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Jebel Marra Springs

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Weather…

The Jebel Marra Springs represent a vital hydro-geological feature within the Darfur region of western Sudan, originating from the volcanic activity of the Marrah Mountains. These perennial water sources emerge from the basaltic layers of the Deriba Caldera, providing a rare and constant supply of freshwater in an otherwise semi-arid environment. The presence of these springs has historically enabled the development of intensive agriculture, supporting the cultivation of citrus fruits, tobacco, and cereal crops by the local Fur people. The geothermal properties of some springs are indicative of the dormant volcanic nature of the range, with water temperatures reflecting the subterranean heat of the massif. Strategically, these springs serve as essential waypoints for nomadic pastoralists and are fundamental to the ecological stability of the surrounding highland plateaus. In modern times, the management of these water resources remains a critical factor for the socio-economic resilience of the local communities and the preservation of the unique mountain biodiversity.

Location: Sudan
Top sights: Deriba (caldera) · Marrah Mountains

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Nov.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	18	21	24	26	27	26	24	22	23	23	20	18
Rain mm	0	0	0	1	20	33	164	216	66	26	0	0

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The natural springs of Jebel Marra are accessible to the public and are especially suitable for family outings. The area is open for walking, though there are no developed trails.

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Typical hours

As it is a free natural area, there are no set opening hours. Visits are best done during daylight as there is no artificial lighting.

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Photography

Photography is unrestricted; the springs and surroundings offer beautiful subjects. Be careful when wet, as rocks can be slippery.

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Time needed

A visit to the springs typically takes one to two hours. For a hike in the area, allow half a day.

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Combine with

Combine the trip with a visit to the nearby market of Zalingei. Jebel Marra National Park also gives further hiking and exploration opportunities.

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Getting there

The springs are reachable from Zalingei by 4WD; roads are partly unpaved. Public transport is scarce; a local guide is recommended.

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Insider tip

Bring plenty of drinking water as there are no facilities on site. Wear sturdy shoes for the uneven terrain.

Geography

Coordinates

12.96000, 24.28000

Facts

The springs are located in the Marrah Mountains, a volcanic massif rising to 3,042 meters.
The water feeds the Deriba Lakes inside a caldera with a diameter of approximately 5 kilometers.
Annual rainfall in the springs' catchment area reaches 800 mm, far above the national average.
Some thermal springs reach temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius due to residual volcanic heat.
The springs enable the cultivation of fruit trees at altitudes over 2,000 meters above sea level.
The region is classified as a priority area for nature conservation in Sudan due to its ecological importance.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Jebel Marra Crater2 km · SWExplore →

Jebel Marra Highlands6 km · WExplore →

Jebel Mimi63 km · SEExplore →

Wadi Azum88 km · SExplore →

Zalingei90 km · SExplore →

Nyala114 km · NWExplore →

Wadi Azum Valley131 km · SWExplore →

Kutum133 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Jebel Marra Springs (2)

Deriba (caldera)📍 landmark

Deriba is a caldera in the Jebel Marra massif in Darfur, Sudan, containing a crater lake.

Marrah Mountains📍 landmark

The Marrah Mountains are a volcanic mountain range in the Darfur region of western Sudan.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Are the Jebel-Marra-Quellen suitable for swimming?

The water is clear, but check current safety rules on-site.

What is the best way to get to the springs?

A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended for the uneven roads.

Are there sanitary facilities nearby?

Infrastructure is very basic; bring your own toiletries.

Is the visit safe?

Always travel with an experienced local guide.

When is the best season for a visit?

Hiking is most pleasant in the cooler winter months.

Jebel Marra Springs: where is it located?

Jebel Marra Springs is located in Sudan.

Jebel Marra Springs: what is there to see?

Highlights include Deriba (caldera), Marrah Mountains.

Jebel Marra Springs: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Nov.

Jebel Marra Springs: why is it worth visiting?

The Jebel Marra Springs represent a vital hydro-geological feature within the Darfur region of western Sudan, originating from the volcanic activity of the Marrah Mountains.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →