Plizio Visual Lab

Sabargum Island

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Island

Weather…

Sabargum Island is a small, uninhabited coral island in the Red Sea off the coast of Sudan, located north of Port Sudan. It is part of the complex ecosystem of the Red Sea coast and is renowned for its pristine coral reefs and high marine biodiversity. The island serves as an important nesting site for seabirds and a sanctuary for endangered species like the green sea turtle. Underwater, Sabargum features spectacular diving sites with a variety of hard and soft corals, as well as large schools of fish, including barracudas and sharks. The isolation of the island has helped keep its marine resources largely intact. Geologically, the island is composed of fossilized coral limestone, shaped over millennia by tectonic uplift and sea-level changes. Today, it remains a quiet find for specialized diving expeditions and scientific marine research.

Location: Sudan
Nearby: Ad-Dabba (43 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	18	21	25	29	33	35	35	36	35	31	24	20
Rain mm	0	0	0	0	0	0	3	3	0	0	0	0

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The island is usually reachable by hiring a local boat from the riverbanks in or near Dongola. Boat trips can generally be arranged with local fishermen operating along this section of the Nile.

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Best season

The cooler winter months from November to February are typically best for a visit, as the summer heat in Sudan can be extreme. Water levels on the Nile may vary throughout the year.

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Terrain & paths

The island features mostly flat riverbank environments with vegetation characteristic of the Nile Valley. Paths are generally informal and unpaved, making walking straightforward but sometimes uneven.

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What to bring

Sun protection is absolutely essential, including a wide-brimmed hat, strong sunscreen, and plenty of drinking water. Comfortable walking shoes and insect repellent are also highly recommended.

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Parking

Vehicles are typically left in the town of Dongola or at the nearby boat departure points along the mainland riverbank. Visitors usually park informally before taking the river crossing.

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Safety

Beware of the strong river currents if you approach the water's edge, and maintain a safe distance from the shoreline. Always rely on an experienced local boatman for safe navigation.

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Time needed

A typical visit, including the short boat ride there and back, usually lasts between two to four hours. This provides ample time to explore the riverine environment and enjoy the peaceful scenery.