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Sudan is one of the largest countries in Africa and over the centuries has attracted many intrepid explorers in search of the hidden treasures of the Nubian Desert. Its vast desert and rocky landscape is sparsely populated with small towns and transient nomads. The capital city Khartoum sits at the confluence of the White and Blue Nile, and is a chaotic mix of dusty streets, bustling souks and welcoming locals. The lush Nile Valley hides lost Turkish and Roman cities and ancient pharaonic tombs.
For the more adventurous traveller, our small group tours uncover this vast and intriguing North African country. Starting in Khartoum all our tours explore the barren beauty of the Nubian Desert. From the forgotten pyramids at Meroe to the holy mountain of Jebel Barkal, we sleep under the starry desert skies and spend time learning the culture of the local inhabitants. You'll also cruise on the River Nile and explore the mazy souks and dusty museums of Khartoum. All our Sudan group tour itineraries can also be customised and arranged as private tours if you prefer. Overall we feel Sudan truly offers a completely unique travel experience and if you're looking for a really out of the ordinary holiday experience, with very few other tourists around to share it with you, then Sudan is a great option.
Note - none of our tours visit South Sudan and we follow official government travel advice at all times.
Sudan is generally safe for tourists, provided that you avoid high-risk areas and adhere to local authority guidelines.
Tap water in Sudan is not safe to drink. It is advisable to consume only bottled water during your stay.
The official languages of Sudan are Arabic and English. While English is used, Sudanese Arabic is the most commonly spoken language. Over 60 indigenous languages are also spoken across the country.
Yes, vaccinations are recommended for Sudan. These include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, cholera, hepatitis A and B, yellow fever, and an annual flu shot. If visiting the meningitis belt during the dry season, a meningitis vaccine is also advised.
Planning a trip to Sudan involves considering your travel interests. Encounters Travel offers immersive tours that explore the capital city, Khartoum, ancient Nubian desert civilisations, and other historic sites.
A minimum of five days is recommended to see key monuments and sites. However, ten days is optimal for a comprehensive experience, including major attractions from Khartoum to Wadi Halfa.
The cost of a meal in Sudan varies by type of establishment. An inexpensive restaurant meal can cost around $3, while a meal at a mid-range restaurant for two may range from $10 to $15.
The cost of a trip to Sudan depends on factors such as duration, activities, and accommodation. Budgeting around $20 to $100 per day is typical, covering food, activities, and lodging.
Sudan is relatively affordable. Daily expenses, including food and accommodation, range from $30 to $100. Meals cost about $6 on average, making it an economical travel destination.
The ideal time to visit Sudan is between November and February, when temperatures are cooler. For diving trips in the Red Sea, March to May is recommended.
The official currency of Sudan is the Sudanese pound (SD), subdivided into 100 piastres or qirsh.
Visitors are advised to dress conservatively. Women should cover their legs, cleavage, and shoulders, while men should avoid shorts and going bare-chested in public areas.
Key destinations in Sudan include Khartoum, the Red Sea, the Pyramids of Meroë, Musawarat, Dinder National Park, and the ancient city of Old Dongola. Explore these sites on guided tours for a comprehensive experience.
The best time for tours in Sudan is from November to February due to cooler temperatures. For those interested in diving, March to May is the most suitable period.
Time:
GMT+2
Dial Code:
249
Area:
1,886 million km²
Elevation:
The lowest point in Sudan is the Red Sea at 0m | The highest point in Sudan is Kinyeti at 3,187m (10,456 ft.)
Population:
41,511,526 (2018)
Capital:
Khartoum
Government:
Representative democracy, Presidential system, Federal republic
Language:
Arabic, English
Sudan is a country located in North Africa. Sudan, also known as North Sudan since South Sudan's independence and officially the Republic of South Sudan, is a country in North Africa. Egypt borders it to the north, the Red Sea, Eritrea and Ethiopia to the east, South Sudan to the south, the Central African Republic to the southwest, Chad to the west, and Libya to the northwest.
