious food, and vibrant street life, it is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Sudan Road Trip at a glance

Before you set off

Embark on a captivating journey across Sudan, where the crossroads of ancient civilizations and resplendent natural beauty await. The Sudan Road Trip spans approximately 2,045 kilometers, starting from the confluence of civilizations in Khartoum, winding through the majestic desert ruins of Meroe, along the pristine Red Sea coastline at Port Sudan, through the vibrant culture of Kassala, and culminating in the agricultural hub of Al-Qadarif. This expedition is a profound exploration of Sudan’s rich heritage, diverse cultures, and the awe-inspiring vistas that define this vast country.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

  • Khartoum: An intriguing metropolis where the Blue and White Nile Rivers converge, offering a tapestry of cultural experiences and historical sites.
  • Meroe: A testament to Sudan's historical grandeur with over 200 pyramids—more than Egypt—belonging to the ancient Kushite kingdom, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Port Sudan: A vital maritime gateway that boasts enchanting coral reefs and marine life in the Red Sea, making it a hidden gem for diving enthusiasts.
  • Kassala: Nestled against the backdrop of the dramatic Taka Mountains, Kassala enchants with its bustling markets and unique Beja culture.
  • Al-Qadarif: A region celebrated for its fertile lands and traditional agriculture, giving visitors a glimpse into Sudan's rural life and customs.

Best Time to Go:

The optimal time for the Sudan Road Trip is between November and March when the climate is cooler and more pleasant, providing an ideal setting for exploration and travel.

Potential Risks:

Travelers may encounter challenges such as variable Road quality and developing infrastructure. It is crucial to be well-prepared with supplies and information and to remain vigilant while on the Road to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

  • Allocate around nine days to fully savor the experience and indulge in the myriad of attractions along the route.
  • The adventure is achievable on a modest budget and is suitable for drivers who are ready for an expedition of a lifetime.
  • The journey is dotted with UNESCO World Heritage Monuments, including the archaeological wonders of the Island of Meroe.
  • The Road Trip presents a rare chance to interact with Sudan's hospitable people and delve into the nation's layered history and traditions.

A good choice for:

The Sudan Road Trip is an extraordinary voyage of discovery for those yearning to traverse the unbeaten path, delve into a profound cultural legacy, and be captivated by the enchanting landscapes. With meticulous planning and an intrepid spirit, travelers will embark on a journey that promises to be both enlightening and thrilling.

Facts for safer driving in Sudan

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0
max speed urban max speed urban 60 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 90 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 120 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime on
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls no
seat belts seat belts yes

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