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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 .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

6 months beyond date of entry into Sudan

  • Yellow fever

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy khartoum.

Kilo 10, Soba Khartoum, Sudan Telephone:  +249-187-0-22000; (Sunday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +249-18 702 2000 Email:  Our navigator assistant at the following link will guide you to the information you need.

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Requirements for Entry:

  • World Health Organization (WHO) card with yellow fever vaccination when arriving from a yellow fever infected area

Obtain your visa before traveling. Visit the  Embassy of the Republic of the Sudan  website for the most current visa information. Overseas inquiries should be made at the nearest Sudanese Embassy or consulate.

The Government of the Republic of the Sudan requires U.S. citizens to present a passport with at least six months validity and an entry visa or entry permit upon arrival at any port of entry in Sudan.

U.S. citizens must obtain an entry visa from a Sudanese embassy before arriving in Sudan. There is one exception to this requirement: U.S. citizens possessing a Sudanese national identification document (such as a Sudanese passport, alien registration card, or national identification card).

Previous Travel to Israel: Travelers with Israeli visas or exit/entry stamps are now permitted entry following a change in relations between Sudan and Israel in 2020.

HIV/AIDS Restrictions: Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors and foreign residents of Sudan. Sudanese law requires a negative HIV test result to obtain a work or residence visa. Please verify this information with the  Embassy of the Republic of the Sudan  before you travel. 

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Members and individual sympathizers of known terrorist groups and hardline political extremists could attack with little or no warning, targeting foreign and local government facilities and areas frequented by Westerners. Globally, terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:  

  • High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)  
  • Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists  
  • Places of worship  
  • Schools  
  • Parks  
  • Shopping malls and markets  
  • Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)   

For more information, see our  Terrorism  page.

Violence continues along the border between Chad and Sudan and areas near the border with South Sudan (including the disputed Abyei area). Armed opposition groups are active in Central Darfur state.

Landmines and other explosive remnants of war still exist in rural areas; Southern Kordofan and Blue Nile, Darfur, and the Eastern states, including along the Eritrean border, are the most affected. Border closures may occur without notice.

Intercommunal and intracommunal clashes can occur throughout the country and can result in the declaration of localized states of emergency; civilians have been killed and government and security installations have been attacked.

Blue Nile Region (Blue Nile, Sennar, and White Nile states) and Southern Kordofan Region (includes Abyei region, North Kordofan; South Kordofan; West Kordofan): While violence has decreased significantly from previous years, tensions remain high. Banditry and intercommunal violence are common in these regions. Armed actors may transit the shared borders with South Sudan and Ethiopia.

Darfur Region: Flares of deadly intercommunal conflict continue, as does violence perpetrated by bandits and militias. Criminality, looting, and conflict over economic resources (land, gold, livestock) also is common. Tensions within camps for internally displaced people have resulted in fatalities and violence. Extrajudicial mobs and armed communal militia may mobilize quickly. Armed actors may transit Sudan’s shared borders with Chad and Central African Republic.

Eastern Sudan (Kassala, Gedaref, and Red Sea States): Escalating tensions between Ethiopia and Sudan have prompted a sizeable build-up of military forces along the disputed border in Gedaref’s Fashaga region as well as recurring military-to-military engagements, clashes involving Ethiopian militias, and intercommunal reprisals over farmland. Incidents of cross-border criminality to include kidnapping have occurred. Human traffickers and organized crime syndicates are known to operate in the Kassala area (Kassala, Al Qadarif, and Red Sea states) along the Ethiopian and Eritrean borders. Stay on major roads if you are traveling by vehicle due to potential landmines and other explosive remnants of war.

Crime: Crime, such as kidnapping, armed robbery, home invasion, and carjacking, can occur, though such crimes are more frequent outside of Khartoum. In Khartoum, home invasion, pickpocketing, purse snatching, theft from vehicles, and other petty crime occur, and the number of petty crimes has increased over the past year. There is a risk of kidnapping. Expatriates are not generally targeted for crime in Khartoum, but may be caught in a ‘wrong place, wrong time’ situation.

Elsewhere in Sudan, particularly in Darfur, armed robbery, kidnapping, carjacking, and looting is common; victims may be targeted based on perceived wealth or affiliation, and aid workers continue to be affected by such crimes. Banditry is prevalent throughout western Sudan, particularly in the Darfur and Chad–Sudan border regions, where several incidents have resulted in deaths. Sexual assault is widespread in areas of armed conflict.

  • Avoid walking or traveling alone, especially after dark and particularly outside of Khartoum.
  • Do not display cash and valuable personal property.
  • Dress conservatively in clothing which covers the shoulders, upper arms, and legs to below the knee.
  • Drive with doors and windows locked.
  • Travel with a copy of your U.S. passport and Sudanese visa to prevent the originals from being taken. Keep original documents in a secure location. Use reputable travel firms, knowledgeable guides, and drivers.

Demonstrations: Small gatherings and demonstrations can occur with no warning and may escalate to violence. Protests are a regular occurrence since the 2019 revolution, with the pace increasing following the October 25, 2021 military takeover. Police and other security forces may intervene to disperse demonstrators, including with the use of tear gas and, in some instances, live ammunition, when protests occur near key governmental locations and/or impair freedom of movement. Protests and demonstrations have led to extended disruptions to telecommunications and, in some instances, airport closures, inhibiting U.S. citizens’ abilities to communicate with friends and family or depart the country. Historical anniversaries, calls for justice, and economic grievances, including bread, cooking oil, and fuel shortages, can precipitate demonstrations.

  • Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.  
  • Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.  
  • Follow the advice of local authorities.
  • Maintain several days’ supply of food and water and stay indoors until the demonstration has passed.
  • Keep a low profile and observe all curfews.
  • Have alternate means of communication in the event of disruptions to telecommunication services.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault or domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. Report crimes to the local police at 999 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +249 18 702 2000. Dial 777 to contact the police for traffic emergencies, 998 for fire, and 333 for medical emergencies. Emergency services and the telephone network are unreliable. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

  • Help you find appropriate medical care
  • Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
  • Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
  • Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion 
  • Provide a list of local attorneys
  • Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States
  • Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
  • Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
  • Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance. 

Tourism:  Little to no formal tourism industry infrastructure is in place. Emergency response and subsequent appropriate medical treatment is often limited or inadequate. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Convictions for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs can result in long jail sentences and heavy fines. While the consumption of alcohol is no longer prohibited for non-Muslims, regulations and enforcement remain unclear. You may be detained for questioning by the police if unable to produce an acceptable form of identification. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website. 

Travel Permits:  A permit, obtainable from the Ministry of Tourism by your hotel or travel agent, is required for travel outside of the greater Khartoum area. A copy of the permit will be sent to the Aliens Department at the Ministry of Interior. A separate travel permit is required for travel to Darfur. The Embassy’s ability to provide consular services outside of Khartoum, including emergency assistance, is severely limited. Carry multiple copies of permits, as travelers without permits may be detained and arrested.

Photography: Do not take photographs of any areas which may be sensitive to the government, including police and military installations, camps for internally displaced persons, and border areas. Photography requires a permit from the External Information Centre in Khartoum (part of the Ministry of Information). Even with a permit, it is illegal to take pictures of military installations, public utilities, infrastructure (e.g., bridges, airports), slum areas, or beggars. Do not take photographs or use equipment with cameras (including cell phone camera and laptops) close to government buildings. You could be fined, have your photographic equipment confiscated without notice, and risk detention and arrest. Do not take photos of Sudanese without their permission.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

The U.S. Embassy will not receive notification of your arrest. Moreover, dual U.S.-Sudanese nationals will be prosecuted as Sudanese citizens, impeding our ability to provide consular services.

