When to Visit Sudan
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
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Year-Round Essentials
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Spring (Mar-May)
Summer/Rainy Season (Jun-Aug)
Autumn (Sep-Nov)
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Month-by-Month Guide
January
January sits right in the sweet spot of Sudan's winter, offering the most comfortable temperatures you'll find all year. The days are warm but not punishing, typically reaching around 30-32°C, while nights can actually feel pleasant, sometimes dropping to 15-17°C in the northern regions. It's dry season across the country, so you won't see rain, but the air still carries that 70% humidity from the Nile's influence.
February
February continues the pleasant winter pattern, though you'll notice temperatures starting to creep upward as the month progresses. Days hover around 33-35°C in most areas, and the desert regions begin their march toward summer heat. Still firmly in the dry season, and this is honestly one of the last months where outdoor exploration feels reasonable without extreme heat precautions.
March
March marks the transition into the hot season, with temperatures climbing noticeably into the 37-39°C range across much of the country. The northern desert areas can push even higher. This is when you start seeing the first dust storms of the season, those impressive haboobs that can turn day into twilight. Still no rain to speak of, and the heat is building momentum.
April
April is genuinely hot, with temperatures regularly hitting 40°C and beyond in many areas. The dust storms become more frequent as hot, dry winds sweep across the landscape. Southern regions might see the first hints of moisture in the air as the rainy season approaches, but for most of Sudan, it's just relentless heat and occasional sandstorms. Tourist numbers drop off considerably.
May
May brings peak heat to much of Sudan, with temperatures that can exceed 43°C in the interior and northern regions. The southern areas start seeing the first proper rains as the monsoon moisture begins its northward push. Dust storms remain a concern, particularly in the transition zone. It's the kind of heat that makes you understand why midday siestas are a cultural necessity rather than a luxury.
June
June marks the beginning of the rainy season in earnest for southern Sudan, while the north remains mostly dry and brutally hot. Temperatures stay in the 40-42°C range for much of the country, though the increasing cloud cover in rainy areas provides some relief. The humidity becomes more noticeable as moisture increases, creating that sticky, oppressive combination of heat and dampness.
July
July is the heart of the rainy season in Sudan, with the monsoon moisture reaching even Khartoum and areas to the north. Temperatures moderate slightly to around 38-40°C, but the increased humidity makes it feel just as oppressive. The rains come in intense bursts, often in the afternoon or evening, and can cause flash flooding in areas with poor drainage. The desert actually greens up a bit during this period.
August
August continues the rainy pattern, typically the wettest month across much of Sudan. Temperatures remain in the high 30s, and the combination of heat, humidity, and frequent downpours creates challenging conditions. That said, the rains do bring relief from the dust and transform the landscape temporarily. Roads can become difficult to navigate, particularly in rural areas where infrastructure is limited.
September
September sees the rainy season beginning to taper off, though southern regions still get substantial rainfall. Temperatures stay around 38-40°C, and the humidity remains high as the ground slowly dries out. The landscape is at its greenest during this period, which is actually quite striking if you're used to thinking of Sudan as purely desert. Tourist activity remains minimal.
October
October marks the transition back to dry season, with rainfall dropping off significantly across most of the country. Temperatures remain quite hot, typically 38-40°C, but the decreasing humidity makes conditions slightly more bearable. The landscape starts its fade back to brown and gold as the brief green period ends. By late October, conditions start becoming more favorable for travel.
November
November brings welcome relief as temperatures finally start dropping to more manageable levels, settling around 35-37°C during the day. The rains have ended, humidity decreases, and the air becomes noticeably clearer. This is when tourist season starts picking up, as conditions become suitable for exploring archaeological sites and desert landscapes. Nights can actually feel pleasant, dropping into the low 20s.
December
December settles into the comfortable winter pattern, with daytime temperatures around 32-34°C and genuinely pleasant evenings that can dip to 16-18°C. It's peak tourist season for good reason—the weather is about as cooperative as it gets in Sudan. Clear skies, minimal humidity compared to summer months, and no rain make this ideal for any outdoor activities. You might even need a light jacket for early mornings.