Best Sudan Tour Companies
4 Travel Providers meet your criteria (Providers 1 to 4 shown)
Premier
Exodus Travels
View Profile
Total Trips 546 Trips
Average Price
$ 312 per day
Size Global Operator
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
At first there were problems with…
At first there were problems with sorting out my discount entitlement. After discovery that l had booked several trips under a previous/older email the matter was satisfactorily resolved
An excellent trip
An excellent trip - just what I wanted. Encountering a very new kind of landscape for me - mountains and deserts. (We didn't see a drop of flowing water the first 4 days - and only as much snow as you could make a snowball out of.) All was very well organised - tents, routes, ECXELLENT food - even got fresh picnic fare on top of a mountain!
Easy to book our Amalfi Walking Tour…
Easy to book our Amalfi Walking Tour holiday, advisor was knowledgeable and efficient. Group flights were expensive so we opted for regional flights which were lower price but needed transport from airport to hotel which was organised by our advisor.
With over 47 years of experience with small group adventure travel, Exodus specializes in active cultural, walking & trekking, cycling and responsible wildlife tours. They offer more than 600 itineraries across more than 100 countries.
Adventure can take the form of serious and active adventures -- which may involve adrenaline-producing, off-the-beaten-path roughing-it trips to the most remote areas of the world -- or food and wine, premium (five-star), family, or cultural adventures to iconic destinations, which involve more comforts and amenities.
What Makes Exodus Stand Out?
Booking flexibility
Award Winning
Tailor made adventures
Responsible tourism
Expert guides with extensive past experience
Exodus understands that new difficulty that comes with traveling during the coronavirus. They are dedicated to offering flexible services so travelers can book with confidence. Travelers can feel safe when planning their next trip with Exodus’s promised refund guarantee, Covid-19 refund commitment and 21-day no fee flexibility.
The refund guarantee means that travelers will be refunded if they have to cancel for any reason. This also includes cancellations due to the coronavirus. Travelers can also transfer their trip for free up to 21 days before departure.
Creating great and adventurous trips is the top priority for Exodus. They offer many pre-planned tours, but they also work with travelers to add or change existing itineraries or even create one from scratch. This allows travelers to create the perfect trip that fits their travel style, schedule and budget.
Exodus is also dedicated to responsible travel in all of their tours. They strive to improve life for the planet, places and people they visit. Instead of meeting the base guidelines for eco-friendly travel, Exodus seeks more ways to leave a positive impact with their trips. This includes economic empowerment for local communities, reducing waste wherever possible and making lower carbon choices for their adventures.
Each trip is led by a knowledgeable guide who has extensive past experience which adds benefits to any trip. Before working with Exodus, many guides were professional archaeologists, wildlife guides, overland drivers, mountain leaders, diving and ski specialists as well as mountain bike gurus.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Exodus?
All ages
Active travelers
Outdoor and nature enthusiasts
Exodus travelers are a diverse bunch, and average between 35-65 years of age. However, any age traveler is welcome. Exodus creates great packages and tours for families as well as fully customized trips created from scratch.
The Exodus traveler is very active, loves being adventurous, and will be less invested in luxury accommodations or a lot of museum time. You are game for anything, love the travel experience of getting to know a new destination through outdoor adventure, and learning about the culture from local guides and experts.
These trips are great for those who already have a base level of physical fitness, and enjoy meeting new physical challenges. Exodus provides physical fitness guides to show how much training you should expect to do prior to departure.
Top Destinations
Exodus leads 600 + trips spanning all seven continents. From African safaris, to walking and wine in Italy and France to the sun-drenched Croatian coast, to trekking Patagonia, wildlife cruises in the Galapagos and cycling in Vietnam, Exodus has built out their global presence and has active adventures in nearly any destination a traveler could desire.
Exodus Travel Style
Exodus tours are designed for the active and adventurous traveler. This means that most tours include activities such as walking, cycling and safaris. However, for travelers who enjoy cultural and culinary, there are tours and activities for you as well. Exodus offers cultural trips based around food, festivals or family to name a few.
These active adventures vary by way of difficulty from level 1-10, attracting casual cyclists and hikers as well as enthusiasts looking to really push their physical limits.
Travelers can choose from guided groups, private groups, self guided tours or solo traveling. Within each travel style, Exodus offers all the same activities from cycling to wildlife and provides the top itineraries for that specific style to help travelers find what’s best for them.
Most accommodations are charming and locally run with 2-3 star ratings. There are some premium departures available as well as unique accommodation experiences whenever possible. Exodus travelers don’t mind the lower level of luxury as the experience and destination is the highest priority.
Why Choose a Tour With Exodus?
If you love experiencing a new destination whether that’s through the culture, unique wildlife or beautiful outdoors through active and adventurous activities, then Exodus is perfect for you. You love that sense of discovery, of challenging yourself and want to travel responsibly.
Exodus offers great tours already fully packaged, but for the traveler that likes more control over their perfect trip, they offer customizable trips. Travelers get to choose not only the destination but each activity they will partake in to perfectly match their travel style and budget.
