Things to Do in Sudan

About Sudan

Sudan hides more pyramids than Egypt. The Blue and White Nile carved this country from desert, supporting civilizations for thousands of years—from the black pharaohs of Kush to the Sufi traditions you'll still hear in Khartoum at dusk. The Sahara crashes into the Sahel here. Wind-shaped dunes shift into green riverbanks, and the pyramids at Meroe stand over land where time moves differently than elsewhere. Sudanese hospitality changes every interaction. You'll share sweet tea with nomadic herders and walk through packed souks where frankincense mixes with baking bread. This isn't just another African country—it is a place where desert sunrises reveal stories of resilience and a people whose generosity runs deep.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Book domestic flights through Sudan Airways or Tarco Aviation for long distances. For ground travel, use reputable tour operators with 4WD vehicles. Avoid driving at night and always travel with a local guide who knows current road conditions and security protocols.

Money: Bring US dollars in pristine condition (post-2013 series preferred) for exchange to Sudanese pounds. ATMs are unreliable outside Khartoum. Keep cash in small denominations and exchange only at banks or official money changers for better rates.

Cultural Respect: Dress conservatively with long sleeves and pants; women should cover hair in rural areas. Always ask permission before photographing people. Remove shoes when entering homes and mosques. Use your right hand for greetings, eating, and giving/receiving items.

Food Safety: Stick to bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. Choose busy restaurants with high turnover for freshly prepared meals. Try local staples like ful medames and injera bread. Avoid raw vegetables and fruits you cannot peel yourself.

When to Visit

Sudan's optimal travel window spans November through March, when temperatures hover between 20-30°C (68-86°F) and humidity drops significantly. December and January offer the most comfortable conditions with minimal rainfall (under 5mm monthly), making this peak season with accommodation prices 40-60% higher than off-season rates. The shoulder months of November and March provide excellent value with 20-30% savings while maintaining pleasant weather. April marks the beginning of the hot season, with temperatures climbing to 35-42°C (95-108°F) through June. The rainy season (July-October) brings heavy downpours, flooding, and temperatures of 25-35°C (77-95°F), making travel challenging but offering 50-70% discounts. Key festivals include Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha (dates vary with lunar calendar), and Sudan's Independence Day (January 1st). Cultural ensoiasts should visit during Ramadan for real feels, while archaeology buffs benefit from cooler months for exploring Meroe pyramids. Adventure travelers comfortable with heat can capitalize on dramatic off-season savings, though many remote sites become inaccessible during rains. Business travelers should avoid Ramadan and major holidays when government offices close.