A long layover in Malakal is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Malakal Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 60 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Before You Step Outside MAK
Before heading into Malakal, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Sudan vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Malakal is roughly 60 minutes from MAK via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into Malakal from MAK
From MAK, the local transport gets you to Malakal in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Malakal, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Bag Storage Near MAK
Dedicated luggage storage at MAK may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Malakal’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
What’s Worth Seeing in Malakal
If you head into Malakal, here are two things worth checking out:
Malakal Central Market (Souk Malakal) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
White Nile Riverfront View is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. A quick stop here is rewarding — great for photos.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside MAK, you can spend time at MAK Airport Waiting Area or try General Store / Kiosk. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
For food in Malakal, local travelers recommend Local Riverside Eatery. If you have time for a second stop, Market Food Stalls is another popular pick.
Back at MAK, Airport Refreshment Stand is the go-to. Local Cuisine Counter rounds out your in-terminal options.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, MAK has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Staying Connected
WiFi at MAK should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Sudan and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Malakal count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave MAK. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.