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Sudan Safety Guide

Sudan Safety Guide

Health, security, and travel safety information

Home › Safety Guide
Exercise Caution
Sudan offers travelers a unique experience with rich historical sites, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality. While many visitors have trouble-free trips, the country faces complex challenges including political instability, economic difficulties, and occasional civil unrest. The security situation varies significantly by region, with some areas completely off-limits to travelers. Travelers should exercise heightened awareness throughout their visit. While violent crime against tourists is relatively rare, petty crime exists, and the healthcare infrastructure is limited outside Khartoum. Travelers should register with their embassy, monitor local news, and maintain flexible itineraries. Cultural sensitivity and modest dress are important throughout the country.

Sudan requires careful planning, regional awareness, and cultural sensitivity, with safety varying dramatically between stable areas and conflict zones.

Emergency Numbers

Save these numbers before your trip.

Police
999
Response times can be slow, outside Khartoum; operators may speak Arabic only
Ambulance
333
Limited availability; private hospitals may have better emergency services
Fire
999
Fire services are basic; hotels usually have their own fire safety measures
Tourist Police
Not widely established
Tourist police presence is minimal; contact your embassy for assistance with tourism-related issues

Healthcare

What to know about medical care in Sudan.

Healthcare System

Sudan's healthcare system is under-resourced with significant disparities between urban and rural areas. Public hospitals are generally overcrowded and under-equipped. Private hospitals in Khartoum offer better standards but can be expensive.

Hospitals

Royal Care International Hospital and Soba University Hospital in Khartoum are among the better private facilities. For serious conditions, medical evacuation is frequently recommended.

Pharmacies

Pharmacies are widely available in cities but may not stock specific medications. Bring an adequate supply of prescription medications with original packaging and prescriptions.

Insurance

Complete travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is ESSENTIAL and should be verified before travel.

Healthcare Tips

  • Carry a complete first-aid kit including rehydration salts, antibiotics for travelers' diarrhea, and basic wound care supplies
  • Drink only bottled or properly purified water; avoid ice in drinks
  • Seek treatment at private hospitals in Khartoum for any serious medical issues

Common Risks

Be aware of these potential issues.

Petty Theft
Medium Risk

Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft from vehicles occur, in crowded markets, bus stations, and tourist sites.

Use money belts, avoid displaying valuables, keep bags closed and in front of you, use hotel safes, and be vigilant in crowds.
Road Safety
High Risk

Poor road conditions, poorly maintained vehicles, reckless driving, inadequate lighting, and animals on roads make driving hazardous.

Avoid night travel, use reputable drivers/companies, always wear seatbelts, and be extremely cautious at intersections.
Food and Waterborne Illnesses
High Risk

Diarrheal diseases, typhoid, hepatitis A, and cholera are common due to contaminated food and water.

Drink only bottled or purified water, avoid raw vegetables/fruits you can't peel, eat only thoroughly cooked food, practice good hand hygiene.
Civil Unrest and Demonstrations
Medium-High Risk

Political demonstrations can occur suddenly and may turn violent with little warning.

Avoid all protests and large gatherings, monitor local news, follow police instructions, and have contingency plans.
Vector-Borne Diseases
Medium Risk

Malaria is endemic in many areas, along with dengue fever and other mosquito-borne illnesses.

Use DEET repellent, sleep under mosquito nets, take antimalarial prophylaxis as recommended, wear long sleeves/pants at dusk/dawn.

Scams to Avoid

Watch out for these common tourist scams.

Fake Police/Tourist Police

Individuals posing as police officers demand to see passports or search belongings, then steal money or valuables.

Always ask for official identification, suggest going to the nearest police station together, never hand over your passport (show a copy instead)
Currency Exchange Scams

Money changers use confusing currency denominations or quick counting tricks to shortchange tourists.

Exchange money at banks or reputable exchange offices only, count money carefully yourself, know current exchange rates
Overcharging/Fake Guides

Unofficial guides charge exorbitant fees or claim special access to sites that are free or inexpensive.

Use guides recommended by reputable hotels or tour companies, agree on prices in advance, verify entry fees independently

Safety Tips

Practical advice to stay safe.

General Safety

  • Register with your embassy upon arrival
  • Carry copies of passport and visa separately from originals
  • Learn basic Arabic phrases for emergencies
  • Always inform someone of your travel plans
  • Keep emergency contacts programmed in your phone

Transportation

  • Use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps in Khartoum
  • Avoid public buses if possible due to safety concerns
  • Never leave valuables visible in vehicles
  • Check travel advisories before road trips between cities
  • Consider domestic flights for long distances instead of road travel

Cultural Sensitivity

  • Dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees for both genders)
  • Ask permission before photographing people
  • Avoid public displays of affection
  • Respect prayer times and religious customs
  • Use right hand for eating and handing items

Information for Specific Travelers

Safety considerations for different traveler groups.

Women Travelers

Sudan is a conservative Muslim society. While violent crime against women travelers is uncommon, harassment can occur. Women should exercise particular caution, when traveling alone.

  • Avoid traveling alone at night
  • Use female-only transportation options when available
  • Stay in reputable hotels with good security
  • Ignore catcalls and avoid engaging with harassers
  • Consider joining group tours for certain activities
  • Carry a local SIM card for emergencies

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal under Sudanese law, with penalties including imprisonment and flogging. The death penalty was removed in 2020 but could be reinstated under certain interpretations.

  • Avoid any public displays of affection
  • Do not discuss LGBTQ+ topics openly
  • Be cautious with social media and dating apps
  • Consider traveling with a companion of the opposite sex if possible
  • Research accommodation policies discreetly
  • Have a contingency plan in case of harassment

Travel Insurance

Critical due to limited healthcare facilities, high risk of medical evacuation needs, political instability, and potential for trip disruption.

Medical evacuation and repatriation (minimum $100,000 coverage) Complete medical coverage including COVID-19 Trip cancellation and interruption Political evacuation coverage Adventure activities coverage if applicable Theft and loss of belongings
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Continue Planning Your Trip

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance guide for Sudan

Entry Requirements

Visa and customs information for Sudan

Stay Connected

Internet and phone options for Sudan

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for Sudan

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