Must See

Note: special permits must be obtained from the Passport and Immigration Office, Ministry of Interior, Khartoum for any travel outside Khartoum.

Khartoum

The main attraction of the capital is its location at the confluence of the Blue Nile and White Nile. Venture up on a ferris wheel for commanding views of the two mighty rivers merging into one. Then check out the fun atmosphere of the souks and haggle for the best price - or visit Omdurman's (the old national capital) camel market. Visitors looking for souvenirs may also find handicrafts in the reception halls of bigger hotels and in several shops in the centre.

Other highlights include the Khalifa's House Museum, which details Sudan's more recent history, especially the reign of the Mahdi (1881-1899), and the well-organised National Museum, which contains archaeological treasures dating back to 4000 BC and earlier.

Meroe

The ancient city of Meroe was the centre of the Nubian kingdom around 300 BC. It is now home to many ancient pyramids, built to house the bodies of former Kings and Queens, and has been described as one of the largest archaeological sites in the world.

The Red Sea

The Red Sea is one of the biggest attractions in Sudan, and its transparent waters are home to some excellent wreck diving, marine life and coral reefs. You can also visit the ruins of Suakin, a former Ottoman port built of coral houses. Erkowit, 1,200 m (3,930ft) above sea level, is a beautiful resort in the coastal mountains and is famed for its evergreen vegetation.

Dinder National Park

This 6,475 sq km reserve, located southeast of Khartoum on the Ethiopian border is home to a wide variety of wild animals including giraffes, lions, leopards, bushbuck and kudu. There are also many species of birds, such as the crown crane, guinea fowl, pelican, vulture, kingfisher and stork. A good base for entering the park is the village of Binder. The conditions are difficult, but the friendly nature of the people may well make up for this.

Jebel Marra

Jebel Marra is an extinct volcano dominating the western skyline, and is the highest peak in the Darfur region at over 3,000 metres. At its base lies the town of Nyala, surrounded by volcanic lakes, waterfalls, rolling scenery and orchards. If you venture towards the crater you will be able to rest your limbs in the hot springs.