Sharia Law/Customs:  Personal status laws govern legal procedures pertaining to family relations, including marriage, divorce, child custody, maintenance (financial support), and inheritance. We strongly advise you seek local legal counsel if you must engage in local legal matters and make certain you are aware of your rights and responsibilities. Some national laws reflect a sharia system of jurisprudence. Non-Muslims are sometimes convicted of offenses based on officials’ interpretation of Islamic law. The government enacted legislation in July 2020 that removed flogging as a punishment for criminal and civil crimes. However, flogging remains a common sentence for hudud, which are punishments mandated under Islamic law for serious offenses. Non-Muslim women are not expected to wear a veil or cover their heads. Both women and men should dress modestly. Shorts are not appropriate. Public displays of affection are discouraged. Pornography is not permitted. Government offices and businesses follow an Islamic workweek (Sunday to Thursday).

Phone Service:  Cellular phones are common, as other telephone service is unreliable and landlines are nearly non-existent. It may be possible to purchase a SIM card locally and use a U.S.-compatible cell phone. Check for compatibility with local cellular networks with your phone carrier or manufacturer before you go. During periods of civil unrest, Sudanese authorities may cut all telecommunications for extended periods of time. Maintain alternate means of communication in such an event.

Currency:  The Sudanese pound (SDG) is the official currency. Sudan operates on a cash-only economy; U.S.-issued credit and debit cards do not work. Carry sufficient funds in U.S. dollars to cover all your expenses for the duration of your stay. Bills must be printed after 2006 and unblemished. Do not carry a large amount of cash because travelers carrying large amounts of U.S. currency have been detained and currency confiscated. Sudan has no international ATMs. Local ATMs draw on local banks only. Western Union operates in Khartoum only. Exchange currency only at reputable banks. Exchanging currency outside of official banking channels is illegal and is punishable by imprisonment and fines.

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

  • Faith-Based Travel Information
  • International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
  • Human Rights Report  – see country reports
  • Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers  
  • Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad   

LGBTI Travelers:  Sudanese law does not specifically prohibit homosexuality but criminalizes sodomy, which is punishable if convicted by five years in jail for an initial offense. Sudan’s civilian-led transitional government abolished corporal and capital punishment for conviction of sodomy. LGBTI persons are not considered a protected class under antidiscrimination laws. Anti–LGBTI sentiment remains pervasive in society. LGBTI organizations have alleged being pressured to alter their activities due to threat of harm. There have been no reports of official action to investigate or punish those complicit in LGBTI-related discrimination or abuses.

See   our  LGBTI Travel Information   page and section six of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:  Access to transportation, lodging, and public buildings is limited for people with mobility issues. There are few sidewalks and no curb-cuts, and most buildings lack functioning elevators.

Students:   See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  Early and forced marriage of children continues. While Sudan has criminalized Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), the national prevalence rate of Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting is 88 percent. Spousal abuse is common. Women who file claims of domestic violence are subjected to accusations of spreading false information, harassment, and detention. Police normally do not intervene in domestic disputes. Rape is a serious problem throughout the country, especially in conflict areas. See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Consult the  CDC website for Sudan  prior to travel.

Medical facilities in Khartoum are adequate for routine care, but the hospitals are not suitable for more serious medical problems. Outside the capital, few facilities exist, hospitals and clinics are poorly equipped, and ambulance services are unavailable. Medicines are available only intermittently. Emergency medical treatment is provided for 24 hours before payment is required. For all other care, providers expect payment in Sudanese pounds in full before treatment is performed.

For emergency services in Sudan, dial 333.

Ambulance services are: 

  • not present throughout the country or are unreliable in most areas except Khartoum.
  • not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.
  • not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little or no medical equipment.
  • Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. 

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas. 

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. 

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription and bring enough medication for the duration of your trip. Check with Sudanese customs to ensure the medication is legal in Sudan. 

Vaccinations: Be up to date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The following diseases are prevalent :

  • Hepatitis A
  • Meningococcal meningitis
  • Malaria  is widespread throughout the country. Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets. Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays.

Further health information:

  • World Health Organization
  • U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)  

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates. 

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. 

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Road conditions are poor and traffic accidents common. Driving is hazardous due to excessive speeds, erratic driver behavior, pedestrians, animals in the roadways, and vehicles that are overloaded or lack basic safety equipment. Only major highways and some streets in the cities are paved; others are narrow and rutted. While there are functioning traffic signals and streetlights on major thoroughfares in Khartoum, there are virtually none in other parts of the country.

A four-wheel-drive vehicle is strongly recommended due to variance in road conditions on major inter-city highways. South of Khartoum, road conditions deteriorate significantly during the rainy season from June to October and dust storms (“haboobs”) greatly reduce visibility. Travel outside of Khartoum should be undertaken with a minimum of two vehicles to protect against the threat of criminal attacks. Use reliable GPS and carry additional fuel, spare tires, and provisions. Professional roadside assistance service is not available, and gas shortages are common.

Landmines:  Exercise caution in remote areas or off main roads outside of Khartoum due to landmines. Landmines are most common in the Eastern states and Southern Kordofan. Stay on main roads marked as cleared by a competent de-mining authority.

Traffic Laws: An international driving permit or Sudanese license and third-party liability insurance from the government is required. You may use a U.S. driver's license for up to 90 days. You can get a local driving license from the police traffic department. It is illegal to use a cell phone while driving. Comprehensive insurance is recommended because many local drivers carry no insurance.

Accidents:  In the event of an automobile accident, remain inside the vehicle and wait for police. If a hostile mob forms or you feel your safety is in danger, leave the scene, and proceed directly to the nearest police station. Do not stop at the scene of an accident or at intersections where people have gathered, as mobs can develop quickly.

Public Transportation: Avoid travel by public transportation and hire private transport from a reliable source. Your company’s in-country staff, travel agencies, and local hotels may be able to arrange private transport on your behalf. Any form of public transportation is unregulated, unreliable, and generally unsafe. Service is basic and crowded. Schedules are unpublished and change without notice. While there is some public transit to rural communities by irregularly scheduled mini-buses, many areas lack any public transportation.

Buses:  Fatal accidents are routine. Many drivers have little training and are reckless, and the vehicles are often poorly maintained. Most buses and bus stops are privately operated and unmarked.

Taxis:  Taxis are available throughout Khartoum; however, most do not meet U.S. safety standards. Drivers rarely speak English. Have your destination written down in Arabic.

Trains:  There is weekly passenger train service from Khartoum to Wadi Halfa and to Port Sudan. Trains are dilapidated.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information

Aviation Safety Oversight:   As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Sudan, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Sudan’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Sudan should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the   U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings . For Information on piracy and other maritime issues in the region see the U.S. Government’s  Maritime Security Communications with Industry (MSCI) Web Portal .

For additional travel information

  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
  • See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
  • Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
  • See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Sudan . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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travel advice sudan

Latest update

We continue to advise:

Do not travel to Sudan due to the dangerous security situation and the threat of armed conflict and civil unrest.

Map of Sudan

Sudan (PDF 786.52 KB)

Africa (PDF 1.68 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 333 or go to the hospital.

Call 999 or visit the police station.

Advice levels

Do not travel to Sudan.

  • Australians should strongly consider leaving Sudan as soon as possible. There are commercial departure options from Port Sudan or Port Suakin. You may also be able to enter Egypt and other neighbouring countries via land borders. You'll need valid travel documentation and visas. You should confirm the exact requirements with your transport provider. For more information, see ' Full advice - Safety '. 
  • The security situation remains volatile, and violence could escalate with short notice. Carefully consider the risks for any departure route, including during ceasefires. Overland travel is dangerous, including to border areas due to the security situation.
  • If you choose to remain in Sudan and are not confident in the safety and reliability of any departure option, you should continue to shelter in a safe place. Assaults, home invasions and looting have occurred. Foreigners have been the target of such attacks, including on-road departures. Remain vigilant at all times, including around large crowds. Adopt appropriate personal security measures. 
  • A civil war is occurring in Sudan, with Khartoum and Darfur among the worst affected areas. Thousands have been killed and millions displaced. Law and order and government services have broken down in many parts of Sudan. Water, electricity, telecommunications, and banking services may not be available. Most hospitals are not functioning. Civilians have been killed in airstrikes and artillery bombardment. Residents have been evicted from homes by armed groups, and looting is common.
  • There's a threat of terrorism. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time. Kidnapping is a serious risk in Sudan, including in Khartoum. Kidnappers often target foreigners. Avoid crowded areas and known targets. Be alert to possible threats. 
  • Landmines and unexploded remnants of war are a risk. If you travel overland in Sudan, use main roads and paths labelled as cleared by a competent de-mining authority.

