Car Rental in Sudan - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Sudan is generally not recommended for most tourists due to challenging conditions. The country drives on the right side of the road, but infrastructure varies significantly. Road quality ranges from reasonable in Khartoum to poor or unpaved in rural areas, with limited signage and inconsistent road markings outside major cities. Car rental might be suitable for experienced travelers planning countryside exploration or specific road trips where public transport is limited, but requires careful consideration. You'll need an International Driving Permit alongside your home license. Fuel availability can be unreliable outside urban centers, and navigation is challenging without local knowledge. For Khartoum and other cities, renting a car is typically unnecessary and impractical due to congested traffic, unclear road rules, and aggressive driving styles that can be overwhelming for foreign drivers. Taxis and ride-hailing services offer more practical urban transportation. If you do rent, choose a reputable international company, ensure comprehensive insurance coverage, and verify the vehicle's condition thoroughly. Be prepared for police checkpoints and carry all documentation. Most visitors find hiring a driver with a vehicle more practical and safer than self-driving, especially for longer journeys outside Khartoum.

International Driving Permit

Information not available for Sudan's specific IDP requirements. Check with Sudanese embassy or consulate before travel for current regulations.

Minimum Age

Specific minimum age requirements for Sudan are not available. Typically ranges from 21-25 years, but verify with rental agencies operating in Sudan.

Insurance Coverage

Insurance requirements specific to Sudan are not available. Comprehensive coverage is generally essential - verify mandatory coverage types with local authorities.

Valid Passport

A valid passport is required for identification when renting vehicles. Ensure your passport has adequate validity remaining for your stay.

Credit Card for Deposit

Deposit requirements for Sudan are not available. International rentals typically require a credit card in the driver's name - confirm accepted payment methods in advance.

Local Driving Regulations

Specific permit and license acceptance rules for Sudan are not available. Contact Sudanese transportation authorities or your embassy for current requirements before travel.

Rent from international agencies at Khartoum International Airport for better vehicle condition and insurance coverage, though local agencies in the city may offer lower rates - verify insurance details and vehicle condition thoroughly before choosing.

Before driving off, carefully document all existing damage with photos, check that the spare tire and tools are present, and verify the fuel policy - fuel stations can be sparse outside major cities, so confirm the tank level and refueling expectations.

Download offline maps before arrival as GPS signal and mobile data can be unreliable outside Khartoum - consider hiring a local driver if unfamiliar with the area, as road signage may be limited and navigation challenging.

Plan fuel stops carefully as stations are concentrated in urban areas and may have irregular supply - carry extra water and emergency supplies for longer journeys, and note that parking in Khartoum city center can be informal with attendants expecting small tips.

Allow extra time for vehicle return inspection and confirm the drop-off location and hours in advance - take photos of the returned vehicle's condition and fuel level to avoid disputes, especially when returning outside business hours.

Road conditions in Sudan vary dramatically, with paved roads mainly limited to major cities while rural areas often have unpaved, poorly maintained roads that can become impassable during the rainy season (July-September).

Police and military checkpoints are common throughout Sudan - always carry your passport, vehicle registration, and driving permit, and be prepared to stop and present documents calmly and respectfully.

Driving at night is strongly discouraged due to poor road lighting, unmarked hazards, livestock on roads, and limited emergency services in case of breakdown or accident.

Sandstorms (haboobs) can occur suddenly, particularly during the transition seasons, reducing visibility to near zero - if caught in one, pull off the road completely, turn off lights to avoid attracting other vehicles, and wait it out.