Khartoum

CityKhartoum, Sudan

Khartoum is a CITY in Khartoum, Sudan.

Khartoum, the capital of Sudan, is a vibrant city where the Blue and White Nile rivers converge, offering stunning views and a rich historical backdrop. Known for its bustling markets, such as the famous Omdurman Souq, and cultural landmarks like the National Museum of Sudan, Khartoum provides a unique blend of African and Arab influences. The city's architecture reflects its colonial past, while its lively tea shops and traditional coffee ceremonies showcase local customs. Don't miss the Whirling Dervishes ceremony in Omdurman, a mesmerizing spiritual performance. Khartoum's warm hospitality and slow-paced lifestyle make it a fascinating destination for travelers seeking an authentic experience.

Best time to visit Khartoum

The best time to visit Khartoum is between November and February when temperatures are milder (20-30°C). Avoid the scorching summer months (April-October) when temperatures can exceed 40°C. The Whirling Dervishes ceremony occurs weekly, offering a cultural highlight year-round.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather
Hot 26-38°C, dry

Travel notes

Crowds
Moderate
Prices
Moderate

Improving conditions

Know before you go

Getting there

KRT

Khartoum International Airport

International

5 km away

Getting around

"Taxis are the most convenient way to get around Khartoum; negotiate fares before boarding. Ride-hailing apps like 'Tirhal' are available. Buses and minibuses are cheap but crowded and not always reliable. Renting a car is possible but driving can be chaotic. Walking is feasible in central areas but limited due to heat and lack of sidewalks."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

10 Mbps

Mobile data

Fair

WiFi

Limited in public areas; available in upscale hotels

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5

Calling code

249

Stay safe

Overall

4/10

Political instability and petty crime are concerns. Avoid night travel.

Night safety

3/10

Political instability and petty crime are concerns. Avoid night travel.

Transport

5/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Exercise caution in crowded areas and avoid political gatherings. Petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in markets. Dress modestly to respect local customs, and avoid traveling alone at night. Always carry identification and register with your embassy if staying long-term."

Entry and health

Health information

"Travelers should ensure they are up-to-date on routine vaccines and consider vaccinations for hepatitis A, typhoid, and yellow fever. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended, especially during the rainy season. Drink bottled or boiled water and avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach."

Culture

Local customs

"Greetings are important; always shake hands and exchange pleasantries. Dress modestly, especially women, covering shoulders and knees. Avoid public displays of affection. During Ramadan, refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. Accept tea if offered—it's a sign of hospitality."
ArabicEnglish

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$5 | a cheap local meal costs ~$5

Hotels

$40-80 | budget hotels range $40-80/night

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Prices in USD equivalent; cash is king.

Timezone

Africa/Khartoum +02:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

5.3 million

Area

1,010 km²

Government

Federal capital district

ISO code

KRT

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Chartuum, الخرطوم, خرطوم, खार्तूम, Khartum, Խարթում, Hartūma, חרטום, ਖ਼ਰਤੂਮ, ಖಾರ್ತೂಮ್, Ahidiilíinii, ካርቱም, Kaartum, Hartum, Chartúm, 하르툼, Karttume, Khartumensis Urbs, Jartum, Khartom, Ḥartum, Kartúm, Chartům, Kartoum, Khartoem, Kartûm, Cartum, Картум, Хартум, C'hartoum, Ĥartumo, ഖർത്തൂം, Khartún - الخرطوم, Kartum, خەرتووم, Cartun, கர்த்தூம், Chartumas, Al-Khartoum, ხარტუმი, ཁར་ཏུམ།, Chartum, Cartúm, Khartoum, Khartuum, 喀土穆, Xartum, خارتۇم, خارطوم, Xertûm, ခါတွမ်းမြို့, คาร์ทูม, Xerṭum, ハルツーム, Χαρτούμ, Kaartuɔ̈m, खार्टूम

HistoricCulturalRiverAdventureBudget-Friendly