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Official name: Republic of the Sudan
Capital city: Khartoum
Languages spoken: Arabic, English
Population: Around 46 million
Currency: Sudanese pound (SDG)
Time zone: GMT+2
Driving side: Right
Climate: Mostly arid desert climate, with a rainy season from June to September in the south
Sudan is a vast country at the crossroads of North and East Africa, rich in history and archaeology, including the pyramids of Meroë and ancient Nubian heritage. The Nile River flows through its heart, shaping both settlement and culture. However, Sudan remains a high-risk destination due to ongoing conflict and instability.
Travellers should be aware that Sudan is experiencing armed conflict and political unrest. Violence, demonstrations, and shortages of basic goods have severely affected day-to-day life. Foreigners can be targeted, and movement is often restricted. Strict laws reflecting Islamic traditions are enforced: alcohol is banned, women are expected to dress modestly, and same-sex relationships are illegal. These factors, combined with the security situation, make tourism extremely limited and high risk.
Sudan shares borders with Egypt, Libya, Chad, the Central African Republic, South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Eritrea, with a short Red Sea coastline. The country is dominated by desert, particularly in the north, with savannah and fertile plains in the south. The Blue and White Nile rivers converge at Khartoum, forming the main Nile. This geography has supported ancient civilisations but today also poses challenges with drought and flooding.
Khartoum International Airport (KRT) is the main entry point, but flights are frequently disrupted due to conflict. Road travel outside cities is extremely dangerous, with risks from checkpoints, armed groups, and poor infrastructure. Attractions such as the Meroë pyramids and the Nubian Desert are largely inaccessible under current conditions. The Red Sea coast, once known for diving, is also affected by instability. Travel across much of the country is not advised.
UK nationals require a visa to enter Sudan, which must be arranged in advance through a Sudanese embassy. Registration with local authorities is required upon arrival. The British Embassy in Khartoum is closed due to the ongoing conflict, and consular assistance is extremely limited. Travellers should not rely on in-country support.
The Sudanese pound (SDG) is the official currency. Banking systems are unreliable, ATMs are rare, and international credit or debit cards are not widely accepted. Travellers should carry sufficient cash in US dollars, although even this may be difficult to exchange. Inflation and shortages of goods mean prices can fluctuate dramatically.
Healthcare in Sudan is severely limited, with hospitals lacking equipment, medicines, and staff due to the conflict. Evacuation is often the only option in medical emergencies, making comprehensive travel insurance essential. Diseases such as malaria, cholera, and yellow fever are present, and vaccination requirements are strictly enforced. Tap water is unsafe to drink, and frequent shortages of food and fuel further complicate travel. Travellers should avoid Sudan unless absolutely essential.
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