Khartoum Travel Guide: Things to Do & Best Time to Visit

Khartoum’s best-known sights reflect its river setting and long history. Conditions change, so check locally whether sites are open.

• Confluence of the Niles — The meeting point of the Blue and White Nile, where the different colours of the two rivers can be seen side by side.
• National Museum of Sudan — Historically home to important collections from ancient Nubia and the kingdoms of Kush.
• Omdurman souk — One of the largest markets in Sudan, traditionally selling crafts, spices, textiles and silver.
• Hamed al-Nil Sufi gathering — Friday afternoon gatherings of whirling dervishes at a tomb in Omdurman, a well-known cultural spectacle.
• Mahdi’s Tomb and Khalifa House — Landmarks in Omdurman linked to the Mahdist period of the late nineteenth century.
• Tuti Island — A farming island at the confluence, offering a rural contrast to the city.
• Pyramids of Meroë — A UNESCO World Heritage Site several hours’ drive north-east of Khartoum, with dozens of steep Nubian pyramids.

Khartoum has a hot desert climate and is among the hottest major cities in the world. From about April to June temperatures are extremely high, and the short rainy season from roughly July to September brings occasional storms and dust storms known as haboobs.

The cooler months from November to February are the most comfortable time to visit, with warm, sunny days and pleasant evenings. This period is also the best time for excursions to archaeological sites such as Meroë, when desert travel is less punishing.

Khartoum International Airport is located within the city, south-east of the centre, unusually close to central districts. Airport operations in Sudan have been significantly disrupted in recent years, so always confirm the current status of flights and facilities with your airline before travelling.

When operating normally, taxis and hotel transfers are the usual ways into town, and journey times to central areas are short. Arranging a pick-up in advance through your hotel or host is strongly recommended.

The capital region is made up of three cities separated by the Niles.

• Central Khartoum — Government offices, banks and riverside hotels along the Blue Nile.
• Amarat and Khartoum 2 — Residential and commercial districts with guesthouses and restaurants, traditionally popular with business visitors.
• Omdurman — The historic heart of Sudanese culture, with markets and religious sites.
• Khartoum North (Bahri) — An industrial and residential district across the Blue Nile.

• Safety: Sudan has been affected by conflict and many governments advise against travel; check your government’s latest travel advice before planning any trip.
• Money: International cards are generally not usable, so travellers have traditionally relied on cash.
• Etiquette: Dress conservatively, covering shoulders and knees; women may wish to carry a headscarf for religious sites.
• Photography: Photography has historically required permits and is restricted near government, military and infrastructure sites.
• Heat: Drink plenty of water and avoid exertion in the midday sun, especially from April to June.