Attractions
Trips
A visit to the Gezira model farm or a trip along the Nile to the Jebel Aulia Dam are recommended.
Khartoum
The capital lies at the confluence of the Blue and White Niles. With the former capital Omdurman and North Khartoum, it forms a unit that is called the “Three City Capital”. Sights include the camel market in Omdurman and the Arabic souk (market). You can find Sudanese souvenirs in the lobbies of the larger hotels and in several shops in the city center. Of particular historical and artistic interest is the National Museum, which exhibits archaeological finds. A visit to the museum in the Caliph ‘s House will be interesting for travelers interested in the history of Sudan.
- Usprivateschoolsfinder: Offers description downloadable image of national flag for the country of Sudan. Also includes prehistory and history of this nation.
Shopping
Overview
The souk sells groceries, local handicrafts, spices, jewelry and silver items. We recommend buying wicker, ebony, gold and silver items and various handicrafts. Cheetah (cheetah) skins should not be purchased as cheetahs are critically endangered and fall under the World Wildlife Fund’s Endangered Species Treaty. Shop opening hours: Sat-Thurs 08.00-13.30 and 17.30-20.00.
Nightlife
Introduction
Entertainment can be found mainly in Khartoum and Omdurman. There is the National Theater, concert halls and cinemas, as well as performances in public squares and hotels.
Culinary
Overview
The staple foods are ful, a type of bean, and dura, boiled corn (or millet) eaten with various vegetables. As Islamic law (Sharia) prevails, alcohol is prohibited.
Accommodation
Hotels
There is very little accommodation outside of Khartoum and Port Sudan. There are 11 medium-sized hotels in Khartoum, including some of international standard, and three in Port Sudan. In the other larger cities, some smaller hotels and hostels offer accommodation options.
Other accommodation options
Information is available from the Youth Hostel Association, PO Box 1705, House no. 66, Street no. 47, Khartoum. Tel: (011) 72 20 87.
Culture
Religion
70% Muslim (Sunni), 25% Animist, Copt minorities and 5% Christian.
Social Rules of Conduct
In the north of the country, life is shaped by Arabic culture, while the inhabitants of the more fertile south belong to many different tribes, each with their own lifestyle and beliefs. Since Sudan is a predominantly Islamic country, women should avoid revealing clothing. Formal attire is expected at official and social functions and in some restaurants. Sudanese are known for their hospitality. Tipping: A service charge is often included in the hotel or restaurant bill, otherwise a 10% tip is expected. Service providers such as chambermaids, porters, etc. usually also receive a small tip. Taking photos: Military and police facilities, airports and bridges, government departments, railway facilities, military and police personnel and women may not be photographed without their express consent. Violators face high penalties. Alcohol: Consumption of alcohol is permitted for non-Muslims, but alcohol may not be consumed in public.
Climate
Best travel time
North: Arid Sahara.
South: Semi-arid savanna areas.
Very hot, only slightly cooler from November to March, especially in the north. Frequent sandstorms in the Sahara from April to September. Hardly any precipitation in the extreme north, slight precipitation in July and August in the central part of the country, rain in the south from May to October.
The best travel time starts in September and ends in April.
Country data
Phone prefix
+249
Area (sq km)
1861484
Population
43,849,260 (Source: homosociety)
Population density (per square km)
19
Population statistics year
2020
Main emergency number
999