Nubian Road Trip Itinerary
Experience the best of Nubia with an unforgettable 12-day road trip from Aswan in Egypt to Khartoum in Sudan. Along the way, you'll discover a mix of cultures, spectacular landscapes, and incredible historical sites.
At the start of your journey, explore UNESCO Heritage Sites in Aswan, such as the Great Temple of Abu Simbel and the ruins of Karima. Take in the rich history of the area as you follow the 1568km route, which offers excellent road conditions.
The best time of year to drive is between October and May, when you can appreciate the stunning desert landscapes and sand dunes. Along the way, you'll cross the border between Egypt and Sudan, so be sure to bring your passport.
This road trip provides an incredibly rewarding experience and is suitable for all drivers. With a fair budget, you can enjoy the sights and sounds of Nubia while making lasting memories.
12
number of days
1,559 km
route length
moderate
budget
explorer
good for
on the left
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Aswan
Distance 1,559 km
Driving time 24.5 h
Pace: fast
467.6 kWh
Airports
ASW
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Aswan is the perfect starting point for a road trip along the “Nubia Road Trip”. Located in Egypt and known as the “Pearl of the Nile”, Aswan is a bustling city full of history and culture.
A visit to Aswan should include a stop at the impressive Philae Temple. This ancient temple was moved from its original location to save it from the rising waters of the Aswan High Dam. Next, take a felucca ride along the Nile. This traditional sailboat ride is a great way to take in the stunning views of the river and the surrounding area.
If you’re looking for a unique experience, take a day trip to the Nubian Village of Seheil. Here you can explore the traditional Nubian culture and learn about the history of the area.
The closest international airport to Aswan is Aswan International Airport (ASW). Car rentals are available at the airport if you plan to travel by car.
Aswan is the ideal place to start your “Nubia Road Trip”. Visit the Philae Temple, take a felucca ride, and explore the Nubian village of Seheil to get the most out of your stay in this beautiful city.
1
Aswan
- Abu Simbel
Distance 284 km
Driving time 3.8 h
Pace: fast
85.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a road trip adventure of a lifetime! Starting from Aswan, Egypt, you will journey through the 283 km to Abu Simbel in less than 4 hours. Along the way, you will be met with incredible views of the Nile River and the desert oasis. You will also come across several UNESCO Heritage sites that provide a glimpse into the ancient history of the region. Be sure to take in the picturesque landscapes, scenic roads, and explore the temples, tombs, and monuments that you come across. This is just one of the stages of your journey, so make sure to take in everything you can! For more detailed information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Abu Simbel - Egypt - Africa - Road Trip - Earth Trekkers
Abu Simbel - Egypt - Africa - Road Trip - Lonely Planet
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2
Abu Simbel
- Tombos
Distance 423 km
Driving time 6.5 h
Pace: fast
126.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Take a stunning road trip beginning in Abu Simbel, Egypt and ending in Tombos, 423km away. The drive, which should take fewer than 6 hours, will take you along the Nile, past the Sudanese border, and across a ferry crossing. Along the way, you will be able to explore some of the most remarkable historical sites in the world, including two UNESCO World Heritage sites. Abu Simbel is home to two ancient temples, the Great Temple of Ramesses II and the Temple of Nefertari, that were relocated by the Aswan High Dam. Tombos is home to the archaeological site of the same name, a large ancient city with many burial mounds and other fascinating remains. During the drive, you will also be able to explore the ancient sites of Kurru and Sesebi, which are also UNESCO World Heritage sites. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please see the Itinerary of this stage.
Tombos - Egypt - Africa - Road Trip - Pixabay
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3
Tombos
- Karima
Distance 241 km
Driving time 3.9 h
Pace: fast
72.4 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an incredible road trip from Tombos, Sudan to Karima? This wonderful journey will take you through fascinating landscapes and historical sites, and will cover a distance of 251 km in less than 4 hours.
On your way, make sure to take breaks to admire the stunning surroundings. There are many remarkable places to visit, such as the archaeological sites of Musawwarat es Sufra, the Jebel Barkal mountain, and the ruins of the Temple of Amun.
When you reach Karima, you will find the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nuri, one of the most important archaeological sites in Sudan. Here, you can visit the pyramids of Taharqo and visit the ancient royal cemetery of Nuri.
If you wish to learn more about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, you can find all the information in the “Itinerary” of this stage.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an amazing adventure from Tombos to Karima!
Karima - Egypt - Africa - Road Trip - travel with brothers
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4
Karima
- Meroe
Distance 386 km
Driving time 7.4 h
Pace: modest
100.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for a road trip adventure that will bring you to the ancient and beautiful cities of Karima and Meroe? The two cities are located 386 km apart, and the drive will take less than 5 hours. Along the way, you will be able to see some spectacular sights, including the ancient pyramids of Meroe, the ancient city of Karima, and the archaeological sites of the Nile Valley.
Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the many historic sights scattered along the route. You can take a detour to visit the ruins of the city of Karima and the archaeological sites of the Nile Valley. You can also visit the pyramids of Meroe, one of the oldest pyramids in Sudan.
While you’re there, make sure to take in the stunning scenery of the Nile River and the surrounding desert. You’ll be able to find plenty of accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites along the way.
For more information about attractions, accommodation, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!
Meroe - Egypt - Africa - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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5
Meroe
- Khartoum
Distance 225 km
Driving time 2.8 h
Pace: fast
67.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Meroe to Khartoum! This 225 km journey takes less than four hours to complete. Along the way, you will have the chance to explore some of the most interesting historical sites in Sudan.
Start by visiting Meroe, an area known for its archaeological sites that date back to the ancient Kingdom of Kush. Here, you can admire the remains of royal pyramids, temples, and tombs. You can also marvel at the beauty of the Nile Valley, which is home to many species of migratory birds, as well as a variety of wildlife.
Continue your journey to Khartoum, the capital of Sudan. Here, you can explore its vibrant markets and explore the city’s many mosques, palaces, and museums. Don’t forget to visit the Blue Nile River, which is a popular attraction in Khartoum.
To make the most of your journey, make sure to check the "Itinerary" section of this stage for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your road trip from Meroe to Khartoum today!
Khartoum - Egypt - Africa - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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Khartoum
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The end of the Nubia Road Trip, Khartoum, is an exciting destination. Located at the confluence of the White and Blue Niles, this capital of Sudan is an oasis-city with a variety of attractions.
For those traveling by car, a must-see is the National Museum of Sudan, which features ancient artifacts and religious relics. In the old part of town, the Khartoum Grand Market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, and the nearby Souq Arabi offers a unique cultural experience.
The confluence of the two rivers, known as the Al-Mogran, is a great spot to watch the sun set. Nearby, the Presidential Palace and the National Assembly are worth a visit. For those who prefer outdoor activities, the banks of the Nile are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
Khartoum is also home to the University of Khartoum, a beautiful campus with an impressive collection of Islamic architecture. Visitors can also explore the city's many parks, including the Al-Amarat Park and the Al-Mogran Park.
Khartoum International Airport (KRT), Sudan's largest airport, is the closest international airport. With its many attractions and easy access to the rest of the country, Khartoum is the perfect way to end the Nubia Road Trip.
Nubian Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Aswan
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End:
Khartoum
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Distance:
1,559 km
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Stay:
12 days
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Getting there:
Aswan International Airport (ASW)
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When to drive:
January, February, March, November, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Take a mesmerizing 12-day Road Trip from Aswan, Egypt, to Khartoum, Sudan, covering a distance of 1568km through the heart of the historical Nubia region. This journey is a profound exploration of diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and monuments that have stood the test of time.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Aswan: Embark on your adventure at Aswan, the gateway to Nubia, where you can visit the majestic Philae Temple on its island, marvel at the engineering feat of the Aswan High Dam, and take a felucca ride on the Nile.
- Abu Simbel: Witness the awe-inspiring Great Temple of Abu Simbel, originally carved out of a mountainside in the 13th century BC by Pharaoh Ramses II. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was relocated in a monumental effort to save it from flooding caused by the creation of Lake Nasser.
- Wadi Halfa: Cross into Sudan and experience the tranquility of Wadi Halfa, a town with picturesque views over Lake Nasser.
- Karima: Venture to the ancient city of Napata near Karima and discover the ruins of the temples and pyramids of the Kushite kings, which echo the grandeur of their Egyptian neighbors to the north.
- Meroë: Be enchanted by the Meroë Pyramids, part of the archaeological sites of the Island of Meroë, another UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts more than 200 pyramids, remnants of the powerful Kushite and Meroitic civilizations.
Best Time to Go:
The most favorable time for this Road Trip is between October and May when the climate is mild and comfortable, allowing travelers to fully appreciate the desert landscapes and historical sites without enduring extreme heat.
Potential Risks:
- Border Crossing: Acquire the correct visas and travel permits beforehand, and be aware of the procedures for crossing from Egypt into Sudan.
- Desert Conditions: Anticipate remote stretches with potentially challenging weather and scarce services. Carry sufficient water, food, and emergency supplies.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Road Quality: The highway between Aswan and Khartoum is part of the Trans-African Highway network, providing generally good Road conditions and facilitating a smoother drive.
- Currency: Prepare to handle different currencies; Egypt uses the Egyptian pound (EGP), while Sudan uses the Sudanese pound (SDG).
- Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Budget: While this journey is moderately priced, prices can vary. Plan for accommodation, dining, and entrance fees to historical sites. Bargaining is commonplace in local markets.
A good choice for:
Embarking on this Road Trip through Nubia offers an unparalleled opportunity to forge unforgettable memories, trace the legacy of ancient empires, and immerse oneself in the stunning natural beauty of the Sahara. It's a voyage that not only reveals the splendors of the past but also the vibrant cultures of the present.
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