Red Sea Coast (Red Sea State)
Pristine coral reefs and historic ports 🐠
⚠️ SAFETY WARNING: Although Port Sudan is currently a humanitarian hub, government agencies (including CA, USA, UK, AU, IE, and NZ) advise travelers to avoid all travel to the Red Sea Coast due to the critical national security situation. The risk of conflict spreading and strained infrastructure make travel unsafe. Families are strongly urged to consult their own government's official travel advisory before considering a trip.
The Red Sea Coast of Sudan offers a starkly different environment from the rest of the country, blending maritime heritage with spectacular underwater geography. The region's gateway is Port Sudan, a bustling harbor city that serves as the country's main trade link to the world. Just offshore lies the Sanganeb Marine National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This isolated coral atoll rises from the deep ocean floor, renowned for its crystal-clear water, steep drop-offs, and vibrant marine life including hammerhead sharks, dolphins, and manta rays. It is one of the most unspoiled diving destinations in the Red Sea.
South of the modern port lies the historic ghost town of Suakin. Once a wealthy trading island connecting Africa to Jeddah and beyond, Suakin is built almost entirely from coral blocks. Today, the ruins of its multi-story merchant houses crumble slowly into the sea, creating a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere that speaks of centuries of Ottoman and Arab influence. The legend says this was the port from which the Queen of Sheba sailed to meet King Solomon. The mainland connection, El-Geyf, hosts a daily market where local Beja tribes trade livestock and goods.
Inland, the coast is backed by the rugged Red Sea Hills, a dry and rocky mountain range that separates the sea from the interior desert. These hills are crisscrossed by wadis that occasionally flash flood, bringing life to hardy acacia trees and gazelles. To the north, Dungonab Bay is another marine sanctuary, home to a significant population of dugongs. The climate here is hot and humid, but the sea breeze provides relief. For families interested in marine biology and history, this coastline represents a unique convergence of desert terrain and rich ocean biodiversity, though current conditions strictly limit access.
Click a region to explore
Activities & Best Times
Beach resorts, marine activities: diving, snorkelling, kite surfing, wind surfing, sailing
Home to the Sanganeb Atoll, this region offers some of the world's most pristine and least-crowded diving and snorkeling experiences. Peak months provide ideal 25-32°C air temperatures, while the extreme heat of May-September (averaging over 34°C with peaks of 41°C) makes beach activities uncomfortable.
Sport tourism, fitness activities, active recreation
A premier global destination for elite-level diving and sailing due to incredible sea visibility and healthy reef systems. Peak months align with moderate air temperatures (15-28°C) that prevent physical exhaustion, whereas summer months are dangerously hot for active outdoor sports.
Hiking, wildlife, outdoor exploration, ecotourism
Exceptional marine biodiversity and untouched wilderness areas offer authentic exploration for families seeking a raw, non-commercialized nature experience. Peak conditions occur during the cooler winter months; the summer heat is too intense for safe or enjoyable outdoor exploration.
Urban tourism, museums, historical sites, architecture
The historic coral-stone ruins of Suakin and the authentic atmosphere of Port Sudan provide a deep, unpolished cultural journey. Travel is best during the temperate winter season, as the high summer temperatures and humidity in this coastal desert climate are prohibitive for walking tours.
Learning experiences, scientific sites, historical education
Features significant archaeological value at Suakin and unique marine research potential at UNESCO-listed Sanganeb. Educational exploration is most viable in the coolest months (Jan-Feb) when the desert climate remains within comfortable learning ranges below 26°C.
Attractions (13 total)
Beach / Coastal Recreation Area
Dungonab Bay and Mukkawar Island Marine National Park
Mohammed Qol
This protected marine area offers pristine beaches and is a globally significant habitat for dugongs, sea turtles, and manta rays.
Sanganeb Marine National Park
Port Sudan
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring a unique atoll with vibrant coral reefs and a historic British-built lighthouse accessible by boat.
Port Sudan Corniche
Port Sudan
A popular public waterfront promenade where families gather to enjoy the sea breeze, harbor views, and local street food.
Old Suakin
Suakin
An ancient coral-built port city on an island that served as a major trade hub, now offering historic ruins and coastal views.
Castle / Palace / Historic Site
Old City of Suakin
Suakin
Explore the atmospheric ruins of an ancient coral-stone port city that once served as a major Ottoman-era trading hub.
Sanganeb Lighthouse
Port Sudan
A historic British-built stone lighthouse standing on a UNESCO-listed coral atoll, offering panoramic views of the Red Sea.
Road Trips & Scenic Drives
The Sinkat Pass and Erkowit Road
Port Sudan
Approximately 120km of paved mountain highway (2-3 hours). This dramatic route climbs from the Red Sea coast into the rugged Red Sea Hills, featuring steep hairpin turns and granite peaks. It culminates in the Erkowit Plateau, known as the 'Green Resort' of Sudan, offering panoramic views of the desert and sea from 1,200 meters above sea level.
Visit website →Dungonab Bay Coastal Route
Port Sudan
160km paved road (3-4 hours) heading north from Port Sudan. This route tracks between the Red Sea Hills and the coastline, leading to the UNESCO-listed Dungonab Bay and Mukkawar Island Marine National Park. The drive offers stark, beautiful vistas of untouched desert meeting the sea, leading to remote fishing villages like Mohammed Qol.
Visit website →Port Sudan to Suakin Coastal Road
Port Sudan
60km paved coastal highway (1 hour). A straightforward but culturally significant drive connecting the modern port to the ancient coral city of Suakin. The route runs parallel to the Red Sea, offering views of the turquoise water and salt pans, frequently passing camel herds and Beja nomadic settlements.
Visit website →Historic Town / Village / Cultural Area
Erkowit Hill Station
Erkowit
A scenic mountain village known for its cool climate, unique vegetation, and historic summer retreats that provide a refreshing contrast to the coastal heat.
National Park / Nature Reserve
Erkowit (Arkowit) Mist Oasis
Suakin
A unique high-altitude nature reserve in the Red Sea Hills known as a 'mist oasis' with lush vegetation and rare dragon blood trees.
Natural Feature / Scenic Site
Erkowit (Arkweet)
Erkowit
Located in the Red Sea Hills, this scenic hill station is famous for its unique mist-shrouded peaks, rare flora, and panoramic mountain views.
Hiking & Cycling Routes
Erkowit Plateau Trails (Jebel Sit)
Erkowit
Approx 8km network of moderate hiking paths located in the 'Mist Oasis' of the Red Sea Hills. Typical duration is 3-5 hours with an elevation gain of roughly 300m. The most popular route leads to the summit of Jebel Sit (Mount of the Lady), offering panoramic views of the Sudanese highlands and unique endemic flora such as the endangered Dragon Tree (Dracaena ombet). There are no formal bike or equipment rental companies in the village; hikers typically arrive via private transport from Port Sudan and may hire local guides.
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