Port Sudan travel guide

Port Sudan, on the Red Sea, was founded by the British in 1909 to replace the old trading port of Suakin. Today, Port Sudan is most famous for its unspoiled off-shore coral reefs which make it one of the world’s most exciting diving destinations.

Port Sudan is also a great place to enjoy fresh seafood, hibiscus tea and a stroll along the sunny promenade.

Top things to see and do

• Scuba dive with sea turtles, manta rays, sharks and more around the Wingate Reef, one of the most unspoiled coral reefs in the world.
• Get to know the Port Sudan locals over a glass of karkady (hibiscus tea) in one of the cosy tea houses along the seafront.
• Hire a boat and dive down to the wreck of the Umbria, an Italian freighter sunk off the coast of Sudan during the Second World War.
• Enjoy fish and other seafood fresh from the Red Sea in local restaurants or buy it direct from the local fish market.

Tips for travellers

Take a 30-minute bus ride to see the ruined coral houses and mosques in the abandoned town of Suakin. Once Sudan’s main trading port, Suakin was replaced by Port Sudan when its harbour became too clogged with coral.