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Preferred
Intrepid Travel
View Profile
Total Trips 1,001 Trips
Average Price
$ 203 per day
Size Global Operator
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Sudan
1 Tours in Sudan
intrepid charges more than 50% than the local companies for extras
This review is for the company Intrepid. first, don't pay for extra on your trip, they charge more than double of what the local cost, example, we paid 85 USdollars each for a hotel room, when we arrived the hotel was a 2 star hotel,with the cost for 40 USD, for more than 50% higher, no chance of getting that cost down. we paid for airport pickup, they forgot us, we called the contact and were hung up on. we were charged 250 usd more then if we had paid the actual company for a balloon ride, all in all we paid almost 600 usd more because we booked through intrepid travel. All hotel/camping grounds are subpar. Suggest that you not choose Intripid/ I'll not do this company in the future.
Intrepid just gets it right every time!
Brilliant local tour leader with lots of knowledge and recommendations, local guides who share their great knowledge and insights when visiting a village/palace/temple/fort/etc, small group tours of often like-minded people so you connect very easily with your fellow travellers, authentic and fun experiences (for example street foodie tour by auto rickshaws or tuk-tuks), all the logistics of travelling is taking care of making it so much easier and efficient compared to when you would had to arrange it yourself.
total confidence
PREMIUM INDIA
great tour leader, excellent hotels and a varied itinerary. This all adds up to a wonderful experience where all we had to doing was sit back and enjoy the trip. Very confident in the planning and organisation...well done again intrepid
Intrepid Travel - Quick Facts
Founded in 1989
No Single Supplement (rare exceptions)
Small Groups: max 16 on most trips (10 max during Covid-19)
Average Age: 48
Travel Style: Cultural immersion, adventure, overland, sustainable, and active
Accommodation Style: Camping, Hostels, 3 /4 star hotels, locally owned
Average Tour Price: $2,377
Top Regions: Asia, Africa, Europe, South America
Other Brands: Peregrine
Commonly compared with G Adventures »
Intrepid Travel is all about ‘real life experiences.’ With a name meaning fearless and adventurous, Intrepid offers nothing less than big travel adventures -- such as an 11-day hike through Papua New Guinea. However, Intrepid is broad-based enough to offer varied experiences such as food tours in Greece, complete with a visit to a Kalamata olive grove.
What Makes Intrepid Travel Stand Out?
Responsible travel
Industry experts
Authentic experiences
Small groups
Intrepid believes that with great travel experiences comes great responsibility. They are focused on responsible tourism which includes not only treading lightly but also making a positive impact on the destinations they send travelers to. As a Certified B Corp since 2018, Intrepid donates to grass root projects around the world, are a carbon-neutral business and are committed to animal welfare.
Travelers can rest assured when they travel with Intrepid because they will be in the hands of industry experts. Intrepid partners with local leaders to be guides for travelers. This gives travelers first hand experiences from someone who knows the area well.
Above all else, Intrepid strives to get its travelers off the beaten path and under the surface of the local culture. To accomplish this, group sizes are small, maximum of 16 on most trips. This allows for more use of local transportation and lodging, along with fostering cultural immersion. Intrepid also employs local English-speaking leaders who act more as a resource for local exploration than do typical ‘guides,’ shepherding groups from one place to another.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Intrepid Travel?
All ages
All types of travelers
Cultural enthusiasts
Intrepid is one of the early pioneers of the “adventure”-style guided trip. Despite its informal beginnings and emphasis on younger, highly adventurous travelers, Intrepid has expanded to a global company with a broad range of trips to fit all ages.
Intrepid divides its small-group trips into three separate styles of travel, all priced accordingly. “Basix,” for budget travelers, keep inclusions to a minimum and offer plenty of free time. “Original” journeys offer more included activities and hotels, while “Comfort” trips offer luxury experiences that include the highest level of included activities and standards of accommodation, as well as roomier vehicles. No matter what kind of traveler you are, there is a style right for your specific desires.
The age range on Intrepid tours varies widely from tour to tour, and they are welcoming to all ages. The only exception to this are their 18-29 themed tours which are specifically for that age group.
Intrepid travelers have a real sense of adventure - whether this means hard adventure, or simply going deeper off the beaten path. Interacting with locals is an important factor when you travel, as is gaining a unique cultural perspective. A sense of fun is also essential, whether it means going out at night with your tour mates, trying new foods, or exploring the local markets.
Which is better? Intrepid Travel or G Adventures?
Commonly compared, both G Adventures and Intrepid Travel specialize in culturally immersive and off-the-beaten-path experiences. They are top companies to consider if you enjoy local & authetic travel and value having lots of free time during the itinerary. See our ultimate guide to decide which is right for you: Intrepid vs G Adventures, full comparison »
Top Destinations
Originally focused on small group adventure tours to Asia, Intrepid has expanded rapidly over the years, while maintaining its classic, adventurous, and immersive style. Today Intrepid Travel offers more than 1,000 different experiences in over 100 countries, on all seven continents. Regions with the most trips include Asia, South America, Africa, and Europe.
Does Intrepid Travel include flights?
While all your internal transportation is taken care of, often utilizing traditiona local methods such as tuk-tuks in Thailand, international flights to and from your home and the tour destination are not included. Their travel specialists can recommend where to look for flights however.
Intrepid Travel Style
Intrepid enjoys using local, unique forms of transportation. You might find yourself traveling by felucca in Egypt or in a tuk-tuk on the best Thailand tour of your life.
Accommodations, which could range from guesthouses to home stays, are also locally owned, allowing a more authentic taste of the region while contributing to the local economy.
There are a few broad travel styles to choose from when deciding on an Intrepid tour:
1. Basix - Budget travelers who don’t mind, and in fact prefer, simple accommodations - camping and homestays with basic amenities, and crave a lot of free time for exploring independently will love these tours. Public transportation is used exclusively so pack light! These trips often attract a younger crowd who love the idea of throwing a backpack on, keep plenty of room for the unexpected in their schedule, and allocate their travel funds towards spontaneous bus tickets and street food instead of museum tours and 5 star restaurants.
2. Original - These trips take the backpacker spirit of local immersion, incorporating all the benefits that come with going with a planned itinerary. This style is called “Original” because it’s the type of travel that put Intrepid on the map...pun intended. Accommodations are still simple and budget minded - often homestays are used to give you a true sense of place, personality, and culture. Mostly public transportation is used.
3. Comfort - Intrepid is known for the active adventure style of travel and these trips keep that mentality, with a few more creature comforts thrown into the mix. You can expect higher luxury accommodations that include a wider variety of included amenities, transportation is mostly private, though you can still expect to use some public transport, as is the Intrepid way. More meals are included in the trip price, and more group activities - which means a bit less free time to explore on your own.
Why Choose a Tour With Intrepid Travel?
Intrepid is a good tour company if you don’t mind foregoing some creature comforts for a truly authentic, local experience. If you enjoy meeting locals when traveling, sampling new and exciting foods, and traveling in mixed-aged groups of 10-16 people, Intrepid could be a good fit for you.
It’s important to note, sometimes “ample free time” can be a blessing and a curse. It sounds great on paper, but if you’re looking to maximize your dollar and your vacation time, be sure you understand the implications of having a lot of free time during your itinerary.
For some travelers this is an absolute requirement, but for others it can be tough to branch off and explore independently - you also need to make sure you allocate enough travel money for independent meals.
The tour leaders are great resources of information for how to spend your free time, but if you like having a full day scheduled from breakfast to dinner, Intrepid may not be the best company for you.
Lastly, if sustainable and responsible travel is important to you, Intrepid has poured millions of dollars into local economies, and has a very strong emphasis on responsible travel. So you can feel good knowing that your money helps support some of the innkeepers, vendors, and communities that you’ll meet along the way.
Is Intrepid Travel Safe?
Yes, Intrepid is a very safe company to travel with and they take the safety of their tour goers very seriously.
In response to Covid-19, Intrepid has reduced their group size to an average of 10 people. Their guides have been fully trained on new sanitation requirements and Covid-19 health and safety guidelines.
They have also implemented flexible booking options.
General Covid-19 Travel News
Some countries are beginning to reopen to international visitors, with entry restrictions, while others have remained closed.
Keep checking back regularly to keep up to date with the frequently changing situation of the coronavirus.
Want more information about travel safety and the coronavirus? Read about where it's safe to travel to in 2020 >>
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Preferred
Peregrine Adventures
View Profile
Total Trips 13 Trips
Average Price
$ 396 per day
Size Global Operator
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Sudan
1 Tours in Sudan
Expect I'm not the only one
they are 'fair weather friends'
I did not receive so much as an email advising of changes in the cancellation policy, discovered when I contacted them to cancel.
I now receive automated emails/msgs as I attempt to work through this.
The email states I may contact them on 31 July to discuss the matter!....4 months away.
I'm absolutely stunned by how shoddy this outfit is....who knew?!
Out of pocket $4000.
Expect I'm not the only one.
Highly Recommended
Currently experiencing “Cruising the Thai Islands” with Peregrine and I am loving everything! The local knowledge and immersive experiences are second to none and our guides are extraordinary
Highly Recommended
Currently experiencing “Cruising the Thai Islands” with Peregrine and I am loving everything! The local knowledge and immersive experiences are second to none and our guides are extraordinary
With Peregrine Adventures, ‘anywhere is possible.’ Based in Australia, Peregrine has led small-group, ‘soft’ adventure-style trips worldwide for over 30 years. It was one of the first operators to employ local leaders, a practice that is now widespread in guided travel.
What Makes Them Stand Out?
While considering itself an adventure travel company, Peregrine promises to “smooth down the bumps and rough edges.” In short, it’s more about soft adventure with added comforts than roughing it. Group sizes are kept small, with no more than 16 travelers per trip. Its philosophy is that while “seeing the famous sites is a must, it’s those memories of wandering through a little village or sharing dinner with a local family that leave a lasting impression.” The small-group aspect allows for more time to absorb the nature of the places visited, and to make a minimal environmental impact on them as well.
Who Travels With Them?
While Peregrine is a global company, many of its travelers originate from Australia and New Zealand. However, their groups can be geographically diverse, with most travelers 50+ years of age.
Where Do They Operate? Peregrine offers a wide variety of exciting global destinations, with 200 trips across 80 countries -- spanning from Egypt to Turkey to Canada trips! The company is perhaps best known for its Himalayan trekking excursions to far-flung destinations including Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. It was a pioneer in high-altitude trekking and these trips remain among their most popular today.
How Does it Work?
Most travel is by private, air-conditioned minibus, but you might find yourself on a houseboat in Kerala, India, a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka, or a mountain lift on the best Switzerland tour you've ever experienced. Lodging and dining is at smaller, locally run hotels and restaurants. You might also dine with locals from time to time, and stay with local families or at campsites as well.
