The Pharaohs & Nubians – Sudan
Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights
🔹 Discover the lesser-known pyramids of Meroë
🔹 Visit ancient Nubian temples & tombs
🔹 Experience traditional Sudanese hospitality
$3,100
Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights
🔹 Discover the lesser-known pyramids of Meroë
🔹 Visit ancient Nubian temples & tombs
🔹 Experience traditional Sudanese hospitality
Uncover the forgotten wonders of Sudan on The Pharaohs & Nubians tour, a journey through the heart of one of Africa’s most ancient and least explored civilizations. Known for its towering pyramids, ancient temples, and rich cultural heritage, Sudan offers a fascinating glimpse into the once-powerful Nubian Kingdoms that rivaled Egypt. This 9-day tour will take you to the Meroë Pyramids, Nubian temples, and remote tombs, offering a unique opportunity to experience Sudan’s history and culture far off the typical tourist path. Along the way, you'll experience traditional Sudanese hospitality, savor local cuisine, and explore a wealth of archaeological treasures.
Day 1: Arrival in Khartoum, Sudan
Arrive in Khartoum, Sudan's bustling capital, located at the confluence of the Blue Nile and White Nile rivers.
After checking into your hotel, take a guided tour of the city, visiting the National Museum of Sudan to see ancient Nubian artifacts, mummies, and relics from the Pharaonic and Nubian periods.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional Sudanese dinner and experience local hospitality.
Overnight in Khartoum.
Day 2: Khartoum – Nubian Museum & Local Markets
Spend the morning at the Nubian Museum, where you’ll learn about the Nubian kingdoms and their historical significance in Africa and Egypt. Admire ancient statues, pottery, and artifacts from the Kingdom of Kush.
In the afternoon, visit local markets in Khartoum, including the famous Souq Al Arabi, where you can shop for traditional Sudanese crafts, textiles, spices, and jewelry.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant with regional dishes like kisra (flatbread) and ful medames (stewed fava beans).
Overnight in Khartoum.
Day 3: Khartoum to Meroë
Travel from Khartoum to Meroë, the site of the famous Meroë Pyramids. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the pyramids of the ancient Kushite Kingdom, the Nubian civilization that ruled for centuries.
Explore the pyramids and learn about the history of the Meroitic Kingdom, which rivaled ancient Egypt in wealth and power. These lesser-known pyramids are distinct with their steep angles and smaller size, and they stand as a testament to the might of the ancient Nubian kings and queens.
Take in the panoramic views of the desert landscape and the Nile River.
Overnight in Meroë.
Day 4: Meroë Pyramids & Temple of Amun
Visit the Temple of Amun at Jebel Barkal, one of the most significant Nubian archaeological sites, located in the northern part of Sudan. The temple is believed to have been a royal center, associated with the gods of Egypt and Nubia.
Explore the surrounding archaeological sites, including tombs and temples that were integral to the ancient Kushite Kingdom.
Evening at leisure to relax and reflect on the day’s discoveries.
Overnight in Meroë.
Day 5: Meroë to Karima – Jebel Barkal
Travel to the ancient site of Karima and explore the Jebel Barkal mountains. Known as the “Mountains of God,” Jebel Barkal is home to several temples dedicated to the gods of ancient Nubia and Egypt, particularly the god Amun.
Visit the Barkal Temple, which once served as a royal religious center, and marvel at the impressive architecture and hieroglyphs.
Explore the surrounding ruins of the Royal City of Napata, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Kush.
Overnight in Karima.
Day 6: Karima – Nubian Villages & Local Culture
Visit Nubian villages near Karima, where you will have the opportunity to interact with local communities. Learn about their traditional crafts, music, and customs that have remained unchanged for centuries.
Participate in a cultural exchange and enjoy a traditional meal, experiencing authentic Sudanese hospitality.
Explore the surrounding areas and learn about the ancient agricultural practices of the Nubian people.
Overnight in Karima.
Day 7: Karima to Dongola
Journey to the town of Dongola, another historic city in Sudan that once served as the capital of the Kingdom of Makuria. Visit the local archaeological sites, including the Makurian Temples and ancient tombs that date back to the Christian era of Sudan.
Take in the beauty of the Nile River as it winds its way through this arid region, and explore the local markets for traditional Nubian goods.
Overnight in Dongola.
Day 8: Dongola to Khartoum
Travel back to Khartoum, where you’ll have a chance to visit the Tomb of the Mahdi, a historic site in the city that honors the leader of the 1881 Sudanese revolution.
Spend your final evening in Sudan with a farewell dinner, enjoying Sudanese music, traditional dishes, and celebrating the remarkable history and culture of the region.
Overnight in Khartoum.
Day 9: Departure from Khartoum
After breakfast, enjoy your final moments in Khartoum. Depending on your flight time, you may have the opportunity for some last-minute sightseeing or shopping.
Transfer to the airport for your departure.
Sudan is a country rich in ancient history, stretching back to the civilizations of the Nubians and the Kingdom of Kush, which flourished long before Egypt’s power. The Meroë Pyramids are located in the northeastern part of Sudan, in the Nubian Desert. Unlike Egypt’s famous pyramids, those of Meroë are smaller and steeper but equally impressive. Sudan also boasts a rich Nubian heritage, with temples, tombs, and monuments that reveal the depth of this civilization’s influence.
Khartoum, the capital, sits at the confluence of the Blue and White Niles, and is a dynamic city that blends modernity with ancient traditions. Outside the capital, you’ll find remote, awe-inspiring archaeological sites that are much less explored than those of Egypt, making this journey a truly unique adventure.
Climate: Sudan has a hot desert climate with extremely high temperatures, especially during summer months. The best time to visit is during the cooler months, from November to February.
Currency: Sudanese Pound (SDG).
Language: Arabic is the official language of Sudan, but many Nubian locals speak their own indigenous languages as well. English is widely understood in major cities.
Time Zone: Sudan is in the GMT +2 time zone.