Sudanese Arabic is the most widely spoken language in Sudan. This dialect is a variety of Arabic and has borrowed much vocabulary from local Nilo-Saharan languages (Nobiin, Fur, Zaghawa, Mabang).. As a result, the dialect is unique to Sudan.
Islam is the dominant religion. The population is overwhelmingly Muslim, with more than 97% of the people practising Islam. There are two main groups of Muslims in Sudan – the Sufis and the Salafis (Ansar al-Sunnah). Sufism is a mystical branch of Islam that emphasizes the personal religious experience. At the same time, Salafism is a more literalist and orthodox branch that adheres to the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad and his companions. Sudanese Muslims have been divided politically along these lines for many years, with Sufis supporting the government and Salafis often taking up arms against it.
Sudan is a country of great geographical diversity, with flat plains, mountain ranges and, in the west, the Deriba Caldera in the Marrah Mountains - the highest point in Sudan. Sudan is also the third-largest country in Africa (after Algeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo).
Sudan is an agricultural country, with agriculture contributing to 39% of the country's GDP. The main agricultural products grown in Sudan include cotton, peanuts, sesame seeds, sorghum, millet, and wheat. Despite the fact that agriculture is the main economic sector in Sudan, the country is still considered to be underdeveloped
The Nuba Mountains are a forested area home to the Nuba group of people in South Kordofan. The Nuba Mountains are a beautiful and unique destination, perfect for those who love nature and adventure.
Kerma is one of the oldest inhabited towns in Africa and a vast archaeological site in Nubia. The ancient city was once a thriving metropolis and the capital of the Kingdom of Kush. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sudan.
The Kerma Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in ancient Nubian culture. The museum houses an impressive collection of relics from the Kerma site, including seven granite statues and numerous artefacts. The museum is also home to several interactive exhibits, making it a great place to learn more about the history and culture of the Nubian people.
Port Sudan is Sudan's only major industrial port and a popular diving destination. The city is home to many historical buildings, including the Port Sudan Museum. Divers can explore the coral reefs and shipwrecks around the city. Port Sudan is a great place to learn about Sudan's history and culture.
The National Museum is one of Sudan's best museums, displaying royal statues and 3,500-year-old artefacts. The museum is located in the capital city of Khartoum and is a must-see for anyone interested in Sudanese history and culture.
Come explore the ancient city of Naqa, a ruined trading station east of the Nile. See the two striking temples that remain and imagine what life was like in this once-bustling city.
Sai Island is a beautiful and historic island located in the Abri region. The island is home to an Egyptian temple, an Ottoman fort, and a medieval church. Visitors to the island can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area, and learn about the island's rich history.
Khatmiyah Mosque is a beautiful and intricate mosque located in the Taka Mountains. It is a popular tourist destination for those interested in Sudanese culture and history. The mosque has arcade columns and a prayer hall that are simply stunning. If you're looking for a breathtaking and educational experience, Khatmiyah Mosque is the perfect destination for you!
In Sudan, it is considered polite to ask permission before taking photographs of people or religious sites. Sudan is a country with a rich history and culture, and its people are very hospitable. If you plan to travel to Sudan, research the customs and etiquette before you go to avoid offending anyone.
If you're looking for an authentic Sudanese experience, eat with your right hand. The left hand is considered unclean in Sudanese culture.
When travelling to Sudan, it is important to stay hydrated. The weather is extremely warm and dry, so it is essential to drink plenty of water.
Sudan is an Islamic state, and drugs and alcohol are illegal in the country. Despite this, Sudan is a beautiful country with a lot to offer tourists.
Be sure to pack loose-fitting and comfortable clothing, as well as sunscreen and a hat. Sudan is a sunny country, and the temperatures can be quite high, so it is important to protect yourself from the sun.
Sudan is not a typical tourist destination, and that's what makes it so special. You won't find markets selling souvenirs or tourist traps. Instead, you'll find a country with a rich culture and history. Sudan is a place where you can experience a different way of life.
When visiting a mosque in Sudan, women are expected to cover their heads. This is a sign of respect for the religious site.
Sudan is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history. However, homosexuality is illegal and, in some cases, punishable by death. Despite this, Sudan is still a popular tourist destination for many people.