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Sudan Travel Guide & Itinerary 2024

Last Updated on March 14, 2024

If you’re seeking to go off the beaten path, travel Sudan for a rewarding and surprising experience. Here is my detailed Sudan travel guide and itinerary.

Many have the misguided view of Sudan is like Egypt — but Sudan deserves more than that.

Sudan is irrefutably an African nation, albeit with a strong Arabic flavor. Thanks to its geographical location in East Central Africa, Sudan has a beautiful blend of African and Arab cultures. The country also has a rich and long history, as evident from its 200+ ancient pyramids. In fact, there are more pyramids here than in Egypt!

Before the independence of South Sudan in 2011, it was the largest country in Africa. Sudan’s diverse landscapes range from vast desert to volcanic massifs and lush river valley. Today it is an absolutely intriguing destination that has been unfortunately overlooked by many travelers. With this Sudan travel guide, I hope to inspire more people to travel to Sudan and uncover this secret destination.

Table of Contents

Visa for Sudan

Is it safe to travel sudan, how to travel to sudan, best time to travel sudan, 1 week in sudan: suggested itinerary, 2 weeks in sudan: recommended itinerary, travel sudan independently or book a tour, how to get around sudan, see the sufi dervish dance in omdurman, do a free day tour of khartoum, wander around the old dongola archaeological site, visit the remarkable qubbas of dongola, hike up jebel barkal, visit el kurru and nuri necropolis, see the spectacular meroe pyramids, see the best preserved temples at naqa, admire the mussawarat temples, get lost in the souks of kassala, khartoum: acropole hotel, khartoum: corinthia hotel, karima: karima nubian rest house, meroe: meroe safari camp, what to eat in sudan, cost of travel in sudan, internet and data in sudan, people of sudan, language in sudan, dressing in sudan, health in sudan, recommended sudan packing list:, things to know before traveling to sudan, enjoy your trip to sudan, sudan travel guide.

Most nationalities need a tourist visa to enter Sudan. You will need a letter of invitation (LOI) to apply for a visa at your nearest embassy. I received my LOI from a tour operator, Italian Tourism Company , and applied for my visa from the embassy in Netherlands. I paid €50 and got it in a week.

For those without a Sudanese embassy in your resident country, most tour operators can actually help you get a visa on arrival. My friend paid $100 for ITC’s service, and another $135 for his visa on arrival.

Once you are in Sudan, you need to register your visa within 3 days. This needs to be done at a Sudanese Police Office, though our tour guide took care of this for us. It’s no longer required to get a photography permit, but make sure you don’t photograph government buildings.

TIP: If you’ve got an Israeli stamp in your passport, you won’t be able to enter Sudan! The only way out is getting a new passport or using a second passport (if you’re one of those lucky few).

First of all, Darfur does not equate to Sudan. Yes, Darfur is still in conflict, but most of Sudan is actually calm and safe to visit.

The no-go zone is quite far from the main tourist attractions. I never once felt threatened or unsafe in Sudan, even as a female traveler (albeit traveling with a male friend). In fact, traveling in Sudan is hassle free and you won’t need to worry about tourist touts or haggling.

But be warned of the regular protests that take place in Khartoum. The day before I arrived, my friend actually witnessed a major protest going on near our hotel. There were teargas and gunshots, and it was all over the news. Thankfully it cleared completely the next day.

Khartoum International Airport (KRT) is the main gateway into Sudan. Most flights to Khartoum fly via Istanbul (Turkey), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) or Cairo (Egypt).

Egypt Air flies from Cairo to Khartoum regularly (2.5hours direct), and return flights cost around $400 return. Ethiopian Airlines flies from Addis Ababa to Khartoum (2hours direct), and return flights cost around $300 return.

Flights from New York to Khartoum cost around $900 return, on Turkish Airlines via Istanbul. The same airline also flies from London to Khartoum for around $600 return, with a stopover in Istanbul too.

Search for Flights to Sudan

The best time to travel Sudan is in winter (December to February) , when temperatures are comfortable for exploring and the risk of malaria is at its lowest. I wrote this Sudan travel guide based on my trip in March.

In winter, the desert climate causes a huge thermal change between day and night. Daytime temperature is around 77-86°F (25-30°C) and nighttime temperatures drop to around 40-53°F (5-12°C). Sudan can get extremely hot in summer (June to September), with temperatures soaring up to 113°F (45°C). It’s definitely not advisable to visit Sudan in summer.

The tourism season runs from October to April. The temperatures range from 86-100°F (30-38°C) in the day to 53-64°F (12-18°C) at night. From February to April, there may be lots of nimitti, small but extremely annoying flies.

How Much Time to Travel Sudan?

Before South Sudan gained independence from Sudan, it was the biggest country in Africa. You can imagine just how vast and extensive the country is.

We only spent 1 week in Sudan, but you can easily spend a month or more exploring different corners of the country. Most parts of Sudan are actually safe to visit, except for Darfur and the border with South Sudan.

In one week, you can still see and experience a lot in Sudan, especially the historical sites and deserts. I recommend focusing on Karima and Meroe, the two areas where you can visit plenty of ancient temples and pyramids.

• Day 1-3: Khartoum
• Day 4: Old Dongola
• Day 5: Jebel Barkal
• Day 6: Meroe Pyramids
• Day 7: Naqa and Mussawarat
• Day 4-6: Karima (Jebel Barkal & Old Dongola)
• Day 7-8: Meroe Pyramids
• Day 9: Naqa and Mussawarat
• Day 10-12: Kassala
• Day 13-14: Port Sudan

It is absolutely possible to travel Sudan independently, BUT it can be challenging to explore the harder-to-reach areas especially for solo female travelers. My friend and I opted for a guided tour, to spend more time in the deserts than cities.

We were very satisfied with our tour operator, the Italian Tourism Company . The company focuses on responsible tourism and hires only local staff and partners. The price was reasonable: our 6-day tour around the Nubian Desert and the best archaeological sites in Sudan cost around US$1150 (inc. all our accommodation, meals, entrance fees).

Our tour was great fun and we had an excellent itinerary. Our female guide, Dibar, was smart, capable and knowledgable. She’s known as the only female guide in Sudan. We really enjoyed her company and learning all about Sudanese history from her (She even quizzed us at the end of the trip which was super fun! I know, I’m such a geek.)

For those who want to travel Sudan independently, friends who have backpacked Sudan shared that bus travel between all major towns is fairly easy and comfortable.

In general, you can catch big coaches from one city to another. Bus travel is cheap (usually around 10 SDP for a 4 hour ride) and runs 7 days a week, although I’d advise starting out early in the morning if you have a way to go. Traffic in Khartoum is hectic, so be prepared to spend some time navigating the streets.

It’s quite affordable to grab a taxi by flagging one down or using the  app Tirhal . It’s like Uber, but only cash is accepted. It’s useful if you don’t speak Arabic.

Best Things to Do in Sudan

Located close to Khartoum, Omdurman is the old capital of Sudan and the old town is home to the famous Sufi dance. Every Friday, Sufi believers perform a spiritual dance at the Hamid El-Nil Mosque next to the cemetery. Sufism is the mystical or spiritual branch of Islam.

The hypnotic movements and psychedelic tunes made the ritual absolutely intriguing and entertaining. I also chatted with a few friendly local ladies who were eager to find out what I was doing in Sudan. It was an incredible experience and one that I highly recommend to all visitors.

Sudan’s capital, Khartoum, is boisterous and dusty, and traffic is a nightmare. It is honestly not a place you would want to stay for long, in my opinion. But most people who fly into Sudan will inevitably have to spend at least a night here.

To get to know the city, I recommend signing up for a day tour at Acropole Hotel , a landmark hotel and popular choice for travelers in Khartoum. They run a city tour every Friday (2-7pm), free for all guests.

The day tour brings you to 8 spots around the city: including the Sudan National Museum (worth a visit!), the Nile River and avenue, Mahdi’s tomb, Khalifa’s House, and lastly the Sufi dance performance.

About a 3-hour drive from Khartoum lie the ruins of Old Dongola .  From the 4th to 14th century, Old Dongola was the capital of the Makurian state and an important trade city.  The archaeological site sprawls across a large area, consisting of palace grounds, churches and houses. Archaeologists are still working on excavating the area.

The Throne Hall is the most impressive construction still standing. Its interior is completely sealed off nowadays. There is an audience room with a painted floral band and a figures Christ and a Nubian bishop inside.

Next to Old Dongola is a collection of around 99 tombs that resemble giant beehives . Their unique shape make them stand out in the stark desert landscape, and really leave quite an impression on first-time visitors like us.

Dating back to the 12th century, these tombs were built to house the bodies of Sheikhs and important Sufi leaders. These days, the tombs are empty, except for significant numbers of bats.

Jebel means “mountain” in Arabic, and Jebel Barkal is an isolated red sandstone mountain, considered holy since the ancient times. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the mountain is a large archaeological site stocked full of history.

At the foot of Jebel Barkal stands a big temple dedicated to the Nubian Pharaohs and their patron, Amon. This was the religious heart of Nubia for more than 1000 years. Meander through walkways flanked by giant columns, sculptures of Nubian gods and walls filled with frescos. Jebel Barkal hasn’t been restored the way Egyptian sites have been, but it makes for more authentic experience.

The best time to hike up the mountain is at sunset , where you can see the surrounding desert, palm groves and town awashed in a shade of gold. It only likes 30 minutes of hiking to get up there, and a quick slide down the sand dunes to get back down!

Just a 15-minute drive from Jebel Barkal is a necropolis of the ancient capital Napata. From the outside, the pyramids don’t look like much as they have not been restored. But one of the tombs has been restored and its underground interior is decorated with colorful frescos and hieroglyphic inscriptions.

The nearby Nuri necropolis features 19 pyramids and 23 tombs of Nubian kings and queens. Again the pyramids aren’t restored to their fully glory, but I found them to be more authentic and still impressive up close. We got to enjoy the pyramids all to ourselves, without a single tourist in sight.

The most famous spot in Sudan, the Meroe Pyramids are a spectacular sight that can rival the pyramids of Egypt. But unlike in neighboring Egypt, the Meroe Pyramids are often empty and free of tourists. We had the entire site to ourselves and it was a surreal experience.

Over 200 Nubian pyramids are left standing in the Nubian desert, although most of them have been decapitated. Italian treasure hunter Ferlini destroyed many of the pyramids in 1834 while searching for gold. Today, only a few of the pyramids and their attached chapels have been restored.

The Meroe Pyramids are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , yet they remain relatively unknown. The Nubian pyramids differ from Egyptian ones: They are smaller — 20 to 90 feet on a side, compared with the Great Pyramid’s 756 feet—with much steeper sides, and most were built two thousand years after those at Giza.

Located in the middle of the desert is this collection of well-preserved temples dedicated to the Egyptian god Amon. Getting here is a bit tricky, and you will need a 4×4 to navigate the desert.

Most historical sites in Sudan are found along the Nile — Naqa is an exception. Why it was built far from the region’s major water source and in the depths of the desert still remains unknown.

But for that reason, Naqa has been immaculately preserved, and it remains the best preserved archaeological site in Sudan. The Apedemak Temple in particular is completely intact and its stunning wall reliefs are still clear and prominent.

Just a few kilometers from Naqa is the Mussawarat archaeological site where restoration work is still undergoing. Most of the temples are in ruins here, but you can still see remains of columns, walls and reliefs.

The star attraction here is the Temple of Apedemak , which is surprisingly well preserved. You can see clearly defined floor-to-ceiling reliefs depicting the Egyptian gods and Nubian pharaohs.

Located at the border with Eritrea , Kassala is a city that lies at the foot of the beautiful Taka Mountains. It’s easy to hike up to the mountains from the city to get a panorama of the area.

But Kassala is most famous for its multi-ethnic souk, with tribes from all over northern Sudan coming here to trade. There are also tribes from nearby countries such as Eritrea and Saudi Arabia .

Where to Stay in Sudan

As the oldest established hotel in Khartoum, this old-school hotel was founded in 1952. The cosy guesthouse is run by a Greek-Sudanese family, and it’s a popular option with international travelers. We felt very welcomed and comfortable here. They run a free city tour for guests every Friday at 2pm, which includes a visit to the National Museum and the Sufi dervish dance. Check rates here.

Corinthia is the only five-star hotel in Khartoum, featuring a unique architecture that resembles Dubai’s Jumeirah Hotel. This is probably the best option if you’re looking for somewhere high-end. Check rates here.

Located at the base of the holy Jebel Barkal Mountain, this is Sudan’s only boutique hotel. It is an excellent base from which to explore the temples at Jebel Barkal and hike up for sunset. The beautiful Nubian-style lodge has landscaped gardens, stylish  lodge rooms and traditional furnishing. I loved the views and the excellent meals at the lodge. Check rates here.

Standing in the desert surrounding the Meroe Pyramids, this glamping site gives travelers the chance to stay as close to the pyramids as possible. The safari camp has beautiful, spacious tents that are very comfortable (thou it got pretty cold at night when we were there). Book here! (Pictured)

Sudanese food is quite simple and resembles Middle Eastern cuisine. Most meals involve fresh local produce like tomatoes, cheese, cucumber, and yogurt. Rice and pita bread are staples in Sudan.

If Sudan had a national dish, it would be foul (lentil stew). It is the most commonly eaten dish at home. Other popular food in Sudan include shawarma, kofte, and grilled fish. Here are some recommended Sudanese dishes:

Kisra — Flat bread made from sorghum flour

Dura — Cooked maize and millet eaten with various vegetables

Elmaraara — A Sudanese appetizer made from sheep lungs, liver and stomach

Kawal — A stew made with fermented Cassia obtusifolia leaves

Kuindiong — Traditional dessert of sweetened semolina

NOTE : Non-Muslims are now allowed to drink alcohol in Sudan, but it is still hard to get. Do not attempt to bring alcohol into Sudan.

Sudan is a cheap destination for most travelers. It is comparable to Egypt. For those on a strict budget, you can easily spend just $15-20 a day on accommodation, transport and food.

For accommodation, a twin room at a 3-star hotel costs around US$20-40 per night. There aren’t many hostels in Sudan; they are usually simple guesthouses known as ‘lokanda’. These are usually basic places with a bed (and no sheets) and nothing else. They cost anything from $2-10/night.

Food is very cheap in Sudan. A meal in a restaurant generally costs less than US$8 including drinks. If you get a simple dish of foul or shawarma, expect to spend around $1-2 per dish. If you’re looking for a proper fish in a restaurant, you won’t spend more than $5.

For more details on cost of travel in Sudan, check out my friend’s blog post about how much it cost to backpack Sudan .

NOTE : It is NOT possible to withdraw money through ATMs in Sudan. Bring lots of US dollars (make sure they are new notes) and exchange them at the airport.

Getting connected in Sudan is quite easy, but it also depends on where you go. 3G works well in Khartoum, but reception is spotty in areas like Jebel Barkal and Meroe.

There are telco shops at the international airport where you can get SIM cards for a low price. MTN offers 10GB of data for 300 Sudanese Pounds ($6). My friend’s 3G worked rather well, but my SIM didn’t work at all for some reason.

Our hotel in Khartoum, Acropole Hotel , had pretty decent WiFi and even computers available for use. Karima Nubian Rest House and Karima Nubian Rest House were pretty upscale but their WiFi were not really working.

Arabic is the most widely spoken language in the country. The Sudanese Arabic is basically Arabic with a smattering of borrowed vocabulary from local languages. It is unique to Sudan, reflecting the way in which the country is a beautiful mix of African and Arab cultures.

Other important languages include  Beja  along the  Red Sea , Tigre ,  Fur  in ( Darfur ) in the west, and various  Nubian languages  along the Nile. English is also spoken by some as a second language, but don’t expect a lot of locals to speak it.

Sudan practices the Sharia law, and it is a rather conservative Muslim country. That said, they are not extremists and do not expect foreigners to wear headscarves. It is not as strict as in Iran or Saudi Arabia here.

As advised by my tour operator, both men and women need to cover their shoulders and knees. It is advisable to wear loose clothing with high neckline. I wore mostly short-sleeved t-shirts and long pants, and it was fine.

No mandatory vaccinations are required in Sudan, but many parts of Sudan are malaria-infected zones. If you are traveling in winter, there are few mosquitoes and the risk of malaria is very low. I didn’t take Malarone, but it is recommended to take it especially if you’re traveling outside of the winter season.

It is best to consult your doctor at least a month before traveling to Sudan. Refer to the CDC website for recommended vaccines.

What to Pack for Sudan

Regardless of the time of the year you’re traveling Sudan, it is important to dress conservatively . Even in summer, when the temperature goes above 100°F(38°C), you have to cover your shoulders and knees.

For ladies, I recommend wearing lightweight blouses and loose pants, which will be comfortable in the heat too. In certain areas, you might want to cover your head with a scarf to show respect. Be sure to bring a long-rimmed hat and sunglasses for the heat.

For those traveling in winter, you’ll need a small jacket as it gets pretty cool at night. Daytime temperature is around 77-86°F (25-30°C) and nighttime temperatures drop to around 40-53°F (5-12°C).

• SPF 70 Sunscreen
• Mosquito repellent with DEET
• Sun hat that covers the neck
• Polarized sunglasses
• SteriPen to sterilize water
• Quick-dry t-shirts
• Harem yoga pants
• Trekking pants
• Down jacket
• Lightweight sleepwear
• Shemagh or scarf
• Teva sandals
• Hiking shoes
• Medical kit
• It is not possible to get cash at ATMs or banks in Sudan. Make sure you bring enough USD (new notes!) to last you for the whole trip. Your best bet is to exchange it all at the airport upon arrival.
• You can also exchange money at the black market, but make sure you count your cash properly.
• Since Sudan is a Muslim country, weekends fall on Friday and Saturday. Many shops are closed on Saturday and you will find the streets empty.
• Despite the strict Sharia Islamic law, it is now legal for non-Muslims to drink alcohol. However, alcohol is not easy to get. Do not think of bringing alcohol into the country.
• Unlike in neighboring Egypt, scamming is not common in Sudan and tourist touts are not aggressive or pushy. You won’t need to haggle. Just say no politely and smile, and local vendors will leave you in peace.
• There are few tourists in Sudan. We mainly saw other travelers in our hotels, but we rarely saw anyone else at the archaeological sites. The money you spend usually go straight to local villagers.

Have I answered all your questions on Sudan travel? Let me know in the comments field below and I will be more than happy to help you out! I hope this article has inspired you to plan your own Sudan trip!

Here are more articles that I’ve written about nearby countries in the Horn of Africa:

• My 2-Week Egypt Itinerary
• Is Egypt Safe to Travel
• Cairo Itinerary & Guide
• Ethiopia Travel Guide
• Eritrea Travel Guide
• A Guide to Ethiopian Food
• Celebrating Timkat in Ethiopia
• The Rock Churches of Lalibela, Ethiopia

Disclaimer: I received a media discount from Italian Tourism Company, but as always, all opinions expressed are my own.

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Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 150 countries across 7 continents. She is a book author and Lonely Planet guidebook writer. As an adventure travel blogger, she has a special interest in unusual destinations and deep experiences. Follow her travels on her Facebook and Instagram .

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The Comments

Great write-up! I definitely want to go now!

Thank you! Hope you like it!

Michael Green

I spent a few years teaching in Saudi Arabia where there are many Sudanese people that I came across and knew. They have got to be some of the warmest people on the planet. I’ve heard about some these sites from them. Excellent photos. What a fantastically unique destination.

Akshay Sawant

Hi Nellie, I was so amazed after seeing these amazing pics of Sudan now will definitely make a long trip to Sudan. Thank You for sharing this amazing information with us.

Sudan looks fascinating! Thanks for this detailed summary of travel to Sudan.

Thanks for the kind words! Sudan is spectacular and definitely one of my favorite countries.

Graziela Correa da Costa

You inspired me to organize a trip to Sudan, thank you for great advices!

Thanks for this post/guide–it’s great! You’ve got me thinking about this as a possible trip in the future. I’m not big on tours, but the one you took sounds like the kind I would consider.

Does winter there coincide with winter here in the US–same timing?

LIsa @chickybus

Yes winter there is winter in the Northern Hemisphere (November to February). It can get pretty cold in the deserts.

Hi Nelly, thanks for all the information. Just a quick question regarding the price of the tour: You mentioned that you have spent 1150$ for six days. Since your travel agent does not mention any prices on their website (which is usually a strong indicator for being overpriced) I would like to ask to clarify if this is the total price for the tour or per person and if this is already including the media discount. Thanks…

hi Oli, yes it’s the price per person and including the media discount. Would you like me to connect you to the tour operator? Our female tour guide was brilliant and the tour was very well organized. That said, Sudan is a cheap place to travel on your own so you’ll definitely save a lot by going independently.

MARK LEWIS BRECKER

I ONCE TOOK A BOAT FROM KHARTOUM UP THE NILE INTO EGYPT. DOES THIS WAY OF TRAVEL STILL EXIST?

hi Mark, no that doesn’t exist anymore. You’ll need to fly from Khartoum to Cairo I’m afraid.

Sudanese are hospitable and welcome everyone with a full face smile. Traveling thru Sudan is a nervous but a journey worth it.

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Sudan Travel Guide – Everything You Need to Know

Sudan, a country nestled in the northeastern region of Africa, is a captivating destination for travelers seeking to explore the rich tapestry of its history, culture, and natural beauty. With its diverse landscapes, ancient archaeological sites, and warm hospitality, Sudan offers a unique and authentic tourism experience.

From the bustling markets of Khartoum, where vibrant colors and exotic spices fill the air, to the serene shores of the Red Sea, where pristine beaches and world-class diving await, Sudan’s attractions are as diverse as its people. History enthusiasts will be enthralled by the ancient pyramids of Meroe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while those seeking adventure can embark on thrilling desert safaris to encounter nomadic tribes and awe-inspiring desert landscapes.

Sudan’s tourism is a journey into the heart of Africa’s past and a celebration of its present, with a promise of warm welcomes, delicious cuisine, and unforgettable experiences for all who venture to explore this hidden gem. Come discover the secrets of Sudan and be captivated by its timeless allure.

What’s the Best Time to Visit? 📅

The best time to visit Sudan as a tourist largely depends on your preferences and the type of experience you seek, as Sudan experiences varying weather conditions throughout the year. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:

• Winter (November to February): This is the peak tourist season in Sudan. The weather is pleasantly cool and dry, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Daytime temperatures in most parts of the country are comfortable, but nights can be chilly, especially in the desert regions.
• Spring (March to May): Spring is another good time to visit Sudan. The weather remains mild, and the landscape is lush and green, particularly in the southern regions. This is a great time for cultural and historical exploration.
• Summer (June to August): The summer months are very hot and dry, with scorching temperatures that can reach well above 100°F (38°C) in many parts of Sudan. This is not the best time for tourism, especially if you’re not accustomed to extreme heat.
• Autumn (September to October): Autumn is a transitional period when temperatures start to cool down, making it a suitable time for visiting Sudan, especially if you want to avoid the extreme heat of summer. The landscape is still relatively green from the previous rainy season.

To maximize your comfort and enjoyment, it’s generally recommended to visit Sudan during the winter or spring months when the weather is more pleasant for outdoor activities and exploration. However, it’s essential to be mindful of the ongoing political and safety conditions in the country and to check for any travel advisories or updates before planning your trip. Additionally, consider the specific regions you want to visit, as weather conditions can vary across Sudan.

What’s the Best Way to Get Around? 🚌

Getting around Sudan as a tourist can be an adventure in itself, as the country’s transportation infrastructure is still developing. Here are some of the best ways to get around Sudan:

• Domestic Flights: For long-distance travel between major cities like Khartoum, Port Sudan, and other regional hubs, domestic flights are a convenient option. Several airlines operate domestic routes, and flying can save you time, especially if you’re covering vast distances.
• Buses and Minibuses: Buses and minibuses are the primary mode of transportation for many Sudanese. They connect towns and cities, making them an affordable option for tourists. However, be prepared for potentially crowded and uncomfortable conditions. It’s advisable to book bus tickets in advance, and consider traveling during daylight hours for safety reasons.
• Trains: Sudan has a limited but expanding railway network. Trains are a scenic way to travel between some cities and offer a unique experience. The trains might not be as modern or comfortable as those in more developed countries, but they provide a cultural insight into Sudanese life.
• Taxis and Rickshaws: In urban areas like Khartoum, taxis are readily available and can be an efficient way to navigate the city. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey, as meters are not commonly used. Auto-rickshaws, known as “jitneys” or “tok-toks,” are also a common sight in many cities.
• Private Drivers: Hiring a private driver or guide can be a convenient way to explore specific regions or tourist attractions. This option provides flexibility and local knowledge, but it can be more expensive.
• Walking and Cycling: In cities and towns, walking and cycling can be enjoyable ways to explore the surroundings. Be mindful of local customs and dress modestly when walking in conservative areas.
• Boats: If you plan to visit coastal areas like Port Sudan or explore the Nile, boats and ferries can be used for transportation and scenic tours.

It’s essential to plan your itinerary and transportation options in advance, as some routes may have limited schedules or availability. Additionally, be aware of safety concerns and any travel advisories, especially in remote or border areas. Sudan’s transportation infrastructure is evolving, so flexibility and a sense of adventure are valuable traits for travelers exploring this less-traveled destination.

What’s the Official Language?

The official language of Sudan is Arabic. Arabic is the language used for government, administration, and education. However, Sudan is a linguistically diverse country, and several other languages are also spoken by various ethnic groups. English is often used as a second language, especially in urban areas and within the tourism industry.

Here are some basic Arabic phrases and words that can be useful for tourists in Sudan:

• Hello: مرحباً (Marhaban)
• Good morning: صباح الخير (Sabah al-khair)
• Good evening: مساء الخير (Masa’ al-khair)
• Please: من فضلك (Min fadlik)
• Thank you: شكراً (Shukran)
• Yes: نعم (Na’am)
• No: لا (La)
• Excuse me / I’m sorry: عذراً (A’dhiran)
• How much is this? كم سعر هذا؟ (Kam si’ru hadha?)
• Where is…? أين…؟ (Ayna…?)
• Food: طعام (Ta’am)
• Water: ماء (Ma’)
• Bathroom / Toilet: حمام (Hammam)
• I need help: أحتاج مساعدة (Ahtaj musa’ada)
• I don’t understand: لا أفهم (La afham)

Remember that while Arabic is the official language, English is often understood in tourist areas and major cities, so you can use English if you’re unsure about your Arabic pronunciation or if you encounter someone who speaks English. Sudanese people are generally welcoming and appreciate tourists making an effort to communicate in their language. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases can enhance your travel experience and help you connect with the local culture.

Where to Stay? 🏨

Finding accommodation in Sudan can vary in terms of options and quality, but there are choices available for tourists, especially in major cities like Khartoum and Port Sudan. Here are some recommended places to stay:

• Hotels: In Khartoum and Port Sudan, you can find a range of hotels, from budget to luxury. Some international hotel chains operate in these cities, offering comfortable and reliable accommodation options. These hotels often have amenities such as restaurants, bars, and swimming pools.
• Guesthouses: Guesthouses or small inns are a more budget-friendly option and are commonly found in various cities and towns. They provide a more intimate and local experience. Keep in mind that the quality and facilities can vary widely, so it’s a good idea to check reviews and book in advance if possible.
• Hostels: While hostels are not as common in Sudan as in some other countries, there are a few budget-friendly hostels available, primarily in Khartoum. These can be an excellent choice for backpackers and travelers on a tight budget.
• Camping: If you’re an adventurous traveler and planning to explore remote areas or go on desert safaris, camping might be your best option. Be prepared with your camping gear and check local regulations and safety guidelines before camping in specific areas.
• Nile River Cruises: If you’re interested in exploring the Nile River, consider booking a Nile cruise. These cruises offer a unique way to experience the country and its culture while enjoying comfortable accommodation and meals onboard.
• Eco-Lodges: Some eco-lodges and eco-friendly accommodations are emerging in Sudan, especially in ecologically significant regions like the Red Sea coast and wildlife reserves. These provide sustainable and immersive experiences in nature.

When booking accommodation in Sudan, it’s a good idea to plan ahead, especially during the peak tourist season, and consider factors like location, amenities, and safety. Additionally, be aware of the local customs and regulations, and always check for any travel advisories or updates before your trip.

What to Eat? 🍽️

Sudanese cuisine offers a unique blend of flavors influenced by its diverse cultures and regions. While in Sudan as a tourist, you should definitely try some of the following must-try dishes and foods:

• Ful Medames: This is a staple Sudanese breakfast dish made from mashed fava beans cooked with spices like garlic, cumin, and lemon juice. It’s often served with bread or flatbread.
• Kisra: Kisra is a traditional Sudanese flatbread made from fermented sorghum. It’s a common accompaniment to various dishes and is known for its slightly sour taste.
• Mulahwaja: This is a rich and hearty stew made with lamb, beef, or chicken, cooked with vegetables, spices, and ground peanuts. It’s usually served with bread or rice.
• Bamia: Bamia is okra stew, a flavorful dish made with tender okra pods, meat (usually lamb or beef), and a tomato-based sauce seasoned with spices. It’s often served with rice.
• Aseeda: Aseeda is a traditional Sudanese porridge made from sorghum or millet flour. It’s typically served with a meat or vegetable stew and is an essential part of Sudanese cuisine.
• Shawarma: While not originally Sudanese, shawarma is a popular street food in Sudan. It consists of sliced, marinated meat (usually beef or chicken) wrapped in flatbread and often served with garlic sauce and vegetables.
• Kabab: Sudanese kababs are skewers of grilled or roasted meat, usually seasoned with spices and served with bread or rice. They’re a favorite among meat lovers.
• Hibiscus Tea (Karkade): Sudanese people enjoy hibiscus tea, known as “karkade.” It’s a refreshing and tart drink made from dried hibiscus flowers, often sweetened with sugar.
• Sudanese Sweets: Sudan offers a variety of sweet treats, such as sesame seed bars (gozinaki), peanut brittle (fambara), and honey-soaked pastries. These make for delightful snacks or desserts.
• Fruits: Sudan is known for its delicious, fresh fruits. Try the local mangoes, papayas, guavas, and watermelons when they’re in season for a sweet and refreshing experience.
• Street Food: Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Sudanese street food stalls, where you can sample items like falafel, fried doughnuts (lokma), and roasted nuts.

When trying Sudanese cuisine, keep in mind that the level of spice and heat can vary, so be sure to ask about the spiciness of a dish if you’re sensitive to it. Sudanese food is often enjoyed communally, and sharing a meal with locals can be a great way to immerse yourself in the culture and hospitality of the country.

What to See? 🔍

Sudan is a country with a rich history, diverse landscapes, and cultural heritage. While there are many places to explore, here are some must-see destinations for tourists in Sudan:

• The Pyramids of Meroe: Located in the desert near the Nile, the Pyramids of Meroe are one of Sudan’s most iconic and impressive archaeological sites. These ancient pyramids, dating back to the Kingdom of Kush, are less crowded than Egypt’s pyramids, allowing for a more intimate experience.
• Khartoum: Sudan’s capital city, Khartoum, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis. Explore its markets, visit the National Museum to see archaeological treasures, and take in the views at the confluence of the Blue and White Nile rivers.
• Port Sudan: This coastal city on the Red Sea is a gateway to some of Sudan’s best diving spots and beautiful beaches. It’s an ideal destination for water sports and marine life enthusiasts.
• Nubian Desert: The Nubian Desert offers a unique desert landscape to explore. Consider taking a desert safari or camel trek to experience the vast dunes and nomadic communities.
• Suakin: Suakin is an ancient port town on the Red Sea coast. It boasts historical coral buildings and provides insight into Sudan’s maritime history.
• El Kurru Archaeological Site: This site features ancient Nubian pyramids and rock-cut tombs, showcasing the cultural heritage of the Kingdom of Kush.
• Taka Mountains: Located in eastern Sudan, the Taka Mountains offer hiking and trekking opportunities, with picturesque landscapes and lush wadis (valleys).
• Mogran Family Park: Located in Khartoum, this park is a great place for families to relax and enjoy picnics. It’s also home to a small zoo and a playground.
• The Red Sea Coast: Besides Port Sudan, Sudan’s Red Sea coast offers pristine beaches, coral reefs, and excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. Don’t miss exploring the underwater world here.
• Sanganeb Marine National Park: This protected area in the Red Sea is renowned for its marine biodiversity. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fantastic spot for diving and observing marine life.
• Wadi Halfa: Situated on the border with Egypt, Wadi Halfa is a town that offers a glimpse into the local culture and a base for exploring nearby attractions like the Temple of Soleb.
• Al-Bajrawiya (Old Dongola): This historical site features the remains of a Christian Nubian kingdom, including ancient churches and fortifications.

Before visiting these destinations, it’s essential to check the latest travel advisories and local conditions, as Sudan’s situation can change. Additionally, consider hiring a local guide for a richer understanding of the history and culture of the places you visit.

What to Do? 📸

As a tourist in Sudan, there are several must-do activities and experiences that will help you make the most of your visit and immerse yourself in the country’s culture and natural beauty. Here are some top things to do in Sudan:

• Explore Ancient Pyramids: Visit the Pyramids of Meroe and El Kurru to witness Sudan’s rich archaeological heritage. These well-preserved pyramids date back to the Kingdom of Kush and offer a fascinating glimpse into the past.
• Cruise the Nile: Take a Nile cruise, particularly between Khartoum and northern Sudan, to appreciate the river’s significance and see the changing landscapes along its banks.
• Dive and Snorkel: Explore the underwater world of the Red Sea by diving or snorkeling in places like Port Sudan, Sanganeb Marine National Park, and the pristine coral reefs along the coast.
• Visit Local Markets: Stroll through bustling markets like Souq Arabi in Khartoum or local markets in smaller towns to experience the vibrant culture, shop for traditional crafts, and savor Sudanese street food.
• Savor Sudanese Cuisine: Taste Sudanese dishes such as ful medames, kisra, mulahwaja, and bamia to sample the country’s unique flavors and culinary traditions.
• Engage with Locals: Strike up conversations with Sudanese locals to learn about their culture, traditions, and way of life. Sudanese people are known for their hospitality and warmth.
• Attend Cultural Festivals: If your visit coincides with local festivals or events, such as the Sufi ceremonies in Omdurman or cultural festivals in various regions, don’t miss the opportunity to participate and witness traditional celebrations.
• Visit Historical Sites: Explore historical sites like Suakin, the Temple of Soleb, and ancient rock-cut tombs to gain insights into Sudan’s rich history and architecture.
• Take a Desert Safari: Experience the stunning landscapes of the Nubian Desert and the Sahara by embarking on a desert safari or camel trek. Witness breathtaking sand dunes, oases, and nomadic communities.
• Hike and Trek: Explore the Taka Mountains or other scenic regions for hiking and trekking adventures, offering opportunities to enjoy Sudan’s natural beauty and wildlife.
• Photograph the Scenery: Sudan boasts diverse and picturesque landscapes, from deserts to lush Nile valleys. Be sure to capture the breathtaking scenery with your camera.
• Learn About Nubian Culture: Engage in Nubian cultural experiences, including music, dance, and traditions, by visiting Nubian villages or attending cultural performances.
• Enjoy Stargazing: The desert areas of Sudan provide an excellent opportunity for stargazing due to the clear, unpolluted skies. Consider camping under the stars for a memorable experience.
• Respect Local Customs: Sudan is a predominantly Muslim country with conservative customs. Dress modestly and respect local traditions and etiquette.
• Stay Informed: Stay updated on travel advisories, local regulations, and safety guidelines throughout your trip to ensure a smooth and safe experience.

By immersing yourself in these activities and experiences, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the beauty, history, and unique culture of Sudan while creating lasting memories.

Culture and Safety 🦺

Traveling to Sudan as a tourist offers a chance to experience a rich and diverse culture, but it’s essential to be mindful of local customs and safety considerations. Here are some cultural and safety tips for travelers to Sudan:

Cultural Tips:

• Respect Islamic Customs: Sudan is predominantly Muslim, and Islamic customs are an integral part of daily life. Dress modestly, particularly in public places, by covering your shoulders, chest, and knees. Women should cover their hair with a scarf when entering mosques or conservative areas.
• Greetings: Greet people with respect and use polite Arabic phrases, such as “As-salamu alaykum” (peace be upon you) as a common greeting. Respond with “Wa alaykum as-salam” (and peace be upon you).
• Right Hand Rule: In Sudan, as in many other Muslim-majority countries, the right hand is considered cleaner and more appropriate for eating, shaking hands, and giving or receiving items. The left hand is often used for personal hygiene.
• Ramadan: If you visit during Ramadan, be aware that it’s a month of fasting from sunrise to sunset. Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours out of respect for those observing the fast.
• Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, particularly in rural areas. Some Sudanese may not feel comfortable being photographed.
• Friday Prayer: On Fridays, many businesses and services may close during the midday Friday prayer time. Plan your activities accordingly.

Safety Tips:

• Travel Advisories: Check your government’s travel advisories and the latest safety information for Sudan before your trip. Conditions can change, so stay informed.
• Register with Your Embassy: Register your presence with your embassy or consulate when you arrive in Sudan. This can be helpful in case of emergencies or unforeseen situations.
• Security in Darfur and Border Regions: Be cautious when traveling to border areas and regions like Darfur, which have experienced conflicts and security issues. Check travel advisories for specific recommendations.
• Civil Unrest: Sudan has experienced periods of civil unrest and protests. Avoid large gatherings and demonstrations, and stay informed about local news and developments.
• Health Precautions: Ensure your vaccinations are up-to-date, and take necessary precautions against diseases like malaria. Drink bottled water and be cautious about the quality of food in local markets.
• Currency and Payments: Carry enough cash in Sudanese pounds (SDG), as credit cards and ATMs may not be widely accepted. Be cautious when handling money, and use reputable exchange services.
• Transportation Safety: Be vigilant when using public transportation, as road conditions can vary. Choose reputable transportation providers for long-distance travel.
• Local Laws and Regulations: Familiarize yourself with Sudan’s laws and regulations. Drug use, for example, is strictly prohibited and can result in severe penalties.
• Emergency Contacts: Know the local emergency contact numbers and the location of the nearest embassy or consulate.

By respecting local customs and following safety guidelines, you can enhance your travel experience in Sudan while staying safe and culturally sensitive. Sudanese people are known for their hospitality, and your efforts to understand and respect their culture will likely be appreciated.

In conclusion, a visit to Sudan promises a unique and rewarding experience for adventurous travelers. From its ancient historical sites to its vibrant markets, pristine beaches, and warm-hearted people, Sudan offers a tapestry of culture, natural beauty, and rich history waiting to be explored. While it may not be the most conventional tourist destination, Sudan’s hidden gems and warm hospitality make it a truly unforgettable place for those willing to venture off the beaten path. So, pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and embark on a journey to discover the wonders of Sudan.

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Wake at the break of day under the golden pyramids of godlike kings of old, traverse a searing desert to the place where two Niles become one, and watch a million ruby-red fish swarm through gardens of coral. For the few travelers who venture here, the sights found amongst Sudan's sweeping hills of sand come as a fantastic surprise.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Meroe Pyramids

Seemingly lost under the folds of giant apricot-coloured dunes, this ancient royal cemetery, with its clusters of narrow pyramids blanketing the sand…

A little south of Abri, for many travellers the wonderfully evocative Egyptian temple of Soleb is the highlight of the journey between Dongola and Wadi…

National Museum

This museum, the best in Sudan, has some breathtaking exhibits. The ground floor covers the rise and fall of the kingdoms of Kerma, Kush and Meroe. There…

Hamed el-Nil Tomb

Every Friday afternoon you can see an incredible Sufi ritual, where a colourful local troupe of whirling dervishes belonging to the Sufi community stirs…

Khatmiyah Mosque

At the base of the Taka Mountains is this spectacular mosque, centre of the Khatmiyah Sufi sect. It's a lovely mudbrick building with a pointed octagonal…

With a temple from Egypt's Middle Kingdom, an Ottoman fort and a medieval church among the many ruins, Sai Island is something of a synopsis of ancient…

Kerma Museum

Next to Kerma's western deffufa is this well organised museum that contains interesting relics from the site, including seven imposing granite statues and…

Western Deffufa

A 15-minute walk away from town, this massive mudbrick temple stood about 19m high and stretched 50m long. Nobody is really certain what it was used for…

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Feb 21, 2014 • 4 min read

To the wider world the North African nation of Sudan is often seen as a place of untold horror. A burning and featureless desert where war, genocide and…

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Ultimate Sudan travel guide: itinerary, budget and travel tips for backpackers

In Sudan, seemingly forgotten pyramids still stand in endless desert sands. The markets of Kassala and Omdurman are a fascinating melting pot of cultures and traditions. The Sudanese people are among the friendliest and most hospitable people in the world. And there is a big chance you will get an invitation for a cup of tea or a meal. In short, Sudan is worth a trip and I would like to present you my Ultimate Sudan travel guide!

Introduction to this Sudan travel guide

This winter (jan ’18) I solo backpacked eighteen days through Sudan (e.g. no tour operator and nothing was booked beforehand). Based on my experience, I wrote this extensive Sudan travel guide. Hopefully, you will find all you need to know about backpacking in Sudan. If anything is missing in this guide, please let me know!

P.s. This guide is about Sudan in Africa and  not a bout Sudan in the USA ;) I discovered there is a town called Sudan in West Texas with 1039 inhabitants.

How to prepare for your trip to Sudan? 

Let’s start with the beginning ;) Backpacking in Sudan is easy and safe, but you may want to pack and check some things before you go.

Specific things to pack for Sudan

• Gifts. In Sudan you will meet incredibly hospitable people. You may even get an invitation to someones home. Therefore, I would recommend to bring some small gifts from your home country.
• Liner or sleeping bag. Accommodation in Sudan can be very basic. Sometimes the sheets haven’t been changed for a while or there are no sheets at all.
• Your vaccination certificate with a yellow fever certificate. Although no one ever asks for it.
• (A travel guide… I had the ‘Bradt travelguide’ with me, but to be honest, most information in this guide was outdated and there was little destination information in general. However, to my knowledge this is the only travel guide available).
• Photo copies of important documents, such as your visa and your passport and bring a few portrait photographs.
• Plenty of new US dollars without creases. You won’t be able to use your creditcard in Sudan. Euro’s are more difficult to exchange.
• Modest clothing. The large majority of people in Sudan is Muslim.
• Please find my full packing list for long backpacking trips here. 

Specific things to do before going to Sudan

• Learn some Arabic. Obviously, you will learn some Arabic on the road, but you may consider to learn some basics while you’re still at home. It’s easy and useful!
• Check the latest Sudan travel advice from your government. (Personally, in most cases I won’t let this affect my travels)
• Download a VPN. I don’t remember Sudan had any restrictions, but a VPN is always useful to have on your phone.
• Download the maps.me application. The Sudan map has useful information.
• Arrange your Sudanese visa. I arranged my Sudanese visa in Aswan, Egypt . It only took one working day and 50 USD. No letter of invitation was needed. The visa is valid for one-month. Multiple entry was not possible in Aswan.
• You may want to get travel insurance, some immunisations (check with your local tropical healthcare clinic) and anti-malarial drugs.

What is the best time to travel? 

Despite the secession of South Sudan in 2011, Sudan remains a huge country. You will most likely spend most of your time in North Sudan, which has a desert climate with no rain fall. I traveled Sudan during the winter (January) and the heat was bearable. At night, it was even a little chilly, so you might want to bring your sweater!

Getting into Sudan from Egypt. 

I took an early morning bus from Aswan and arrived in Wadi Halfa just after sunset. Especially the Egypt border takes a very long time, mostly because your fellow passengers travel with numerous tv’s, washing machines etc., which the Egypt officials all want to check. Check out my extensive border crossing report here. 

Read here how to get your Sudanese visa in Aswan!

Getting into Ethiopia from Sudan 

I slept at Gadaref and started my border crossing from there. It still took quite a long time to get to Gonder and I arrived at 6 in the evening. The border between Sudan and Ethiopia is very basic. You will have to go to a few buildings for a luggage check and your stamp and then you can cross the bridge to hop on a bus towards Gonder.

Read here how to get your Ethiopian visa in Sudan!

Paperwork in Sudan

Sudan loves paperwork and registration. Like Central Asia , I was a bit nervous about losing documents or not getting things right, but it was all quite easy. What you need for Sudan is the following:

• Visa (see above)
• Vaccination certificate with yellow fever certificate, if you arrive from a yellow fever endemic (neighboring) country.
• At the border crossing you will receive a piece of paper! This piece of paper is important. You’ll need it for registration.
• Registration. You need to register within three days after arrival in Sudan. Most people register in Khartoum, but I registered in Wadi Halfa at the local police station. It was a lot of copies, signing and stamps, but in total it only took one hour. I paid 532 SDG.
• Registration in a certain town. Some hotels require you to register at the local police station upon arrival. This is free and takes only five minutes. I only registered in Karima, but I heard other travelers registered in every town.
• Travel and/or photography permit. The travel permit is only required if you want to travel to certain area’s like the Nuba mountains. The photography permit is officially required by all tourists, but I never got one nor did any of my fellow travel friends.

Internet and mobile network in Sudan

It’s easy to buy a simcard in Sudan. I bought a ZAIN simcard in Wadi Halfa. I had excellent connection the entire time including 3G internet!

Safety in Sudan

Isn’t Sudan dangerous? This is a common misconception about Sudan! For me, Sudan was the safest African country I traveled in so far. Crimes against foreigners in Sudan are rare. I felt completely safe to go out at night.

However, there are some area’s you should avoid, such as the border area’s with the Central African Republic, Chad, Libya, Eritrea and South Sudan. Only recently (2011), after years of civil war, South Sudan became an independent country. As you probably know, Sudan has a history of military coups and unstable politics. There is always a chance on protests. While I was there, there were also protests against increases of the prices of bread. I heard this through international news outlets. And during NYE, I ended up in a tear gas attack. However, like mentioned previously, if you avoid crowds and demonstrations, you will be fine and it will most likely not affect your travels. Just stay informed.

Solo female traveling

As a solo female traveler, I had very few problems. I mostly encountered smiles and hospitality. In one occasion, the hotel guy came a little bit too close, but I simply pushed him away. Other than that, no sexual harassment or whatsoever.

If you travel to Sudan, make sure to dress modest. I always wore baggy pants and shirts with long sleeves and a high neck. However, I did not wear a headscarf or skirt. I asked a few Sudanese people whether I should wear a headscarf, but they answered (jokingly) ‘No, we want to see your beautiful hair’ or ‘No, we know you’re not a muslim anyway’.

Also, although Sudan has rather strict men and women spheres, I was sometimes invited to sit with the men. Like the Bradt guide states: ‘Foreign women are often considered as ‘honorary men’, and may be given the option to move between these male- and female dominated spheres’. This is exactly what I encountered.

Also read the full article on (solo) female traveling! 

Solo traveling

It’s no Southeast Asia, but it’s still possible to meet other solo travelers in Sudan. In fact, it’s likely you will meet them. There are not many backpackers, but in general they all tend to stay at the same places, because there are not so many accommodation options. Also, most travelers tend to follow the same route, so you keep bumping into each other!

Transportation in Sudan

I loved traveling by (mini)bus in Sudan, as it was a great way to meet people. The roads are in a good condition with only a few potholes. Here are some tips for getting around in Sudan:

• Get to the (mini)busstation early! Most buses leave early in the morning (around 7). If you arrive in the afternoon, you may have to wait a long time before the bus is full.
• If possible, reserve a seat by putting a bottle of water or a bag on it.
• Prepare for some hot and dusty drives sometimes with loud music. Often the pluche curtains remain closed, so you won’t be able to enjoy the beautiful desert landscapes.
• Make sure you go to the correct busstation, because large towns often have several busstations.

Accommodation in Sudan

Accommodation in Sudan is limited. Often a town only has a handful of options. I never booked beforehand, but in one town all budget options were fully booked, so I had to stay in a more expensive hotel. Like mentioned previously, I would advice to bring a sleeping bag. These are the accommodation options in Sudan:

• Couch surfing. In Khartoum there are many couch surfing hosts: from expats to Sudanese men and women.
• Camping. With exception of Khartoum, I don’t know any official camping places. In Khartoum, you can camp at the Youth Hostel or at the Blue Nile Sailing club. Unfortunately, I wasn’t allowed to camp at the Youth Hostel as a solo female traveler. Find some excellent camping tips for rookie campers here! 
• Lokanda. This is the cheapest type of guesthouse and not always open for solo woman travelers. It has a shared bathroom. The quality varies, but for example, my lokanda in Wadi Halfa was fine. Costs 2-3 USD.
• Budget guesthouses / midrange hotels. Also big variation in quality from simple to ‘western chic’. I paid between 8-14 USD for a private room per night. Often with cold water, but sometimes with AC or TV.
• Luxury. An Italian organization runs a deluxe tent camp in Meroë and a deluxe hotel in Karima. Prices are about 100-150 USD’s. There are obviously plenty of luxury options in Khartoum, such as the Acropole Hotel or the Corynthia Hotel.

Websites such as Hostelworld.com and Booking.com don’t have bookings options for Sudan! If you would like to book beforehand, it’s best to simply call.

Costs and budget of travel in Sudan

Sudan is easy on the wallet. I only spent about 18 USD’s per day. You can find a detailed overview of my costs of backpacking in Sudan here.  As stated previously, you will need to bring enough US dollars inside the country, because you won’t be able to simply withdraw money once you’re inside.

Here are some other tips with regard to costs and budget in Sudan

• Generally, there is no need to haggle! The pyramids and taxi’s might be an exception to this, but even their prices are often honest. After your travels through Egypt or Ethiopia, this is definitely a nice change!
• Always ask for the price in Sudanese Pounds to avoid confusion with conversion rates.
• Ask around to get the latest black market rates. The rate changes every day and unfortunately, continues to drop . The Sudanese economy suffers both from the US sanctions and the lost oil in South Sudan.

Highlights of Sudan

For me, the real highlight of Sudan were the encounters I had in buses, restaurants and guesthouses, but of course Sudan also has many fascinating sights to offer!

• Meroë pyramids: Sudan’s most famous sight with more than 100 pyramids.
• Omdurman souk: The largest market of Sudan, right next to Khartoum, and a great place for people watching
• Sufi ceremony in Omdurman: One of my personal favorites. During their rituals, the dervishes come in an ecstatic state in which they can communicate with god. The dervishes often sing La Illaja illallah, there is no God but Allah. It’s every Friday afternoon at sunset at the Hamed al-Nil tomb. Don’t miss it!
• Nuri pyramids: These were my favorite pyramids, although in a deplorable shape, still an amazing sight to see.
• Khatmiya sufi mosque: The setting makes it a highlight. The mosque is located at the foot of the weirdly shaped Taka mountains.
• Temple of Soleb: A reasonably preserved temple dedicated to the deity Amun Re at the banks of the Nile.

An example of a two-week Sudan backpacking itinerary

I spent 18 days in Sudan, but lingered quite a long time in Khartoum. This is an example of a two-week Sudan backpacking itinerary which takes you from the Egyptian border to the Ethiopian border.

Egyptian border – Wadi Halfa – Abri (including the Soleb temple) – Dongola – Karima – Meroe – Khartoum/Omdurman – Kassala – Gadaref – Ethiopian border

–> Find my extensive 2-week Sudan travel itinerary here!

Eating and drinking in Sudan

It’s all about two F’s. Ful and falafel.

• I absolutely loved the Sudanese falafel ‘Taamiya’, because they were often fresh and crispy. Unfortunately, they did not put any salad or tomato in the sandwich, but sometimes they would put in a boiled egg, which I thought was funny and delicious!
• Ful is delicious for breakfast. It mainly consists of brown beans, but can also be mixed with salad, egg or cheese. I also ate a lot of delicious fried fish. Personally, I haven’t tried kebab or schnitzel dishes. Like many African countries, food is generally shared and eaten with your hands.
• There is no alcohol in Sudan! It’s strictly forbidden and even expats have difficulties finding alcohol these days.
• In Sudan, I drank many fruit juices and many cups of chai at the tea ladies. This is also a fun way to mix with local Sudanese people.
• In restaurants, I was not always sure if they cleaned the cups, but hey, no big deal.
• You will often see large earthenware pots. These pots contain non-boiled cold water. Whether you decide to drink this water, is up to you.

You will rarely eat or drink alone in Sudan. Most Sudanese people insist on joining their table and treating you. 

How to communicate in Sudan?

In Sudan you will often find people who speak some basic English. A few times, I found myself in a situation where no one spoke English (like when I tried to explain I wanted to take the bus to Shendi, but get off at Meroë). If you do get into a situation like this, use paper or writing or hand gestures!

Shopping in Sudan

The shops were reasonably stocked. In Khartoum, there are two Western style malls (Afra and Al-Waha). All things imported are extremely expensive.

I don’t have much backpacking experience… Should I go to Sudan?

I would not recommend Sudan for rookie or beginner backpackers. Some previous Africa experience is definitely useful to have. The facilities in Sudan can be very basic. There are no real restaurants and few places to truly unwind. For example, if you would like to read a book, you will most likely end up in a broken plastic chair in a busy, dusty street. Also, as a solo traveler it can be a bit lonely sometimes. However, if you are enthusiast about going, feel free to contact me for any questions that you might have!

Responsible travel in Sudan

Tourism in Sudan still stands in its infancy. Let’s try to keep the footprints we leave behind, as few as possible.

• Don’t waste resources. I have to admit, not spoiling water was quite easy with the cold water showers ;)
• Sudanese people generally don’t mind to have their photo taken, especially in the North. However, it’s always better to ask!
• Spent your money locally. This is quite easy in Sudan, because most businesses are locally owned.
• Behave and dress modest at religious sites or events. Don’t disturb an event (such as the Sufi dancing) by photography.
• Read more about some ethical travel dilemma’s you might also encounter in Sudan here!

Sudan is one of my favorite destinations ever. Please, let me know if you need any information about backpacking in Sudan or if you’re missing information in this Sudan travel guide.

Feel free to save this article on Pinterest!

Sudan travel information:

Two-week Sudan backpacking itinerary What are the costs of backpacking in Sudan? How to get an Ethiopian visa in Khartoum, Sudan?  Obtaining your Sudanese visa in Aswan, Egypt

Going to Ethiopia? Read about the incredible Timkat festival here! 

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Travel to Sudan with this two-week backpacking itinerary

11 comments.

Thanks for the ultimate guide on sudan.

Thanks for the great guide. I was looking everywhere for Information. I needed a general idea for my opcoming trip. It’s really hard getting details regarding tourism in Sudan. So I really appreciate all the effort you entered I. This guide.

Hi, This was a great read. I lived in Sudan for 4 years and just left this past June. I know that Sudan doesn’t have many travel books that are current, but there are plenty of travel agents in Sudan. People who are not trying to really sell you anything but are a wealth of information. For example, the owner of the Red Sea Resort is a great place to stop by to swim or to ask questions. In Khartoum, there are so many people who would love to give you advice. I am happy that you were able to see Soleb I have been there too, but sometimes it is better to go with a guide to places like that because then you get some history as well. I went with a friend named Zarroug and we found places along the Nile that were hidden but still had very detailed hieroglyphics. As well as having a bit of fun off-roading in the desert :)

For example, there is a place called Naga and Musawwarat that are on the way to Meroe, but you have to have a driver to find it.

I am fully supportive of a pure backpacking trip, I have done a few myself through Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, and a few other places but in Sudan especially, I would highly recommend a guide or just someone to talk to that knows the history. Even in towns like Tombo, which in on the way up to Egypt, we found places that we had no idea existed and I can speak, read, and write in Arabic.

I am also so happy that you said that Sudan is safe. Many people ask me that, I my response is ALWAYS, “Its the safest place I’ve ever been”.

I am utterly thrilled that you loved Sudan and I hope that you return someday to experience more of the country. If you ever need some more advice or a contact for Sudan please let me know :)

Hi Sarah, Thank you so much for your additional tips :) I considered going to the Red Sea Resort, but decided to skip it, as diving is apparently quite risky there. Is Tombos worth going to? Cheers, Manouk

hi manouk, did you hear anything from travellers about the current situation in sudan after the unrest started? im planning to go there soon but only have informations from news outlets. best wishes stefan

Hey Stefan, unfortunately I don’t know any current travelers in Sudan personally. However, I would recommend to become a member of the ‘backpacking Africa’ and ‘overlanding Africa’ Facebook groups. Those groups have a bunch have a travelers, who recently crossed Sudan :) When I was there, there were also massive protests against rising bread prices and even a State of Emergency in Kassala, but it didn’t really affect my travels. .All the best! Manouk

nice blog and thanks for your informations. Do you know agood place to stay for a couple Days. I’m planning Khartoum for around 7 Days. To much?

Hey Jackon,

You could stay at the Youth Hostel or in one of the hotels in the street of the Youth Hostel (please read my itinerary article). Seven days in Khartoum might be too much. You could combine Khartoum with a visit to another city. Please do try to be in Khartoum on a friday for the Sufi dancing. Enjoy!!

Hi Manouk, thanks a lot for this guide! I used it to research my bicycle trip through Egypt and Sudan, which I finished in March, and am just now getting around to writing about. I found Sudan to be very much like you described: interesting, a bit challenging (especially riding across the hot desert), and sooo hospitable. I felt comfortable there as a solo lady, though I missed interacting with women after a few days of meeting only men out on the road. Khartoum was the only place where I was able to easily interact with Sudanese women. Still, it’s a fascinating country, and I hope they can work through their current challenges. Thanks and take care!

Hey Alissa, You’re welcome :) Feel free to share a link to your blog here!

Sudan seems unsafe to travel to currently but the heart to explore keeps driving me their! I don’t know if am being much a risk taker

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How to travel to Sudan?

• September 10, 2023
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• Updated on September 10, 2023

▶ Destinations ▶ Sudan  

Travel to Sudan

Sudan : few travelers visit it. Therefore, little information is available. Find everything you need to know to travel to this North African country. Is Sudan safe? Can I travel without a guide? How to get there? We will see all this in this travel guide.  

An off the beaten track destination

Sudan is a vastly underrated and little-known travel destination. Sudan is fascinating and beautiful. You will like it a lot if you are looking for adventure and desert. Because yes, it is a country off the beaten track and very little developed. That is to say that nothing is arranged for tourism. The impression is such that one would imagine the Egypt from 20 years ago.

Chapka insures your trip to Sudan Get it now

Please note that the situation is currently unstable in Sudan. Since the 2021 coup, the conflict has intensified in 2023 and the risk of a civil war in the near future cannot be ruled out.

My experience

I spent many nights in a tent and about ten days at the inhabitant. I never booked anything in Sudan . Everything went day by day for 45 days. To tell the truth, it was the Sudanese who drew my trip. Although the warmth of the sun has taken up space in this adventure, it is above all that of the people that will remain anchored in me. Despite the many labels that still stick to his skin, I wandered in peace and serenity in this country so special where the Arab world meets black Africa.  

My itinerary in Sudan

Wadi Halfa – Shelter – Dongola – Old Dongola – Karima – Nuri – Kabushiya – Merowe – Shendi – El Qirenab – Khartoum

These are the main lines of my itinerary arriving by Egypt But I stopped several times in a lot of small villages “off the beaten track” between each stage. These are my best memories in Sudan .

When to go to Sudan?

The sun never hides in Sudan. It is hot all year round however periods are to be avoided.

● The months of November to January are the most suitable for travel. Temperatures climb to 39°C during the day and drop to 16°C at night. ● The months of February to April and September to October are average. Temperatures vary between 23°C and 42°C. ● The months of May to August are the most unfavorable for travel. Temperatures vary between 30°C and 45°C.

Safety in Sudan

Is sudan safe to travel.

For my part, I have not, never felt the slightest sense of insecurity in Sudan . To tell you the truth, it may even be one of the countries where I felt the most serene. Solo female travelers don’t usually report bad impressions either. The Sudanese will take care of you, don’t worry. Respect is preached in this country.

Areas to avoid

The borders , including those of South Sudan, Chad, the Central African Republic or Ethiopia more recently . Indeed, even if the episodes of war in the Tigray region have relaxed, the area remains very sensitive, although some travelers still cross the border of Metema without problems.

Darfur , which is a sensitive and very unstable and insecure region. Hundreds of kilometers of desert separate you from the Nile, the insecurity of this region is obviously not felt on the rest of the territory.

The Nuba Mountains , southern Sudan (not to be confused with Nubia): Some areas of Mount Nuba in the extreme south should be avoided and require permission to travel. This part of the country is special because it is isolated animist ethnic groups that live there and the culture is very different from the Islamic part.

Protests and instabilities

It is not uncommon for Sudan to experience episodes of instability, usually due to political movements. These events are felt especially in Khartoum, the capital. You should stay informed of the situation and avoid approaching gatherings if there are any.

Current situation of Sudan

Conflicts have recently broken out in several regions of Sudan. Their origins date back to the 2021 coup and they have continued to intensify, especially since the spring of 2023. In this case, it is preferable to postpone any travel to Sudan and wait for the country to regain its stability.

🔎 Read more about the conflict here

Travelling to Sudan as a woman

I was able to exchange through my small community on Instagram with several women who have travelled to Sudan. I have only had positive feedback, it is often equivalent to mine. The vast majority of Sudanese are benevolent and discreet.  

Compliance with dress code

Only one of the girls I was able to interact with complained about the behavior of some locals, but it turns out she was traveling in shorts and t-shirts. I deduced that there must have been a cause and effect ( Read the local customs section ).

Marital status

You will surely not escape the many questions about your love life. In Sudan, marriage and family are fundamental points. To avoid getting bogged down in long confrontational conversations, I advise you to say that you are married even if you are not. The Sudanese have a completely different culture from ours and very conservative. Some may hardly understand our choices on this subject, which often leads to debate.

For the same reasons mentioned above, if you are an atheist, avoid saying that you do not believe in God. This is surely the worst thing to do. Thus, prefer to say that you have a religion. Anyway, do obvisouly what you want but know that can be annoying to debate everyday about it. That’s from my personnal experience.  

➡️ Moreover, these points are also addressed to men . I’ve been in these kinds of conversations before. I didn’t like the idea of having to lie, but sometimes it was easier that way.

Insurance for travelling to Sudan

There are a thousand and one reasons to be confronted with a problem abroad. Medical or hospitalization costs, which can be very high, are also one of the motivations for taking out insurance. The reputation of Chapka in the travel industry is second to none. Get insured then travel hassle-free.  

You will not pay any additional commission fee by using the affiliate link. On the other hand, you help me to get paid from my work and to keep Spirit-travelers.com alive. Note that you can get a 5% discount on the trip less than 3 months.

Money and budget

● I spent about $200 in 45 days ● About $4.5 in daily expenses ● Average salary in Sudan: $50/month

In fact, applying for a visa ($150) , doing an entry PCR test ($105) and a return PCR test ($28) will have cost me more than the trip itself. The trip cost me only $520 all inclusive for 45 days. On site, my daily expenses averaged $4.5, yes I travelled on a budget because Sudan is a cheap country for European countries and second because I roamed by a very roots way in the country.

Your budget

It must be taken into account that your budget may differ a lot from mine. I slept a lot in tents, never in hotels and several times in homestays. This trip was the least expensive I could do. I never had comfort and it was sometimes a bit rough.

Can I use bank card in Sudan?

Foreign bank cards cannot be used in Sudan . You have to have all the cash on you. I found it convenient to have $50 bills. Easy to distribute in several places in case of lost luggage and easier to exchange. People don’t always have dollars to give back to you if you exchange a large denomination. Another point, it avoids having huge bundles of Sudanese pounds on you.

Where to change money?

Be sure to inquire about the current rate as it fluctuates constantly. It is very easy to find someone for the change, just ask hotels or merchants. You can even trade in medium-sized cities and even small ones, but you have to look hard.

⚠️ IMPORTANT : If you are given change in dollars, check that the note is issued after 2014 and not below. You will no longer be able to exchange it or with great difficulty and at a very bad rate.  

Official exchange VS black market exchange

The best currency to trade is the dollar ($USD). The Sudanese pound is very weak. When I traveled, the official rate was: ● $1 = 55 SDG and the black market rate $1 = 260 SDG:a very big difference.

As I update this guide, the official rate is: ● $1 = SDG 570, which is huge. I don’t know the current black market rate, but the official rate is so low it won’t ruin you anytime soon.

Daily expenses

● About $4.5 in daily expenses (my budget)

Knowing the main daily expenses can be useful before coming to Sudan to estimate the total budget of your trip. Since as mentioned above, your bank card is not functional in the country and you will need to have all your money in your pocket.

Archaeological sites

They are almost not (if at all) monitored and left as they are. It is even crazy to see that such important sites are neglected in this way. I only paid for the pyramids of Meroe. The base price set at 20, but you can enter without a ticket (it goes in the pocket of the guard) when I was there he offered me 1000 SDG, or $4 …

Food is very cheap in Sudan if you eat in small local restaurants or on the street.

● About 100 to 200 SDG for a local meal.

● A pure fresh fruit juice costs between 60 and 100 SDG.

● A coffee on the street or tea (chai) costs 50 SDG.

● The most accessible meal and found everywhere is the “fuul” it is a bean porridge that bathes in oil and is eaten with bread. It is the national dish. About 100 SDGs.

Cigarettes cost between 50 and 120 SDG depending on the brand. There are only packs of 10 in Sudan.

Transportation remains the most expensive thing in Sudan. There is a big shortage of fuel in the country and he is getting paid dearly. It is quite simple to move around Sudan. There are often minivans that depart from almost any city. You will find them at gas stations, where you can stop them at the side of any road. Travel in cities is done by tuktuk.

Negotiations

If you are arriving from Egypt , know that you will never need to negotiate. Maybe only if you plan to sleep several nights in the same establishment or to take a taxi in Khartoum.

● Egypt is well known for greatly inflating prices among tourists, sometimes to the point of quadrupling them and even on basic necessities such as water! But never in Sudan.

Prices in Sudan are often fixed . In this country, it is very rare to come across a scammer. Or if he increases the rate, it will always be insignificant. Regarding the negotiation – in all countries – I assume that if the price suits me, even if it is still above the initial rate, my negotiation stops. Chipot for pennies I leave it to others…

Where to stay and accommodation

Accommodation can be very cheap or very expensive depending on what you are looking for. If you travel in backpacker mode, you have a very accessible and interesting option: the lokandas .  

Staying in lokanda

Lokandas are dormitories for very rudimentary locals. A room costs around $5. A single bed costs around $1. You will be mixed with the locals in the same room. There is no comfort (old mattress most of the time and without duvet). Do not be sensitive to noise and bustle because you live in community with many people but it is a great way to be a total immersion with the people and to meet people. I never feared for my backpack, it stayed all day between dozens of people while I went out. I’ve always trusted, and I’ve never had any problems with that.

How to find them?

Ask the locals for “lokanda”, they will show you one. They are not indicated at all on the internet. And even if they were, you still need to have a network! There are everywhere and sometimes even in the very small villages because they also serve as tea rooms and the inhabitants meet there.

Standard rooms and hotels

They are very few, but there is at least one in every medium-sized city. A standard room costs around $20.

More comfortable options

There is not really an in-between in the Sudan concerning the hotel industry. If you are looking for a hotel worthy of the name, the prices are very expensive. Not on a Sudanese scale, they really are.

Tips for travelling to Sudan

Language barrier.

Finding someone who speaks English is very complicated outside the capital. Learning a few words of Arabic helped me a lot throughout the trip. Like numbers, food, necessities, key phrases, etc.

Water is usually everywhere. In Sudan, there are often jars along roads and in villages, where they are difficult to find. You can hydrate anywhere and for free. It’s the locals who have that. When I say “everywhere”, it is relative. in Sudan.

It is almost impossible to escape if you drink running water: but once passed, you are immune to drink everywhere and it is very convenient. It avoids carrying extra liters of water in your bag. If like me you have planned to make long treks crisscrossing the villages, know that finding a minimarket can sometimes be the obstacle course.

I got very sick during my first two days but that was the price I had to pay for my body to become immune. I then drank running water throughout the trip without any problems. I even drank Nile water several times, like the locals. If your health is fragile obviously I strongly advise against it. I assume that if people drink the water, I can drink it too. It’s up to you to judge.

How to drink water safely?

There are alternatives, such as consuming only in bottles but as mentioned above, it is not always easy especially since we are always thirsty in this country. Alternatively, you can also boil the water or buy a filter straw. I’ve never used it but I think it’s very useful for more watchful people.

The network is very bad see catastrophic and recurring power cuts (sometimes more than 6 hours).

The solar panel and the external battery are tools that are very useful if you are far from the villages or if a power cut occurs. The sun in Sudan is not what is missing. You can also easily charge your devices in small convenience stores. Electricity is low and charging time can be long.

SIM card and operators

Regarding telephone operators I advise MTN. Of the 3 most well-known operators, it is the one with the best Internet coverage. Secondly, I recommend ZAIN. Personally, I had these 2 operators and I juggled between the two for the network. It was very convenient because I can assure you that you can sometimes wait a very long time to open only a small web page.

How to find a network in Sudan?

I found on the way a very practical trick to find network. There are apps on the PlayStore that detect all of your carrier’s antennas on a map. You just have to follow them and your connection will increase when you get to the nearest location. It helped me a few times. I used the free application “Opensignal”.

Can you take pictures in Sudan?

Photos are not a problem in general for men. On the other hand, they are not well received by women if it is a man who photographs them. Many times I made women around me uncomfortable when I took out my camera. If you want to photograph a woman, you will have to make friends with her for it to be accepted. However, women travellers have a much easier time photographing Sudanese women. Personally, after a few days of travel I simply stopped taking out the camera in the presence of women.

Habits & customs

Cover the body ( long sleeves for arms and legs). This people retains a certain modesty. You will rarely see people with their skin uncovered except children. The majority of inhabitants wear the djellaba in Sudan.

Sudanese eat on the ground . Everyone eats from the same dish, it’s very friendly. Unlike our countries, we eat very quickly and we withdraw immediately when we are finished. Since everyone puts their hands on the same plate, avoid taking out the left. It is impure: it is oriental toilet paper.

Homosexuality is forbidden ( haram ¹). If you are concerned, simply avoid showing external signs. Sharia ² has not been applied since 2020 in Sudan, but homosexuality remains severely punished. I don’t think tourists are treated the same as Sudanese, but for safety, be careful.

✱ Since 2020, a lot has changed. Things seem to be softening. For example, prior to that date, a single offence for homosexuality was punishable by death for men or 100 lashes for women. The sentences turned into years in prison.

Hitchhiking in Sudan

Hitchhiking is very popular with locals and it works wonderfully. It is very simple to cover long distances in a short time. On the one hand because the cities are very far from each other and on the other hand because along the Nile, there is only one road on each side. This is something that greatly simplifies hitchhiking in Sudan . No worries about taking your head with the map, we walk along the river and we stop when we want.

● Since 2013, the main road along the Nile River in Sudan has been completely renovated. Before this date, the journey took more than 2 days to make Wadi Halfa – Khartoum (1000 km), it was full sandy, like crossing a desert without any road, just imagine.  

Travel differently

The hitchhiking is very nice. We live the journey, we live the landscape and we meet people. It’s a great way to be as close as possible to the locals and culture. The journey is longer but it seems to pass faster, it gives us time to exchange for a long time and learn a lot of things. We are not only behind a glass watching the landscape go by until the next stop.

Does hitchhiking work well in Sudan?

An easy 7/10 for hitchhiking in Sudan. I would have put 10, but the missing points are for the waiting time and the heat. Cars stop very easily but there is still need to be traffic. In Sudan, you will often be transported in the back of pick-up trucks, in trucks or sometimes even in cattle barns.

🔎 How to hitchhike?

Staying in a Sudanese family

Pretty easy! If you spend time with the locals, you will never need to ask: it will happen naturally. Just around the site of Meroe, for example, I slept with 2 different families: facing the pyramids in the village of Kabushiya and several days in the middle of the desert, always facing the pyramids with a very isolated family.  

All these nights and time spent with Sudanese People contributed a lot to my vision and memory of Sudan.I slept 5 times at the inhabitant, natural encounters but I also asked once to locals in a tiny village completely lost where there was nothing. After a week staying in tent, let’s say a bed is tempting.

Wild camping in Sudan

Camping on the nile bank.

I slept a lot outside, along the Nile and in the bush. I washed in the canals or in the river and cooking my food with my feet in the sand the dust (you will understand). This experience is great. Along the Nile, around the villages, the places to camp are plentiful and really peaceful. Often, I set up the tent between the crops and the locals who came to work in the morning were always very surprised to see me: “But what the are you doing here?”

Beware of scorpions

There are many of them in these places and you should be especially wary of them at night, when they are active. Hospitals are scarce. Lift some debris to the ground to see it: you will quickly find your first scorpion. Also, at night there were often beautiful genets coming to my tent, safely.

Camping in the desert

Nights in the desert are no problem. I did treks and retreated away from the villages. I was only bothered by a few fennecs around my tent but without danger. Just be careful to close your mosquito net also for some arachnids like the camel spider which is common.

I have seen several. The young ones are all small and cute but the big ones… They are about 8 centimeters long and run very fast, to the point that the first time I thought I had seen a mouse. This species is not dangerous but its bite is painful. And above all, we do not want to end up with this critter in his tent.

📷 See a photo of a camel spider

Crossing borders

How to get to sudan from egypt.

Find in this guide how to arrive in Sudan from Egypt by land (formalities, visas, transport, …) :

🔎 Crossing the Egypt/Sudan border

Border with Ethiopia

The Ethiopian border has been closed for several months due to rebellion in the Tigray region. There are currently more than 50,000 Ethiopian refugees in Sudan. The border is closed on both sides in Metema.

The second border near Amhara (city of Kurmuk) is also closed due to conflict between the two countries. I verified this information by going to the Ethiopian embassy in Khartoum: it is maintained and for a while. You’ll have to check for yourself.

📍 Location  

Stay informed

⚠️ Find out about the situation on the Ethiopian border before leaving Sudan, as the political situation is very unstable and even dangerous.

Alternative

You can reach Addis Ababa with a cheap Sudanese airline : Badr Airlines . The flight costs between $150 and $200: this is the best option for a non-stop flight. Other companies are more expensive with or without stopovers.

COVID-19 entry : requirements and restrictions

Update 2023: The restrictions are still lifted  

Entry requirements

If you are not travelling with a tour operator you must, upon arrival at the Sudan , go to a police station to announce your arrival and the areas you plan to visit. Officers will add a stamp to your passport. This may be requested by the police during your trip. You can ask for it in Khartoum or Wadi Halfa if you are coming from Egypt.

Entry PCR test

All restrictions and entry requirements into Sudan have been lifted.

● Source : Official data provided by IATA

Exit PCR test

If you want to leave Sudan , you can do a PCR test in many hospitals. The cheapest is Antalya Hospital, for 12,500 SDG you are taken care of directly and you get your results in 24h.

Tourist visa for Sudan

Can i get the visa on arrival.

Most European and American countries cannot obtain a visa on arrival. You must take the steps in a consulate beforehand. In addition, the electronic visa is also not available.

Obtaining the Sudanese visa in Egypt

You will find the necessary information in this guide:

🔎 Obtaining a visa from Sudan to Egypt

Photos of my trip to Sudan

More details for traveling to Sudan

Feel free to use the comment space if you want to know something that is not in this guide. I will answer them quickly and it will allow me to complete the article. You can as well follow me on instagram to check my travel there in the highlight stories. Have a good trip in Sudan!

  ____________ ¹ Haram : Forbidden by Islamic law : opposite to halal. ( ↑   Back ) ² Sharia : Islamic law. ( ↑   Back )

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Africa , Budget Travel Ideas , SUDAN

The ideal sudan travel itinerary.

Wildly off the beaten track, and all the more exciting for it, Sudan is still very much a burgeoning travel destination… but one that has huge potential.

Travelling overland from Cape Town to Cairo , I passed through Sudan and spent 2 amazing weeks here in a country that defied all expectation.

Because I have to say, I was pretty intimidated by the thought of travelling as a solo female in Sudan. However I bit the bullet and went for it… and boy am I glad.

With some of the friendliest people in Africa – quite a claim in these here parts – some wildly amazing desert landscapes, mind-blowing ancient pyramids and prices that are so cheap it’s hard to fathom, there’s no doubt that my experience of travelling in Sudan will stay with for me a long time.

And so, to help encourage others to also explore this incredible country and to assist in some trip planning, here’s my ideal Sudan travel itinerary…

Related Posts

• 15 Amazing Things to Do in Khartoum, Sudan
• Is Sudan Safe for Solo Female Travellers?
• How to Travel Overland from Ethiopia to Sudan and onto Egypt

This page contains affiliate links meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you.

All prices given are correct at the time of publication.

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Day 1-3: khartoum.

With the only international airport in the country, Khartoum is probably the most likely place you’ll be starting your Sudan travels.

It’s also a great place to find your feet in this culturally different country and to help you get some travel admin sorted like visa registration and your travel permit.

FOR MORE INFO SEE: The 33 Things You Need to Know about Sudan Travel

As such, I’d advise giving yourself at least 3 days in Khartoum as there really is an amazing wealth of treasures to be unearthed in this very safe city – in fact I was amazed just how much there was to do here!

From the incredible National Museum with its wealth of ancient treasures, through to local cultural attractions such as camel markets and Sufi dancing ceremonies, right up to taking tea by the Nile and exploring this river’s beautiful islands, Khartoum is a surprisingly rich feast.

I actually ended up spending 6 nights in Khartoum –  a lot to do with how lovely my couchsurfer host was – and also enjoyed checking out Souk Shabi, Ozone Café and marvelling at the presidential palace.

THE BEST TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR SUDAN

I would never think of travelling to Sudan without proper coverage and always recommend travel insurance from World Nomads which I’ve used during my time in this country and throughout Africa.

I love their great coverage of – crucial for travel in a country like Sudan – as well as their excellent customer service and ability to claim online, which is very handy if you’re travelling in remote places for a long time.

Day 4: Meroe

It’s time to start heading north up the Nile after you’re finished in Khartoum as this is where many of Sudan’s treasures lie.

First up, I suggest heading to the Meroe Pyramids, which are located near the town of Shendi where you can find some cheap budget accommodations options.

Getting a bus here from Khartoum is easy and will take only 2-3 hours, but I’d suggest heading off early, as you’ll want to get to Shendi in the morning, so you have plenty of time to dump your bags and then head out of town to see the pyramids in the afternoon.

Otherwise, you can treat yourself to an amazing night in the Meroe Camp, which is an accommodation option located right by the pyramids, literally in the middle of the sand dunes!

Owned by the Italian Tour Company – Sudan , the Meroe Camp is definitely not a budget option, but it’s wild desert safari tents and epic pyramid views go some way to justifying the expense.

LEARN MORE: An Oasis in the Sudanese Desert: Meroe Camp

If you are going to stay at the Meroe Camp, you can continue on the bus past Shendi and then literally ask the driver to drop you off on the highway when you see the pyramids on your right-hand side.

If there’s any confusion, just ask for the “ Tarabil ”, which is pyramid in Arabic.

The camp will then come and collect you from the highway, although you’ll need to call them, which is why I recommend getting a Sudanese SIM card during your travels here.

Read More About Getting a SIM in Sudan HERE .

Wherever you end up staying, I’d recommend reaching the pyramids around 4pm so you can enjoy a stellar sunset there and walk around these ancient structures without getting burnt to a crisp by the desert sun!

Camel rides are also possible here and can be a lot of fun!

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Day 5: Atbara

To be honest there isn’t a lot to see in Atbara, but it makes a good stopover on your Sudan itinerary from Shendi / Meroe and means you don’t have to rush in the morning of day 5.

Atbara is also a good opportunity to see a real working Sudanese town as it’s likely you’ll be the only tourist there.

Stay at Adel Hotel, which has rooms for 500 SDP, free wifi and English-speaking staff.

From here you can walk around the town, exploring the souk and railway museum.

Day 6-7: Karima

Probably my favourite town in the whole of Sudan, it’s worth giving yourself 2 nights to explore Karima and its surrounds.

Staying in Atbara the night before will allow you to set off earlier to Karima and you’ll likely arrive there in just a few hours, meaning you’ll have the rest of the day to discover this beautiful desert town.

Heading to the souk is a great thing to do here, especially on Mondays, which is market day.

With plenty of friendly and colourful characters to be found, walking to the edge of town will also give you a chance to snap the mighty Nile, which cruises past here bringing its life-saving water supply with it.

Then, later in the afternoon, it’s time to head to the town’s most famous attraction, its pyramids.

Free to enter and with not another soul in sight (at least when I visited), this is an amazing spectacle set in the middle of the dunes on the edge of town – maybe a 15-20 minute walk away.

After the pyramids, it’s time to scale the nearby Jebel Bharkal – the sunset and epic views this sacred mountain gives over the surrounding sandscape are quite incredible.

You can also look down on some temple ruins from Jebel Bharkal, as well as snap the town of Karima from an impressive height.

The next day head out of Karima to explore some other of the historical attractions that lie around this town, including the Nuri Pyramids and also the tombs at El-Kerra.

Public buses run to both of these, or else there are taxis can take you too.

When it comes to staying in Karima, there’s 1 budget option in town – Nasa Hotel.

Otherwise the ITC-run Nubian Rest House, is another insane splurge that might just capture you with its proximity to the pyramids and level of European luxury.

Day 8: Dongala / Kerma

From Karima it’s time to continue your Sudan travel itinerary north.

Head towards the town of Dongala and either use this as a base to explore Old Dongala, or swap buses and continue onto the town of Kerma (pronounced Karma).

I opted for Kerma on the back of a recommendation by a Sudanese travel guide I met in Karima who told me this town houses some of the most important ruins in the whole country.

From Dongala, the bus will drop you on the highway outside Kerma and you can then hop on another local minivan to get into the town itself at a cost of just 5 SDP.

Staying at the wonderful Nile Hotel in Kerma is a must, where the friendly owner Abdul Aziz will look after you in true Sudanese style.

A bed here costs just 30 SDP – that’s $1 USD – and Abdul speaks good English, so please call him on +113 265 238 if you have any problems finding the place.

His brother also has a delicious falafel stall set up right outside and can fill you up for just 5 SDP a sandwich!

Once you’ve settled in at the Nile Hotel, head to Duffufa , which is the main archaeological site near the town.

There’s a great little museum here, where the very intelligent and interesting manager – Muthof – kindly showed me around.

It’s best to get a taxi to Duffufa from the Nile Hotel and then ask the driver to wait for you, as you can see the whole place in under an hour. Don’t pay more than 100 SDP.

Entry to the Museum is 25 SDP and entrance to the archaeological site is meant to be $10 USD, but tell the guard you don’t need a receipt and 100 SDP should do it!

You will also need your passport to get in here.

5 Essential Packing Items for Sudan

#1 Headscarf or Sarong – Female travellers especially may feel they want to wear a headscarf in Sudan to fit in. Although it’s not strictly necessary, it may make life easier.

#2 Long, Thin Trousers – Legs need to be covered in this strict Islamic culture, but due to the extremely hot climate, having a thin linen or cotton pair like this is ideal.

#3 Sunglasses – Did I mention Sudan was hot! Like 40 degree hot. Sunglasses are essential here to protect your eyes from the UV rays and the dust!

#4 Long-Sleeved Thin Top – Like legs, arms should be covered in Sudan, so a thin, long-sleeved top like this one is going to be necessary.

#5 Arabic Phrasebook – Even in the capital of Sudan, few people speak English, so getting your hands on the Lonely Planet Egyptian Arabic Phrasebook before you leave home will help you in this country no end!

Day 9: Soleb Temple & Abri

Leave Kerma on day 8 of your Sudan itinerary and head towards to the Nubian town of Abri.

On the way, you can jump off the bus and make a side trip to Soleb Temple, which is situated on an island in the middle of the Nile.

Local fisherman can take you across.

Then it’s back on the bus to Abri, where the Nubian Guest House, also known as Megzoub Guest House, is a lovely place to stay for 300 SDP a night.

Situated on the banks of the Nile, the traditional décor here and free wifi make it a great spot to relax for the afternoon.

You can also visit the Souk in town and stroll round the village, where you’re likely to be invited into peoples’ homes multiple times in true Sudanese style!

Day 10: Wadi Halfa

Finish your Sudan itinerary in the border town of Wadi Halfa, from where you can easily cross into Egypt in the morning.

Hotel ElHarm is a great place to stay in the centre of town, with the Souk and bus station all within easy walking distance.

Rooms cost 150 SDP here and there’s free wifi and an English-speaking owner.

Book your border bus ticket for Egypt that night and get ready for a full day of country-crossing adventure starting at 7am in the morning!

LEARN MORE: How to Travel from Sudan to Egypt Overland

More Time For Your Sudan Travel Itinerary?

With more time up your sleeve in Sudan, I’d recommend heading to the south of the country and a small town called Wassala that I heard a lot of good things about.

Otherwise the coastal destination of Port Sudan can give you your ocean fix.

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

So there you have it, my ideal Sudan travel itinerary.

I hope you enjoy your time in this fascinating country as much as I did mine.

And please, do let me know your stories below. Sudan sees so few tourists it would be really great to hear from others who have been there…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

4 thoughts on “ The Ideal Sudan Travel Itinerary ”

My husband and I and our two sons, 2 and 9mo, moved to Dongola in 1978, for 5 years. He was beginning an agricultural project north of Dongola. It was a wonderful five years during which we made many friends there. My 2 year-old picked up Arabic quickly and became my little translater. We traveled all over Northern Sudan and were welcomed into local homes everywhere we traveled. It was a great 5 years.

Cheryl, this is a truly wonderful story – thank you so much for sharing your unique experience and for corroborating that the Sudanese people are some of the friendliest in the world! It would be so interesting to know how much it has changed since 1978 – have you been back since?

How did you manage to get such good prices for accommodation? I am here in Mezhoub’s guesthouse (16th Dec 2019.) and rooms are $20 USD. (I am camping for 300 Sudanese pounds). I was in El Harm, Wadi Halfa, two days ago, 600 Sudanese pounds for a room and no WiFi. Thank you for the information. Assuming the Nile Hotel in Kerma is still cheap, I will look to stay here.

Hi Benjamin, thanks for your question, I actually travelled in Sudan in 2018 and the prices haven’t been updated since then. Surprised to learn they have jumped so much, but really appreciate you taking the time to relay them here so that other travellers can get a better idea of the current rates. Enjoy your travels in Sudan and thanks for taking the time to comment. Best, Steph 🙂

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Introducing Sudan

About sudan.

• Images of Sudan
• History, language & culture
• Weather & geography
• Doing business & staying in touch

Plan your trip

• Travel to Sudan
• Where to stay

While you’re there

• Things to see & do
• Shopping & nightlife
• Food & drink
• Getting around

Before you go

• Passport & visa
• Public Holidays
• Money & duty free

Book your flights

Sudan travel guide

Sudan is hardly your archetypal tourist destination, but behind the unsavoury headlines is a country of exquisite natural beauty, ancient historical attractions and inhabitants well versed in the art of hospitality.

A vast country, three times the size of Texas, Sudan is as much about people as it is natural or man-made wonders. It is a nation where travellers can learn more drinking freshly prepared smoothies with the residents of Khartoum (Sudan is officially alcohol free) than they can by visiting one of the capital’s excellent museums.

A relatively young city, Khartoum was built in 1821 at the confluence of the Blue and White Niles while the country was ruled jointly by Britain and Egypt. History and traditionalism jostle with modernity in the city, where stunning classical Islamic architecture in red ochre hues stands beside modern glass and steel skyscrapers paid for by the country’s oilfields (which were mostly lost with the independence of South Sudan in 2011).

Centuries before colonial rule Sudan comprised a series of city-states. One of the longest lasting was Meroë, which sits some 200 km (125 miles) northeast of Khartoum. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient city features more than 200 steep-sided pyramids, which were built as elaborate royal mausoleums. They rise from the sandy dunes of the Nubian Desert and date from between 300 BC and AD 300, when the kingdom was at its most powerful.

Worth visiting in itself, the Nubian Desert – in reality part of the Sahara – offers solitude and unspoiled natural beauty stretching east all the way to the Red Sea and Port Sudan, the centre of Sudan’s burgeoning diving scene.

One of the least visited countries in East Africa, but one of the friendliest, Sudan has a magical mix of history, tradition and modernity that belies its status as a pariah state.

1,861,484 sq km (718,723 sq miles).

41,175,541 (UN estimate 2016).

19.1 per sq km.

Federal republic.

De facto ruler in the interim: Abdel Fattah Burhan, since 2021.

Prime Minister Osman Hussein since January 2022.

Travel Advice

Fcdo advises against all travel to sudan .

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). 

FCDO advises against all travel to Sudan because of the ongoing military conflict in Khartoum and other parts of the country.  

There have been several ceasefires, but these have been regularly broken.  

Khartoum International Airport is closed. The only functional civilian airport operating international flights is Port Sudan Airport. 

Monitor travel advice and other media reports for the latest information. 

Find out more about safety and security in Sudan. 

Get help in Sudan 

The British Embassy in Khartoum is closed due to the conflict. There are no British consular staff in Sudan. Our ability to provide consular support is severely limited and we cannot provide in-person support inside Sudan. 

If you’re a British national in Sudan, you can call our 24/7 telephone helpline: +44 1908 516 666. Select option 2 for consular services for British nationals. 

Leaving Sudan 

The UK government is no longer evacuating people from Sudan.  

FCDO cannot offer advice on the safety of travelling to any potential departure point. Consider carefully whether you want to take any of the available options. 

Use your own judgement to move towards a departure point if and when you judge it is safe to do so. 

The UK government’s ability to facilitate onward travel from countries in the region is limited and you’ll be expected to cover the cost of visas, accommodation, insurance and onward travel yourself.   

Any travel options you pursue are taken at your own risk.  

FCDO cannot help non-British dependants of British nationals. 

Travel insurance  

If you choose to travel against FCDO advice, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. 

About FCDO travel advice 

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice . 

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated. 

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK who choose to travel against FCDO advice. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.  

The authorities in Sudan set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Sudanese Embassy in the UK .  

COVID-19 rules 

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Sudan. 

Passport validity requirements 

To enter Sudan, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.  

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.  

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen. 

Visa requirements 

You must have a visa to enter Sudan.  

Applying for a visa 

You can apply for a visa through the Sudanese Embassy in the UK , or through the Sudanese embassy in the country you’re travelling from.  

If you enter Sudan on a single-entry visa, you’ll need an exit visa to leave the country, though this is not always enforced. You can get more information on exit visas from Port Sudan Airport Immigration. You may need to show proof of your sponsor and pay the exit visa fee.  

Travel permits

You will not be allowed to leave the Red Sea State without a travel permit. You need to apply for that once in country and pay a fee. The requirements for each state are different. You will have to pay different amounts and go through different processes depending on your destination.  

Previous travel to Israel 

If your passport has an Israeli visa, entry or exit stamp, you will not be allowed to enter Sudan. 

Vaccination requirements  

To enter Sudan, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination. 

For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Sudan guide . 

Registering with the authorities 

You must register with the Aliens Department at the Ministry of Interior within 3 days of your arrival in Sudan. You will need 2 passport size photos and to pay a fee.  

If you do not register within 3 days of arrival, you may be fined. Some larger hotels will do this for you. Ask when you check-in. 

Children and young people 

As well as a visa, children aged 17 and under must have their father’s consent to enter and exit Sudan. Children travelling without their father need a letter giving consent for them to enter and exit Sudan, though this is not always enforced.  

You must get the letter stamped at the Sudanese Embassy in the UK before travel. 

If the father is absent, mothers or guardians must get a court order which shows they have sole custodial rights for the children.  

If the parents are divorced, you’ll need to show divorce documents. 

If the father has died, you’ll need to show the death certificate.  

Contact the Sudanese Embassy in the UK for more information. 

Customs rules 

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Sudan. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. 

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Sudan . 

Terrorism  

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.      

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad . 

Terrorism in Sudan 

Terrorists are likely to try and carry out attacks in Sudan

Terrorism attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by foreigners, such as: 

• transport hubs 
• restaurants 
• places of worship 
• major gatherings 

Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.  

Red Sea military activity 

There is a military response to Houthi militants’ attempts to disrupt international shipping in the Red Sea. The military activity is limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, but travel advice for nearby countries could change at short notice. You should monitor travel advice and follow instructions from local authorities. 

Security situation  

There is an ongoing conflict across Sudan following violent clashes, which started in April 2023. 

There has been widespread violent crime in Khartoum since the start of the conflict. There have also been reports of a large increase in crime in other cities and areas of Sudan. 

 Types of crime include: 

• burglaries and home invasions 
• demands for money at checkpoints 
• mobile phone and bag-snatching, including drive-by bag-snatching by thieves on motorbikes 
• aggressive begging, including attempts to open the doors of stopped vehicles 

To reduce the risk to yourself and your belongings, you should: 

• not leave valuable items on display 
• keep doors locked and windows closed when driving  

If you’re stopped or attacked, comply with demands and do not resist. 

Criminal kidnap 

There is a high threat of kidnapping in Darfur. There have been a number of recent kidnappings, including of British nationals and other westerners. 

Kidnap groups view humanitarian aid workers and journalists as legitimate targets. 

Mobile phone and internet access 

There are regular communication blackouts. Mobile phone and internet services are not always available. Telecommunications networks could be disrupted without warning. 

Laws and cultural differences  

Personal id .

It is a legal requirement to carry photographic ID, such as a passport, with you at all times. 

Dress code 

Non-Muslim women do not have to wear a veil or cover their heads. Men and women should dress modestly and respect local customs and sensitivities. 

Sudan is an Islamic country. Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions. Make sure your actions do not cause offence, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas.

Alcohol and drug laws 

Non-Muslims are allowed to drink alcohol in Sudan, but not in the presence of Muslims. However, you may still be arrested for drinking alcohol regardless of the circumstances. 

There are severe penalties for drug trafficking. 

Using cameras in secure areas 

Due to the conflict, it is not advisable to take photographs in secure areas in Sudan. Do not take photographs or use a mobile phone camera close to: 

• government buildings 
• military installations 
• public utilities, including petrol stations 
• other sensitive areas, such as bridges and airports  

Plain-clothed public security officers operate in these areas. 

LGBT+ travellers 

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Sudan and not tolerated in Sudanese society. This includes inviting guests into hotel rooms.   

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers . 

Relationships outside marriage 

It’s illegal to have extramarital relations and there are severe penalties. It’s illegal to live together, or to share the same hotel room, with someone of the opposite sex if you’re not married or closely related. 

Guests in hotel rooms 

It’s illegal to invite guests into your hotel room. Business meetings should take place in hotel lobbies or meeting rooms, not hotel rooms. Tourist police patrol the hotels, and British nationals have reported problems with Sudanese authorities about this. 

Technical equipment 

You might need a licence to use some technical equipment in Sudan, including: 

• satellite phones 
• listening or recording devices 
• radio transmitters 
• powerful cameras or binoculars 

Contact the Sudanese Embassy in the UK before travelling for more information. 

It’s difficult to use non-Sudanese credit or debit cards, and most banks and ATM machines will not let you withdraw cash. Bring US dollars with you to Sudan.  

You may be able to exchange US dollars dated 2006 onwards (older ones will not be exchanged), but this will be difficult due to the current conflict.  

British pounds are rarely exchanged. Only change money through banks or official exchange bureaus.  

Transport risks  

Road travel .

If you are planning to drive in Sudan, see information on driving abroad .  

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Sudan for up to 3 months. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence .  

Road conditions and safety 

Road travel will involve heightened levels of risk due to the current conflict and should only be undertaken if strictly necessary. 

Road conditions are poor. Roads, even major ones, might: 

• be untarred or unsurfaced 
• have potholes 
• be used by pedestrians, donkey-carts and rickshaws

At night, there is generally no street lighting and many vehicles do not have lights. Many drivers in Sudan do not have a licence or insurance. 

Road traffic accidents are common. There is a high risk of traffic accidents when using public transport or vehicles for hire, such as rickshaws and ‘amjad minivans’. 

Sudanese law prohibits the use of mobile phones while driving. 

Air travel 

Khartoum International Airport is closed following the outbreak of violence in April 2023.   

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) understands that some commercial flight operations leaving Port Sudan Airport have started, operated by Egypt and Badr Airlines. There are no Sudanese airlines which currently meet the standards required to operate direct flights to the UK or EU. 

The UK Air Safety List (ASL) lists all known airlines in Sudan that do not meet international safety standards and are banned from operating commercial air services to, from, and within the UK. Check the UK Air Safety List when considering which airlines to fly with. The list is maintained by the Department for Transport, based on advice from the UK Civil Aviation Authority . 

Sea travel 

There is a significant risk of piracy in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean . The threat assessment of the combined international naval counter-piracy forces is that sailing yachts should not enter the  designated high-risk area , due to the risk of hijacking. 

If you go ashore along the Red Sea coast, make sure you have reviewed the relevant country travel advice and have the correct documentation for entry. 

Extreme weather and natural disasters 

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards . 

Rainy season 

Flash flooding can happen during the rainy season from July to October. Risks at this time of year include: 

• flooding that can make areas inaccessible by road, including areas south of Khartoum 
• dry riverbeds (‘wadis’) being hit by flash floods, with many only being passable on a major road 

This section has extra safety advice for regions of Sudan. It only covers regions where the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) has specific advice. 

You should also read FCDO ’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice .  

Travelling to Saudi Arabia from Port Sudan 

For information about arriving in Jeddah and entry requirements, see  Saudi Arabia travel advice . 

If you’re arriving in Jeddah from Port Sudan and need urgent assistance, you can contact FCDO in Jeddah on +966 (0)12 622 5550 and select option 4. 

Crossing Sudan’s borders 

Sudan’s borders with Chad and Eritrea are currently closed. 

FCDO advises against all travel to Central African Republic , South Sudan , Libya and within 20km of the Ethiopian side of the border with Sudan. 

Sudan-Egypt border 

Significant numbers of people are trying to cross the border from Sudan into Egypt. There are 2 main land border crossings between Egypt and Sudan, at Argeen and Qustul. The nearest town in Sudan to the crossings is Wadi Halfa, 30km from border.  

There is almost no infrastructure at these border crossings. People are waiting several days to cross the border, with limited access to food and water. 

The British Embassy in Egypt does not have staff at the border. Our ability to provide help is very limited.  

If you’re a British national planning to cross into Egypt at Argeen or Qustul and you do not have valid documentation with you, call the British Embassy in Cairo: + 20 (0) 2 2791 6000. 

See our Egypt travel advice for entry requirements, including information on visas.  

Before you travel check that: 

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need 
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation 

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant. 

Healthcare facilities in Sudan 

The current conflict has severely affected health services and many may be unavailable, including hospitals for British nationals in Khartoum . 

Medical facilities in the country are limited and medical evacuation is likely to be necessary for all but the most basic treatments. Make sure you have adequate travel and medical insurance to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation. 

There is a particular risk to public health in areas of conflict where immunisation coverage is poor. 

Emergency medical number 

Call 999 and ask for an ambulance.  

Emergency services in Sudan have been severely impacted by the conflict and are often unresponsive.  

If you need emergency medical treatment you should make your own way to hospital, if you can. 

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment. 

Vaccinations and health risks 

At least 8 weeks before your trip check: 

• the latest information on vaccination recommendations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Sudan guide  
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page  

Malaria outbreak  

Malaria cases have increased in Khartoum. Because of the increased risk from malaria, and the impact of the current civil unrest on health services, all travellers in Sudan should take antimalarial chemoprophylaxis. 

If you’ve recently left Sudan and develop fever or flu-like symptoms, get urgent medical attention. Tell the doctors you’ve recently left a malarial risk area.  

TravelHealthPro has more information on malaria in Sudan . 

Cholera outbreak 

Cholera cases have increased in Sudan, and made worse by the impact of the conflict on health services. Take care with personal, food and water hygiene. 

TravelHealthPro recommends an oral vaccine for cholera if your activities or medical history put you at increased risk. 

Yellow fever 

There is a risk of yellow fever in some parts of Sudan. TravelHealthPro recommends a yellow fever vaccination for some travellers.  

Other health risks 

There are regular outbreaks of chikungunya, dengue, measles and other diseases in Sudan, particularly in refugee camps. There is a lack of clean water and the inability to remove dead bodies means Sudan is at high risk from various diseases.  

Medication  

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.  

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .  

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .  

Travel and mental health  

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .  

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel. 

Emergency services in Sudan 

Telephone: 999 (ambulance, fire, police) 

Contact your travel provider and insurer 

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do. 

Refunds and changes to travel 

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first. 

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including: 

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider 
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim 

Support from FCDO  

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including: 

• finding English-speaking lawyers and translators and interpreters in Sudan
• dealing with a death in Sudan  
• being arrested or imprisoned in Sudan  
• getting help if you’re a victim of crime  
• what to do if you’re in hospital  
• if you’re affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack 

Contacting FCDO  

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications this travel advice is updated. 

You can also contact FCDO online . 

Help abroad in an emergency 

The British Embassy in Khartoum is temporarily closed due to the conflict, and there are no British consular staff in Sudan. Our ability to provide help is severely limited. We cannot provide in-person support inside Sudan. 

FCDO in London 

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad. 

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours) 

Find out about call charges  

Book a Hotel

© Columbus Travel Media Ltd. All rights reserved 2024

Sudan Travel Guide

Quick travel guide to sudan.

TIME IN SUDAN

SUDANESE POUND

What to do in sudan.

Sudan – Controversial Country, Full of Archeological Treasures Awaiting to be Yet Discovered by the Rest of the World!

Until the separation of South Sudan in 2011, Sudan was the largest country in Africa, covering 8% of the African continent. Deserts, Nile, archeological gems all over Sudan, coral reefs in Red Sea, outstanding mountains and hectic capital Khartoum  make it alluring  and exotic destination to explore. In one week, if on organised tour with tight schedule and  with private transport you can see all  the main Sudanese attractions.

• Hike in Taka Mountains
• Get lost in boisterous Khartoum
• Go diving in Port Sudan
• Explore Camel Markets
• See Nuba wrestling
• Ride a boat to Tuti Island
• Shop for Golden jewelry on Gold Souq
• Sufi Dancers in Omdurman at Hamed al-Nil Tomb
• Visit Kassala –  the coffee capital in Sudan
• Dive in Red Sea coral reefs in  Sanganeb Marine National Park and Dungonab Bay
• Drive across Bayuda Desert

Hike Jebel Barkl for amazing sunset

• Camp at Meroe Pyramids (UNSECO)
• Get invitation to Sudanese Wedding
• Have a picnic in Green yard in Khartoum
• Ride a Camel
• See Confluence of Nile from the highest spot in Khartoum – Corinthia Hotel top floor restaurant
• Nasser Lake
• Visit Chimpanzee Sanctuary in Mahale

A photo posted by Nina Zara (@safarijunkie) on May 5, 2016 at 3:36am PDT

The fact is Sudan is huge country and has different climate patterns, but for those who are visiting Sudanese tourist attractions, the best time to visit Sudan is between November and March during dry season. Weather is hot, temperatures oftentimes  rise above 40 degrees C, but its bearable since there is low humidity in the air and the air is dry.

The least favourable months to visit Sudan are rainy period between June to October.

Great months to visit Sudan for:

• Scuba diving in Red Sea in Port Sudan: great all year except for months July and August due to high temperatures ofter exceeding 50 degrees C
• Ramadan time in Sudan:  if you visit during Ramadan, be aware that museums and sites of interest may well be shut throughout the  holy month, and those that are open will have restricted opening hours. The same applies for shops and restaurants.

RAINY SEASON

Things to know before travelling to sudan.

• Getting Visa for Sudan –  Getting Visa for Sudan takes a little bit of patience and bureaucracy, specially for US travellers and those who are not able to arrange Sudanese visa directly on the nearest Sudan embassy.  Read more here:  how to get visa for Sudan
• Bring cash to Sudan – USD bills are the best currency. Due to political reasons, international credit cards are not accepted in Sudan. ATMs in Sudan will not work with international credit cards either, therefore bring all you money intended for spenditure in USD cash.
• Registration of travellers on police stations – very important to register your self at the nearest police station if travelling independently, while visitors to Sudan on arranged Sudan tours will have this covered by tour operator organising the trip.
• Photo permits and travel permits for travel in Sudan – those visiting Sudan with tour operator will have no worries with permits as agents take care of it, while independent travellers must obtain these permits on their own. Permits are necessary for travelling around Sudan.
• Taking photos on sensitive strategic points is forbidden – make sure you know what is allowed for photography and what not, all information on photo permits – some forbidden objects to photograph are: poverty, bridges, military objects, etc…
• Dress code for Sudan – Sudan is muslim country, dressing appropriate to blend in with local culture is mandatory.
• No alcohol in Sudan. Alcohol is prohibited and not for sale in Sudan. Also make sure you dont bring any alcoholic beverages in your luggage as it will be taken away if found on customs.
• Learn some Sudanese Arabic – those travelling independently in Sudan will need some Sudanese Arabic basic for easier travel around Sudan as english is not widely spoken

Good to Pack for Sudan

There are some essentials that are always useful to  have  in your bag when travelling in Sudan:

• head lamp will save you every time there will be electricity cut, and believe us, it will be!
• solar charger for gadgets and cameras is perfect saviour when hiking in remote areas and of course, again every time there is power cut.
• Deet mosquito repellant (Malaria is existent in Sudan)
• hand sanitizers or disinfection spray
• Sun  cream with high protection factor
• UV protective cap
• all copies of your travel documents, including  travel insurance policy, passport, visa copies..
• lightweight clothes preferably made from natural, airy fabrics
• long sleeved cardigan for the evenings – nights  and evenings can be chilly, its desert weather
• women –  pack a headscarf to cover your head
• pack ALL cash you need for travelling in Sudan, ATMs are not working in Sudan!

Eat Like A Local  – Must Try Foods and Drinks

While there is no alcohol in Sudan due to country laws, there is a culture of drinking tea and coffee. Must try  black coffee with ginger and  cardamom if you are a coffee lover! Try  also Tamia balls, a Sudanese version of falafel, Kissra, Aseeda, goat meat and goat cheese,…

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Read more about sudan.

Sudanese Wedding

Nina Zara 2018-12-15T10:11:41+02:00 October 8th, 2017 | 5 Comments

Parties and Rituals Before The Wedding in Sudan While I was couchsurfing in Sudan I had an honour to be invited to typical Sudanese wedding by hosts relative. I was really excited since I never [...]

Crossing Africa by Foot

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Meet the guy who is walking African continent. Mario is currently on expedition of his life, walking from South Africa to Egypt. Read the interview.

Couchsurfing in Africa

Safari Junkie 2018-11-16T01:55:22+02:00 February 23rd, 2017 | 5 Comments

Do you feel terrified if you think of couchsurfing in Africa? Would you dare to do it? Some of us did it and here is our experience. Thanks to fellow bloggers and African addicts, hope this post will encourage you to use couchsurfing in Africa not because it is free, but allows you to go local.

Couchsurfing in Sudan With Local Family

Nina Zara 2018-11-16T01:56:00+02:00 January 5th, 2017 | 14 Comments

How I Spent One Month in Khartoum With Local Family There is a Slavic saying about hospitality that in English translation goes something like this: three days is plenty for any guest to stay. I [...]

Nina Zara 2018-08-04T13:00:34+02:00 July 26th, 2016 | 16 Comments

SudanTravel Guide - What to see in Sudan, what to do in Sudan and all useful travel tips for first time travellers to Sudan.

Tour of Khartoum With a Local

Safari Junkie 2018-12-05T13:48:44+02:00 July 23rd, 2016 | 4 Comments

Discover Khartoum With a Local guide! Khartoum tour with native local Sudanese guide, visit local family, have local Sudanese food.

About the Author: Nina Zara

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16 comments.

This is how you make a travel guide! Quick and easy to access. Very well written and easy to follow. thanks for sharing. Do you have other travel guides like this?

Thanks, sometimes less is more:) You can find other guides for East African countries so far, working on more.

I always enjoy reading your blog, you visit such interesting places. This is full of really helpful information and ideas – a headlamp! I would never have thought of that one! Thank you.

Thanks Marie, yes headlamp is useful, specially in Sudan.

Great information! We have yet to start traveling in Africa, but it’s on our to do list! I think it’s important to read up on all of the information you have provided before going to a destination! So this will be a great one stop read for any travelers looking to do this trip! Thanks for sharing!

Whenever you decide to go, my blog is full of useful information:)

What a great comprehensive guide to Sudan. You really list out everything I would want to know including the weather!

The essence of Sudan, if I wanted to include history I could write a novel:)

What great information I never knew there were so many restrictions to travel there with having to get permits, etc. If I ever visit I would definitley go with a tour as it seems so much of it is already covered and taken care of. Great guide. Happy Roving!!!

I think most of travellers come with organised tour, and yes it is no worries for travellers in this case as agents make all the hard work.

I never had Sudan on my list of places to visit, and now I understand why. I travel independently and have no idea how to arrange travel permits. It sounds complicated. And, how do you check in with the police? Do you have to find a police station every day and just say hello? In other countries, my hotel reports my passport information to the police, so I don’t have to do anything.

Also in Sudan hotel can register, but you have to pay additionally for this. Once you are registered, you receive a document and stamp in your passport and you are done with police. Sudan is red tape country but the experience of travelling it so much bigger:)

Some great information there. I’d be nervous about flying in with all of the money I’d need for the whole trip though. -_-

I knew nothing about tourism in Sudan before reading this post, how fascinating! What would you say your personal favorite tourist attraction in Sudan is?

Wow — I’m loving the format of your guide! I did a project on Sudan way back in grade 5 or 6 and this was a nice refresher on some things plus I’ve learned so much more about Sudan!

This is an awesome travel guide, it sounds like Sudan is rather intense but interesting country to visit. I have yet to visit the continent but now I’ll be looking more into Sudan. Super cool.

Comments are closed.

Destinations

14 Fascinating Places to Visit in Sudan

The situation in Sudan has unfortunately deteriorated since I was there, and as of April 2023 there is active armed conflict between factions of the military in Khartoum and elsewhere. I sincerely hope the country finds peace again soon, but in the meantime travelers should stay away.

There seem to be two types of people when it comes to travel in Sudan. Those who’ve never been will raise their eyebrows and ask about safety. But the few who’ve been will say Sudan is one of the nicest and safest countries they’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting.

As someone who spent several weeks in Sudan in early 2020 (in fact, I rode my bicycle solo through much of the country), I am firmly in the latter camp. Though Sudan as a country faces some deep economic and political challenges, the mood most travelers will encounter is peaceful and friendly.

Most travelers come to Sudan for the ancient Nubian archaeological sites, less developed than Egypt’s but also more relaxed and atmospheric. There is also plenty of interest in the colorful culture of this transition zone between Arabic northern Africa and the Sub-Saharan rest of the continent. And for  mindful travelers  with the opportunity and inclination to dig deeper, some very interesting conversations with friendly locals and expats await.

Sudan is a huge country but has only the faintest glimmer of tourism infrastructure, which is part of its charm as well as its challenge. Still, there’s no shortage of things to do and places to visit in Sudan. In this post I’ll highlight the most popular tourist attractions in Sudan, as well as a few of the low-key secrets, to help you plan your trip.

Sudan Travel Tips

Safety : Not all of Sudan is accessible to visitors. Areas like Darfur are currently off-limits due to continuing tribal conflict. Be sure to check government travel advice before planning a trip. The rest of the country is quite safe by any standards.

Costs : Sudan can be quite cheap to travel in if you’re backpacking. You can get by for just a few dollars a day. Guided tours can cost much more.

Money : ATMs and credit cards can’t be used by foreigners in Sudan (and aren’t reliable anyway). Bring cash (US dollars) and change it to Sudanese pounds in small amounts as you go. Seek out the much better black market rate by discretely asking at your hotel. Don’t change too much at once; rates fluctuate a lot and it can be difficult to change back if you end up with too much.

Language : Arabic is the official language of Sudan, and many regional languages are also spoken. Don’t expect more than a few words of English, but you can still get by with hand gestures and a smile.

Dress : Sudan is a very conservative Muslim country. Both men and women should cover shoulders and knees out of respect for the local culture. Women may want to be even more conservative by dressing in loose pants or skirt, a long-sleeve shirt, and potentially a headscarf in some circumstances. For more detail, see What Should Travelers Wear in Sudan?

Female travelers : Considering how conservative the culture is for local women, Sudanese are surprisingly welcoming and respectful toward foreign women. Harassment is uncommon, though culturally uninformed misunderstandings about the desires of western women can and do happen. Just firmly say no thanks.

Guided or independent : Many travelers visit Sudan on organized tours which certainly does make for a more relaxing trip. But it’s absolutely possible to travel Sudan independently as a backpacker or overlander, and many find it highly rewarding due to the welcoming culture.

Food : Not the highlight of a trip to Sudan. Ful (beans) is a staple, as is falafel. Limited selection of fresh fruit and vegetables is usually not hard to find. Tea is available and offered everywhere.

Transportation : Variable but decent for the region. Main roads are generally well paved. Buses are fairly orderly but usually not on a strict schedule. Traffic can be chaotic so think twice before renting a vehicle to drive yourself. Hitchhiking is common.

Weather : Generally hot, mostly dry in the desert north, with a rainy season further south from June – October.

Guidebook : There isn’t much to choose from, but the Bradt Sudan Travel Guide from 2012 is helpful for understanding the main attractions and learning the country’s history.

Now that you have a general sense for travel in Sudan, let’s get to the fun part: the most popular things to do in Sudan.

Sudan Within A Longer Trip

Some people visit Sudan as a stand-alone destination, and this makes perfect sense if you have less time. But for travelers on a more leisurely schedule, a great option is to combine Sudan with a visit to its northern neighbor Egypt.

The border between Egypt and Sudan is a relatively recent division, and much of the region’s deep history spans vast areas of both countries. Much of the landscape is similar – sandy desert bisected by the green Nile – and the language of Arabic is another common factor.

Logistically speaking, there’s only one highway serving the far north of Sudan – one of the country’s nicest areas in my opinion – and following it overland to or from Egypt flows a bit better than an out-and-back journey. The ferry crossing of Lake Nasser is scenic and interesting, and border crossings in Africa tend to be exciting affairs in any case.

It’s also possible, though less common, to continue south through Sudan to Ethiopia overland. The transition from desert to savanna to mountains must be experienced gradually to be fully appreciated.

For those who seek out the least-visited of rarely visited countries, Eritrea is right next door to Sudan and has even fewer visitors and more red tape. Travel in Eritrea is difficult because of the many restrictions on foreigners, and crossing the border overland from Sudan may well be impossible. However, those who’ve been report that it’s a fascinating country to visit.

Now that we’ve covered some travel tips and ideas for structuring your trip, let’s get into all the things to do and places to visit in Sudan.

Khartoum and Omdurman

The capital city of Khartoum feels almost like its own country. In this relatively progressive place you’ll find more women on the streets, some even without headscarves, and foreigners won’t usually get much of a second look. The city is cramped and bustling in some places and surprisingly modern in others, with an overall friendly and polite vibe.

The most highly recommend thing to do in Khartoum is technically in Omdurman, the older and grittier city right next door. Every Friday before sunset sufi mystics dance and chant in a highly charged ecstatic atmosphere at the Hamed-al Nil tomb.

In Khartoum proper, the National Museum and the confluence of the Niles are both worth a visit and relatively nearby each other. For more ideas, see this more detailed guide to things to do in Khartoum .

Pyramids at Meroë

Sudan technically has more pyramids than Egypt, though they’re smaller and often less well preserved. If you’re going to see one pyramid site in Sudan, make it the pyramids of Meroë.

Usually visited as a day trip from Khartoum or en route from Atbara, this site is the best preserved and also the most popular pyramid site in Sudan (meaning you might have to share with a handful of other tourists).

The pyramids here are in varying stages of disrepair and reconstruction, revealing a complex history of both building and excavating. While chatting with one of the site’s archaeologists I was surprised to learn that a fair amount of their effort goes into simply holding back the desert sand that threatens to sandblast the remaining structures, destroying them faster than they can be preserved.

The pyramids at Meroë can be reached easily by public transit from either Khartoum or Atbara. Just ask to be let off at Bajrawia village. Coming back is trickier, and is usually done by hitchhiking. It’s possible to camp at the pyramids if you’re prepared with your own gear.

Note that Meroë is the ancient city (you can still wander around the ruins, which are near the pyramids), and NOT the same as Merowe, an area near Karima.

Naqa and Musawwarat

These two Meroitic archaeological gems are a bit harder to get to than most of Sudan’s other tourist attractions, requiring some kind of private transportation. They lie 26 km (Naqa) or 30 km (Musawwarat) east of the highway from Khartoum to Atbara on sand and dirt track, sharing the same road for the first 15 km after leaving the highway.

Their locations can be found on the iOverlander app, but it’s probably best to go with an experienced guide/driver who can navigate the faint and sandy desert tracks.

If you can manage to get there, the temples at these sites are among the nicest in Sudan. Naqa is home to the temples of Amun and Apedemak (the latter notably depicting the queen with the same size and power as the king), as well as the small but surprisingly intricate Roman Kiosk.

At Musawwarat Es-Sufra, which dates from the 3rd century BC, you can wander the extensive labyrinthine Great Enclosure and visit the well-preserved Lion Temple. The old reservoir is usually dry these days, but standing there you can almost imagine how it would have looked and felt when the now-barren desert was teeming with life centered around this ancient temple complex.

Atbara has a bit of a gritty feel compared to the gentler towns further west and north. There’s not too much to do in this industrial and railroad town, besides the usual chatting and wandering, but many travelers will pass through on their way along the Nile toward the Meroë Pyramids and Khartoum.

The “new bus station” in the southeast corner of town (still north of the river) is surprisingly nice and orderly, with buses leaving every hour or so for Khartoum throughout the morning.

Karima: Pyramids, Jebel Barkal, Nuri

Across a long empty stretch of desert from Atbara is the town of Karima. The town is more relaxed than Atbara, though it can feel a bit less friendly than the smaller towns further down the Nile due to the area’s relative popularity with tourists.

The area around Karima is home to three of Sudan’s tourist attractions.

Jebel Barkal and Temple of Mut

Jebel Barkal is a small mountain popular for its great views and for sunset climbs (bring a light for the way down). At its base there is a cemetery and ancient ruins of the Temple of Mut.

Karima Pyramids

Free and literally right beside the road, these are certainly worth a visit especially if you haven’t yet been to the Meroe Pyramids. They’re quite well preserved (please don’t climb them in order to keep them that way) and clustered in a small easy-to-reach area.

Nuri Pyramids

On the east side of the Nile and a bit of a drive outside of town, these pyramids are quite deteriorated but said to be atmospheric. Personally I skipped them since I had already seen the nearby Karima pyramids and was headed to Meroë next, but for pyramid connoisseurs they are easy enough to get to and worth a visit.

Dongola was among my favorite towns in Sudan for its relaxed and friendly vibe. The refreshing breeze coming off the Nile probably didn’t hurt either. Wandering the streets and markets there felt pleasant and welcoming in a way I’ve rarely found anywhere on the African continent, making the simple errand of shopping for food an attraction in itself.

Otherwise, there isn’t too much else to do in Dongola besides relax and recover from a few days in the desert.

Old Dongola

Old Dongola, not to be confused with the present-day town of Dongola, lies about 50 miles upstream (south) and is an archaeological site. Notable for its more recent history – relatively speaking compared to some of Sudan’s ancient sites – it contains the ruins of a number of Christian churches from the 7th – 14th centuries AD.

The Throne Hall, Church of the Granite Columns, and Muslim cemetery are some of the most prominent ruins at Old Dongola.

The temple of Soleb is a relatively well-preserved Egyptian temple built in the 14th century BC. It lies on the west bank of the Nile across from the village of Wawa, about 3/4 of the way from Dongola to Abri.

Most travelers will need to hire a small boat to take them across the Nile, which can supposedly be done at the small guesthouse in Wawa (check the iOverlander or Maps.me app for location). This may take a bit of time though, as you’ll need to track down the owner first. There’s also an informal homestay on the Soleb side for those wishing to spend the night near the temple, but you should bring your own food.

Kerma is a town on the east side of the Nile just north of Dongola. Its main attractions are two “deffufa” (burial mounds) and a small museum. There are one or two small guesthouses in town; check Maps.me and iOverlander to find them.

Abri is a pleasant small town on the banks of the Nile in northern Sudan. Few travelers make it this far north unless continuing to Egypt, and the town feels relaxed and gentle. The best thing to do in Abri is sit by the Nile and rest up before or after a few days of desert travel.

The Nubian Guesthouse is where most travelers to Abri stay. The owner speaks good English, and there’s hot water and wifi. Rooms are available for moderate prices and camping is allowed in the courtyard for a few dollars.

There’s not much reason to visit the far-north border town of Wadi Halfa unless you’re crossing between Egypt and Sudan. Still, it’s an interesting transit town where you can watch the ferries come in from Aswan and Abu Simbel, and out on the highway you’ll see a trickle of large trucks on their way to and from Egypt via Lake Nasser.

If you just arrived in Sudan from Egypt, head downtown for plenty of cheap hostels and some places to buy a local SIM card.

Kassala is a market town in the east of Sudan, near the border with Eritrea. It’s not as commonly visited as the towns and archaeological sites along the Nile, but if you have the time and enjoy traveling off the beaten path it’s worth the 7 hour bus journey from Khartoum.

Kassala is known for its ethnic blend as tribes from near and far come to trade at the market, and for its dramatic location at the base of the distinctive Taka Mountains.

Port Sudan is the place to go if you want to see the Red Sea from Sudan. It’s Sudan’s second-largest city (after Khartoum) and only port city, connected to Khartoum by both weekly train and busy paved road.

Among tourists it’s best known for its small but interesting scuba diving scene, though I’ve heard that only those with experience should dive here as instruction and safety standards can be questionable.

Dinder National Park

On the way south to the Ethiopian border, Dinder National Park offers a completely different environment from the sandy desert of the north. Best visited during the dry season (November to May), it draws visitors looking to spot wildlife and relax in the peaceful environment. To explore the park fully you’ll want a 4wd vehicle and ideally a guide and driver.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, Sudan is home to a wealth of historic sites and interesting experiences. For travelers who enjoy getting off the tourist trail and exploring on their own, Sudan will be an adventure to remember and learn from for many years to come.

More Africa Travel Resources

If you’re curious about things to do in Sudan, you might also be interested in these:

• 12 Essentials From My Africa Packing List
• How to Travel Mindfully in Challenging Places
• Must-Know Cultural Tips for Visitors to Uganda
• Where to go Hiking in West Africa

About the Author

Hi there, I’m Alissa, founder of Exploring Wild. I’ve had the pleasure of traveling independently and solo on six continents, including some unusual destinations like Liberia and Sudan, and it has forever changed the way I see the world and myself. Learn more about me here .

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Privacy Overview

• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 History
• 4.2 Geography
• 5.2 Permits and other legal requirements
• 5.3 By plane
• 5.4 By train
• 5.5 By land
• 5.7 By boat
• 6.1 By plane
• 6.2 By train
• 6.5 By bicycle
• 11.1 Sudanese cuisine
• 11.2 Restaurants and food shopping
• 13.1 Larger towns and cities
• 13.2 Outside larger towns and cities
• 14.1 Armed conflict
• 14.2 Corruption
• 14.3 Transportation
• 14.4 Personal safety
• 14.5 Women travelers
• 14.6 Police and army
• 14.7 Photography
• 14.8 LGBT travellers
• 15 Stay healthy
• 16.1 Basic etiquette
• 16.2 Religious sensitivities
• 16.3 Local customs
• 16.4 Conversation
• 17.1 Telephone

Sudan (Arabic: السودان, As-Sudan ) is a country in Northeast Africa and is Africa 's third largest country in terms of area. Sudan was the continent's largest country up until the secession of South Sudan in 2011.

Since the 1980s, Sudan has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. The country has had a particularly turbulent history since independence from the United Kingdom , and has suffered from decades of conflict and warfare. Under less dire circumstances, however, travelling to Sudan offers one the opportunity to explore a large, diverse nation whose history is believed to go all the way back to 8000 BCE and meet some very hospitable, jovial people.

Regions [ edit ]

Cities [ edit ]

• 15.60308 32.52654 1 Khartoum — the national capital, which also consists of Omdurman and Khartoum North (Bahri)
• 9.595556 28.436944 2 Abyei — simultaneously part of both Sudan and South Sudan until a referendum can be held in the area
• 13.183333 30.216667 3 Al Ubayyid — capital of North Kurdufan state
• 15.45 36.4 5 Kassala
• 12.05 24.883333 6 Nyala — capital of Darfur
• 19.615833 37.216389 7 Port Sudan — Sudan's main Red Sea port
• 19.615833 37.216389 8 Atbara — an important railway junction and railroad manufacturing centre

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 16.935139 33.75075 2 Meroë — ancient Nubian royal city on the banks of the Nile, home to over 200 pyramids. A UNESCO World Heritage site.

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ].

The area around the banks of the River Nile was once known as Nubia , one of the world's earliest civilisations that was the main rival of its northern neighbour, Egypt . The city of Kerma is believed to have been the capital of the first centralised Nubian state. Nubia would be annexed by Egypt in the 16th century BCE under the rule of Pharaoh Thutmose I, with its southern limits extended all the way to the city of Napata, leading to the fusion of Egyptian culture with their own native culture by the Nubians.

With the weakening of Egyptian control, a de facto independent Nubian state would re-emerge in Napata, becoming the Kingdom of Kush. The Kingdom of Kush would grow in strength, eventually conquering Egypt in the 8th century BCE, thus establishing the 25th Dynasty, with its rulers popularly known as the "black pharoahs" due to the colour of their skin that stood in contrast to the lighter-skin Egyptians. The southern part of the kingdom was home to the city of Meroë, known for its Nubian pyramids, which while clearly influenced by the Egyptian ones, are also built in a distinctively Nubian architectural style, which later became the capital of the kingdom. During the height of Roman power, while Egypt was conquered by the Romans, the Kingdom of Kush managed to fend off the Romans under the leadership of the warrior queen Amanirenas, also known as the One-Eyed Queen due to having lost an eye during a battle with the Romans. Eventually, the Nubians proved so difficult to fight that the Romans agreed to a peace treaty, thus maintaining Nubia's independence.

Islam was introduced to the Sudan from Egypt in the 7th century by the Arabs, who called it bilal al-Sudan , meaning "land of the Blacks". In the 16th century, the Funj Sultanate ruled the northern quarter. After a brief period of Ottoman rule , Sudan became the scene of Mahdist uprisings resulting in British control . Sudan declared independence in 1956 as a modern republic and became the largest country in Africa.

Sudan was afflicted by civil wars for more than 40 years until South Sudan became independent in July 2011, following a referendum. When the colonial map-makers divided up Africa, they included in Sudan the predominantly Muslim people of the north (including Nubians and Arabs), who share much of their history and culture with Egyptians, and the largely Christian and Animist Bantu people of the south, who have more in common with the rest of sub-Saharan Africa than with their northern countryfolk. Minor conflicts still linger in the western region of Darfur, and hotspots do occur on the eastern front, next to the border with Eritrea. From 1989 to 2019, Sudan was under the authoritarian rule of Omar Hassan al-Bashir until a coup spurred by protests led to a new military government taking power.

Geography [ edit ]

Sudan is as geographically diverse as it is culturally; in the north, the Nile cuts through the eastern edge of the Sahara: the Nubian desert, the site of the Ancient Kingdoms of Cush and Meroe, and the land of the Seti. Here, some modest farming and husbandry supplements the staple crop of date palms. The East and West are mountainous regions, and much of the rest of the country comprises savannahs typical of much of central sub-Saharan Africa. The vast majority of its population are Sunni Muslims and proselytization of non-Sunni beliefs is not allowed.

Along the border of Egypt with Sudan there is the strange stateless limbo of Bir Tawil , which is not claimed by either state and thus legally the only piece of dry land outside Antarctica not belonging to or claimed by any state. This is politically connected to the conflict of the Hala'ib Triangle by the coast, controlled by Egypt.

People [ edit ]

Sudan has nearly 600 ethnic groups. Sudanese Arabs are the largest ethnic group and other ethnic groups include Nubians, Copts and Beja.

Get in [ edit ]

Visa [ edit ].

Sudanese travel visas are expensive and difficult to acquire for some nationalities in some countries or for people with an Israeli stamp in their passport. It is advisable to obtain a Sudanese visa in your home country if possible.

From Egypt: Cairo and Aswan are the easiest places to get one (usually a couple of hours after application), it costs US$150 (as of November 2022), payment is now possible in Egyptian pounds. A letter of invitation/introduction from your embassy is no longer needed.

As of July 2022, a UK passport takes four days processing once handed in at the Cairo office, US$150 paid in absolutely pristine banknotes plus two small passport photos and the paper form filled in, as given there. The tourist visa is for two calendar months from date of issue; it is all written in Arabic. Your declared first hotel name is scrawled against the sponsor on the visa sticker, but a specific hotel booking doesn't seem needed despite indications for this elsewhere. It's a somewhat confused process where showing lots of deferrence and patience is required. They say a COVID-19 negative test taken within three days is needed at the border but no vaccine or quarantine, nor restrictions on entry or exit points. The embassy for visas in Cairo is near Dokki metro station, turning left onto Dokki street, following the flyover and then taking the last right hand side turning to the end, past the small hospital.

From Ethiopia - getting a visa from the Sudanese Embassy in Addis Ababa is extremely unpredictable, although it is cheaper (around US$60). Your name is first sent to Khartoum merely for approval. An official has stated, "It could take two weeks, it could take two months." Once your name has been approved, the visa itself only takes a couple of days. Britons and Americans are generally given more of a run around, but no nationality is guaranteed swift receipt of a visa. Expect to wait a minimum of two weeks for approval. If your trip continues from Sudan to Egypt and you already have your Egyptian visa you may be given a one-week transit visa for Sudan in only a day, which can be extended in Khartoum (at a hefty cost, though). The British Embassy in Addis Ababa charges a steep 740 birr (over GBP40) for their letter of invitation/introduction.

From Kenya - visa applications are submitted between 10:00 and 12:00 and visa collected next day 15:00-15:50. Price is 5,000 Kenyan shillings (Ksh) (US$50). Letter of support for application can be obtained from own embassy (e.g. British Embassy, charges Ksh8,200, turnaround time depends on availability of the Consul who needs to sign the letter). Sudanese Embassy is located in Kabarnet Road, off Ngong Road (10 minutes walk from Wildebeest Campsite accommodation in Kibera Road, and near Prestige Shopping Plaza). Google, Visa HQ, etc., show the old address (Minet ICDC building), which is not correct. Generally the experience at the Nairobi Sudanese Embassy is less confusing than in Egypt (with its jostling queues at three anonymous but different windows).

Possibly out of date information: From Kenya - as in Addis Ababa, the Sudanese Embassy in Nairobi sends your name to Khartoum for approval. The time it takes is similarly ambiguous, although the embassy is far more professional and efficiently-run than Addis Ababa's.

Hours-long waits for customs clearance are not unheard of, and landing in Khartoum can be tricky. Entering or exiting by land usually goes smoothly. Alcohol is forbidden in Sudan, and attempting to import it could bring strict penalties.

Permits and other legal requirements [ edit ]

• Registration is obligatory within 3 days of arrival. It can be done at any of the entry ports, including Wadi Halfa, Khartoum, Port Sudan and Sawakin. Do not be tempted to skip registration, as it is very likely to cause problems when you leave the country - you might not be allowed to board your flight! Although anecdotal evidence suggests registration can be done when departing from the Khartoum airport.
• There is a departure tax at the land borders. In case departing by air, departure tax is already included in the airline ticket price. The travel permit and the photo permit are no longer required.

By plane [ edit ]

Khartoum Airport ( KRT  IATA ) is the main gateway into Sudan by air. There are also some international flights which use Port Sudan airport.

Khartoum Airport is served by various Middle Eastern and African airlines. Among the cities with direct air links with Khartoum are Abu Dhabi (Etihad), Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines), Amman (Royal Jordanian), Bahrain (Gulf Air), Cairo (EgyptAir, Sudan Airways), Damascus (Syrian Airlines), Doha (Qatar Airways), Dubai Airport (Emirates), Istanbul (Turkish Airlines), Nairobi (Kenya Airways), Sharjah (Air Arabia low cost airline)

Port Sudan airport handles flights to Jeddah , Saudi Arabia and Cairo . These flights usually begin/end at Khartoum.

On April 15, 2023, Khartoum Airport was seized by rebel forces and is closed due to ongoing fighting.

By train [ edit ]

There are train routes between Sudan and South Sudan from the city of Babanusa in Sudan to Wau in South Sudan.

By land [ edit ]

One way to get in from Ethiopia is via the border village of Gallabat . The road crossing from Egypt periodically closes, depending on diplomatic and trading relations between the two countries. Check for information before trying this route.

By bus [ edit ]

When open, there are buses from Aswan , Egypt; be prepared for a long 5-6 hours delays at the border.

There is no updated information about public transportation between Sudan and newly-independent South Sudan .

By boat [ edit ]

The most reliable way to enter Sudan from Egypt is via the weekly ferry from Aswan in Egypt to Wadi Halfa . It runs on Mondays to Sudan and back on Wednesdays, and costs US$33 per person. The boat is old and crowded with people and goods (the best place to sleep is on deck amongst the cargo) but it takes in some magnificent views (including that of Abu Simbel). Food and drink are available on board. There are frequent ferries from Saudi Arabia . If travelling from the south, ferry tickets can be purchased at Khartoum's main train terminal in North Khartoum.

Get around [ edit ]

Apart from Khartoum, there are small airports in Wadi Halfa , El Debba , Dongola , Port Sudan , El Fasher , Wad Madani , Merowe and El Obeid , all served by Sudan Airways [dead link] . Most flights operate from Khartoum. Be prepared for changing timetables and cancelled flights.

Although Sudan has one of the largest rail networks in Africa much of it is in a state of disrepair. There is reason for optimism about train travel in Sudan again. The Nile Express , with new trains brought in from China, now whisks passengers between Khartoum and Atbara on renovated tracks. More tracks are being renovated but for now other services are limited to local trains around the capital Khartoum, a weekly service from Wadi Halfa , timed with the ferry to/from Egypt, and a very sporadic service with Nyala . Sole operator of trains in Sudan is the Sudan Railways Corporation .

By car [ edit ]

Driving in Sudan is chaotic but not especially dangerous by African standards. Visitors to the area who are inexperienced at international driving are advised to hire a taxi or a driver. In most of the country, a 4WD is essential; Sudan's main highway is sealed for much of the way but most of the roads in the country are dirt or sand tracks. Crossing in to Sudan from Egypt via the ferry from Aswan to Wadi Halfa now has the benefit of the Chinese financed tarmac highway covering the 400 km south to Dongola, and then right through to Khartoum, another 500 km. This road is quick for overlanders as there are few military roadblocks, and very little other traffic.

While buses do run frequently in the better travelled areas, in remoter areas people tend to use trucks or "boxes" (Toyota Hiluxes) - they're usually just as crowded as the buses but have fewer people sitting on top and get stuck in the sand less often. They tend to go whenever they fill up, which can take half a day or so. If you have money to spare, you can hire a whole one to yourself

By bicycle [ edit ]

It is legal to cycle around Sudan, although it might be advisable to forget to mention your mode of transport when getting your permit to travel. "Cycling" will often consist of pushing the bike through sand or rattling along corrugations but the scenery and the warmth of the Sudanese people may compensate for the physical and bureaucratic hassles. Check carefully the availability of clean, drinkable water. Theft is not a problem; it is generally safe to leave bicycles unattended in villages and towns. Flies, puncture-generous thorn trees and, in the far north, lack of shade, can be real annoyances.

Talk [ edit ]

The official languages of Sudan are Arabic and English .

For most Sudanese people, Arabic is their first language, and English is normally their second language.

The local vernacular is Sudanese Arabic , which is somewhat similar to the Arabic spoken in Saudi Arabia .

If you don't know the local dialect, do not despair; all Sudanese people learn Modern Standard Arabic at school, so you should have no problems communicating in major cities. Bear in mind that illiteracy is still a major problem in Sudan.

Prior to a constitutional change in 2005, Arabic was the sole official language of the country.

See [ edit ]

In Khartoum/Omdurman you must see the Sufi ritual of drumming and trance dancing, about one hour before sunset and Friday prayer. These rituals take place northwest of the Nile river in Omdurman. Very welcoming, festive atmosphere.

A walk around Tuti Island, situated in the middle of the confluence of the two branches of the Nile, can take about four hours. The less populated northern section is pretty, with its shady lanes, and irrigated fields, and there is a great little coffee stall under a tree on the western side.

The pyramids of Meroe are 2.5 hours north of Khartoum (leave early to avoid Khartoum traffic). On the same route visit the sites of Naqa and Musawarat. Permits are required before visiting the sites. You pay at each site (which may depend on how well your driver gets along with the guards). Naqa and Musawarat are signposted beside the Nile Petrol station (about 1 hour 15 minutes north of Khartoum) and the track is fairly clear but sandy. It is probably good to carry a GPS to avoid getting lost in the bush.

After 16:00 take a good coffee at the Burj Al-Fatih - also known as Corinthia hotel -, with high altitude view over Khartoum, the Nile, and Omdurman, and stay to watch the sunset. Worthwhile.

About 1½ hours south of Khartoum visit the dam. Just north of the dam (downstream) the Nile is also very wide; on Friday/Saturday the area is popular is day visitors.

There is good diving near Port Sudan, either on live-aboards or from the new Red Sea Resort (north of Port Sudan). Beware the windy season (Nov to Feb) unless you're not prone to seasickness (2½-hour dingy ride from the coast in rough seas can be testing!)

Do [ edit ]

Buy [ edit ], money [ edit ].

The currency of the country is the Sudanese pound (Arabic: جنية jeneh , ISO currency code: SDG ). The pound is divided into 100 piastres (coins). The "G" in the currency code stands for "guinea".

The pound was introduced in 2007, to replace the Sudanese dinar (Arabic: دينار dinar , SDD). The new pound is worth 100 old dinars.

Coins in Sudan come in denominations of 1-, 5-, 10-, 20 and 50 piastres and 1 Sudanese pound. Banknotes in Sudan come in denominations of 1-, 2-, 5-, 10-, 20-, 50-, 100-, 200-, 500 and 1,000 Sudanese pounds.

Things are not so simple when it comes to price quoting. Instead of new pounds (which are hardly used for quoting) and dinars (more commonly used, especially when quoting in English), most people still talk in terms of the old pound, although there are no more old pound notes in circulation. One dinar is worth 10 old pounds. Hence, when a person asks for 10,000 pounds, they actually want 1,000 dinars from you. And just to add to the confusion further, people usually do away with the thousands when quoting in pounds. So, your taxi driver may ask you for 10 pounds, which actually means 10,000 old pounds, which is equivalent to 1,000 dinars, which should be referred to once again as just 10 pounds! To clear any confusion, you could try saying "new pound" or جنية الجديد jeneh al-jedid .

Easy summary: 1 new pound = 100 dinars = 1000 old pounds (long out of use)

Foreign cash into Sudan , preferably United States dollars (often accepted in hotels), Bank of England pounds and, to a lesser extent, euros are also fairly easy to exchange at banks in big cities. Travellers cheques are not accepted in Sudan.

There are many banks in Khartoum and throughout Sudan but not all of them have foreign exchange facilities. There are several money changers in Khartoum , especially in Afra Mall. There are also several Western Union agents in Khartoum which will do payouts for money transferred from overseas.

The currency is not fully convertible, and there is a black market with rates a little higher than the official rates: black market dealers quoted the U.S dollar at SGP1,030 in Nov 2023. The Sudanese pound is a closed currency, so be sure to change it back before you leave the country.

The currency is unstable, and the annual inflation rate was reported in Feb 2023 to be 63%.

ATMs [ edit ]

• United Capital Bank (Corinthia Hotel) has an international Visa card ATM.
• Bank of Khartoum Visa card
• Qatar National Bank Visa card

Eat [ edit ]

Sudanese cuisine [ edit ].

Sudanese cuisine has various influences, but none of them dominates the regional culinary cultures. Among the influences are from Egyptian, Ethiopian, Yemeni and Turkish cuisines (meatballs, pastries and spices), but there are also numerous dishes that are common to all Arabian nations.

• Foul , made from fava beans, is a common dish. It is eaten daily in breakfast by many Sudanese and can be considered the national dish.
• Local Sudanese breads are Kissra , a bread made from durra or corn; and Gurassa , a thick bread from wheat flour similar to pancake, but thicker. Sudanese also class Aseeda , a porridge made from wheat, millet or corn, as a bread.
• One local Northern Sudanese dish is Gurassa Bil Damaa , which is a bread of unleavened wheat similar to a pancake but thicker, topped up with meat stew or chicken.
• Some Eastern Sudanese dishes are Mukhbaza , which is made of shredded wheat bread mixed with mashed bananas and honey; Selaat , which is lamb cooked over heated stones; and Gurar , which is a kind of local sausage cooked in a similar way to Selaat.
• One of the popular dishes from western Sudan is Agashe , meat seasoned with ground peanuts and spices (mainly hot chilli), and cooked on a grill or an open flame.
• Fresh fruits and vegetables are very common.

Restaurants and food shopping [ edit ]

There are many modern restaurants/cafes such as Mexican, Korean, Italian, Turkish, Pakistani, Indian and Chinese in Khartoum and in Kharto North.

One of the main attractions is Sug al Naga (the camel market) north of Omdurman, where you can select your meat of choice and then hand it over to one of the ladies to cook it for you in the way which you prefer.

Drink [ edit ]

Islam is the official religion of the country, and alcohol has been banned since sharia was imposed in the 1980s. Sudanese people frequently drink tea , usually sweet and black. Sudan also has some refreshing drinks such as karkade (hibiscus) which can be served hot or chilled, aradeeb (tamarind) and gongleiz (made with the baobab fruit). The local energy drink is a carbohydrate-laden drink known as madeeda. There are several types of madeeda, made with dates, dukhun (millet) or other ingredients blended with fresh milk, and usually heavily sweetened with sugar, though reduced-sugar versions may be available if you ask. Sudanese coffee is available in most souks and is similar to Turkish style coffee; thick and strong, sometimes flavoured with cardamom or ginger with a powerful kick and altogether delicious. Not to be taken before bed though if you want an undisturbed night's sleep!

However, while alcohol is strictly illegal in the Muslim north, locally-brewed alcohol is widely available in various forms and at various degrees of potency. A local beer (merissa) brewed from sorghum or millet is cloudy, sour and heavy and likely to be brewed with untreated water and will almost certainly lead to the 'Mahdi's revenge' (the Sudanese version of ' Delhi belly '). Aragi is a pure spirit distilled from sorghum or in its purest form, dates. It is potent and should be treated with respect, and beware that it is sometimes contaminated with the likes of methanol or embalming fluid to add flavour and potency! Be aware though that all these brews are not only potentially hazardous for your health but illegal, and being caught in possession can result in the full implementation of Islamic law punishments.

The general advice is not to drink tap water ; in most rural areas, you will not be able to, as there are no taps. Where there are no bore holes (which often yield water that is fine to drink), water is often taken directly from the Nile.

Sleep [ edit ]

Larger towns and cities [ edit ].

Most larger towns and cities have affordable hotels, although not as cheap as you might imagine. Quality is generally consistent within the price range.

Basic hotels provide a bed and a fan with shared bathroom/toilet facilities. There may be more than one bed in the room but you are usually expected to pay for the whole room. The bigger the group of travellers, the more economical these rooms are, as more beds are often put in a room (within reason) to accommodate everybody without the price being changed. Some hotels have cheaper beds outside in the open as in smaller towns and cities. These hotels are not very clean but are cheap and perfectly acceptable for short stays.

Lower mid-range hotels - more likely to be found in Khartoum - offer the worst value for money. They may have en suite bathrooms, (mostly evaporative) air conditioning and satellite television, but for what you're paying (two or three times that of basic hotels depending on your bargaining skills) the rooms are extremely tatty and hotel owners will almost always subscribe to the philosophy of: 'Only fix something if the guest complains'. There will sometimes be rooms minus the bathroom/air conditioning/television for prices a little above those in basic hotels.

Upper mid-range hotels are the next step up, with spotless rooms of a far higher quality but prices (usually quoted in dollars) closer to what you'd expect in the West. You'll have little to find fault with, though.

Top-end hotels are commonly of the five star variety, and include the Hilton. The few are found mostly in Khartoum. They are much more expensive than the upper mid-range hotels.

Outside larger towns and cities [ edit ]

Outside larger towns and cities hotels don't normally go above basic. That means bedframes with either simply a string mesh or with thin mattresses; that is not to say they are uncomfortable. They are offered (generally in fours or fives) in rooms where there is often a ceiling fan to keep things cool. The beds are usually cheaper - and more fun to sleep in - out in the courtyard under the stars, although there is obviously less privacy and security. As with the basic hotels in larger towns and cities, it is more often than not impossible to rent one bed in a room as you might in a dormitory. Hotel owners insist that you rent the whole room. Rooms become unavailable quickly at certain times (weekends, for example). Showers may be bucket showers, with water straight out of the Nile if your route follows that river.

Camping in the wild is easy in rural areas outside the south as long as the usual precautions are taken.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Safety in Sudan has many dimensions. On one hand, theft is almost unheard of, you'll never be robbed in the street and people will go to great length to ensure your well-being. On the other hand, Sudan has a long history of conflict, the government is not particularly open or accountable, and under the surface corruption is rife.

Sudan is an Islamic country and consumption of alcohol is illegal. Extra-marital relations, including having guest in a hotel room, is illegal, with severe penalties.

Armed conflict [ edit ]

Sudan was at 40-year civil war between the Khartoum based central government and non-Muslim separatist groups from the South, at the time when South Sudan was still part of Sudan. Relations between the two countries after the independence of South Sudan remain fluid and somewhat tense or complicated

The well-publicized conflict in Darfur is still taking place, making travelling to the western parts of Sudan totally inadvisable.

Corruption [ edit ]

Sudan is one of the most corrupt countries in the world. Bribery, cronyism, and nepotism are endemic, affecting all aspects of public life in the country. The police earn very little and often extort people for bribes to make ends meet.

If you are the victim of a crime, do not expect the Sudanese police to provide you with reliable assistance; their only job is to deprive you of your money, waste your time, and misbehave with you. People have even been arrested for lodging complaints against the police, so refrain from lodging complaints against deviant police officers.

Transportation [ edit ]

Sudan is one of four countries worldwide that do not comply with international flight safety protocol. The fleet of the state-owned Sudan Airways is mainly composed of 1950s-era Soviet aircraft. Some planes have no navigation, lighting, or are missing critical pieces of landing gear. Sudan is a very dangerous country for internal air travel.

Entering Sudan via personal car is also challenging. Sudan has a highly militarized border with its neighbor Egypt and Westerners run into problems at the border if they wish to cross.

Bus travel is also not without its issues. Some buses are better than others - some are excellent, with icy-cold AC and complementary drinks, others may be less salubrious, e.g. sitting in a hot bus (did we mention no A/C?) with jabbering Egyptian tourists for nearly an entire day.

Personal safety [ edit ]

There is almost no likelihood of being physically attacked (mugged) for your possessions, but keep an eye on your things in public places, e.g. street cafes. Sometimes thieves operate in pairs: one distracts you while the other makes off with your stuff. There have been cases of pickpocketing in Sudan as well

Women travelers [ edit ]

While solo women will raise a few eyebrows, travel may be relatively safe (in areas unaffected by civil war) if they dress and act appropriately for an Islamic country. Traditionally, women in Sudan wear loose flowing robes due to restrictive laws against wearing trousers and short or tight skirts; thousands of women are arrested and flogged for indecency every year, and laws can be applied arbitrarily.

In general, it is best for women to travel in groups, and even better, with men.

Police and army [ edit ]

You will see armed policemen and military personnel everywhere but you will not have any problems with them unless you have infringed some rule, e.g., taking photographs or filming in prohibited areas. Sudanese police are sometimes known to target travelers for bribes .

Photography [ edit ]

Sudan has very strict rules about taking pictures. As this is a Muslim-majority country, people place a huge emphasis on personal privacy.

To take pictures in Sudan, you must have a permit from the government.

Photographing or filming military personnel or installations is a quick way to get into trouble.

LGBT travellers [ edit ]

Sudan is not a safe destination for gay and lesbian travellers ; in the 2019 Arab Barometer Survey, only 17% of Sudanese people said that homosexuality was socially acceptable.

Open display of LGBT behaviour may result in open contempt and/or violence.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

Sudan is a malarial region, so be especially cautious during the rainy season. Poisonous snakes, spiders and scorpions are common in the southern areas.

Be cautious when drinking water . Make sure you choose bottled water, or use purifying tablets. Also, avoid any fruit drinks, as they are obviously made with the local water. And remember, that any ice cubes (for example, in sodas) are only frozen local water.

On long trips (particularly during the hot season) on public transport it is often impossible - or would be expensive - to carry the amount of bottled water you need, and it may be scarce at certain remote stops. Therefore, keep plenty of your chosen means of purification close at hand (not in your luggage strapped to the roof!). Sanitation in some areas is nonexistent, so wash your hands frequently.

Food from streetside vendors is generally fine if it is being prepared and served frequently. Empty restaurants and street cafes often indicate that food is standing uncovered and unrefrigerated for hours at a time.

Sudanese currency is notoriously dirty, and even the Sudanese handle small bills as little as possible. A hint would be to carry antibacterial wipes or gel in your luggage to treat your hands after handling filthy currency notes or shaking too many unwashed hands.

Sudan reported Ebola outbreaks in 2004 and it is not advised to take local hospital treatments unless there is a real urgency. If you have malaria-like symptoms, seek medical assistance when possible, medical treatment is also available in many private clinics with high standards and reasonable prices. Here are some of these private clinics: ( Doctors clinic , Africa St, Fidail medical center , Hospital road Downtown, Yastabshiron medical center , Riyadh area, Modern medical center , Africa St, International Hospital , Khartoum north-Alazhary St)

Schistosomiasis/Bilharzia - Avoid bathing or walking through slow-flowing fresh waterways. If you have been in contact with such water or develop an itchy rash or fevers after your return, seek medical attention. Doctors in the West may only think to test you for malaria - you may need to see a tropical medicine specialist.

Respect [ edit ]

In general, the Sudanese are hospitable, sociable people. They consider it shameful to give someone a poor welcome, so you can expect to be treated with immense respect as a tourist.

Basic etiquette [ edit ]

Always use your right hand when shaking hands, bringing something to someone, and so on. The left hand is considered unclean in Sudan. It would be considered impolite to use your left hand to offer something to someone.

The Sudanese are not known for being punctual, which can be very surprising to visitors from countries where punctuality is highly valued. Lateness does not imply rudeness or a lack of interest; people have a casual approach to time.

It's common for the Sudanese to turn up to a place unannounced . When this happens, stop what you are doing and attend to your guests.

The Sudanese take relationships very seriously and they view them as long-term commitments . The following tips will come in handy:

• If you've been invited to a Sudanese home, you will often be showered with tea, coffee, and snacks. Refusing any of these would seriously offend the Sudanese and it could get them to think that you do not appreciate them or their hospitality.
• Social visiting and hosting have a lot of importance in Sudanese society. Not visiting someone for a long time and/or not talking to someone for a long time could get someone to think that you do not value the relationship you have with them.
• Sincerity and genuineness are highly valued in Sudan. Don't say something if you don't mean it. Don't say "next time" if there isn't going to be a "next time".
• Generosity is highly valued in Sudan. Offering someone a ride, helping them out with something, and the like will be greatly appreciated by the locals.
• Always return favours. If a Sudanese person asks you for your help, you are expected to follow through with it.

Religious sensitivities [ edit ]

Sudan is a Muslim-majority country. From 1973 to 2021, Sudan was governed by a form of Sharia law. The new government has been making an attempt to liberalise Sudanese society by separating religion and the state.

During Ramadan, you should refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, and chewing in public. Not doing so would be seen as tactless and extremely disrespectful.

Do not under any circumstances show images, statues, or figures of the prophet Muhammad . In 2007, a British schoolteacher was arrested for allowing her class to name a teddy bear "Muhammad" and approximately 10,000 protestors took to the streets in Khartoum and demanded her execution. Although the schoolteacher returned safely to her home country, other related controversies have led to violence.

Dogs are considered to be unclean in Sudan.

Local customs [ edit ]

To show the bottom of your foot is an insulting gesture, as is the touching of the thumb to the index finger while extending the rest of the fingers (the North American sign for "O-kay"). Although Sudan is a moderate Muslim culture, foreigners are still discouraged from speaking directly to local women unless spoken to, and even then it would be polite to ask permission from the man accompanying her before responding. Try to avoid physical contact with women if possible.

Conversation [ edit ]

During conversation, avoid asking direct questions about people's political opinions unless you know the person quite well and sense that they would be comfortable; repercussions could be serious for them. Tact is a necessity in a country that has suffered the trauma of more than 40 years of civil war, and refugees from affected areas are spread around the country, especially Khartoum.

Connect [ edit ]

Internet and telephone services remain unreliable and may be blocked or suspended at short notice (Apr 2022).

Telephone [ edit ]

Sudan's international direct dialling code is 249 . Its international direct dialling access code is 00 although mobile phone users in Sudan will be able to dial overseas numbers by putting "+" in front of the country code.

Prepaid mobile phone packages are easily available in Sudan. The two telecommunications companies in Sudan are ZAIN [dead link] (Tel: +249 91 230000) and MTN [dead link] (Tel: +249 92-1111111). Zain has a cheaper prepaid package than Mtn. The customer service line for MTN, should you need to call them for any problems, can be difficult to get through.

Coverage maps

• Mobitel (zain SD) [1]
• MTN Sudan [2] [formerly dead link]
• Sudani [3] [formerly dead link]

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Is Sudan safe for tourism?

By Joan Torres 48 Comments Last updated on April 9, 2024

Sudan is a country where everybody knows there’s something going on, but no one is sure what is actually happening there. Unlike Iraq or Syria, Sudan doesn’t show up on the news very often, so when I said I was visiting Sudan, this was the kind of answer I got from most people:

But, is Sudan safe to visit?

Well, believe it or not, people who have visited Sudan claim that this is one of the safest countries in Africa and, as a friend of mine who has been to all the countries in the world said once, Sudan is home to the warmest and most hospitable people in the world.

Seriously, when you visit Sudan, you find only kindness and people who want to meet you because they just want to help you. They want you to have the best experience in Sudan and, even though they are poor, they will feed you, host you and, on many occasions, taxi drivers won’t accept your money. Sudan is the poorest country I’ve been to but, at the same time, one of the easiest places to travel around, thanks to the local’s hospitality.

Remember that, for more information, including a 2-week itinerary and travel tips, read: Sudan travel guide

All right, so why all this trouble? Is Sudan safe for tourism or not?

Yeah, Sudan is a safe place to visit but, like in any troubled country, it depends on where you go.

In this article, I want to highlight the safe areas, so you remove your doubts, fears and plan your trip wisely.

Nowadays, the problem with Sudan is that there are some ongoing civil conflicts in some specific areas of the country. These conflicts are ethnic, have nothing to do with ISIS and occur in certain provinces, which means that they are very unlikely to affect other regions.

Here you will find:

Table of Contents

• Safe places to visit in Sudan
• Unsafe areas to avoid when you visit Sudan
• More information

Remember to get travel insurance for Sudan IATI Insurance is one of the very few that covers travel in Sudan + COVID-19 5% discount if purchasing via this link

Safe places to visit in Sudan for tourism

So which are the safe areas?

This is the itinerary most travelers follow, especially those who travel from Cairo to Cape Town or vice-versa. Entering from Egypt and leaving through Ethiopia (through Gallabata) is the safe route. The Red Sea coast, including major cities like Port Sudan, is also safe to visit. The area bordering Eritrea, including the beautiful town of Kassala, is free of danger as well.

1 – Wadi Halfa 2 – Abri 3 – Dongola 4 –  Karima 5 – Atbarah 6 – Shendi 7 – Khartoum 8 – Gallabat 9 – Port Sudan 10 –  Sawakin 11 – Kassala

For more information about each and every place, read my Sudan Itinerary

Unsafe areas tourists should avoid when they visit Sudan

1 – South Kordofan and the Blue Nile 2 – Darfur

The red area is where the bad things are going on, so you should avoid these places. If you are an adventurous person and you still want to visit an unsafe area, the good news is that, unlike in Syria, Iraq or Afghanistan, the violence doesn’t target foreigners. However, you could be in the wrong place at the wrong time, so it’s totally your responsibility if you decide to go there.

Why isn’t it safe to travel to these areas of Sudan?

1 – South Kordofan and the Blue Nile

In 2011, South Sudan got its independence from Sudan, following a referendum that passed with 98% of the vote. Today, South Sudan is still the youngest country in the world.

South Kordofan and the Blue Nile are two regions which belong to northern Sudan but most of their residents identify themselves as South Sudanese. The problem arose when they were not allowed to participate in the referendum, even though they had been promised they could.

This problem turned into a Civil War between the Sudanese Army and a pro-South Sudanese militia. It’s way more complicated than that but this was just to put you in the picture, so you know why you shouldn’t travel to that part of the world.

2 – Darfur

As you may know, Africa is ethnically diverse and nearly every country is composed of several ethnicities. One of the most common issues across African countries is that the president or ruler doesn’t care about anyone but the people from his own tribe or ethnicity.

In many African countries, ethnic minorities are excluded from their own government and that’s one of the main triggers of Civil War in Africa.

This is what is happening in the region of Darfur, as the Government of Sudan has been oppressing non-Arab Darfuri population for ages.

Other safety information you should know when you visit Sudan

Meeting other travelers –  Believe it or not, I met quite a few travelers on my journey in Sudan, including two 60-year-old couples. Tourism in Sudan is increasing and, those people who used to travel to Egypt to see the pyramids now prefer Sudan because there they get to see pyramids and feel safer.

Solo women travel in Sudan:  During my journey, I met one solo woman traveler who told me that she hadn’t experienced any sort of trouble. The locals were always very kind and helpful to her. Just be aware that Sudan is a very conservative Muslim country, so as long as you cover your head and shoulders, you should be fine. However, if you want to know more about it, read: Visiting Sudan as a solo female traveler .  

More information for traveling safely in Sudan

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

All our guides to Sudan

• Travel Guide to Sudan
• Tales of Nubian People
• Travel Guide to Nubian Pyramids
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Sudan
• Visa Guide for Sudan

Check more safety guides

• Is Afghanistan Safe?
• Is Iran Safe?
• Is Iraq Safe?
• Is Lebanon Safe?
• Is Mali Safe?
• Is Mauritania Safe?
• Is Middle East Safe?
• Is Oman Safe?
• Is Pakistan Safe?
• Is Syria Safe?
• Is Tunisia Safe?

48 comments

Sudan may be very safe, but is it suitable for inexperienced backpackers? :S

I wouldn’t recommend Sudan to inexperienced backpackers. It lacks tourism industry, there are no signs, no information and there are barely hotels. However, people are extremely kind and helpful, so that makes your journey easier, definitely. I don’t know what to tell you. If you really feel like going there, you should just go

Agree with you. Your website has introduced many awesome off-the-beaten-path countries, sadly some of them are not easy to travel independently due to the lack of tourist information/infrastructure etc…

Enjoy your trip to Pakistan. Looking forward to your guide to Pakistan 🙂

Cheers mate 🙂

are u serious?

Inside the EU’s flawed $200 million migration deal with Sudan

What types of places did you stay in? I am considering going as a solo woman, but I’ve heard that much of the accommodation is either shared rooms that are only appropriate for men, or pricey enough that it’s only realistic as a couple. Were you able to find affordable (under $30/night) private rooms? Or did you camp at all?

Hey Carrie, how are you? Some of the accommodation is as you describe yes… But there are some villages and places where you can good guesthouses as well! Also, in the capital, Couchsurfing is very easy. Check out my latest travel guide. I recommend quite a few bunch of places and if you decide to go (it won’t be now because it’s too hot) let me know if you have any question!

YES It is Safe…….. we help you as your travel agent in South Sudan

Wow great place. It`s a really wonderful and natural place. This blog is very helpful. i like your program. SUDAN seems to be a great place and it would be comparatively cheaper than other countries. Thanks for sharing the info. Great resource

Hi, thanks for your comment. I hope you consider going there 🙂 All the best

I can vouch for the safety of Sudan. Interestingly I am a Pakistani national and visited Sudan four times between 2011 and 2014. The locals are very nice, friendly helpful and appreciative of outsiders, much like Pakistan itself. The fact that I am Muslim and can communicate in very broken basic Arabic also helped I guess. Once I was on the way to the Nubian pyramids near the town of Marawi (Meroe) when I stopped over in a little roadside rest stop to offer prayers at the small Mosque over there while talking to my brother and father in our mother tongue: Urdu . Then the most strangely amazing thing happened. This middle aged local fellow who was sitting in the corner of the Mosque approached and asked me, in my own tongue of Urdu, whether or not I was from Pakistan? Turns out he had studied in a Pakistani University in the 1980’s, which even today offer better learning than what is available there, and had an amazing time there. It truly is a really small world!

Hi, Noman. I am glad to hear that you enjoyed Sudan. Sudan is about the people and yes, I also enjoyed their hospitality, as much as in Pakistan. It is indeed a very small world and you realize it when you travel. Just a couple days ago, in Kyrgyzstan, I bumped into one Israeli guy who turned out we had friends in common who I had met during my trip in Palestine. Two days after, I met a girl who knew about me because of this Israeli guy. I also had similar experiences in Pakistan. Anyways. Best of luck!

Wow that’s some awesome coincidence! Keep travelling brother 🙂

I’m just now in beginning stages of planning a trip to Sudan and Eritrea and this is really helpful! I think the hardest thing will be convincing my family that it’s a relatively safe destination!

Did you go to Kassala or Suakin? I think we’d focus our time there and in Khartoum/Omdurman, rather than following the Nile. I’d love to hear more tips if you have them!

Hi Nick, good that you go to Sudan! To be very honest, Kassala and Suakin are the destinations I know the least. Everything what I know you can find it in my Sudan Travel Guide, which is linked to this article. Cheers

Hi , i appreciate the great afford you done in this website …and as Sudanese i love to show the world my country and people which you are doing here . and i can provide you with any needs to visit sudan and south sudan . thank you.

Thank you, Joseph! Your country is truly great! Cheers,

Could you elaborate why you like World Nomads? I’ve only had one insurance claim in 45 years of travel, and they (Covermore, a big company) were horrible, and did everything they could to prevent a legitimate claim. Some of them sound great, but can be shocking if you actually need to claim. By the way, I get an annual (frequent traveller) policy every year, and according to the guy on the telephone, they DO cover Sudan. I was really surprised. Thanks, Terry

Hi Terry, When it comes to insurance claiming, World Nomads is the best. If you send them all the bills and everything seems all right, you will receive the totality of your money within a month. Moreover, if you have a real urgency and you call World Nomads before going to the hospital and go to the medical center they recommend you to go, they may even pay for the bill. This hasn’t happened to me (fortunately) but I know a few cases. Furthermore, regarding your second concern, yes, World Nomads covers each and every country in the world but my point is that they don’t cover accidents related to war, terrorism, and hostility. However, unless you go to the dangerous areas which are highlighted in this post, you should be more than fine and don’t worry about anything. Does it make sense?

Hi.. Sudan is such a nice place to visit. This blog is very helpful for me because I am planning to travel in Sudan with my friends. I am really happy and excited to visit there.

I am sure you’ll freaking love it!

Hi Joan, thanks for your reply about travel insurance. I’m not sure why things might have changed, but neither World Nomads or First Allied seems to be covering Sudan or Iran at the moment. I have GIO and it does cover both, but I don’t know if that is just the frequent traveler policy (which is automatically worldwide) I have, or all of them. Cheers, Terry

Mmmhh… That must be due to all the sanctions from the USA Government, so that’s why American insurances don’t cover Sudan. Thanks for letting me know. Yeah, same here. I have a 1-year worldwide travel insurance with World Nomads so didn’t realise that, perhaps, it didn’t cover Sudan. I will check this GOI you say…

I never realized World Nomads was American, but you are probably spot on about the reason. They are ruining the world. I like GIO because their individual trip limit is 90 days, some are much shorter. And, they will issue it to people over 60! That said, I have never tried claiming with them, and that’s when how good they really are shows.

Can you let me know if you need a special permit to go to Kassala ?

No that I am aware of but it would be good to know!

is port sudan a safe place to visit?

Yes, eastern part is perfectly safe

Thank you for the guide this will help a lot of tourist..The places mentioned in this post are truly safe to travel in Sudan

Hi, thank you very much for this informations ! Do you know if we need an invitation to get a visa to go to sudan ? What did you do to get the visa ?

Hi, regarding the visa, you can check all the information on this post: https://againstthecompass.com/en/visa-for-sudan/

OK. So I’m a white 50 year old man from the USA. My friend who runs an orphanage in Omdurman is trying to get me to come as I sponsor some of the kids.. Am I afraid? Yes, Am I interested? Yes. If I go it will be in January. So my question is WILL I BE SAFE THERE? I do want to see other parts of the world and meet different people.

Hey Eric! Yes, it is a really safe region, you seriously don’t need to worry about anything 😉 and I am sure that your experience will be so rewarding! Good job by the way!

Sudan is safe and you will enjoy your trip. There are a lot to visit in Sudan although no touristic signs but all people are friendly and helpful. Many will guide you . My uncle guided him a man ,he offered him to guide him and he accepted . He was generous and when my uncle offered him money he refused. They are really good ,kind and warm hearted people.

Is it safe to travel to Sudan now in February in view of the latest demonstrations? Or is it better to postpone it? Thank you for advice

Just stay away from the demonstrations in Khartoum and you’ll be all right

In Shendi is a nice and reasonalbe hotel. I made a photo of this that you could present to your tuk tuk driver. Unfortunable I don’t know hwo to inswert images here.

Hello all, I am very happy to join this rich conversation to see my country through foreign eyes, for me Sudan is definitely a safe place as I lived there for 23 years without an incident, lol, and it’s more safe for tourists because the nature of the people of Sudan who will be happy help just for the sake of kindness and they don’t scam or cheat to get more money from tourists as i experienced in many countries . However currently and till the date of this comment I do not advise any tourist to go to Sudan, specially Khartoum as a terrorist militia is ruling Sudan currently (Rapid Support Forces) and they are extremely dangerous so please check the news before you travel to Sudan and unless you found that civilian government has been formed then do not take the risk and this includes Khartoum the capital, you can check the hashtag #Blueforsudan in twitter and Facebook to understand more.

It’s very hard for me to say so but I am trying to establish non-profit organization to support tourism in Sudan and transparency is one of my main factors to help the tourists who are trying to explore Sudan to be safe.

Hello there,

Thank you so much for travel tips. Sudan has never been on my list, but after reading about the first lithuanian group going to Sudan and reading your blog, decided to make more research. Would it be safe to travel with a 4 year old kid a family from Lithuania? We just came back from a 2,5 weeks trip to Iran and we enjoyed it very much, but of course we realise Sudan is much less touristic.. Have you met any travellers with kids? And what about the vacination? Thank you in advance.

Hi Vaida, what I can tell you is that Sudan is as safe as Iran 🙂 However, this is a very developing country but I am sure you will find everything your kid needs. I don’t know which kind of vaccinations you need for Sudan. I am just vaccinated from everything possible, so I don’t check it anymore

Hello Joan,

Good to read your article as it is clear and full information for basic awareness on the country “safeness”. Reading in between the lines I am not too sure though that you confirm: Traveling by own car is also safe and roads are good enough to travel easily through the most used route between Egypt and Ethiopia? Since I am also thinking to go to Ethiopia, is it also as easy and safe as Sudan? On another side, how easy is to find hotels and restaurants on the way in Sudan?

Best Regards (keep the great work)

I want to come to Sudan in January how can I locate the museum in Khartoum and the hospitality

Hi Joan, I read two of your articles: How to pass the borders from Sudan to Egypt and this one. There was the coup d’etat few days ago and I have a friend of mine in Port Sudan that is working as a scuba diving instructor there. Do you think the safest way to reach El Cairo is by sailing? Where the boat should dock in Egypt? I know from her family that the Italian embassy will help her to come back in Italy passing through El Cairo. But I don’t know the details… So for this reason I think that reach El Cairo should be easier and safer by sailing. Does it right? Thank you!

WOW, I would expect this eulogy for some of the most intolerant, discriminating, where the most basic human rights aren’t respected from some brainwashed muslim or african but not from a Westerner!!! Hypothetically, Joan, imagine if a non muslim visiting some of these (very safe) countries acted and said what an average Muslim visiting/living in a Western country does and says. No,they are not safe countries. But the most ridiculous, as usual from someone who visits a country like these and doesn’t see anything, is to say”that SA and Iran are the most misunderstood countries in the world”, meaning of course, they are much better than you(non Muslim westerners) think. FFS, really? Do you really think that countries where not a single basic human right is respected is better than you think?!

While researching for my own big africa trip next year I found your delightful article. However, I recommend that you update it a bit or at least add a small info box to emphasize that your information – despite being updated in 2022 – are not really valid anymore. After the coup d’etat in 2021 the security situation in Sudan has appearantly decreased a lot and there are currently a lot and plausible travel warnings. Even the link to that article which seems to have ranked Sudan as one of the safest place in Africa by the time of your writing has downgraded the country to the sixth last place into the aproximaty of civil war torn countries as Libya.

Please update the blog to reflect the current security situation. I appreciate your articles and am living off the beaten path but when others are ignorant it can dangerous. The situation now has severely deteriorated and the fact it says it’s updated in 2023 is a bit disheartening. I am saying this only cause I appreciate your blog but also the lives of tower

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Sudan Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Sudan. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 2 Practice Enhanced Precautions

• Updated   Global Polio April 26, 2024 Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Destination List: Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Guinea, Indonesia, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, including Zanzibar, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Updated   Global Measles April 26, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Timor-Leste (East Timor), Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia
• Dengue in Africa and the Middle East April 18, 2024 Dengue is a risk in many parts of Africa and the Middle East. Some countries are reporting increased numbers of cases of the disease. Travelers to Africa and the Middle East can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. Destination List: Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Ethiopia, Mali, Mauritius, Sudan

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Active cholera transmission is  widespread  in Sudan. Cholera is rare in travelers.  Certain factors  may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease ( more information ). Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands can also help prevent cholera.

Vaccination may be considered for children and adults who are traveling to areas of active cholera transmission.

Cholera - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Sudan.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Sudan. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Sudan.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to Sudan take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Sudan.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis (Meningococcal disease)

Recommended for travelers 2 months old or older traveling to  areas of Sudan  that are part of the meningitis belt during the dry season.

Meningococcal disease - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis Belt Map

In Sudan poliovirus has been identified in the past year.

Travelers to Sudan are at increased risk of exposure to poliovirus.

Vaccine recommendations : Adults traveling to Sudan who received a complete polio vaccination series as children may receive a single lifetime booster dose of inactivated polio vaccine; travelers who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated should receive a complete polio vaccination series before travel. Children who are not fully vaccinated will be considered for an  accelerated vaccination schedule .

Polio - CDC Yellow Book

Polio: For Travelers

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Sudan. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Sudan, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Sudan. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

African tick-bite fever.

• Avoid Bug Bites

African Tick-bite fever

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• Avoid animals

Rift Valley Fever

• Touching blood, body fluids, or tissue of infected livestock

Rift Valley fever

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Sudan, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Sudan. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Sudan include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Sudan. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Sudan’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in Sudan. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Sudan may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Sudan, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Sudan for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Sudan — Travel Tips

The official language in Sudan is Arabic. English is the de facto second language but there are also several other dialects spoken in different regions. English is widely spoken in the business and tourism industries but should not be expected in rural areas of the country.

The national currency is the Sudanese pound, which is divided into 100 piasters. No credit cards are accepted in Sudan, except perhaps Diners Club, which is accepted at certain international hotels. There are few ATMs in the country, even in the large cities like Khartoum. It is thus inevitable that travelers must move around the country with large sums of money. Travelers should be extremely cautious when doing so. Currency can be exchanged at large banks and bureaux de change offices in major city centers.

Sudan is on East African Time, which is GMT +3.

Electricity

Sudan uses electricity at 220V/50Hz and European and British plug outlets.

Communications

The international dialing code for Sudan is +249 and the code for Khartoum is +183. Roaming agreements have been made with several countries around the world but travelers should still double check if their network is accepted before departure. There are, however, a few reliable mobile networks in the country, including Zain, Sudani, MTN Sudan (which operates in English), and Canar. SIM cards for these networks and inexpensive cell phone handsets can be purchased from local stores. Wireless internet services are not prolific and mostly only available in large hotels, but there are internet cafés in most large towns.

Travelers are permitted to carry: 200 cigarettes or 25 cigars, or 450g of tobacco; 50mL of perfume and 250mL eau de toilette; 1.1 liter of wine or spirits; and gifts and other goods not exceeding the value of US$200.

Tourist Office

Ministry of Tourism and National Heritage, Khartoum: +249-183-472-604 or +249-183-471 329

Consulates in Sudan

British Embassy, Khartoum: +249-183-777-105 American Embassy, Khartoum: +249-187-022-000 Canadian Embassy, Khartoum: +249-183-563-670 German Embassy, Khartoum: +249-117-77-990 Chinese Embassy, Khartoum: +249-183-272-730 French Embassy, Khartoum: +249-183-471-082 Belgian Embassy, Khartoum: +249-912-177-171

Police: 999

Click here for Visas and Vaccinations in Sudan

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Sudan Travel Advisory

Travel advisory april 22, 2023, sudan - level 4: do not travel.

Reissued with updates to the security situation and post departure status.

Do not travel to Sudan due to armed conflict, civil unrest, crime, terrorism, and kidnapping.

On April 22, 2023, the U.S. Embassy in Khartoum suspended its operations, and the Department of State ordered the departure of U.S. direct hire employees and eligible family members from Embassy Khartoum due to the continued threat of armed conflict in Sudan. The U.S. government cannot provide routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Sudan, due to the current security situation.

Armed conflict is ongoing throughout Sudan and includes heavy fighting between various political and security groups. The situation is violent, volatile, and extremely unpredictable, particularly in the capital city Khartoum. Electrical and communication disruptions, including internet and cell phone service, can occur at any time.  Khartoum International Airport and Sudan’s border with Chad are currently closed.

Country Summary : Armed conflict, crime, such as kidnapping, armed robbery, home invasion, and carjacking occur.

Members of known terrorist groups and individuals sympathetic to these groups in Sudan could attack with little or no warning, targeting foreign and local government facilities, and areas frequented by Westerners.

Violence continues along the border between Chad and Sudan and areas that border South Sudan (including the disputed Abyei area). Armed opposition groups are active in Central Darfur state and parts of Blue Nile and South Kordofan states. Intercommunal clashes can occur throughout the country and can result in the declaration of localized States of Emergency.

Read the  country information page  for additional information about travel to Sudan.

If you decide to travel to Sudan:

• Exercise extreme care in all parts of the country, including Khartoum.
• Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .
• Have a personal emergency action plan that does not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Stay alert in areas frequented by Westerners.
• Review your personal security plan and visit our page on travel to high-risk areas.
• Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
• Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
• Share important documents, log-in information, and points of contact with loved ones so that they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return as planned to the United States.  Find a suggested list of such documents here .
• Develop a communication plan with family and/or your employer or host organization so that they can monitor your safety and location as you travel through Sudan. This plan should specify who you would contact first, and how they should share the information.
• Avoid demonstrations and public gatherings. Even events intended to be peaceful can become violent.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Sudan.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Sudan travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: April 17, 2024 12:01 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, sudan - avoid all travel.

The Government of Canada evacuation flights have ended. However, you should leave the country if you can do so safely.

Canadians in Sudan needing consular assistance should contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre .

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Fighting throughout Sudan

The security situation in Sudan has been very dangerous since fighting broke out between the army and paramilitary forces on April 15, 2023. Heavy gunfire and explosions have occurred across the country, resulting in numerous casualties, including civilians. There are also reports of attacks and sexual assaults, including rape. Foreigners and staff of international organizations have been targeted.

Access to essential services is disrupted. Most hospitals are out of service. Access to basic necessities such as food, water, medication, and fuel is increasingly challenging. The telecommunication network is unreliable.

All airports are closed to commercial flights. All overland travel is extremely hazardous.

The Embassy of Canada in Sudan has temporarily suspended its operations and our evacuation flights have ended. Our ability to provide consular services is extremely limited. Commercial onward options may be available to depart Sudan via Port Sudan. However, you should carefully assess the travel routes before deciding to go there.

The security situation is highly volatile. Clashes are likely to continue in the near future. The situation could deteriorate further. You should leave the country now if you can do so safely.

If you are currently in Sudan and choose to stay despite this advisory:

• keep in mind that you are responsible for your own safety and that of your family
• use your judgment to decide the best time and the safest means to move to a safer location if you think it's required
• shelter in a safe place if you are not travelling to leave the country
• avoid travelling to the Wadi Seidna Airfield
• ensure that you have essential supplies, including food, water and fuel
• keep your doors and windows locked at all times
• keep your phone charged at all times
• ensure that your passport and other travel documents are up-to-date and secure at all times
• register or update your personal information through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and encourage other Canadian citizens in Sudan to do so
• monitor the local and international media to stay informed on the evolving situation
• follow the advice of local authorities

Canada’s response to the crisis in Sudan – Government of Canada

Political situation

The country remains without a functioning government following a seizure of power by the military on October 25, 2021, and the resignation of the prime minister on January 2, 2022.

Frequent demonstrations are continuing to take place in various cities, particularly in Khartoum and Omdurman.

Clashes between protestors and security forces have occurred. Security forces have used excessive and lethal force to disperse crowds, which has resulted in numerous casualties. They have also arrested an unknown number of activists and protestors.

Access to cellular service (both phone and internet) is periodically restricted throughout the country. During days of planned demonstrations, roadblocks have been set up on the bridges linking Khartoum to the suburbs and checkpoints have been established.

There is uncertainty surrounding the current political arrangement, and the situation could deteriorate quickly. Access to essential services could be disrupted without notice.  Access to cellular service (both phone and internet) is periodically restricted throughout the country.

If you are in Sudan:

• limit your movements
• maintain low profile
• avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings
• monitor the local media to stay informed on the evolving situation

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place regularly. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

The conflict in Darfur has created a dangerous situation in western Sudan, particularly outside the major towns. Other areas of Sudan and eastern Chad are also affected by the conflict.

Despite the signing of a preliminary peace agreement, the security situation in Darfur remains extremely volatile, and lawlessness is prevalent.

Violence has resulted in deaths, displacement of people, general instability and insecurity.

The region has seen sporadic fighting between the government and rebels groups. Carjacking, break-ins and kidnapping remain a genuine threat to foreigners.

Violence regularly breaks out within camps for internally displaced people. Humanitarian workers and United Nations (U.N.) peacekeepers have been attacked and kidnapped.

Further clashes and regional violence cannot be ruled out.

A state of emergency is in effect in the 5 states of Darfur, Kassala, and South, West and North Kordofan. Curfews are sometimes put in effect by the government.

You should leave if you are in Darfur.

Abyei region, West Kordofan, South Kordofan and Blue Nile

Both Sudan and South Sudan claim Abyei, and there is continued fighting in South Kordofan and Blue Nile between government forces and rebels.

There is a heightened risk of attacks in the region. Armed groups have carried out attacks on foreign workers, including oil field workers.

Sudan has declared a state of emergency in the states bordering South Sudan.

You should leave if you are in Abyei administrative region, South Kordofan or Blue Nile states.

Border with Eritrea in Red Sea and Kassala states, and with Ethiopia in Al-Qadrif and Sennar states

The security situation in the area comprised within 50 km of the border with Eritrea, in Red Sea, and Kassala states, and within 50 km of the border with Ethiopia in the Al-Qadrif and Sennar states is volatile due to cross-border militant activity. Military operations have been occurring in the Tigray region of Ethiopia since early November 2020.

Foreigners working for aid organizations in this area have been the target of attacks.

Border with Egypt

The Halayib triangle and Bir Tawil are disputed territories between Sudan and Egypt. The threat of isolated and indiscriminate clashes cannot be discounted.

Northern State

There have been reports of a mobilisation and movement of security forces in Northern State, in particular Merowe and the surrounding areas, in April 2023.

Border with Libya

The area within 50 km of the border with Libya is used by armed groups as transit route to smuggle weapons, goods and people and is prone to banditry.

Border crossings

The land borders with some neighbouring countries are closed. Border closures may occur without notice.

Commercial overland expeditions occasionally cross Sudan’s land borders with Libya, the Central African Republic and Chad, but these routes are dangerous.

There are landmines in many areas outside the main cities, including border areas.

Don’t attempt to cross land borders.

While the incidence of crime in Khartoum is low, incidents of petty crime are increasing including opportunistic theft from vehicles. Keep valuables out of sight and drive with locked doors and closed windows.

Banditry is rampant throughout western Sudan, especially in the Darfur region. Several incidents have resulted in deaths near the border with Chad.

Random searches

For national security reasons, Sudanese authorities may conduct random searches of personal effects belonging to individuals working for international organizations.

There is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• sites frequented by foreigners such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres markets, hotels, etc.

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Westerners face the risk of being kidnapped even in Khartoum.

Maintain a heightened level of vigilance and consider regularly modifying your patterns of travel.

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report  - International Maritime Bureau

Fuel shortages

There are shortages of fuel in Khartoum and most other areas of Sudan.

If you must travel by road, make sure you have enough fuel for the entire trip.

Road safety

Unpredictable local driving habits, pedestrians and roaming animals pose serious risks.

Road conditions are poor.

Many roads outside the capital are sand tracks. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is required for overland travel except on the Khartoum–Kassala–Port Sudan, Khartoum–Atbara, and Khartoum–El Obeid highways.

Only experienced and fully equipped travellers should undertake desert travel. Basic equipment should include:

• metal ramps for heavy sand
• a global positioning system (GPS)
• spare fuel and
• water supplies

Roadblocks are common. Have your identity and vehicle documents readily available.

Public transportation

Public transportation is limited outside of major urban areas.

Most buses are irregularly scheduled. They are poorly maintained and drivers are reckless. Fatal accidents involving buses are routine.

If you decide to travel by bus, use only top-of-the-line buses.

A ferry connects Wadi Halfa, in Sudan, and Aswan, in Egypt.

A weekly train service operates between Wadi Halfa and Khartoum.

Trains are dilapidated, but service is punctual.

Taxis are available in urban centres but are generally in bad conditions.

In Khartoum, you may use an online hailing service but you must have a local SIM card in your phone with the data service.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Sudanese authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Sudan.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required Business visa: required Student visa: required Transit visa: required

Allow at least 2 months between your visa application and the intended date of travel. Visas are not granted automatically to prospective travellers.

Registration

As a foreigner, you must register with the Ministry of the Interior’s Aliens’ Registration Office within 3 days of your arrival in Sudan.

If arriving by land or sea, you can register at your port of entry.

Certain larger hotels offer to register their guests. Processing fees apply and vary depending on where you register. Two passport-style photos may be required.

Travels outside of Khartoum

You must obtain a permit before travelling outside of Khartoum. You can obtain your permit from the Foreign Ministry. You should start procedures at least a week prior to your trip dates.

It is extremely difficult to obtain permits for destinations within west Sudan, except for persons working for registered humanitarian organizations and diplomatic missions.

Sudanese authorities enforce permit regulations rigorously and they can retain documents. Carry at least 3 copies of your travel permit and passport, including the Sudan visa page, at all times.

Stamp from Israel

Local authorities will automatically deny you entry to Sudan if your passport contains a stamp from Israel.

Children and travel

The country’s customs, laws and regulations adhere closely to Islamic practices and beliefs.

Under Sudanese law, women and their children may encounter difficulties relating to mobility. Local authorities may prohibited them from departing Sudan if the father has not given his consent, regardless of custodial rights accorded to the mother by any Sudanese, Canadian or other courts.

• Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 8 April, 2024
• Polio: Advice for travellers - 17 April, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

This destination is in the African Meningitis Belt, an area which has the highest rates of meningococcal disease in the world. Meningococcal disease is a serious and sometimes fatal infection. 

Travellers who are at higher risk should discuss vaccination with a health care provider. High-risk travellers include those living or working with the local population (e.g., health care workers) or those travelling to crowded areas or taking part in large gatherings.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is a risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is recommended depending on your itinerary.
• Contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites.

About Yellow Fever Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that   country entry requirements   may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest   diplomatic or consular office   of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Polio (poliomyelitis) is an infectious disease that can be prevented by vaccination. It is caused by poliovirus type 1, 2 or 3. Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus 2 (cVDPV2) is present in this country. Polio is spread from person to person and through contaminated food and water. Infection with the polio virus can cause paralysis and death in individuals of any age who are not immune.

Recommendations:

• Be sure that your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling. Polio is part of the routine vaccine schedule for children in Canada.
• One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult .

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.

To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions .

Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:

• visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
• visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring

Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

There is a risk of schistosomiasis in this destination. Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by tiny worms (blood flukes) which can be found in freshwater (lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands). The worms can break the skin, and their eggs can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, or urinary problems. Schistosomiasis mostly affects underdeveloped and r ural communities, particularly agricultural and fishing communities.

Most travellers are at low risk. Travellers should avoid contact with untreated freshwater such as lakes, rivers, and ponds (e.g., swimming, bathing, wading, ingesting). There is no vaccine or medication available to prevent infection.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is a viral disease that can cause fever, pain and bleeding under the skin.  In some cases, it can be fatal.  It spreads to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, or from the bite of an infected tick.  Risk is generally low for most travellers.  Protect yourself from tick bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock.  There is no vaccine available for Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever.

Visceral  leishmaniasis   (or kala azar) affects the bone marrow and internal organs. It is caused by a parasite spread through the bite of a female sandfly. It can also be transmitted by blood transfusion or sharing contaminated needles. If left untreated it can cause death. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from sandfly bites, which typically occur after sunset in rural and forested areas and in some urban centres. There is no vaccine or medication to protect against leishmaniasis.

Onchocerciasis (river blindness)   is an eye and skin disease caused by a parasite spread through the bite of an infected female blackfly.  Onchocerciasis often leads to blindness if left untreated. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from blackfly bites, which are most common close to fast-flowing rivers and streams. There is no vaccine available for onchocerciasis although drug treatments exist.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Lymphatic filariasis , also known as elephantiasis, is caused by filariae (tiny worms) spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause a range of illnesses. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine available for lymphatic filariasis although drug treatments exist.

Rift Valley fever is a viral disease that can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can be fatal. It is spread to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, from the bite of an infected mosquito, or eating or drinking unpasteurized dairy. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from insect bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock, and unpasteurized dairy. There is no vaccine available for Rift Valley fever.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)   is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). 

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

Medical services and facilities

Health care is inadequate in Sudan.

You will likely need an emergency medical evacuation is case of serious illness or injury. However, it can also be difficult to obtain and air ambulances are usually not available on short notice.

There are no medical facilities to treat diving-related injuries in Port Sudan.

• Avoid surgery in Sudan
• Ensure that your health plan coverage includes Sudan

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Sudan is a traditional, conservative society. Sharia (Islamic law) is applied throughout the country. Islamic practices and beliefs are closely adhered to in the country’s customs, laws and regulations.

• Avoid displays of affection in public, holding hands for instance
• Be extremely discreet if swimming in public
• Avoid wearing shorts in public
• dress conservatively
• avoid wearing short skirts or shirts with low necklines
• avoid displaying bare arms

In 2025, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 28.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

Religious proselytism

Religious proselytism can lead to arrest for long periods of time and deportation.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe.  Bags are routinely searched upon arrival and departure at the Khartoum airport.

It is prohibited to import or consume alcohol, even in private.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Sudanese law prohibits sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Third time convicted offenders can face up to life imprisonment or the death penalty.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Sudan.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Pornography

It is prohibited to import magazines or books of a sexually explicit nature.

Photography

A photography permit is required for all forms of photography.

Even with a permit, it is strictly prohibited to photograph:

• military areas
• drainage stations
• broadcast stations
• public utilities

The authorities may suspect you of espionage if you take pictures without a permit.

If you travel with your laptop, ensure that you remove any photo files that could be deemed by the authorities as suspicious.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Sudan.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Sudan, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and South Sudan.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in South Sudan by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in South Sudan to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Sudanese minors (under 18 years of age) require the permission of their father or guardian to leave the country.

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Sudan.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Sudan by an abducting parent:

• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Sudan to explore all the legal options for the return of your child

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

The currency of Sudan is the Sudanese pound (SDG). It is non-convertible outside the country and its export is prohibited.

Transferring U.S. dollars to Sudan is difficult because of international sanctions. In addition, U.S. currency dated prior to 2006 is not usually accepted.

Foreign banking and credit cards are not accepted in Sudan. There are ATMs, but they only service local accounts.

International flights and hotel bills must be paid in cash.

You should carry sufficient funds in U.S. dollars to cover your expenses for the duration of your stay.

Sandstorms occur, particularly from July to October. Expect difficulties travelling overland. Local services and the availability of water and basic food may be affected. Take preventive measures and exercise extreme caution.

Rainy season

The rainy season in Sudan lasts 3 months, from July to September.

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Monitor regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 999
• medical assistance: 333
• firefighters: 777

Consular assistance

The Embassy of Canada to Sudan has temporarily suspended its operations.

For emergency consular assistance, contact the  Emergency Watch and Response Centre :

• by calling +1 613-996-8885
• by text message at +1 613-686-3658
• via WhatsApp at +1 613-909-8881
• via Telegram at Canada Emergency Abroad
• by e-mail at  [email protected]    

Canadians should also register with the  Registration of Canadians Abroad service . 

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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International Edition

• Baton Rouge Airport, TSA shares tips on how passengers can fly with a gun

B ATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) — The Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport is enforcing that all passengers understand and follow the important tips before crossing the Transportation Security Administration checkpoint, including firearms.

“If you want to travel with your firearm, it must be in a checked bag, it must be in a locked hard-sided case, unloaded, and declared to the airline when you get to the airport,” said Sari Koshetz, Spokesperson for the Transportation Security Administration.

This year, multiple passengers attempted to travel with prohibited items like loaded and unsealed guns, brass knuckles, tasers, and more in their carry-on bags. Koshetz said five guns were stopped during checking. 

“If you bring a firearm into the TSA checkpoint, you face a fine that can reach $15,000 and you will lose your TSA pre-check benefits,” said Koshetz.

Koshetz advises passengers to leave weapons at home and remember the 3-1-1 rule when traveling with liquids.

The 3-1-1 rule states liquids must be in a 3.4-ounce container, all containers must be in a clear one-quart size bag and each passenger is allowed one bag.

The airport said if passengers traveling with a gun, it must be in a sealed case and unloaded. The Director of Aviation, Mike Edwards, said everyone should do their part. 

“Passengers can help minimize delays when going through the security screening checkpoint by ensuring that you’re packing smart when you’re preparing for your trip,” said Edwards.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to BRProud.com.

Bucket list travel on a budget: Expert tips for airfare, loyalty programs, credit card perks and more

Nicky Kelvin from The Points Guy dives into ways to save this summer.

Many travelers have their sights set on summer getaways , but with everything from baggage fees to fuel costs impacting the price of a ticket, "Good Morning America" is asking travel experts to share tips for booking bucket list destinations on a budget and finding savings along the way.

Travel expert Nicky Kelvin, senior director of content for The Points Guy, offered his tips for affordable travel techniques.

Where to find the best flight deals

Kelvin encourages travelers to utilize Google Flights and other free price-tracking tools to compare fare prices and snag the best deal.

He also suggests using both the calendar and map features within Google Flights to see which airports, dates and destinations how the lowest fare.

From the Google Flights homepage on a computer, click "explore destinations" and select a departure city without adding a destination. Then zoom out on the map to see the best prices for destinations all over the world.

Get the most out of free travel loyalty programs

Travelers should be earning points for anything and everything that they are buying or booking from airline and hotels to car rentals, Kelvin said.

In addition to the points that can can help travelers earn free flights and hotel stays, Kelvin said to look for extra perks just for joining.

Hyatt rewards, for example, offers all guests free breakfast.

For Thrifty Car Rental and Dollar Car Rental, he said you can add your spouse or domestic partner as an additional driver for free.

Loyalty programs are great for airlines too. JetBlue, for example, allows enrolled customers -- even if they don't have enough points for a flight -- to use points for discounts. Plus, with any airline, as you accumulate points to earn status, you can get free seating upgrades.

Travel credit cards with cash back perks

Along with earning points, travel credit cards give you protection for your trip like insurance to help with lost or damaged baggage and trip cancellation protection

Chase debuts new airport lounge: Gourmet menus, sleek interiors, free facials redefine hospitality for airport travel

As for credit cards, The Points Guy team suggests the Capital One Venture Rewards credit card as an all-around pick -- you get 75,000 miles after meeting your minimum spend in the first three months. Which Kelvin said is a value of over $1,300.

If you're looking to earn the most miles, he said look to the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.

"You'll earn the most points on all your purchases with this one," he said.

Finally, if you want a credit card with no fee, Kelvin suggested the Bilt Mastercard, which he said is particularly great for renters because you can earn points on what's likely someone's biggest expense.

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Save money on international phone plans for summer trips

If someone's trip is taking them out of the country, using a cell phone internationally can cost $10 to 15 per day. For a family of four, that's more than $400 for a week.

If your phones support eSIM, Kelvin suggested purchasing a data plan for your destination through an app such as Airalo, Truphone or GigSky.

For example, one of Airalo's global SIM plans costs $9 for one week, which could save a family close to $350 dollars, depending on their existing international coverage.

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• Key Street: Michigan Ave. Leads to 7 Key Hotels in Chicago

A brief guide to all the MICHELIN Key hotels in Chicago.

Travel Hotels Chicago MICHELIN Keys

On April 24, 2024, the MICHELIN Guide announced its very first Key hotels in the United States — a brand new distinction recognizing the most outstanding hotels in the country. We're thrilled to report that in Chicago, eight hotels earned at least One Key. Of those, half make their home in the kinds of historic buildings that give this city its well-earned reputation as one of the most architecturally distinguished cities in the country. Follow Michigan Avenue north from the heart of the Loop to the Gold Coast and you’ll pass within two blocks of all but one of them. The Chicago Athletic Association sits within a Venetian Gothic landmark. The Gwen makes its home in a storied 1929 Art Deco skyscraper. The Pendry sets up shop in the masterpiece that is the 1929 Art Deco Carbide & Carbon Building. And the lower floors of the Viceroy make use of the meticulously-preserved, 1920s-vintage Cedar Hotel. There are Key hotels too in newer builds, among them the Peninsula (with uniformed bellboys and staffers who seem to know the name of each individual guest) and the Waldorf Astoria , its lobby a marble marvel. Below, explore the map and scroll down for more about each of the MICHELIN Guide’s eight hotels in Chicago.

The Eight KEY Hotels in Chicago:

Chicago Athletic Association — One Key

Pendry Chicago — Two Keys

The Langham Chicago — Two Keys

The Gwen — One Key

The Peninsula Chicago — Two Keys

Waldorf Astoria Chicago — One Key

Viceroy Chicago — One Key

Nobu Hotel Chicago — One Key

Top image: Pendry Chicago

In Photos: Every Three Key Hotel in New York City

The ins and outs of the most outstanding hotels in the city.

The First MICHELIN Key Hotels: All the Keys in the United States

The MICHELIN Guide announces top honors for U.S. hotels in 2024.

The Most Outrageous Design Hotel In Miami

The Faena Miami Beach is a Two Key hotel with a $15 million gilded woolly mammoth.

A Brief Guide to All the Key Hotels in Washington D.C.

Seven hotels earned at least one MICHELIN Key in Washington D.C.

Keep Exploring - Stories we think you will enjoy reading

Inside the Top Suite of the Only Three Key Hotel in Big Sur

The so-called "Cliff House" has the views you're looking for.

SingleThread: The 5-Room Inn with Three Keys and Three Stars

Revered for its Three MICHELIN Star restaurant and biodynamic farm, the SingleThread Inn earns Three Keys for its tiny, food-driven hotel.

Inside the Top Suite of Three Key Aman New York

The Aman Suite — among the most impressive suites in New York — brings the city to you.

The Guilty Pleasures of the Chicago Athletic Association

The One Key Chicago Athletic Association has had an illustrious and sometimes sordid history that dates back to 1893, when it wasn’t quite a hotel. A lot has changed since then, but the ghosts of the past are never far away.

Eaton DC Is a Launchpad for Progress

Katherine Lo’s Eaton DC isn’t just one of the best hotels in the United States capital. It’s also a headquarters for activism, community, social justice, and sustainability. And it’s not shy about it.

Hollywood Glamour at the First Key Hotels in Los Angeles

A brief guide to all the Key hotels in Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and Beverly Hills.

Florida’s Hotel Selection Is Starting to Sizzle

On April 18, 2024, all the new MICHELIN Stars were announced in Florida. Which makes this the perfect time to check in on some of our newest additions to our hotel selection in the Sunshine State.

Auberge du Soleil Napa’s latest renovation evokes timeless but not arrested in time

An interview with their interior designer, Suzanne Tucker.

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US issues level 3 travel advisory to China amid safety concerns. Here's what to know

Are you thinking about traveling to China to visit or study abroad? The U.S. government suggests reconsidering your trip for now. 

According to the U.S. Department of State , traveling to China is under a level 3 travel advisory , warning Americans to reconsider. The State Department has four warning levels. The fourth is “Do not travel.”

Is it safe to travel to China right now?

The U.S. is asking Americans to reconsider traveling to China due to various reasons, including concerns about health and safety, such as the prevalence of contagious diseases like COVID-19, as well as political tensions or security risks in certain regions.

As of April 12, there are some specific areas that the U.S. is asking people to reconsider travel to. Those areas include:

• Mainland China due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, including exit bans and the risk of wrongful detentions.
• Exercise increased caution when traveling to the Hong Kong SAR due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws.
• Reconsider travel to the Macau SAR due to a limited ability to provide emergency consular services. 

Additionally, the U.S. government may issue travel advisories based on factors like civil unrest, natural disasters, or other hazards that could affect travelers' well-being.

Americans detained in China

Mark Swidan — a man from Houston, Texas — has been detained in China for over 10 years on drug charges. According to The Texas Tribune , Swidan was detained in China in 2012 while on a trip looking for materials for his home and business in Houston. Chinese authorities arrested him after his driver and translator were found in possession of drugs. The driver blamed Swidan, who is accused of trafficking and manufacturing methamphetamine.

A review of Swidan’s case said there were no drugs on him or in his hotel. Last year, the Republic of China’s Jiangmen Intermediate Court denied Swidan’s appeal and upheld his death penalty with a two-year suspended death sentence.

Other Americans considered wrongfully detained include Chinese American businessman Kai Li from Long Island, N.Y., and California pastor David Lin.

What countries have a Level 3 travel warning?

• Trinidad & Tobago
• El Salvador
• South Sudan
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Papua New Guinea
• Saudi Arabia

What countries have a Level 4 travel warning?

• Afghanistan
• Central African Republic
• North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)
• Burkina Faso

Traveling abroad? Here are some safety tips

U.S. citizens are encouraged to enroll in the State Department’s free  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  and to prepare contingency plans for emergencies. 

Safety tips if you're traveling outside the U.S.:

• Don't travel alone.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Keep a low profile.
• Try not to be flashy.
• Avoid going to places at night, especially by yourself.

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• Australia edition
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A local’s travel guide to Austin: what to eat, see and do in three days

Standout spots include food truck parks, honky-tonk hangouts and Lady Bird’s wildflower sanctuary

A ustin has become one of the most popular places in the US to move to, and also to visit. Droves of people descend on the city in March for the South by Southwest tech, film and music festival and in the fall for the Austin City Limits music festival. And Austin is one of the top five destinations in the US for bachelorette parties. Don’t let the bachelorettes scare you away, though. Austin is a great place to spend a few days, so long as you do it like a local.

My family and I moved to Austin 12 years ago, after living in New York for many years. I’ve also lived in Washington DC , the San Francisco Bay Area and Philadelphia. Austin has a feel all of its own: it has a world-class music scene, great food that now goes well beyond Tex-Mex and barbecue, Texas history and fun shopping and museums – all with less hassle than bigger cities in the US.

Here’s my guide to a long weekend there. In addition to picks for adults, I’ve included some recommendations for families that our kids (now teenagers) have loved through the years. And I’m vegetarian, so I’ve chosen some of the city’s best veggie eats options. Don’t worry, my meat-eating wife made sure that I included great barbecue choices, too.

Day 1: Pool party & pickles

Start your day with a walk or run on the trail at Town Lake (it’s officially labeled on maps as Lady Bird Lake, but locals refer to it as Town Lake). This 10-mile (16km) trail on both sides of a dammed portion of Texas’s Colorado River (a different Colorado River than the bigger and more famous one) is tree-shaded, beautiful and one of Austinites’ favorite places to exercise. If you have time, walk through Zilker Park, which is right next to the trail. If you have kids, go to the new and very fun playground at Butler Park, complete with a splash pad just up the path from the playground.

Austin was one of the cities that started the food truck scene in the US several decades ago, and now there are more than 2,000 food trucks in the city. Some are located in trailer parks that have multiple truck options and picnic table seating. After your morning at Town Lake and Zilker Park, have lunch at the Picnic food truck park, or the nearby original location of local favorite Chuy’s (the Tex-Mex chain is now expanding throughout the US). Other great lunch options include Green Mesquite and Carpenters Hall .

In the afternoon, go for a swim at Barton Springs Pool . Open year-round, this massive basin measures three acres and is fed by underground natural springs. It’s open throughout the day, and it’s free before 8am and after 9pm.

Head back to your hotel or Airbnb for a rest, and then get ready for dinner. Tonight is casual: barbecue at Terry Black’s , or if you’re vegan, the food truck Rollin Smoke for a fantastic vegan barbecue sandwich made with baby portobello mushrooms, spicy slaw, barbecue sauce and pickles. It’s my favorite vegan barbecue sandwich in Austin (who says you can’t have barbecue if you’re veggie?), and it’s located in a food truck park with beautiful old trees shading the tables. Rollin Smoke has very good meat options, too (I’m told).

If you have young children, head to Phil’s Icehouse . They have burgers and a full playground where the kids can play before or after dinner. Just don’t put them on the spinning flower after the meal. And be sure to get some ice-cream after dinner at Amy’s Ice Creams , a longtime favorite of Austinites. Amy’s is located next to Phil’s, and it’s so good we had an Amy’s truck serve dessert at our wedding.

After dinner, head out to see some music at one of Austin’s many local music venues. One of our favorites is the Continental Club . There’s a main club downstairs and the intimate Continental Gallery upstairs, where you can see local musicians in a cozy space. Other great venues include C-Boy’s and the new Moody Amphitheater . For full local music listings on any night, check the Austin Chronicle . And if it’s summer, look to see if Blues on the Green has a free concert that night. If you have kids, take them to the free Rock the Park concert series, produced by local radio station KUTX.

Day 2: Breakfast tacos, books & bats

Start your day back at the lake with a rowing workout that’s almost, but not quite, on the lake. Rō Fitness is a local studio that has outdoor rowing classes by the water. It’s way more fun than working out at an indoor studio.

You’ll need fuel after your workout. Grab a breakfast taco at Veracruz or Tacodeli or Tamale House East . Breakfast tacos are an Austin staple (they are to Austin as bagels are to New York), and all three of these places have delicious options.

Today is a shopping day. Start out at BookPeople , one of the greatest bookstores in the US. It’s locally owned and independent, but the size of a superstore. BookPeople also dares to take a stand on issues, including being one of two bookstores that recently sued Texas state officials over a newly passed book ban law. It has an excellent kids section, and organizes live readings by kids’ authors.

After you’ve gotten your book fix, head across the street to Waterloo Records , one of the best record stores in the US. Waterloo carries new and used vinyl, CDs and merchandise from rock to jazz to local Texas music. For more shopping options, head over to the stores along South Congress Avenue and South First Street (including Roadhouse Relics , a neon art store and gallery that is one of our favorites), and if you want to go thrifting, our teens say Austin Pets Alive Thrift and Texas Thrift are the best.

After all of the shopping, it’s time for lunch. If you’re near BookPeople and Waterloo, head over to Soup Peddler, a local place for homemade soups, smoothies and fantastic grilled cheese sandwiches (trivia: Soup Peddler got its name because the founder started out delivering homemade soup by bike before opening full store locations). Or if you’re near South Congress and South First, go to the food trucks on South First or Underdog or Fresa’s .

As you’re heading back to rest up, grab an ice-cream at Amy’s, a gelato at Dolce Neve or cupcakes at Sugar Mama’s .

Some good dinner options for tonight include Loro , Suerte or Este . And if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, one of my favorite veggie restaurants is Bouldin Creek Cafe . It’s casual, with a great menu that includes vegan chips and queso. If it’s nice out, take a seat on the patio.

Tonight’s activity could be going to see the bats at the Congress Street Bridge. Austin has the largest urban bat colony in North America, and in season they live in one of the bridges that crosses the Colorado River (they migrate to Mexico in the cooler weather). Bat-watching is a lot more fun than you might imagine from horror movies (and these bats look more like birds than vampire bats). If you’re not in the mood for bats, head to the legendary Broken Spoke . Get there early for dance lessons, then hoof it at this classic Texas honky-tonk.

Day 3: Live oaks & Lady Bird wildflowers

It’s your last day in Austin, and it’s a good one for visiting a museum. Some of our favorites include the Bullock Museum to learn all about the history of our state (bonus fact: Texas was once its own country , and some people want it to be its own country again ). If you’re a fan of 1960s history, visit the excellent LBJ Presidential Library , which is the home of the 36th president’s papers. It has good exhibits on the US civil rights movement and 1960s US history in general. Another excellent museum option is the Blanton Museum of Art , or you could tour the Texas capitol (Austin is, after all, the capital of Texas). If you’re a nature fan, head to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center . And if you have kids, the Thinkery is an excellent children’s museum.

For lunch, it’s time for more barbecue (you’re in Austin, don’t fight it). Two terrific barbecue trucks are Mickelthwait and LeRoy and Lewis . And LeRoy and Lewis has another of my favorite vegetarian barbecue options: cauliflower burnt ends.

In the afternoon, head back to Town Lake. This time, get out on the water by renting a kayak, stand up paddleboard or paddle boat (a kid-friendly option). If you have time and energy for a drink, head over to the ABGB for happy hour. They have a great beer selection, lots of outdoor seating and local bands playing music.

For your farewell dinner, a few of our favorite restaurants that are a bit on the fancier end are Hestia , Uchi or the Lenoir wine garden, where dinner is served under live oak trees more than a hundred years old. And for a fantastic vegan option, go to Fabrik for a seven-course vegan tasting menu. You’ll need a reservation well in advance (they’re currently booking four to six weeks out). And for your final night in Austin, head out to another music venue. Or if you have kids, take them to the Austin favorite Peter Pan Mini Golf , which has been around for 75 years, or check Do512 Family for family events that are happening the dates you’re in town.

Question Time

When is the best time of year to visit austin.

There’s no dispute: it’s hot in the summer in Austin . A great time to visit is between October and May. From June through September, many days will be over 100F. If you’re here in the summer, spend lots of time at the Barton Springs pool.

Is Austin expensive?

Austin hotels can be expensive during big events like South by Southwest or the Formula One weekend. But for most dates, it’s less expensive than larger cities like New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Will I need a car to get around Austin?

Most of the places that I’ve recommended are within walking distance from downtown. You can also rent bikes and scooters to get around. Austin’s public transportation is primarily through local buses, which can take you further out if needed. And car-share options are easy as well.

Steve Sachs is managing director of the Guardian US. He has worked at large and startup media companies for more than 20 years. He loves all kinds of music, and his most recent favorite concert, the Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame Show, featured a host of singer-songwriters including Lyle Lovett and Emmylou Harris

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