Why Travel With Them?
Peregrine is a good choice if you’re looking for a bit of a softer landing with respect to transportation and accommodations but still crave an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience. If you’re looking for more individual travel, Peregrine will craft independent journeys, arrange self-guided walking and cycling tours, or arrange private group and tailor-made trips. It’s your choice. Peregrine also helps support various community and conservation projects via its ties with the Intrepid Foundation.
Tweets by PeregrineSpirit
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Air by Pleasant
#6 Pick of 12 Sudan Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 0 Trip
Size Global Operator
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
1-4 of 4 Providers Shown
4 Provider(s)
Reviews Write a Review
An excellent trip for those who love camping and deserts. With the added
astounding sights of Pharaonic temples and buildings and the wonderful sight
of the Meroitic pyramids. All to be seen without crowds of tourists.
Lovely friendly and welcoming people and a sense of complete safety.
Some long often very bumpy off-road driving, exciting at times and a bit
tedious in places.
Landscapes ranging from rocky outcrops to endless flat terrain of sand or
rock.
Camp food was very good considering the conditions. Our cook produced some
amazing meals from a gas ring and charcoal fire.
Seeing the almost pristine paintings in tombs, looking fresh and colourful
depicting gods and people from thousands of years ago.
Our group leader, Abdel was so knowledgeable about everything, the history
and stories behind what we saw. He was attentive and patient, never failing
to do his best to answer every question put to him.
He looked after our welfare and gave advice where needed.
Do pack very carefully and keep the weight to a minimum. My bag was 12kgs and
contained everything I needed. And I did use everything in it.
You do not need to take your own water bottle. 600ml water bottles were
available at all times (if a little warm sometimes). A small tin bowl (like a
dog's food bowl) was provided for basic washing in the desert camps. With a
little care it was possible to have a strip wash. Hand gel and wet wipes were
essential items. I also took a camping trowel for digging toilet holes.
A torch and tent light were essential as well.
Desert wild camping has to be one of the most wonderful experiences. At night
it was warm (12c) and the sky, mesmerising with horizon to horizon stars
(including meteorites being clearly seen).
And the silence.
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
A
Anonymous
February 2018
An excellent trip for those who love camping and deserts. With the added
astounding sights of Pharaonic temples and buildings and the wonderful sight
of the Meroitic pyramids. All to be seen without crowds of tourists.
Lovely friendly and welcoming people and a sense of complete safety.
Some long often very bumpy off-road driving, exciting at times and a bit
tedious in places.
Landscapes ranging from rocky outcrops to endless flat terrain of sand or
rock.
Camp food was very good considering the conditions. Our cook produced some
amazing meals from a gas ring and charcoal fire.
Seeing the almost pristine paintings in tombs, looking fresh and colourful
depicting gods and people from thousands of years ago.
Our group leader, Abdel was so knowledgeable about everything, the history
and stories behind what we saw. He was attentive and patient, never failing
to do his best to answer every question put to him.
He looked after our welfare and gave advice where needed.
Do pack very carefully and keep the weight to a minimum. My bag was 12kgs and
contained everything I needed. And I did use everything in it.
You do not need to take your own water bottle. 600ml water bottles were
available at all times (if a little warm sometimes). A small tin bowl (like a
dog's food bowl) was provided for basic washing in the desert camps. With a
little care it was possible to have a strip wash. Hand gel and wet wipes were
essential items. I also took a camping trowel for digging toilet holes.
A torch and tent light were essential as well.
Desert wild camping has to be one of the most wonderful experiences. At night
it was warm (12c) and the sky, mesmerising with horizon to horizon stars
(including meteorites being clearly seen).
And the silence.
Read More
astounding sights of Pharaonic temples and buildings and the wonderful sight
of the Meroitic pyramids. All to be seen without crowds of tourists.
Lovely friendly and welcoming people and a sense of complete safety.
Some long often very bumpy off-road driving, exciting at times and a bit
tedious in places.
Landscapes ranging from rocky outcrops to endless flat terrain of sand or
rock.
Camp food was very good considering the conditions. Our cook produced some
amazing meals from a gas ring and charcoal fire.
Seeing the almost pristine paintings in tombs, looking fresh and colourful
depicting gods and people from thousands of years ago.
Our group leader, Abdel was so knowledgeable about everything, the history
and stories behind what we saw. He was attentive and patient, never failing
to do his best to answer every question put to him.
He looked after our welfare and gave advice where needed.
Do pack very carefully and keep the weight to a minimum. My bag was 12kgs and
contained everything I needed. And I did use everything in it.
You do not need to take your own water bottle. 600ml water bottles were
available at all times (if a little warm sometimes). A small tin bowl (like a
dog's food bowl) was provided for basic washing in the desert camps. With a
little care it was possible to have a strip wash. Hand gel and wet wipes were
essential items. I also took a camping trowel for digging toilet holes.
A torch and tent light were essential as well.
Desert wild camping has to be one of the most wonderful experiences. At night
it was warm (12c) and the sky, mesmerising with horizon to horizon stars
(including meteorites being clearly seen).
And the silence.
This is a fantastic trip and a great adventure. I loved every moment of it, and would definitely recommend this trip to anyone interested in an exciting and different destination. Being able to visit magnificent ancient temples, pyramids and tombs, with not a single other tourist there other than our group (and not a single souvenir seller or drink stall, or even a fence!) is remarkable. Sudan has to one of tourism's best kept secrets - try to visit now whilst it remains so.
One would think travelling through desert for days on end would be boring, but nothing could be further from the truth - the landscape is always changing from open flat nothingness to large sand dunes to moonscrapes with enormous balancing boulders, to areas where petrified wood and sea shells show evidence of the forest and lakes that the desert once was millions of years ago. Add the incredible night skies and the appearance from nowhere of a nomad woman or man who will proudly show you their desert home, and you have an experience that is anything but boring.
Abdul, our leader, was fantastic - always happy, informative, and willing to discuss honestly all issues regarding Sudan, both ancient and modern. The drivers were all great, and Barkir, our cook, was incredible - the quality and amount of food he produced over a gas ring was remarkable. I had hoped to lose some weight, thinking that the food we would have would be ptetty basic - boy, was I wrong! His aubergine salad was to die for.
As mentioned by others, a couple of packs of wet wipes will come in very handy, although bowls of water are available for a sponge down. Bring a comfy pillow, and depending on whether you have extra days in Khartoum before or after the trip, I would not change more than USD 100, as there really is hardly anything to spend money on, and you can't change back Sudanese Pounds to any other currency at the airport when you leave, so you will have to spend any excess you have.
I think many people are put off traveling to Sudan as they think it is unsafe - the areas this trip travels to are far from the troubles in Darfur, and at no stage did I feel unsafe anywhere. In fact everywhere we went we were warmly welcomed by the local people, and there was no "baksheesh" requests or hostility at all - in fact the complete opposite. Anyone interested in history and adventure travel needs to get themselves to Sudan soon!x
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
A
Anonymous
August 2016
This is a fantastic trip and a great adventure. I loved every moment of it, and would definitely recommend this trip to anyone interested in an exciting and different destination. Being able to visit magnificent ancient temples, pyramids and tombs, with not a single other tourist there other than our group (and not a single souvenir seller or drink stall, or even a fence!) is remarkable. Sudan has to one of tourism's best kept secrets - try to visit now whilst it remains so.
One would think travelling through desert for days on end would be boring, but nothing could be further from the truth - the landscape is always changing from open flat nothingness to large sand dunes to moonscrapes with enormous balancing boulders, to areas where petrified wood and sea shells show evidence of the forest and lakes that the desert once was millions of years ago. Add the incredible night skies and the appearance from nowhere of a nomad woman or man who will proudly show you their desert home, and you have an experience that is anything but boring.
Abdul, our leader, was fantastic - always happy, informative, and willing to discuss honestly all issues regarding Sudan, both ancient and modern. The drivers were all great, and Barkir, our cook, was incredible - the quality and amount of food he produced over a gas ring was remarkable. I had hoped to lose some weight, thinking that the food we would have would be ptetty basic - boy, was I wrong! His aubergine salad was to die for.
As mentioned by others, a couple of packs of wet wipes will come in very handy, although bowls of water are available for a sponge down. Bring a comfy pillow, and depending on whether you have extra days in Khartoum before or after the trip, I would not change more than USD 100, as there really is hardly anything to spend money on, and you can't change back Sudanese Pounds to any other currency at the airport when you leave, so you will have to spend any excess you have.
I think many people are put off traveling to Sudan as they think it is unsafe - the areas this trip travels to are far from the troubles in Darfur, and at no stage did I feel unsafe anywhere. In fact everywhere we went we were warmly welcomed by the local people, and there was no "baksheesh" requests or hostility at all - in fact the complete opposite. Anyone interested in history and adventure travel needs to get themselves to Sudan soon!x
Read More
One would think travelling through desert for days on end would be boring, but nothing could be further from the truth - the landscape is always changing from open flat nothingness to large sand dunes to moonscrapes with enormous balancing boulders, to areas where petrified wood and sea shells show evidence of the forest and lakes that the desert once was millions of years ago. Add the incredible night skies and the appearance from nowhere of a nomad woman or man who will proudly show you their desert home, and you have an experience that is anything but boring.
Abdul, our leader, was fantastic - always happy, informative, and willing to discuss honestly all issues regarding Sudan, both ancient and modern. The drivers were all great, and Barkir, our cook, was incredible - the quality and amount of food he produced over a gas ring was remarkable. I had hoped to lose some weight, thinking that the food we would have would be ptetty basic - boy, was I wrong! His aubergine salad was to die for.
As mentioned by others, a couple of packs of wet wipes will come in very handy, although bowls of water are available for a sponge down. Bring a comfy pillow, and depending on whether you have extra days in Khartoum before or after the trip, I would not change more than USD 100, as there really is hardly anything to spend money on, and you can't change back Sudanese Pounds to any other currency at the airport when you leave, so you will have to spend any excess you have.
I think many people are put off traveling to Sudan as they think it is unsafe - the areas this trip travels to are far from the troubles in Darfur, and at no stage did I feel unsafe anywhere. In fact everywhere we went we were warmly welcomed by the local people, and there was no "baksheesh" requests or hostility at all - in fact the complete opposite. Anyone interested in history and adventure travel needs to get themselves to Sudan soon!x
Really enjoyed the whole trip. Our guide, drivers and cook together with my fellow travellers made it an unforgettable experience. I haven't spent much time in the desert before but I can honestly say I am now a convert - being so remote with no signs of anyone else around us was amazing. I was a bit concerned about the amount of wild camping involved - and not being able to wash my hair for over a week - but not an issues thank to wet wipes and a hat!!!!
