Sudan is the largest country on the African continent. Dominated by the Nile and its tributaries, the country's vast landmass features desert plains in the north, mountainous areas along the Red Sea coast and in the far south and west, and extensive swamps in the south. Sudan's climate varies sharply from hot and dry in the north to humid and tropical in the equatorial south.
Sudan is landlocked and shares borders with Central African Republic, Chad, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Libya, Uganda and borders the Red Sea between Egypt and Eritrea. Sudan's capital Khartoum is situated at the confluence of the Blue and White Nile Rivers and retains some influences of British colonialism with its wide tree-lined streets.
Sudan weather: Very little rain falls on Sudan's northern desert areas, which are prone to dust storms (known as Haboobs). Haboobs hit in mid-summer and are usually followed by the rainy season (August-September). During the summer months (May-September) temperatures can soar to 49 C (120 F) at midday and fall to 32 C (90 F) at night. Khartoum is hot and humid, especially in August, September and October, but temperatures are on an average slightly lower than in the northern desert areas. Temperatures during the winter months (December-February) are normally 32 C (90 F) at midday and 21 C (70 F) at night. Southern Sudan is not as hot as Khartoum but is more humid. The average annual temperature in southern Sudan is 30 C (85 F), with an annual rainfall of more than 1015 millimeters (more than 40 inches). In the extreme south, the rainy season can last for almost nine months.
Arabic is Sudan's official language; Islam is the state religion. Sharia, or Islamic law, is practiced by some Muslims, who make up 70 percent of the population (25 percent of the population have indigenous beliefs or are considered animists, and five percent are Christian). Alcohol is prohibited and women are required to dress modestly. English is widely spoken in government and business sectors. The country is divided with Arab-speaking Muslims living in the north and black Africans who speak tribal languages and practice Islam, animism and Christianity in the south. The distinctly different cultures are further broken down into hundreds of ethnic and tribal divisions and language groups. Most of the country's urban areas are located in the north; the south has a predominantly rural, subsistence economy and lacks significant infrastructure because of years of civil war.
Various European and African airlines service Khartoum International Airport (KRT); domestic air carriers serve major cities and towns in Sudan. The rail network is in a poor state of repair and operates at about one-fifth its capacity. Trains are normally crowded and slow. Local buses are a popular form of transportation but are not recommended for travelers. Most buses have wooden bench seats, no shock absorbers and are very crowded and uncomfortable. A few luxury buses run between Khartoum and Kassala, Port Sudan, al-Gadarif, Atbara, Kosti, El-Obeid and the northern region. Taxis in major urban centers tend to be in poor condition and frequently overcharge foreigners. The road network has few paved roads outside of those in major cities. Traffic flows on the right. Ferry service, while an inexpensive means of travel, is not suitable for tourists or business travelers. Sporadic, sometimes nationwide, fuel shortages and power outages occur.
The telecommunications system in Sudan is fair compared to other African countries. Local and long-distance telephone services, Internet cafes, faxes and pay phones can be found in the major urban areas; efficiency and availability of services decreases in the rural areas.
Sudanese society is traditionally conservative compared to western standards and Islamic practices and beliefs are adhered to. Sharia Muslim law is practiced but exceptions are made for foreign travelers. The Sudanese are hospitable and have a deep value for family. Influences of ancient Egypt are reflected in northern Sudan where travelers can visit (with a travel permit) the ancient pyramids of Meroe. The Nile River Valley is the cradle of one of the world's oldest civilizations. Nubian villages along the Nile retain many of the customs and practices of their ancestors, whose civilization dates back more than 5,000 years. Sudan is famous for its Guhwah coffee served from a Jebena, a special Sudanese pot. Tea called Shia is also very popular and served in small glasses without milk. Favorite meats are lamb and chicken.
Sudan is one of the world's poorest and least-developed countries. Travelers should bring enough cash to cover their expenses; major credit cards and travelers' checks are not widely accepted. Accommodations and amenities are available for business travelers, tourists and backpackers.
Crime is low in Khartoum, but sporadic fighting continues in southern, western and eastern parts of the country. Both the conflict in western Darfur and the lingering effects of the civil war in the south pose significant risks to travelers. Travel permits are required for travel outside of Khartoum.
For a free map of Sudan and more detailed information, be sure to click on the Destination Brief above.
Please note: the situation in Sudan can be dynamic and volatile. You are encouraged to purchase an Intelligence Brief ($7.50) or Destination Tracker ($25) for complete, up-to-the-minute information on the Country, Security and Health, Local Travel Alerts, Entry/exit requirements, Transportation, Communications/Technology, Legal and Financial situation, Environmental concerns and Language in Sudan.