Coming from Ethiopia, Kassala feels like heaven. So relaxed and friendly and welcoming. The mountains are beautiful and really good to climb around. I went in the morning when no one else was climbing them. I’m not sure if I found a path, but I found it easy enough to scramble my way up and down over and around the rocks, sometimes on what looked like possible paths. It was boiling hot though so didn’t go right to the top! I got a taxi from town and stopped at the beautiful crumbling mosque on the way. It cost me 200 Sudanese pounds to go there and back and then an extra 100 for each additional hour I stayed to explore (black market usd exchange rate was $1 to 78 Sudanese pounds).
Beautiful place to visit, enjoying sunset with a traditional sudanese coffee.
Most visited place in Kassala
I thought I’d have a look at what tripadvisor was saying about different places in Sudan as I used to live there. I visited the Taka mountains in 2012 and had an incredible time exploring with a friend of mine from Kassala who showed me around. I’m writing this review because the area surrounding the mountains is very worthwhile visiting and not many people go there. While it would have probably been a lot harder finding everything by myself, Sudanese people are so friendly and helpful they would undoubtedly help you!
I attempted climbing the mountain by myself as my friend gave up incredibly near to the start! It was hard work and you need to a lot of water with you as there is hardly any shade and you have to scramble over large boulders. I unfortunately took a wrong turning and didn’t make it right to the top but you can still see far from the ridge high up (you can see into Eritrea).
When I went there were really cool cafes at the bottom where you could have coffee with popcorn in a nice airy setting. They splashed water on the ground and walls to cool the place down and some people sell coffee jugs for the few tourists to buy.
The landscape is covered by rocks and boulders but very near to the bottom of the mountain is this amazing old dilapidated mosque where people still pray. It is really worthwhile doing and was one of my favourite things to do in Sudan!
Kassala and the Taka Mountains
This travel blog contains everything you need to know to visit Kassala independently and all the best things to see and do there. It includes how to travel to Kassala with public transport, where to stay, what to eat and how to stay safe during your visit. I also provide clear directions for hiking the Taka mountains, which afford beautiful views all the way to Eritrea. This is part of my comprehensive Sudan travel guide.
What to Do in Kassala
I love hiking and Kassala is home to the most beautiful hikes in the parts of Sudan that are accessible to visitors (if not the whole country). It’s even worth the 40+ degree temperatures. The city is dominated by the towering stone peaks of the Taka mountains, which rise out of the desert on its eastern side. If hiking isn’t your thing, Kassala is also a great city to hang out and relax in, with a bustling market, chill vibe, and plenty of tea houses to choose from.
As an avid hiker, the Taka Mountains were the star attraction for me and the reason why I absolutely insisted on visiting Kassala while I was in Sudan. The mountains look like a group of giant monolithic boulders and are visible from anywhere in the city. They’re also interesting in that, despite being next to a city of almost half a million people, there are no real hiking trails. Any hike here is a scramble over rocks and boulders.
The main entrance of the Taka Mountains National Park is at 15.428978, 36.426288 and it’s marked as Toteil Natural Mountain Park on Maps.Me. It’s not clearly marked in English on Google Maps, but is located here. From the town centre, you can walk there in just over an hour or you can take a bus from the central bus station. The cost is no more than $0.60. The location is about ten minutes walk from the Khatmiyah Mosque, so you can easily visit both together.
The base of the mountains is clearly marked by a gateway in the shape of a traditional pottery Sudanese coffee pot. This is one of the few places in Sudan that feels like someone’s actually tried to develop it a bit for tourists. After passing through the gateway, you’ll find myriad cafes serving traditional coffee and snacks. Most locals who visit see this as a scenic spot to relax and never venture further up into the mountains.
Location and Geography
The Taka Mountains are located near Kassala, a city in eastern Sudan close to the Eritrean border. This mountain range is characterized by its rugged terrain, striking rock formations, and deep canyons. The landscape is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and offers breathtaking views that are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Unique Features of the Taka Mountains
What makes the Taka Mountains stand out is their untouched beauty and tranquility. Unlike more popular tourist destinations, this area remains relatively undiscovered, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature without the crowds. The mountains are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including some species that are endemic to the region. As you explore, you may encounter rare plants and elusive wildlife, adding to the adventure.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit the Taka Mountains is during the cooler months, from October to March. During this period, temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, making it comfortable for outdoor activities. The summer months can be extremely hot, with temperatures exceeding 40°C, which can make hiking challenging.
Exploring the Taka Mountains
Exploring the Taka Mountains requires a sense of adventure and preparation for the rugged terrain. Here are some tips to enhance your experience:
- Wear sturdy hiking boots to navigate the uneven surfaces.
- Carry plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
- Bring a map and compass, as trails may not be well-marked.
- Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Getting to the Taka Mountains
The most convenient way to reach the Taka Mountains is by flying into Khartoum International Airport, Sudan’s capital. From Khartoum, you can hire a car or arrange for a local guide to drive you to Kassala. The journey takes approximately 6-8 hours, depending on road conditions.
Local Transportation
Once in the Taka Mountains, public transportation options are limited. Renting a car or hiring a local driver is recommended for navigating the area. Alternatively, you can explore on foot or by bicycle, allowing you to take in the breathtaking scenery at your own pace.
Accommodation
While the Taka Mountains are relatively remote, there are a few accommodation options available. These include small guesthouses and eco-lodges that blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings. Staying in these accommodations not only provides comfort but also supports the local economy and promotes sustainable tourism.
Summary of Facts
- The Taka Mountains are located in eastern Sudan near the Eritrean border.
- The area is known for its rugged terrain and unique rock formations.
- The Taka Mountains offer a serene and uncrowded environment for exploration.
- The region is home to diverse flora and fauna, including endemic species.
- The best time to visit is from October to March.
- Exploring the mountains requires sturdy footwear, ample water, and a map.
- Khartoum International Airport is the closest major airport.
- Transportation within the mountains is limited; renting a car or hiring a driver is advisable.
- Accommodation options include guesthouses and eco-lodges.
Conclusion
The Taka Mountains in Sudan offer an unforgettable adventure for those willing to explore beyond the usual tourist paths. With their untouched beauty, rich biodiversity, and breathtaking landscapes, they provide a unique and rewarding experience. So, pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to embark on a journey through the enchanting Taka Mountains.