Driving through the many different faces of the Western, Nubian and Bayuda deserts - from golden sand to landscapes full of boulders. The absolute peace and quiet at night - brilliant stars and no sign of anyone else for miles around.
Abdul was a really good guide. He was very knowledgeable and passionate about the Egyptian pyramids but also gave us a well rounded picture of life in Sudan. He worked incredibly hard along with the drivers and cook to ensure that we had an amazing time in Sudan.
Wet wipes come in very handy although there is water available too!!
Don't be put off going to Sudan. It might not be a popular destination at the moment, and some still worry that it isn't safe. I can honestly say that I felt safe at all times and when we had the opportunity to meet locals we were made to feel welcome.
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
A
Anonymous
August 2016
Really enjoyed the whole trip. Our guide, drivers and cook together with my fellow travellers made it an unforgettable experience. I haven't spent much time in the desert before but I can honestly say I am now a convert - being so remote with no signs of anyone else around us was amazing. I was a bit concerned about the amount of wild camping involved - and not being able to wash my hair for over a week - but not an issues thank to wet wipes and a hat!!!!
Driving through the many different faces of the Western, Nubian and Bayuda deserts - from golden sand to landscapes full of boulders. The absolute peace and quiet at night - brilliant stars and no sign of anyone else for miles around.
Abdul was a really good guide. He was very knowledgeable and passionate about the Egyptian pyramids but also gave us a well rounded picture of life in Sudan. He worked incredibly hard along with the drivers and cook to ensure that we had an amazing time in Sudan.
Wet wipes come in very handy although there is water available too!!
Don't be put off going to Sudan. It might not be a popular destination at the moment, and some still worry that it isn't safe. I can honestly say that I felt safe at all times and when we had the opportunity to meet locals we were made to feel welcome.
Read More
Driving through the many different faces of the Western, Nubian and Bayuda deserts - from golden sand to landscapes full of boulders. The absolute peace and quiet at night - brilliant stars and no sign of anyone else for miles around.
Abdul was a really good guide. He was very knowledgeable and passionate about the Egyptian pyramids but also gave us a well rounded picture of life in Sudan. He worked incredibly hard along with the drivers and cook to ensure that we had an amazing time in Sudan.
Wet wipes come in very handy although there is water available too!!
Don't be put off going to Sudan. It might not be a popular destination at the moment, and some still worry that it isn't safe. I can honestly say that I felt safe at all times and when we had the opportunity to meet locals we were made to feel welcome.
A true desert expedition!
The ancient sites were impressive, especially the pyramids at Meroe and the carvings on the temple
dedicated to Apedemak, but I think, for me, the experience of travelling through the remote desert was a privilege and something I’ll remember for a long time. The variation in the landscape was a surprise - it was different every day.
The camping experience was the best we’ve had - no doubt helped by the hot, dry weather which made it easy. The night skies were amazing with so many more stars visible than at home.
The Dervish ceremony in Khartoum was fascinating. The drums and chanting were mesmerising; we were made to feel very welcome and could have spent longer here.
Abdel was an excellent guide - he was always calm and gave us a lot of information at all the sites we
visited. He was also happy to discuss the politics of Sudan and we had some interesting discussions about the country and its people.
The cook and drivers were also excellent; the cook did an amazing job with the food considering the limited resources and being in the middle of nowhere and the skill of the drivers meant we felt safe at all times.
We travelled in November/December and it was still very hot so plenty of sunscreen, a hat and scarf are a good idea. Also, long sleeves to cover up if, like me, you’re prone to burning. Lightweight walking trousers are a good choice as they will stand up to the rigours of desert life and all the sand. A 2-season sleeping bag is probably all that is necessary as it didn’t get that cold at night.
Plenty of wet wipes, toilet roll and hand sanitiser are essential. A small bowl of water is available in the
morning and evening for washing.
Don’t change too much money as you won’t need it. We changed $50 between two of us and struggled to get rid of it.
Some of the drives are long and bumpy but this trip is all about the journey, so if that’s something that would be of concern, then this trip may not be the one for you.
Snack bars would be a good idea if you get hungry between meals, although the food is plentiful.
Probably the best advice is to forget about time and enjoy the journey, secure in the knowledge that you will always be well fed, there will be plenty of ‘comfort breaks’ and you will always arrive at the next camping destination before dark. This was an unforgettable trip and I would strongly recommend it.
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
A
Anonymous
August 2016
A true desert expedition!
The ancient sites were impressive, especially the pyramids at Meroe and the carvings on the temple
dedicated to Apedemak, but I think, for me, the experience of travelling through the remote desert was a privilege and something I’ll remember for a long time. The variation in the landscape was a surprise - it was different every day.
The camping experience was the best we’ve had - no doubt helped by the hot, dry weather which made it easy. The night skies were amazing with so many more stars visible than at home.
The Dervish ceremony in Khartoum was fascinating. The drums and chanting were mesmerising; we were made to feel very welcome and could have spent longer here.
Abdel was an excellent guide - he was always calm and gave us a lot of information at all the sites we
visited. He was also happy to discuss the politics of Sudan and we had some interesting discussions about the country and its people.
