Port Sudan might be the first place to officially open up to tourists in Sudan, but don’t let that fool you—this place is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty that will make any trip here unforgettable. While we’re hopeful that more of Sudan will open up to tourism in the future, for now, Port Sudan is the perfect base for exploring what this largely undiscovered country has to offer.
At YPT, we’ve crafted a tour that allows you to experience Port Sudan’s fascinating blend of local life, stunning landscapes, and historical intrigue. But even if you’re not on one of our tours, Port Sudan still offers a lot to see, and it’s definitely worth considering as a destination. Here’s a guide to what makes Port Sudan so unique and why we are visiting right now.
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A Brief History of Port Sudan
Founded in the early 20th century by the British as a strategic port city, Port Sudan has long been a vital link between Sudan and the rest of the world. The city’s role as the country’s primary port has made it an important hub for trade, and it’s been crucial to Sudan’s economy for generations. But beyond its economic importance, Port Sudan is also known for its connections to the Red Sea, its fishing traditions, and its rich maritime history. Over the years, the city has seen the ebb and flow of global trade and cultural exchanges, all of which have left their mark on the city.
But what makes Port Sudan especially interesting for visitors is its status as the first major city in Sudan to officially open up to tourism. While many parts of Sudan are still off-limits, Port Sudan provides a window into the country’s history, culture, and daily life—without the crowds or commercialism found in more established tourist destinations.
What to Do in Port Sudan
Port Sudan isn’t a city of huge tourist attractions or flashy modern amenities, but what it lacks in polish, it makes up for in authenticity and charm. There’s plenty to see and do here, whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just experiencing local life.
Arous Beach & Red Sea Dive Resort
A real highlight of the region is the Red Sea Dive Resort, located about an hour north of the city at Arous Beach. The resort has a fascinating backstory—once known as a “holiday village run by spies,” it was a cover for a covert Mossad operation that helped smuggle Ethiopian Jews out of Sudan in the 1980s.
Today, the area offers pristine beaches, a chance to snorkel in the Red Sea, and a fascinating bit of Cold War history to explore. The resort itself is surrounded by stunning desert landscapes, and the chance to relax on the beach or around a campfire at night under the stars is one of the best ways to experience Sudan’s natural beauty.
Port Sudan Market & City Tour
Back in the city, the Port Sudan market offers a vibrant and bustling atmosphere, with traders selling everything from spices and textiles to fresh fish. It’s a great spot to get a sense of the local culture, where haggling is the norm and the energy of the marketplace is palpable.
The Red Sea Museum and Port Sudan Aquarium offer insight into the region’s marine life and its historic connection to the sea, with displays on everything from pearl diving to the trade routes that once made the Red Sea one of the most important waterways in the world.
A walk along the Port Sudan Corniche, the city’s waterfront promenade, gives you a chance to observe daily life and enjoy the relaxed rhythm of the city. It’s a good spot to people-watch and absorb the local atmosphere, from fishermen mending nets to families enjoying the sea breeze.
YPT’s Port Sudan Tour
While Port Sudan offers plenty to do independently, YPT can help you make the most of your visit with our carefully crafted tour. Arriving on ET348 from Addis Ababa, you’ll be met by our expert guides who will take you on a journey through the city and beyond. You’ll explore the history of Arous Beach and the Red Sea Dive Resort, where you’ll learn about its covert past, enjoy some snorkeling (optional), and unwind with a campfire under the stars.
In Port Sudan itself, we’ll take you through the local market, visit the Red Sea Museum, and explore the Port Sudan Aquarium, where you’ll learn about the region’s marine life and fishing traditions. Our city tour is designed to give you a genuine, hands-on experience of Sudan, without the typical tourist crowds.
The tour culminates with a chance to walk along the Port Sudan Corniche, before heading back to the airport for your flight out, leaving you with memories of a place that’s as authentic as it is fascinating.
Why Visit?
This is a place where history and culture come alive, offering a rare glimpse of Sudanese life that few tourists ever get to see. From the Red Sea resorts to the Port Sudan market, the city provides a diverse range of experiences for curious travelers. And with YPT’s Port Sudan tour, you get the chance to explore the best of the city, its surrounding beaches, and historical sites, all in a way that connects the past with the present.
And while the tour might be short and while we are truly hoping the country reopens, it certainly has enough to offer country collectors.
Click to see our Sudan Tours.
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