Full travel advice:  Safety

  • Sudan is experiencing an outbreak of cholera. Outbreaks of acute watery diarrhoea, dengue fever, measles, mpox and polio have also been reported.  
  • Yellow fever is widespread in Sudan. You may need to show your yellow fever vaccination certificate when entering and leaving Sudan (see ' Travel '). Get vaccinated against yellow fever.
  • Other insect-borne diseases include malaria and Zika virus. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. 
  • HIV/AIDS is common. Take precautions if you're engaging in high-risk activities. If you think you may have been infected, seek immediate medical help outside Sudan.
  • Other infectious diseases, including hepatitis, typhoid and polio, are common. Drink only bottled water. Ensure your vaccinations are up to date.
  • Medical facilities are basic in Khartoum and inadequate elsewhere. You may need to get medical help outside Sudan.

Full travel advice:  Health

  • Sudan follows Islamic sharia law. Seek legal advice about family law matters, including divorce, custody and child support.
  • Serious crimes attract the death penalty. Other crimes are punishable by lashes. Same-sex relations, extra-marital relations, and trying to convert a Muslim to Christianity are all illegal.

In July 2020, the Sudanese authorities amended the law on alcohol to allow consumption by non-Muslims, but not in the company of Muslims.

  • Be careful when taking photographs. You need a permit for any photography. Even with a permit, it's illegal to photograph certain areas, including military installations, infrastructure and slums.
  • Sudan has strict Islamic dress codes. Women should wear a headscarf and loose clothing covering the arms and legs.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

  • We continue to advise do not travel to Sudan. See ' Safety '.
  • If, despite our advice, you travel to Sudan, you'll need a visa to enter. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the  Embassy of Sudan in Canberra  for the latest details.
  • You may need to show your yellow fever vaccination certificate when entering and leaving Sudan. Check  Australia's re-entry requirements  (Department of Health and Aged Care) following exposure to yellow fever.
  • It's illegal to import or export Sudanese currency. Bring US dollars to change when you arrive. You'll also need US dollars to pay in some hotels. You can't use credit cards, debit cards or traveller's cheques anywhere. 

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

  • The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
  • Australia doesn't have an embassy in Sudan. You can get consular assistance from the  Australian Embassy in Cairo .  Consular services are severely limited due to local measures.
  • Contact your friends and family as soon as possible to let them know you’re safe. If you have significant concerns for your welfare, or that of another Australian, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 62613305 outside Australia. See ‘Safety’.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Security situation.

Armed conflict  is occurring across the country. Heavy fighting, gunfire and explosions are ongoing. The security situation remains volatile, and violence could escalate with short notice. 

There are reports of assaults, home invasions and looting, including on road departure routes. Foreigners and staff of international organisations have been the target of attacks and assaults, including sexual assault. Further violence could occur, including in places frequented by foreigners. Remain vigilant at all times, including around large crowds. 

There are disruptions to critical infrastructure and essential services, including road and bridge closures, electricity and telecommunications outages, restrictions to healthcare services and shortages of medical supplies.

We continue to advise do not travel to Sudan.

If you choose to remain in Sudan or are not confident in the safety and reliability of any departure option, you should:

  • adopt appropriate personal security measures
  • keep adequate supplies of water, food, fuel, cash and medication
  • keep your phone and batteries charged
  • take a photo of, and keep your passport and other travel documents with you and up to date
  • monitor the media to stay informed on the evolving situation and continue to follow our advice on Smartraveller.

Leaving Sudan 

Australians should strongly consider leaving Sudan as soon as possible. There are commercial departure options from Port Sudan and Port Suakin. You must provide valid travel documentation to exit Sudan and enter Saudi Arabia or Egypt. You should confirm the exact requirements with your transport provider.  Khartoum International Airport is not operating. 

Overland travel is becoming more dangerous, including to border areas. You should consider the risks for any departure route, including during ceasefires. Any travel options, including convoys, are taken at your own risk. Make sure you have up-to-date travel documents and visas. 

Contact your friends and family as soon as possible to let them know you’re safe. If you have significant concerns for your welfare, or that of another Australian, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 62613305 outside Australia.

There are reports of visa  scams  impersonating the Department of Home Affairs. A fake visa won’t be recognised in Australia. To protect yourself from visa scams, you should only deal with official Australian Government channels such as the departmental website, reputable travel agents, Australian Visa Application Centres, or the  Australian High Commission or Embassy .

Entry into Saudi Arabia 

If you're travelling from Sudan to Saudi Arabia, you must have valid travel documentation. Provisional travel documents (PTDs) or IMMICards will not be accepted. You are unable to enter Saudi Arabia on an Emergency Passport but may be allowed entry for transit only in some locations (not including Jeddah). You will need to show proof of onward travel on a Saudi airline with a transit of less than 10 hours.

You need a visa for Saudi Arabia. You can obtain a visa online (e-visa) or on arrival. 

Read the  Saudi Arabia travel advice  for information on entry requirements. 

If you've arrived in Saudi Arabia from Sudan and need consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy on +966 11 2500990 or email  [email protected]  

Sudanese passport holders have different visa and entry requirements for Saudi Arabia. If you're a Sudanese passport holder check the visa and entry requirements with the Sudanese and Saudi Arabian Consulate or Embassy or directly with your travel provider. Entry and visa requirements can change without notice. 

Entry into Egypt

Egyptair is currently operating three flights per week between Cairo and Port Sudan. Check with your travel agent. You can enter Egypt by the land border accessed through Wadi Halfa. Transit through the Egyptian border can take several days, with almost no infrastructure and very limited access to food and water. Carefully consider the risks. 

If you're travelling from Sudan to Egypt, you must have valid travel documentation. Emergency Passports are accepted in Egypt.

You need a visa to enter Egypt. You can obtain a visa online (e-visa) or on arrival.

Read the  Egypt travel advice  for information on entry requirements. 

Sudanese passport holders have different visa and entry requirements for Egypt. If you're a Sudanese passport holder check the visa and entry requirements with your travel provider or the relevant authority. Entry and visa requirements can change without notice.

Other land borders 

You may not be able to cross some land borders. Sudan's border with Chad and Eritrea are closed. Do not travel to neighbouring Libya, Chad, Central African Republic and South Sudan. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family. You should carefully review our  travel advice  for any neighbouring country. 

Landmines and unexploded remnants of war are a danger, particularly in the Eastern States and Southern Kordofan. Use main roads and paths labelled as cleared by a competent de-mining authority.

Civil unrest and political tension

Demonstrations and protests.

Large-scale protests and demonstrations can take place in Khartoum and across the country. Demonstrations and protests have occurred in the past. There have been reports of violence against protestors, including arbitrary arrests and deaths. Protests can occur at short notice and turn violent quickly.

Avoid demonstrations and areas of possible unrest. Avoid public spaces in the period surrounding Friday prayers. Remain vigilant and limit your movements.

Internet and phone services continue to experience disruptions and remain unreliable.

Roadblocks and checkpoints continue to be imposed throughout Khartoum and across Sudan. If you encounter a roadblock, remain calm and seek an alternative route. Do not attempt to force your way through it.

Politically motivated protests, including anti-Western rallies, occur in Sudan.

The use of weapons is common. Conflict can escalate rapidly.

Curfews are imposed with little or no warning. Observe curfews and follow the advice of local authorities.

