Bi'r Tawīl Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Bi'r Tawīl with this comprehensive travel guide. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, food and drink recommendations to transportation options, this guide has everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Bi’r Tawīl

Introduction to Bi’r Tawīl

Bi’r Tawīl is a region located in North Africa, between Egypt and Sudan. It is one of the few unclaimed territories in the world and is governed by neither country. The area covers around 2,060 square kilometers, and it is home to a diverse range of landscapes, including desert, mountains, and plains.

List of Places to Visit in Bi’r Tawīl

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ancient Ruins of Sannar: Discover the remains of an ancient city that was once a hub of trade and commerce.
  • El Kurru Archaeological Site: Explore the tombs of ancient Nubian pharaohs and learn about the history of the area.
  • Sudan National Museum: Learn about the culture and history of Sudan, with a particular focus on ancient civilizations and artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Bi’r Tawīl: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Jebel Uweinat: Take a hike to the top of this mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Wadi al-Qattara: This beautiful valley offers stunning views of the desert landscape and is a great spot for a picnic.
  • Gebel Hessanein: This area is home to a unique ecosystem that includes palm trees and freshwater springs. It’s a great place to explore on foot or by camel.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bi’r Tawīl

  • Jebel Uweinat Summit Trail: This challenging trail takes you to the top of Jebel Uweinat, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Wadi Abu Dom Trail: This 30-mile trail takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of the region, including Wadi Abu Dom.
  • Gebel Hessanein Trek: This three-day trek takes you through the palm groves and freshwater springs of Gebel Hessanein, with camping along the way.

Best Things to Do in Bi’r Tawīl: Activities and Tours

  • Camel Trekking: Explore the region on the back of a camel, taking in the stunning views and unique culture.
  • Sunset/Sunrise Tours: Watch the sun rise or set over the desert landscape for an unforgettable experience.
  • Stargazing: The lack of light pollution makes Bi’r Tawīl an excellent spot for stargazing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bi’r Tawīl

Day Activity
1 Explore Ancient Ruins of Sannar
2 Hike Jebel Uweinat and watch the sunset
3 Visit El Kurru Archaeological Site
4 Take a camel trek through the palm groves of Gebel Hessanein
5 Relax by the freshwater springs of Gebel Hessanein
6 Explore the Sudan National Museum
7 Take a sunrise tour and say goodbye to Bi’r Tawīl

Food and Drink Scene of Bi’r Tawīl

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ful Medames: A popular breakfast dish made with fava beans, garlic, and lemon juice.
  • Kofta: Meatballs seasoned with various spices and served with pita bread.
  • Hummus: A dip made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic.

Local Beverages

  • Tea: Sudanese tea is sweet and often served with fresh mint leaves.
  • Arabic Coffee: A strong coffee flavored with cardamom and served with dates.

Where to Stay in Bi’r Tawīl: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Sudan Hotel: A budget-friendly option located in the heart of Bi’r Tawīl.
  • Bait Al Sharaf Guesthouse: This guesthouse offers comfortable rooms and a beautiful outdoor terrace.
  • Desert Rose Resort: This luxury resort features a pool, spa, and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

What to Buy in Bi’r Tawīl: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Hand-woven Rugs: These beautiful rugs come in a variety of sizes and patterns and make great souvenirs.
  • Papyrus Paintings: You can find colorful paintings depicting scenes from Egyptian and Nubian history.
  • Spices: Sudanese cuisine is known for its flavorful spices, and you can bring home your own to try in your own kitchen.

Local Culture and Customs of Bi’r Tawīl

  • People in Bi’r Tawīl are generally warm and welcoming, so it’s important to be respectful of their customs and traditions.
  • Modest dress is recommended, particularly for women. In general, covering your arms and legs is considered respectful.
  • Sudanese Arabic is the primary language spoken in the region, so it’s a good idea to learn a few basic phrases before traveling.

Best Time to Visit Bi’r Tawīl

The best time to visit Bi’r Tawīl is between November and February, when temperatures are cooler and more comfortable. The summer months (June through August) can be extremely hot and uncomfortable for many travelers.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bi’r Tawīl

Do:

  • Dress modestly, particularly when visiting cultural or religious sites.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Try local cuisine and products.

Don’t:

  • Drink alcohol in public.
  • Take pictures of people without their permission.
  • Disrespect religious or cultural traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bi’r Tawīl

  • Bi’r Tawīl is generally a safe place for travelers, though it’s always a good idea to take basic precautions like keeping your valuables safe and staying aware of your surroundings.
  • Be aware of the risk of dehydration, particularly during the summer months.

Health in Bi’r Tawīl

  • Be sure to drink bottled water or purified water to prevent illness.
  • Seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of illness, particularly if you have been in contact with animals or are experiencing symptoms like fever or diarrhea.

Getting to Bi’r Tawīl: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bi’r Tawīl

  • Khartoum International Airport: This is the closest major airport to Bi’r Tawīl, located about 700 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Bi’r Tawīl

  • Atbara Bus Station: The Atbara Bus Station is the closest major bus station to Bi’r Tawīl, located about 400 kilometers away.

Other Options

  • Private car hire is one option for traveling to Bi’r Tawīl, though it may be expensive.
  • It’s also possible to enter the region from Egypt or Sudan, depending on your travel plans and level of comfort with the logistics.

How to Get Around in Bi’r Tawīl

  • Walking and camel trekking are both popular modes of transportation for exploring Bi’r Tawīl.
  • Taxis and private car hire are also available, though they may be more expensive.
  • It’s also possible to arrange for a guided tour that includes transportation.

Where to Go Next from Bi’r Tawīl: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Khartoum: The Sudanese capital is a bustling city that offers a glimpse into modern Sudanese culture and history.
  • Abu Simbel: This ancient Egyptian temple complex is located just across the border in Egypt and is a popular excursion from Bi’r Tawīl.

Conclusion

Bi’r Tawīl offers a unique opportunity to explore an unclaimed territory with a rich history and diverse range of landscapes. From the ancient ruins of Sannar to the palm groves of Gebel Hessanein, there’s plenty to see and do in this fascinating region. Use this guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in Bi’r Tawīl.

The location of Bi'r Tawīl, shown as the small white area between Egypt (yellow) and Sudan (blue), adjacent to the Hala'ib Triangle in green The location of Bi'r Tawīl, shown as the small white area between Egypt (yellow) and Sudan (blue), adjacent to the Hala'ib Triangle in green As far as deserts go, Bi'r Tawīl (marked red in this satellite image) has a lot to offer. As far as deserts go, Bi'r Tawīl (marked red in this satellite image) has a lot to offer.