The cook and drivers were also excellent; the cook did an amazing job with the food considering the limited resources and being in the middle of nowhere and the skill of the drivers meant we felt safe at all times.
We travelled in November/December and it was still very hot so plenty of sunscreen, a hat and scarf are a good idea. Also, long sleeves to cover up if, like me, you’re prone to burning. Lightweight walking trousers are a good choice as they will stand up to the rigours of desert life and all the sand. A 2-season sleeping bag is probably all that is necessary as it didn’t get that cold at night.
Plenty of wet wipes, toilet roll and hand sanitiser are essential. A small bowl of water is available in the
morning and evening for washing.
Don’t change too much money as you won’t need it. We changed $50 between two of us and struggled to get rid of it.
Some of the drives are long and bumpy but this trip is all about the journey, so if that’s something that would be of concern, then this trip may not be the one for you.
Snack bars would be a good idea if you get hungry between meals, although the food is plentiful.
Probably the best advice is to forget about time and enjoy the journey, secure in the knowledge that you will always be well fed, there will be plenty of ‘comfort breaks’ and you will always arrive at the next camping destination before dark. This was an unforgettable trip and I would strongly recommend it.
Read More
The ancient sites were impressive, especially the pyramids at Meroe and the carvings on the temple
dedicated to Apedemak, but I think, for me, the experience of travelling through the remote desert was a privilege and something I’ll remember for a long time. The variation in the landscape was a surprise - it was different every day.
The camping experience was the best we’ve had - no doubt helped by the hot, dry weather which made it easy. The night skies were amazing with so many more stars visible than at home.
The Dervish ceremony in Khartoum was fascinating. The drums and chanting were mesmerising; we were made to feel very welcome and could have spent longer here.
Abdel was an excellent guide - he was always calm and gave us a lot of information at all the sites we
visited. He was also happy to discuss the politics of Sudan and we had some interesting discussions about the country and its people.
The cook and drivers were also excellent; the cook did an amazing job with the food considering the limited resources and being in the middle of nowhere and the skill of the drivers meant we felt safe at all times.
We travelled in November/December and it was still very hot so plenty of sunscreen, a hat and scarf are a good idea. Also, long sleeves to cover up if, like me, you’re prone to burning. Lightweight walking trousers are a good choice as they will stand up to the rigours of desert life and all the sand. A 2-season sleeping bag is probably all that is necessary as it didn’t get that cold at night.
Plenty of wet wipes, toilet roll and hand sanitiser are essential. A small bowl of water is available in the
morning and evening for washing.
Don’t change too much money as you won’t need it. We changed $50 between two of us and struggled to get rid of it.
Some of the drives are long and bumpy but this trip is all about the journey, so if that’s something that would be of concern, then this trip may not be the one for you.
Snack bars would be a good idea if you get hungry between meals, although the food is plentiful.
Probably the best advice is to forget about time and enjoy the journey, secure in the knowledge that you will always be well fed, there will be plenty of ‘comfort breaks’ and you will always arrive at the next camping destination before dark. This was an unforgettable trip and I would strongly recommend it.
Travelled in Nov/Dec 2015. This feels much more an expedition that a standard holiday. Taking 4x4s off road and into wild remote spectacular desert landscapes. An unforgettable experience.
Too many moments! There is a lot of driving into remote parts of the desert so it is more about the journey than the destinations, which generally are beautiful wild camps in safe dune areas. The ever changing subtlety of the landscapes is mesmerising, the emptiness and silence of the Sahara and the immense dark night skies are incredible, and in a place where people are scarce, the chance meetings with nomadic desert people are a delight. The pyramids at Meroe and other ancient sites are amazing, and can be explored in a relaxed atmosphere as tourists are rare in Sudan. The Sufi Dervish ceremony was an inspirational insight into the culture in Khartoum. Could have spent much longer in the crowd of very friendly people and hypnotic rhythms of chanting and drumming.
Abdel Munim was calm, understated, and always courteous. He quietly arranged all aspects of the trip behind the scenes ensuring the drivers were on track and driving safely, stopping when needed for breaks and food/water. He was knowledgeable about the history of the region and passionate about his country’s people, politics and changing future. He’s a lovely person with an intelligent sense of humour. This was the first time Exodus have run the trip so there were a few minor issues with timings and information but that was to be expected and certainly no show stopper. Better to forget about time and go with the flow.
The cook was excellent too providing a huge variety with limited resources. The drivers were all skilled at off road work and digging the vehicles out of sand, always polite and safe. A brilliant team of people.
Even in December it was very hot. The locals said it was cooling down but to us that is hard to appreciate, so take lightweight clothing, sun care, hats, head scarves etc. to keep covered. The notes advise that it can be cold in the evenings at camps but that wasn’t the case here, in fact it was suitably warm to remain outside but not too hot to sleep! The only water to wash with is in short supply (maybe two small bowls per day from wells) so wet wipes are useful over the camping days. The advice for spending money is to take dollars and change into local currency (which can’t be changed back!) so be careful not to change too much, if any, as there are very few opportunities to spend it. Some craft sellers at the Meroe tented camp and camel rides if that’s your thing. In fact my only chance was at the final hotel evening meal which cost about £12!! And the hotel accepts dollars anyway, so I didn’t actually need to exchange anything. A car charger/adapter for camera batteries would be useful as there are few chances to recharge on the whole trip.
Be prepared for some bumpy rides in the cars. This can be exhilarating but maybe not for people with back problems! We felt safe at all times in this unusual destination. If you want to feel like a true pioneer, away from it all, in a spectacular country do this trip now, who knows what political upheaval will change things in the future as in so many other places.
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
A
Anonymous
August 2016
Travelled in Nov/Dec 2015. This feels much more an expedition that a standard holiday. Taking 4x4s off road and into wild remote spectacular desert landscapes. An unforgettable experience.
Too many moments! There is a lot of driving into remote parts of the desert so it is more about the journey than the destinations, which generally are beautiful wild camps in safe dune areas. The ever changing subtlety of the landscapes is mesmerising, the emptiness and silence of the Sahara and the immense dark night skies are incredible, and in a place where people are scarce, the chance meetings with nomadic desert people are a delight. The pyramids at Meroe and other ancient sites are amazing, and can be explored in a relaxed atmosphere as tourists are rare in Sudan. The Sufi Dervish ceremony was an inspirational insight into the culture in Khartoum. Could have spent much longer in the crowd of very friendly people and hypnotic rhythms of chanting and drumming.
Abdel Munim was calm, understated, and always courteous. He quietly arranged all aspects of the trip behind the scenes ensuring the drivers were on track and driving safely, stopping when needed for breaks and food/water. He was knowledgeable about the history of the region and passionate about his country’s people, politics and changing future. He’s a lovely person with an intelligent sense of humour. This was the first time Exodus have run the trip so there were a few minor issues with timings and information but that was to be expected and certainly no show stopper. Better to forget about time and go with the flow.
The cook was excellent too providing a huge variety with limited resources. The drivers were all skilled at off road work and digging the vehicles out of sand, always polite and safe. A brilliant team of people.
Even in December it was very hot. The locals said it was cooling down but to us that is hard to appreciate, so take lightweight clothing, sun care, hats, head scarves etc. to keep covered. The notes advise that it can be cold in the evenings at camps but that wasn’t the case here, in fact it was suitably warm to remain outside but not too hot to sleep! The only water to wash with is in short supply (maybe two small bowls per day from wells) so wet wipes are useful over the camping days. The advice for spending money is to take dollars and change into local currency (which can’t be changed back!) so be careful not to change too much, if any, as there are very few opportunities to spend it. Some craft sellers at the Meroe tented camp and camel rides if that’s your thing. In fact my only chance was at the final hotel evening meal which cost about £12!! And the hotel accepts dollars anyway, so I didn’t actually need to exchange anything. A car charger/adapter for camera batteries would be useful as there are few chances to recharge on the whole trip.
Be prepared for some bumpy rides in the cars. This can be exhilarating but maybe not for people with back problems! We felt safe at all times in this unusual destination. If you want to feel like a true pioneer, away from it all, in a spectacular country do this trip now, who knows what political upheaval will change things in the future as in so many other places.
Read More
Too many moments! There is a lot of driving into remote parts of the desert so it is more about the journey than the destinations, which generally are beautiful wild camps in safe dune areas. The ever changing subtlety of the landscapes is mesmerising, the emptiness and silence of the Sahara and the immense dark night skies are incredible, and in a place where people are scarce, the chance meetings with nomadic desert people are a delight. The pyramids at Meroe and other ancient sites are amazing, and can be explored in a relaxed atmosphere as tourists are rare in Sudan. The Sufi Dervish ceremony was an inspirational insight into the culture in Khartoum. Could have spent much longer in the crowd of very friendly people and hypnotic rhythms of chanting and drumming.
Abdel Munim was calm, understated, and always courteous. He quietly arranged all aspects of the trip behind the scenes ensuring the drivers were on track and driving safely, stopping when needed for breaks and food/water. He was knowledgeable about the history of the region and passionate about his country’s people, politics and changing future. He’s a lovely person with an intelligent sense of humour. This was the first time Exodus have run the trip so there were a few minor issues with timings and information but that was to be expected and certainly no show stopper. Better to forget about time and go with the flow.
The cook was excellent too providing a huge variety with limited resources. The drivers were all skilled at off road work and digging the vehicles out of sand, always polite and safe. A brilliant team of people.
Even in December it was very hot. The locals said it was cooling down but to us that is hard to appreciate, so take lightweight clothing, sun care, hats, head scarves etc. to keep covered. The notes advise that it can be cold in the evenings at camps but that wasn’t the case here, in fact it was suitably warm to remain outside but not too hot to sleep! The only water to wash with is in short supply (maybe two small bowls per day from wells) so wet wipes are useful over the camping days. The advice for spending money is to take dollars and change into local currency (which can’t be changed back!) so be careful not to change too much, if any, as there are very few opportunities to spend it. Some craft sellers at the Meroe tented camp and camel rides if that’s your thing. In fact my only chance was at the final hotel evening meal which cost about £12!! And the hotel accepts dollars anyway, so I didn’t actually need to exchange anything. A car charger/adapter for camera batteries would be useful as there are few chances to recharge on the whole trip.
Be prepared for some bumpy rides in the cars. This can be exhilarating but maybe not for people with back problems! We felt safe at all times in this unusual destination. If you want to feel like a true pioneer, away from it all, in a spectacular country do this trip now, who knows what political upheaval will change things in the future as in so many other places.
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