Security forces may continue to:

  • ban unauthorised public gatherings
  • give security forces increased powers to arrest, restrict movement and seize assets, and
  • close border crossings at short notice.

Fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces continues across the country. Violent and ongoing clashes among rebel groups and within the Sudanese Armed Forces have been reported.

Violent skirmishes occur between local communities and armed groups in Abyei.

Violence has resulted in the deaths of thousands and displaced millions of people.

Security at the border is worse due to violent conflict in South Sudan. 

Darfur remains dangerous.

Civilians, including foreign workers, could be affected by violence directed at others.

More information:

  • Demonstrations and civil unrest

There is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time.

Foreigners have been the target of attacks. Further violence could occur, including in places frequented by foreigners. Remain vigilant at all times.

Terrorist groups have previously stated their intent to harm Westerners through suicide operations, bombings, shootings, and kidnappings.

Targets have included:

  • places of worship
  • airports and other transportation hubs and networks
  • sites frequented by foreigners
  • tourist attractions
  • hotels, restaurants, bars and coffee shops
  • shopping centres and markets

To protect yourself if you travel to Sudan despite the risks:

  • vary routes and patterns of movement
  • avoid travel at night, including in Khartoum and other urban areas
  • avoid crowded areas and other possible targets
  • monitor the media for threats, curfews and other restrictions
  • take official warnings seriously

If you're travelling outside urban areas, arrange personal security. 

If there's an attack, leave as soon as it's safe. Follow the advice of local authorities.

Avoid the area after an attack because of the risk of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

To protect yourself from crime:

  • Remain alert to possible threats.
  • Take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • Leave valuable items out of sight.
  • Keep your doors locked and windows closed at all times.
  • If you’re stopped, avoid confrontation.

Foreigners are targeted for robbery, kidnapping, and carjacking elsewhere in Sudan and particularly in Darfur.

Banditry is widespread throughout western Sudan. Particularly in the Darfur and Chad–Sudan border regions, where several incidents have resulted in deaths.

Sexual assault is common in areas of armed conflict.

Due to the high risk of HIV/AIDS infection, if you are a victim of violent crime, especially rape, seek immediate medical assistance outside of Sudan.

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Kidnapping  is a serious risk in Sudan, including in Khartoum, and travellers have been kidnapped. 

Kidnappings can be for financial or political gain, by criminals or terrorists. Humanitarian aid workers and journalists have been targeted for kidnapping.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn’t make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

People trafficking groups operate in:

  • the south and east of Sudan along the border with Eritrea and Ethiopia
  • some northern states

Climate and natural disasters

Sudan can experience  severe weather , including:

  • high temperatures
  • sand and dust storms

Recent heavy rainfall has intensified in Sudan, causing flooding, displacement and deaths. Ensure you check local weather reports, avoid flood affected areas and adhere to instructions by local authorities.

The temperature in Sudan can be extremely high. It can reach more than 50˚C.

Sudan experiences regular sand and dust storms.

The rainy season is from July to October. Seasonal flooding can affect overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

To protect yourself if severe weather is approaching:

  • secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
  • monitor local media and other sources, such as the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
  • follow the advice of local authorities
  • keep in contact with your friends and family

Travel insurance

Make sure you have comprehensive  travel insurance  for the whole time you’ll be away. You're likely to need a specialised insurance policy for travel to a 'do not travel' destination. Some Australian insurance policies may not cover you for travel to 'do not travel' destination.

Confirm what activities and care your policy covers, including in terms of health and travel disruptions. Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation: the Australian Government won’t pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

  • have a basic health check-up
  • ask if your travel plans may affect your health
  • plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least eight weeks before you leave.

  • General health advice
  • Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Sudan. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

  • what the medication is
  • your required dosage
  • that it's for personal use

Health risks

Current outbreaks.

Sudan is experiencing an outbreak of cholera. Outbreaks of acute watery diarrhoea, dengue fever, measles, mpox and polio have also been reported. 

Insect-borne diseases

Yellow fever  is widespread in Sudan. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination. Get vaccinated before you travel.

Malaria  is a year-round risk.

Other insect-borne diseases include these listed by the World Health Organization:

  • leishmaniasis
  • river blindness
  • African sleeping sickness

To protect yourself from disease:

  • make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
  • use insect repellent
  • wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Seek medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

Consider taking medication to prevent malaria.

  • Infectious diseases

HIV/AIDS  is common.

Take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus.

If you're exposed to a risk of infection get immediate medical assistance outside Sudan. This includes if you are the victim of a violent crime or  sexual assault .

Other infectious diseases

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are common. Including these listed by the World Health Organization:

  • tuberculosis
  • polio (poliomyelitis)
  • viral hemorrhagic fevers
  • Rift Valley fever

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

  • drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
  • don't swim in fresh water
  • avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help straight away.

Seek medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Due to the conflict several hospitals are out of service, especially in the Khartoum area. Medical facilities are basic in Khartoum and inadequate elsewhere.

You may need to pay cash before doctors and hospitals will treat you.

If you become ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe.

  • Carrying and using drugs

Sudan follows Islamic sharia law.

Seek legal advice about family law matters, including divorce, custody and child support.

Be aware of your rights and responsibilities.

Serious crime

Serious crime, such as murder, can attract the death penalty.

Some offences attract physical punishment such as lashes.

In Sudan it's illegal to:

  • have same-sex relationships
  • have extra-marital relations
  • try to convert a Muslim to Christianity

Photography

You need a permit for photography of any kind.

Even with a permit, you can't photograph:

  • military areas
  • broadcast stations
  • public utilities
  • Advice for LGBTI travellers

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

  • Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Sudan recognises dual nationality.

Local authorities can decide whether they consider you Sudanese or Australian.

In practice, dual Australian-Sudanese nationals are treated as Sudanese.

This limits the  consular services  we can give if you're arrested or detained.

  • Dual nationals

Local customs

There are strong Islamic codes of dress and behaviour in Sudan.

If you're a woman, wear a headscarf and loose clothing to cover the arms and legs.

Take care not to offend. If in doubt, seek local advice.

The Islamic holiday month of Ramadan is observed in Sudan. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking may be illegal in public during the day. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

We continue to advise do not travel to Sudan.  The security situation remains volatile. Overland travel is becoming more dangerous, including to border areas. See ‘ Safety ’.

Visa conditions

If despite our advice you travel to Sudan, you'll need a visa to enter.

Getting a visa can take several months. Visas are not granted automatically.

Visitors on a single-entry visa need to obtain an exit visa to leave the country. However, this is not always enforced. You can get an exit visa at the airport. You should be ready to show proof of your sponsor and pay the exit visa fee. Visa and other entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. This includes currency, customs and quarantine.

Contact the Embassy of Sudan  in Canberra for details.

Yellow fever vaccination

You may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Sudan. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave.

Find out about returning to Australia  after exposure to yellow fever .

  • Countries with a risk of yellow fever

Border measures

If your passport has an Israeli visa or Israeli entry/exit stamps you won’t be allowed to enter Sudan. This can happen even if you have a valid Sudanese visa.

Register with the Aliens Registration Office, Ministry of the Interior, within three days of arrival in Sudan if it's safe to do so. Most government ministries are now operating from Port Sudan. Check with local authorities for up-to-date requirements.

Carry photo identification with you at all times.

In 2020, Sudan introduced new laws to allow women to travel with their children outside of the country without consent of the children’s father. 

Airport departure taxes apply.

Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. It can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than six months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible.

  • In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
  • If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

LGBTI travellers  

The local currency is the Sudanese Pound (SDG). You can’t convert outside the country and it’s illegal to export it.

Sudan operates on a cash only economy. Credit and debit cards are not accepted, even at large hotels. Make sure you have enough cash with you. Take unmarked US dollars dated from 2006.

ATMs only accept local bank cards. Western Union and other money transfer systems are currently unreliable. 

