Khartoum has a hot a weather with little rainfall. Summer brings intense heat (over 40°C), with high humidity and sporadic rainfall. Dust storms (haboobs) are common during seasonal transitions.
Winter (October-May) was the cooler, drier season, with average temperatures between 20-30°C. This period historically offered the most comfortable conditions.
Due to the ongoing armed conflict since April 2023, there is no "best time to visit" for tourism. Travel to Khartoum is extremely dangerous and international governments strongly advise against it.
All activities are unsafe or impossible. The historical ideal timing for activities (Between november And february for markets, sites, Nile trips) does not apply.
HIGH DANGER
November - February (Cooler, outdoor friendly)
All travel to Khartoum is strongly discouraged due to conflict.
October, May (Warmer, fewer crowds)
Comfortable temperatures, reduced tourist traffic.
Tourism non-existent, infrastructure destroyed.
June - September (Extreme heat)
Uncomfortable heat, limited outdoor activity.
Security concerns override all seasonal factors.
Historically, all foreign nationals required a visa, obtained from a Sudanese embassy or consulate abroad. Application involved forms, photos, and sometimes a letter of invitation.
A passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay, passport-sized photos, and a letter of invitation or confirmed hotel booking were typically required.
Standard visa and entry procedures for tourists are non-operational.
Khartoum International Airport (KRT) is closed and severely damaged.
Entry into Sudan largely restricted to humanitarian personnel or emergency evacuations.
Ad hoc arrangements often through Port Sudan (sea) or land borders.
Entry requires specific authorization and coordination, not for tourism.
Budgeting for Khartoum, even historically, presented challenges due to currency fluctuations. The current conflict makes any tourist budgeting irrelevant.
The currency was the Sudanese Pound (SDG). Foreign currency exchange used to be available at banks and authorized offices. ATMs were often unreliable, and credit card acceptance was limited to major international hotels.
Pre-conflict, costs varied by travel style. These figures are not relevant for current travel.
Historically, comprehensive travel insurance was essential. A good policy covered medical emergencies, medical evacuation, trip cancellation, plus lost bags.
Health and safety in Khartoum have always required careful attention. The ongoing conflict has elevated these concerns to an extreme level. Travel is life-threatening.
Certificate for travelers from or transiting through countries considered high-risk.
Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus-Diphtheria, MMR, Polio, Rabies. Consult a travel health clinic.
Health risks are extremely high. Collapse of healthcare, lack of clean water and sanitation, rampant infectious diseases.
Current Health Risks are Severely Amplified by Conflict.
Historically, malaria, dengue, schistosomiasis, travelers' diarrhea, and heatstroke were concerns. Prevention involved prophylaxis, insect repellent, hygiene, and hydration.
Now, injuries from conflict, lack of access to medications, and widespread waterborne diseases are major threats. Access to safe drinking water and food is severely limited.
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Limited, especially outside Khartoum. Private clinics offered better care. Medical evacuation insurance was strongly recommended.
Healthprudence and emergency services are severely compromised or non-existent. Hospitals are non-functional, damaged, or overwhelmed.
Seeking medical attention is extremely difficult and dangerous. Self-evacuation is often the only option.
Khartoum is extremely dangerous. This information supersedes any historical petty crime concerns.
Historically, seasonal flooding along the Nile (August-September) and dust storms (haboobs) were potential hazards.
Could cause disruption during the rainy season.
A hazard during seasonal transitions, reducing visibility.
Ongoing conflict overrides most natural disaster protocols. Immediate risks from conflict far outweigh natural risks.
