Things to Do in Khartoum

About Khartoum

The Blue Nile and White Nile meet at Khartoum, and that confluence has shaped Sudan's capital for centuries. Nubian heritage runs through the city alongside contemporary African life—not always smoothly, but visibly. Traditional dabke drums echo from the souqs, while the call to prayer drifts past colonial buildings and modern glass towers. Merchants sell frankincense and gold. They've done this for millennia. Their stalls line the same caravan routes that once linked Africa to the Mediterranean, and their hands show it. Feluccas with white sails glide down the Nile past riverside cafés where locals drink sweet tea and argue about politics, poetry, and philosophy. The conversations are loud. The tea is very sweet. Khartoum won't let you stay a stranger—Sudanese hospitality makes guests out of visitors whether you're ready or not. The sunset over the confluence colors the sky in shades you can't photograph properly. Worth seeing anyway.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps like Tirhal for safe city travel. Avoid public buses during peak hours as they're overcrowded. For longer distances, book domestic flights through Khartoum International Airport or use reputable bus companies like Blue Nile Transport.

Money: Carry US dollars or Euros for exchange, as international cards rarely work. Exchange money at official banks or licensed bureaus for better rates. The Sudanese pound fluctuates dramatically, so exchange small amounts frequently and keep receipts for reconversion.

Cultural Respect: Dress conservatively with long sleeves and pants; women should carry headscarves for mosque visits. Friday is the holy day with limited business hours. Always ask permission before photographing people, especially women, and avoid public displays of affection.

Food Safety: Stick to well-cooked meals from busy restaurants with high turnover. Try traditional dishes like ful medames and kisra at established local eateries. Drink bottled water exclusively and avoid raw vegetables unless you can peel them yourself.

When to Visit

Khartoum's optimal visiting season spans November through February, when temperatures range from a pleasant 15-28°C (59-82°F) with virtually no rainfall. These cooler months offer comfortable sightseeing conditions and coincide with peak season pricing, typically 30-40% higher for accommodations. March and October serve as excellent shoulder seasons with temperatures around 25-35°C (77-95°F), offering moderate pricing with 15-20% savings on hotels while maintaining good weather conditions. The scorching summer months from April to September see temperatures soar to 35-45°C (95-113°F), with the brief rainy season occurring July through September bringing 50-150mm of precipitation. However, this period offers significant savings of 40-50% on accommodations for heat-tolerant travelers. Key cultural events include the Khartoum International Film Festival in November, Eid celebrations (dates vary with lunar calendar), and Independence Day celebrations on January 1st. The confluence celebration at the Blue and White Nile occurs year-round but is most enjoyable during cooler months. Business travelers should avoid Friday-Saturday weekends and Ramadan period when many services operate on reduced schedules. For photographers, the golden winter light and clear skies make November-February ideal for capturing the city's architectural beauty and river landscapes.