Change money through banks or official exchange bureaus. It’s illegal to exchange currency outside of official banking channels. You could be fined or go to prison.

Local travel

Road travel.

We continue to advise do not travel to Sudan.  The security situation remains volatile. Overland travel is dangerous, including to border areas. 

You should consider the risks carefully for any departure route, including during ceasefires. Any travel options are taken at your own risk.

You may not be able to cross some land borders.  Sudan's border with Chad and Eritrea are closed. Do not travel to neighbouring Libya, Chad, Central African Republic and  South Sudan. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family.  You should carefully review our travel advice for any neighbouring country, including Egypt and Ethiopia . 

Prior to the conflict authorities strictly enforced permit regulations for travel outside of Khartoum. Current arrangements are unclear.

If you encounter a roadblock, remain calm and seek an alternative route. Do not attempt to force your way through it.

Road traffic accidents are common. If you use public transport or vehicles for hire such as rickshaws and ‘amjad minivans’, you are at higher risk.

Road conditions are poor and many roads, even major ones, are unsealed or have potholes.

Crowds can gather following accidents and can become violent.

  • Driving or riding

Driving permit

You’ll need a valid international driving permit (IDP). Get your IDP before you leave Australia.

Motorcycles

Check with your travel insurer whether your policy covers riding a motorbike.

Always wear a helmet.

Use registered taxis and limousines. Book these through your hotel.

Take care when travelling alone at night.

Public transport

Avoid using public transport as safety and maintenance standards are poor.

Boat travel

Piracy  occurs in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

All forms of shipping are attractive to pirates, including:

  • commercial vessels
  • pleasure craft
  • luxury cruise liners

To protect yourself when  travelling by boat :

  • check the  International Maritime Bureau  piracy reports
  • be alert to threats
  • exercise extreme caution

All Sudanese-registered airlines are banned from operating in European airspace.

There have been hijackings in the past.

DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Sudan's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, you could contact your:

  • family and friends
  • travel agent
  • insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australia doesn't have an embassy in Sudan.

You can get consular assistance from the Australian Embassy in Cairo . Consular services may be severely limited due to local measures.

Australian Embassy, Cairo

11th floor, North Tower, World Trade Centre 1191 Corniche El Nil Boulac, Cairo, Egypt Phone: +20 2 2770 6600 Fax: +20 2 2770 6650 Email:  [email protected]  Website:  www.egypt.embassy.gov.au Facebook Australian Embassy in Egypt

Twitter:  @AusAmbEGY

See the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

The British Embassy in Sudan is now closed.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

  • +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
  • 1300 555 135 in Australia

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

  • Packing List

After Your Trip

Map - Sudan

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

Level 2 Practice Enhanced Precautions

  • Global Polio January 05, 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, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Guinea, Indonesia, Israel, including the West Bank and Gaza, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, including Zanzibar, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

  • Updated   Global Measles March 22, 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, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia
  • Dengue in Africa and the Middle East February 16, 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, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Ethiopia, Mali, Mauritius, Senegal, 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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Is Sudan safe for tourism?

By Joan Torres 48 Comments Last updated on December 28, 2023

A Nubian family from Sudan

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

A Nubian trying to calm down his donky

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

Sudan safe areas

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.

travel advice sudan

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?

Is it safe to travel to Sudan-

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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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Sudan travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: March 25, 2024 11:43 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 - 25 March, 2024
  • Polio: Advice for travellers - 4 January, 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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 2024, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 10.

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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Travel safely to Sudan with Passport Health's travel vaccinations and advice.

Travel Vaccines and Advice for Sudan

Passport Health offers a variety of options for travellers throughout the world.

Located in northeast Africa, Sudan is unarguably beautiful. Travellers can watch the sunrise over the Nubian pyramids, walk along the world’s largest river, and climb tall hills of sand.

The Sudanese are also known for being incredibly friendly and hospitable. But, current conflict and violence makes travel to the region unsafe, particularly in the Darfur region, Blue Nile, and Southern Kordofan states.

Do I Need Vaccines for Sudan?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Sudan. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Sudan: COVID-19 , hepatitis A , hepatitis B , typhoid , cholera , yellow fever , rabies , meningitis , polio and tetanus .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunisations:

  • COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for all travellers
  • Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated.
  • Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Recommended for travellers to most regions.
  • Tetanus – Wounds or Breaks in Skin – Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated.
  • Typhoid – Food & Water – Jab lasts 3 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator.
  • Cholera – Food & Water – Recommended for travel to most regions.
  • Yellow Fever – Mosquito – Required if travelling from a region with yellow fever. Recommended for all travellers over 9 months of age travelling south of the Sahara.
  • Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.
  • Meningitis – Airborne & Direct Contact – Located in the meningitis belt, vaccination is recommended during the dry season (Dec. – June)
  • Polio – Food & Water – Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.

See the tables below for more information:

Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for nearly all travellers entering Sudan. Malaria is also present in the country. Antimalarials should be taken before, during and after your trip.

Meningitis is also a threat to travellers, especially from December to June. Consider meningitis vaccination including protection against meningitis B.

Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now .

Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Sudan?

Sudan requires a visa for all kinds of travellers. Visitors must register with local authorities within 72 hours of arrival in-country. Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required to enter the country. If you do not have proof of vaccination, you may be vaccinated on site, quarantined or returned to your previous location.

Sources: Embassy of Sudan and GOV.UK

What is the Climate Like in Sudan?

  • Damazine – The temperature in Damazine is nearly always high, with temperatures rarely going below 15 degrees. The rainy season lasts from April to October, with the wettest month being October and the driest September. The warmest month is April and the coolest month is July.
  • Geneina – The temperature in Geneina is nearly always high, with temperatures reaching 40 degrees in the summer. The warmest month is May and the coolest August. Most rain occurs from April to August. The wettest month is August and the driest month is January.
  • Wadi Halfa – The hottest months are from March to November, with temperatures reaching around 40. The warmest month is June and the coolest month is January. The wettest months are May, July, and October, with an average of 1 mm of rain each month.

How Safe is Sudan?

The government of the UK warns citizens against travelling to Sudan due to ongoing violent crime and the risk of terrorism in the country.

Avoid all travel to the Darfur region, Blue Nile, and Southern Kordofan states. Terrorist groups active in the country often target Westerners. Additionally, violent crime, kidnapping, and armed robberies are prevalent.

Those who choose to travel to Sudan should remain vigilant and avoid public gatherings.

Visiting the Meroë Pyramids

In Meroë there are over 200 pyramids, separated into three groups. The pyramids range in size from six to thirty meters high.

Designed in the Nubian style of narrow bases and steep slopes, they served as tombs for royalty and are truly beautiful to see. There are very few tourists around, giving visitors freedom to explore and take pictures to their heart’s content.

Travellers can see hieroglyphics and carvings in many of the tombs’ antechambers or go on one of the many camel rides nearby.

What Should I Pack for Sudan?

  • Money Belt – Due to the crime levels in the country, a money belt will allow you to keep your money and passport safe.
  • Emergency numbers – In case of emergency have the numbers of the Embassy of the United Kingdom, local police, and any friends or relatives you may need to contact.
  • Plug Adapters – Sudan power sockets are type C and D, meaning an adapter is needed when travelling.
  • Sun Cream – Sudan is very warm and receives lots of sun. Travellers will likely be outside exploring, making sun cream a must.

Embassy of the United Kingdom in Sudan

If you are in Sudan and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.

British Embassy Khartoum off Sharia Al Baladiya Khartoum PO Box No 801 Sudan Telephone: +249 (0)156 775500 Emergency Phone: +249 (0)156 775500 Fax: +249 (0)156 775501 Contact Form: Click Here

Ready to start your next journey? Ring us up at or book online now !

On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for Sudan? Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Sudan? What is the Climate Like in Sudan? How Safe is Sudan? Visiting the Meroë pyramids What Should I Pack To Sudan? Embassy of the United Kingdom in Sudan

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Wild Junket

Travel Sudan: My Detailed Guide & Itinerary [2020]

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.

Sudan Travel Guide

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).

sunset in jebel barkal - sudan travel

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.

travel sudan - meroe pyramids

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

jebel barkal archaeological site - sudan highlights

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.

meroetic pyramids in sudan jebel barkal - travel sudan for history

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

old dongola tombs - sudan travel guide

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.)

nurru pyramids near meroe pyramids - sudan must see

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.

meroe pyramids sudan

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.

omdurman sufi dance in khartoum sudan

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.

visit sudan - khartoum mosque

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.

old dongola archaeological site - things to do in sudan

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.

qubbas of old dongola tomb - backpacking sudan

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!

jebel barkal archaeological site - things to do in sudan

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.

el kurru necropolis - traveling to sudan

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.

meroe pyramids - travel sudan blog

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.

naqa statue - visit sudan

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.

mussawarat temple in sudan - traveling sudan

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 .

market in sudan

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)

meroe safari camp - where to stay in sudan

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.

sudanese food - picnic meals during sudan tour

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.

columns in mussawarat sudan country - where is sudan

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.

internet in sudan

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.

sudanese arabs - people of sudan

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.

dressing in sudan - solo female travel in sudan - khartoum sudan

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.

sudan travel guide

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.

kurru archaeological site sudan - places to visit in sudan

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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Sudan Travel Guide

Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 140 countries across 7 continents. As an adventure travel blogger, she has a special interest in unusual destinations and deep experiences. Her work has appeared in many major publications including BBC Travel, CNN and LonelyPlanet.com. Read more about her here and get more life updates from her on her Facebook and Instagram .

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The Comments

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

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Thank you! Hope you like it!

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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.

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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.

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

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

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Graziela Correa da Costa

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Travel advice for Sudan

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travel advice sudan

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!

travel advice 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!

travel advice sudan

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!

Backpacking in Sudan guide

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.

travel advice sudan

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.

travel advice sudan

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!

Sufi ceremony in Omdurman

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. 

travel advice sudan

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!

White camels and their drivers at the Meroe site Sudan

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!

travel advice sudan

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

10 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!

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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  

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Travel Advice for Sudan

Going to Sudan and need to know about the latest government travel advice for Sudan? Find the updated travel advice and travel warnings for Sudan from governments around the world, here.

General Travel Advice and Warnings for Sudan

The decision to travel to Sudan is your decision and you are in charge of your individual welfare whilst in Sudan.

The web content on this web page is provided for information only and gathered from travel advice and warnings for Sudan by governments worldwide to their citizens.

While we make every effort to provide you correct travel advice information, it is given on an “as is” basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied.

This operators of this site does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

General Cautions You Need to Keep in Mind Whilst Taking a Trip in Sudan

Crime – Petty criminal offenses such as pick pocketing in a crowded surrounding to sexual assault and muggings do occur in larger cities of Sudan. Ensure that all your personal valuables, including passports and other travel documents, are safe at all times.

Terrorism – Always be aware of your surroundings when in public areas. Be particularly watchful if participating in sporting occasions and during religious holidays and other public events, as terrorists frequently make use of such occasions to mount attacks.

Demonstrations and Protests – Demonstrations might take place. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any moment. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transport. It is in your interest of safety and security to keep away from areas where demonstrations and huge gatherings are taking place and comply with the directions of local authorities. Monitor local media in Sudan for info on ongoing protests in Sudan.

Scams – Exercise care in crowded tourist areas in Sudan, where scammers target travellers. If you have actually been scammed in Sudan, reach a safe place right away; make note, as soon as possible of the name and address of the facility where you were held; notify the police in Sudan and obtain a report and if your credit card is used by the scammer call your credit card provider to inform the scam; they will likely ask for a copy of the police report to cancel the transaction.

Spiked Food and Beverages – Never leave food or beverages unattended or in the care of complete strangers whilst travelling in Sudan or anywhere else. Be wary of accepting snacks, drinks, chewing gum or cigarettes from unknown acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you in danger of sexual assault and mugging.

travel advice sudan

What is the entry/exit requirements for Sudan?

Every nation or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders, likewise Sudan decides exactly who enter its territories. The Government of your home country can not intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your Sudan’s entry or exit requirements.

To get more information about the entry/exit requirement for Sudan check out visa requirements for Sudan or get the current details with the visa office at the Sudanes consulate in your home country.

Travel insurance coverage for Sudan

Travel health cover is just one of the major reasons travellers obtain travel insurance. It will not stop you getting sick or seriously injured, though it can stop you suffering financially. Medical aid overseas can be really expensive.

You have to shell out for all medical care you receive overseas. You can’t expect to get free or subsidised treatment through your Sudan’s public health system, like you would in your home country.

If you can not pay, local authorities might arrest you. The government from your home country can not pay you medical expense for you, loan you cash or get you out of jail.

You require travel insurance policy for travelling to Sudan . You also need to see to it you choose a plan that is right for you.

Read the small print of your travel insurance policy.

Declare all pre-existing conditions to your travel insurer upfront. If you don’t, you might invalidate your travel insurance plan.

Inform your travel insurance company the activities you intend to do, before you go. Many popular activities like winter sports are left out in standard policies. You may require to pay added.

Check if you have free credit card travel insurance policy. Some cards include travel insurance cover. Nevertheless, they frequently have different conditions than paid plans. Be aware of the differences.

If you’re visiting Sudan from a country that has a reciprocatory health care agreement, you still require travel medical insurance. Agreements are restricted in what they’ll will cover.

If you have an incurable health problem, you might not have the ability to obtain standard travel insurance coverage. However you might be able to find a specialised insurance firm that covers you for health, accidents or property problems unconnected to your disease. Talk to your insurer to learn.

Learn more about getting global travel insurance policy for Sudan prior to you go.

© 2021 Government Travel Advice

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The cover of the 29 March edition of the Guardian Weekly.

Sudan’s exodus: inside the 29 March Guardian Weekly

The victims of Africa’s forgotten war. Plus: After the Moscow attack, a cynical blame game begins

Get the Guardian Weekly magazine delivered to your home address

This has been a week dominated by some pretty seismic global events – the Moscow terror attack, the UN security council ceasefire resolution on Gaza and the China cyber-hacking revelations to name but three. You’ll find insightful reporting and analysis on all of these stories in this week’s Guardian Weekly magazine.

But our cover story this week takes us to the site of a war and humanitarian crisis that has been largely overlooked in the midst of other global flashpoints. With nearly a year having passed since civil war broke out in Sudan, senior global development reporter Mark Townsend travelled to the refugee camps on the Chad border where he heard harrowing stories and saw scenes of despair, amid the roots of a growing migration crisis that is already starting to manifest itself on the southern shores of Europe.

Mark took the arresting portrait of Nadifa Ismail on the Weekly’s cover soon after she had crossed the border from Sudan into the town of Adré, in eastern Chad. Like those who had gone before, the 38-year-old spoke in detail about fresh atrocities that are happening in Darfur , the bordering region in the west of Sudan.

Mark’s special report for our big story this week is required reading – and here are some other highlights to look forward to in the edition.

Five essential reads in this week’s edition

Palestinians carry bags of flour from an aid truck

Spotlight | The aid obstacles leading to famine in Gaza As the UN security council voted for a call for a ceasefire in Gaza , a graphic explainer by Oliver Holmes shows why mass starvation still remains a possibility in the coming weeks.

Spotlight | Did Russian intelligence neglect the Islamist threat? In the aftermath of the shocking Moscow concert attack, Shaun Walker , Pjotr Sauer and Andrew Roth ask whether Russia’s security services were too preoccupied with clamping down on internal dissent to react to the terror threat.

Science | The battle to raise the San José A Spanish galleon that was sunk in the 18th century has been at the centre of a dispute over who has rights to the wreck and its estimated $17bn in booty. Luke Taylor reports.

