You can see Kassala long before you reach it, thanks to the way Taka mountains rise from the flat surroundings. The city is both Sudanese honeymoon destination and home to one of Sudan’s most important Sufi orders, the Khatmiyyah order.
Kassala Souk
The souks here are some of the most interesting in the country. Several markets sell different things throughout the city. You can find everything from fruit to Beja knives, firewood to bright Rashaida cloth. There’s even a market dedicated solely for lady stuff, called Souk en-Nisswan which means ‘women’s market’.
Taka Mountains
The Taka mountains loom over Kassala in unearthly granite domes. If you wish to get to the top, keep in mind that it’s more of a scramble than a hike, but you’ll be rewarded with a great view of the city, specially at sunset. You’ll be sharing it with the local baboons, though.
Khatmiyyah Mosque
At the base of the Taka Mountains is this spectacular mosque, center of the Khatmiyyah Sufi sect. It's a lovely mud brick building with a pointed octagonal minaret and a photogenic arcade of columns in the main prayer hall. Non-Muslims are quite welcome to take a peek about. Afterwards have a little scramble around the bizarre peaks of the mountains. It's about 4 km southeast of Kassala's center.
Camel Racing
Camel races have long been a tradition of the tribes of Kassala, specially to celebrate weddings and festivals. In recent years, there have been efforts to organize formal competitions, with encouragement from Gulf Arabs. The races have become large nomadic gatherings, with music and markets and usually take place on the plains outside the town.
Pro-tip: Races are usually held in September or October. Inquire about the precise timing in the daily camel market in Mastura.