Overview
Port Sudan is Sudan's principal seaport on the Red Sea coast, and today it's also the country's main gateway for international travellers. Beyond its role as a working port city, the surrounding coastline is the real draw: some of the least-dived, best-preserved coral reefs in the world, tucked away from the crowds of the Egyptian Red Sea resorts further north. For UK travellers, flights to Port Sudan usually mean booking with an eye on connections rather than searching for a non-stop service, so a little planning goes a long way.
Best time to fly to Port Sudan
The most comfortable months to visit run from November to March, when daytime temperatures are warm rather than fierce and sea conditions along the coast are generally calm. Summer (June to August) brings intense heat, often well above 40°C, so it's best avoided unless you're acclimatised. Divers in particular favour the cooler season, when visibility on the reefs is at its best. Use the When to book chart above to see how fares to Port Sudan tend to move across the year and plan your trip around the better-value windows.
Airlines and routes
There are no direct flights to Port Sudan from the UK, so journeys are routed via a connecting hub. Depending on the itinerary, that typically means a change in Cairo with EgyptAir, in Addis Ababa with Ethiopian Airlines, in Istanbul with Turkish Airlines, or via a Gulf hub such as Jeddah or Dubai. Total journey time from London is usually in the region of 10 to 14 hours including the layover, though this varies by route and connection length. Comparing carriers is worthwhile, as the choice of hub can make a noticeable difference to both price and travel time.
Things to do in Port Sudan
Port Sudan's appeal lies largely along its coastline, with a handful of standout sites within easy reach of the city.
- Sanganeb Marine National Park: A remote coral atoll and UNESCO World Heritage site, prized by divers for its dramatic drop-offs and abundant reef life.
- Suakin: The atmospheric ruins of a centuries-old Ottoman-era port town just south of the city, built from coral stone.
- Dungonab Bay and Mukkawar Island: A second UNESCO-listed marine park known for seasonal whale shark sightings and pristine reefs.
- Port Sudan's harbour and old quarter: A relaxed introduction to the city's trading history, with a working port that's been the country's maritime lifeline for over a century.
- Red Sea diving and snorkelling: Numerous reef sites accessible by boat, offering some of the least-disturbed coral in the region.
At Port Sudan New International Airport (PZU)
Port Sudan New International Airport sits a short distance from the city centre, with taxis the most straightforward way to complete the journey. Pre-arranging transfers or agreeing a fare before setting off is sensible, as is confirming your onward transport plans in advance given the airport's more limited infrastructure compared with major UK airports.
Top tips for finding cheap flights to Port Sudan
- Book several months ahead where possible, since fares on connecting routes to Port Sudan can rise sharply closer to departure.
- Flying midweek, rather than at weekends, often opens up lower fares on the connecting legs.
- Keep your dates flexible and compare a few days either side of your ideal departure using the price charts on this page.
- Compare airlines and hub options, as the routing via Cairo, Addis Ababa or a Gulf city can vary considerably in both price and total journey time.
Travel essentials
UK passport holders need a visa to enter Sudan; requirements and application routes can change, so always check current entry rules and the latest FCDO travel advice before booking. The local currency is the Sudanese Pound (SDG), though it's worth carrying some US dollars or pounds sterling for exchange on arrival. Comprehensive travel insurance and up-to-date vaccinations, including protection against yellow fever and malaria precautions, are strongly recommended for this region.