Opinion | Garrick row shows up the dinosaurs desperate to shut women out Members of the beleaguered London club that does not admit women cite tradition – but this is an attempt to protect powerful men from society’s progress, argues Gaby Hinsliff .

Culture | The laughing matter of Steve Martin Jerry Seinfeld calls him “the most idolised comedian ever”. Yet after five decades at the top, success still makes Steve Martin cringe, finds Ryan Gilbey .

Other things we’ve been reading this week

I really enjoyed reading about the conversion of an old barber’s shop in Battersea, London to a residential property . Even though this is a private dwelling, the thoughtful and exciting design of the exterior will – I think – positively impact all those who regularly pass by. What a difference it could make if more of our high streets were given such a facelift. Emily Elnusairi, deputy production editor

Having just seen the film The Zone of Interest, about the family life of Auschwitz commandant Rudolf Höss, I was drawn to the Observer’s posthumous interview with his daughter. Brigitte Höss died last year but her final conversation with Thomas Harding – whose great-uncle arrested her father – was given extra resonance by the film’s success. Graham Snowdon, editor

Other highlights from the Guardian website

Performers wait to perform at Polyfest

Audio | The rise and fall of Vice Media

Video | ‘Paddington’ bears spotted in Bolivian forest raise hopes for species’ survival

Gallery | The world’s largest Māori and Pacific Island school cultural festival

Interactive | Trump’s latest alternate reality attack

Get in touch

We’d love to hear your thoughts on the magazine: for submissions to our letters page, please email [email protected] . For anything else, it’s [email protected]

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  • Internally displaced people

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Politics latest: Tory deputy chairman Jonathan Gullis blames 'pesky peers' and Labour for blocking Rwanda bill he abstained on

Jonathan Gullis, the new deputy chair of the Conservative Party, faced questions on Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge after latest figures showed a record number of migrants crossed the Channel in the first three months of this year.

Wednesday 27 March 2024 22:30, UK

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  • Tory deputy chair blames 'pesky peers' and Labour for blocking Rwanda bill he abstained on
  • Record number of migrants cross Channel in first three months of year
  • Figures spell trouble for 'stop the boats' pledge
  • Sophy Ridge: Why aren't the polls narrowing for Sunak? I've got a theory
  • Explained: How Tory MPs can get rid of Sunak - and who could replace him
  • Minister hits out a 'credulous clerics and lefty lawyers' over Clapham chemical attacker case

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and his deputy Angela Rayner will launch their party's local election campaign on Thursday by accusing the Tories of "preying on the hopes" of working people.

At the event in the West Midlands, Sir Keir will say the Conservatives had failed on their "levelling up" pledge since winning the election in 2019, and while his party won't "promise easy answers", they will promise change.

Sir Keir will focus his policy pledges on the introduction of a "Take Back Control Act", giving new powers to mayors over transport, skills, energy, and planning, and offering a "full fat approach" to devolution around the country.

"The argument is simple," he will say. "Democratic decisions are better made by local people with skin in the game. 

"And devolution is absolutely essential for taking on regional inequality and unlocking that pride."

In a direct attack on the Tories, Ms Rayner will add: "We seek power so we can hand it back to the people. That is the Labour way. It belongs to them - not us. 

"Because more of the same just isn't good enough. 

"Three-word slogans. Empty promises. Broken as quickly as they were made. Leaping from crisis to crisis. Driven by vested interest. Cronies, oligarchs and lobbyists who have had more say over the shape of last decade than working families have."

“Never again. We could now be months away from the reset of a nation. 

"On 2 May, the country has a chance to send the Tories a clear message: put an end to the chaos and the failure visible in every community up and down the country."

We will bring you all the updates from the launch.

Greater Manchester Police has said it is "reassessing" its decision not to investigate allegations made against Labour's deputy leader Angela Rayner over her living arrangements after receiving a complaint. 

The Labour MP has come under the spotlight in recent weeks over the sale of an ex-council house she previously owned in Stockport, having been accused of avoiding capital gains tax - something she has denied.

But Ms Rayner has also faced scrutiny over claims that in 2010, she may have lived primarily at her then-husband's address, despite registering to vote under her own - which could be a breach of electoral rules.

She told journalists earlier this month that there was "never a question of deceitfulness" or "conspiracy" with regards to her living arrangements, as she outlined her "difficult" family situation at the time.

But Tory MP James Daly asked police to investigate whether she had given false information or broken election rules.

Initially, Greater Manchester Police looked into the claims and said there was no evidence of an offence being committed.

However, in a fresh statement released on Wednesday, a spokesperson for the force said: "We have received a complaint regarding our decision not to investigate an allegation and are in the process of reassessing this decision.

"The complainant will be updated with the outcome of the reassessment in due course."

Read more from our political reporter Jennifer Scott below:

As things wrap up, panel member Lord Ed Vaizey reveals he was having a drink at the Garrick Club before arriving for the Politics Hub tonight.

The club has come to fore recently due to its membership being publicised, and women not being allowed to join.

But Lord Vaizey says he is no longer a member - but that's because he had to give it up years ago as he could not afford it.

He then lets slip that the membership list was the main topic of discussion there tonight.

James Schneider, who was an adviser to Jeremy Corbyn, says he has never been to the club - and Sophy hasn't either.

Lord Vaizey wonders if he could nominate Sophy to be the first woman member, but then jokes that he will be blackballed for having revealed what was being spoken about.

And with that, the show finishes.

Housing Secretary Michael Gove's ambition - laid out in January 2023 - to end the leasehold system appears to have been gutted.

A leasehold is where someone pays a figure on a level with the sale price of a property, but actually just rents the property from a landlord for a period of 99 years or such - and they can be left liable to paying extra charges.

Kwajo Tweneboa, an affordable housing campaigner, says he believes Mr Gove will be "disappointed" in the turn of events.

Mr Gove said he wanted to end the system - which dates back hundreds of years - before the election, but it seems only a watered-down version is going to be passed.

 Mr Tweneboa says: "I'm not here to pour glitter on any sort of politician, any MP or anything, but from my meetings with [Mr Gove], I do believe that he wants to create changes, whether it comes to the Renters' Reform bill, Social Housing Regulation Bill, but also Leasehold reform too. 

"So if it is the case where it is being watered down in the way that's being suggested, I do believe he will be disappointed.

"I think perhaps he's going to have to take a firmer stance.

"Ultimately, we need reform to be as strong as possible."

Mr Tweneboa says pressure needs to be applied "equally" to whoever the next government is - Labour or Conservative.

Sophy's panel discuss why people are increasingly unhappy with the NHS.

Former Corbyn adviser James Schneider says the health service is one of "probably the most civilised things about our country".

But he says the past 30 years of "under-funding, part-privatisation and various botched attempts to reorganise it" have left people dissatisfied.

Ex-Tory minister Lord Vaizey says he has always been in favour of NHS reform - and that he doesn't see any problems with a private company delivering an NHS service.

He advocates for private companies to be given "simple operations - cataracts, knee replacements, that kind of thing" on a free-at-use basis to bring down waiting lists - as was the case under New Labour.

Our City editor Mark Kleinman  has some breaking news tonight about Thames Water.

He has heard that shareholders seem to be unwilling to stump up funds of up to £3bn to secure the utility's future.

Mark stresses to Sophy the company is not on the brink of collapse - but this is a major headache for the company as it has massive debts.

"This will raise fresh questions about whether Thames Water can survive as a solvent, independent company or whether it will have to be nationalised temporarily by the government," Mark says.

"Now, that would be a huge political headache for Rishi Sunak's administration, because it would come just months before the general election.

"It would ultimately cost taxpayers billions of pounds."

Read Mark's story below...

Over a year ago, Rishi Sunak made five pledges for voters to judge him on.

The prime minister met his pledge to halve inflation by the end of 2023.

However, as evidenced by the latest figures on small boat crossings (see 11.20 post), he is faring less well with his other pledges.

With the general election approaching, how is Mr Sunak doing on delivering on his promises?

You can see the progress for yourself below.

Sophy asks our panel why Rishi Sunak pledged to stop the boats when he could not do it.

Former Conservative minister Lord Vaizey says, that while he disagrees with Sophy's thesis, he agrees that it was a "mistake" to make the pledge.

There's nothing wrong with a politician making a promise, Lord Vaizey says, but the prime minister has driven "himself into a cul-de-sac".

James Schneider , a former Labour adviser in the Corbyn period, says he is not sure what the current Labour Party's policy on the issue is.

He says the opposition seem to be "duck for cover and let the government make a mess of it".

Mr Schneider says the row has the "intricate detail" of the Brexit debate, but it can't be voted on in such a way.

Mr Gullis sets out why he is different from former deputy chair Lee Anderson, who has defected to Reform UK.

Mr Anderson was a Labour councillor before he joined the Conservatives.

Mr Gullis says: "I've been a member of the Conservative Party since I was 18 years old.

"I've been an association officer, a councillor, and now a member of parliament.

"I've obviously been out with my members and across other members and across the country delivering leaflets, knocking on doors. 

"I'm proud of the Conservative Party and what we've done and what we've delivered."

He says he "will go into battle" for Mr Sunak.

"I'll tell you something about Rishi that not many people know. 

"My son went into hospital last year, and he was really struggling to breathe, and I only told one whip because I left the chamber and dashed in the car to get back up here to Stoke-on-Trent.

"Ten o'clock that night, Rishi texted me to ask how my child was doing. He checked in again at 7am the next morning and 10pm the next evening, and he did that day in, day out for five days in a row until my child was back home. 

"That shows you the measure of the man, that shows you the decency, the humility, the caring nature he has for his colleagues as well as the country as a whole."

Jonathan Gullis is the newly minted deputy chair of the Conservative Party, and is speaking to the Politics Hub with Sophy Ridge.

He has taken up the role after Lee Anderson, a former deputy chair, defected to Reform UK.

Speaking about the record numbers of people who have crossed the Channel this year, Mr Gullis blames "pesky peers" - who are "predominantly Labour" - for blocking the Safety of Rwanda Bill.

Sophy puts it to Mr Gullis that he "blocked" the bill as well - as he abstained from voting for it previously.

"Sophy, there's a very clear difference here between saying that you want something to work, you believe in Rwanda, as I do," he says.

"And I want Rwanda to work as well, as I do, as the prime minister does.

"But obviously I had, with that particular bill, a couple of amendments that I wanted to see be adopted. 

"They weren't adopted - I was true to my word. 

"I said that I was going to not block the bill, unlike the Labour Party, who continue to block it at every turn, every corner."

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travel advice sudan

IMAGES

  1. Sudan

    travel advice sudan

  2. A guide for traveling to Sudan: Itinerary + Travel tips

    travel advice sudan

  3. Ultimate Sudan travel guide: itinerary, budget and travel tips for

    travel advice sudan

  4. Sudan travel advice

    travel advice sudan

  5. How to go to Sudan by yourself and Top 39 Destinations Best Things to

    travel advice sudan

  6. Travel Sudan: My Detailed Guide & Itinerary 2022

    travel advice sudan

COMMENTS

  1. Sudan Travel Advisory

    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 ...

  2. Sudan travel advice

    There are no British consular staff in Sudan. Our ability to provide consular assistance is severely limited and we cannot provide in-person support within Sudan. If you are a British national in ...

  3. Travel Advisory

    Travel Advisory. Reconsider travel to Sudan due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and armed conflict. Read the Department of State's COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 1 Travel Health Notice for Sudan due to COVID-19, indicating a low ...

  4. Sudan: Travel Advisory Remains Level 4

    The Department continues to advise U.S. citizens not to travel to Sudan. This replaces the previous Travel Advisory issued on April 19, 2023. The full text of the new Travel Advisory is as follows: Sudan - Level 4: Do Not Travel C, T, U, K, O. Reissued with updates to security situation and post departure status. Do not travel to Sudan due to ...

  5. Travel advice and advisories for Sudan

    Avoid all travel to Sudan due to armed conflict, civil unrest and the volatile security situation. 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.

  6. Sudan International Travel Information

    The Government of the Republic of the Sudan requires U.S. citizens to present a passport with at least six months validity and an entry visa or entry permit upon arrival at any port of entry in Sudan. U.S. citizens must obtain an entry visa from a Sudanese embassy before arriving in Sudan.

  7. Safety and security

    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.

  8. Sudan Travel Advice & Safety

    Contact your friends and family as soon as possible to let them know you're safe. If you have significant concerns for your welfare, or that of another Australian, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 62613305 outside Australia. See 'Safety'. Full travel advice: Local contacts.

  9. Entry requirements

    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 ...

  10. Sudan

    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. ... Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Sudan for a list of health-related items to consider ...

  11. A guide for traveling to Sudan: Itinerary + Travel tips

    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. Public transportation - Traveling around Sudan by public transport is pretty straightforward.Every day, throughout the day, from all cities, there are local minivans going in all directions.

  12. Is Sudan safe for tourism?

    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

  13. Travel advice and advisories for Sudan

    Regional risk level - Avoid all travel. Avoid all travel to the following areas:. Khartoum; Darfur; Abyei administrative region; South Kordofan State; Blue Nile State; White Nile, West Kordofan and Sennar states, within 100 km of the border with South Sudan and the Abyei administrative region

  14. Travel Vaccines and Advice for Sudan

    Avoid all travel to the Darfur region, Blue Nile, and Southern Kordofan states. Terrorist groups active in the country often target Westerners. Additionally, violent crime, kidnapping, and armed robberies are prevalent. Those who choose to travel to Sudan should remain vigilant and avoid public gatherings.

  15. Travel Advisory: Sudan

    The Department of State renewed its Level 4 Travel Advisory for Sudan on December 13, 2021. Do not travel to Sudan due to civil unrest. Reconsider travel due to crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and armed conflict. Sudan is experiencing sporadic civil unrest and protests across the country. Communication disruptions, including internet and cell ...

  16. Sudan Travel Guide & Itinerary 2024

    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.

  17. Travel advice for Sudan

    Travel advice for Sudan Travel advice in brief Before Departure Travel documents, visa and entry During the visit FAQ Terrorism and kidnap Earthquake ...

  18. Health

    FCDO travel advice for Sudan. Includes safety and security, insurance, entry requirements and legal differences.

  19. Ultimate Sudan travel guide: itinerary, budget and travel tips for

    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.

  20. Sudan travel guide

    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)

  21. Sudan

    General Travel Advice. The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly advises against all travel to Sudan at this time. Armed conflict, which broke out across Sudan on 15 April 2023, has resulted in thousands of deaths and injuries.The security situation across the country is very volatile and may deteriorate further at any time.

  22. Travel Advice for Sudan

    General Cautions You Need to Keep in Mind Whilst Taking a Trip in Sudan. Crime - Petty criminal offenses such as pick pocketing in a crowded surrounding to sexual assault and muggings do occur in larger cities of Sudan. Ensure that all your personal valuables, including passports and other travel documents, are safe at all times.

  23. Sudan's exodus: inside the 29 March Guardian Weekly

    With nearly a year having passed since civil war broke out in Sudan, senior global development reporter Mark Townsend travelled to the refugee camps on the Chad border where he heard harrowing ...

  24. Travelling to Sudan

    Sudan travel advice. FCDO travel advice for Sudan. Includes safety and security, insurance, entry requirements and legal differences.

  25. Politics latest: New figures spell trouble for one of Rishi Sunak's

    A record number of migrants crossed the Channel in the first three months of this year, latest figures show; Andrew Griffith criticises the asylum system after the home secretary summoned churches ...