Is Sudan Safe for Travelers in 2025? An Honest Safety Guide from a Frequent Visitor

Introduction: My Journey Through Sudan

The first time I landed at Khartoum International Airport (KRT) in 2018, my heart was racing. I’d read countless contradicting reports about safety in Sudan, and friends had given me concerned looks when I mentioned my travel plans. Seven visits later, I’ve developed a complex but ultimately affectionate relationship with this misunderstood country. During my most recent three-month stay across northern Sudan in late 2024, I witnessed firsthand how the nation continues to evolve as a destination. I’ve been caught in sandstorms in the Nubian Desert, shared countless cups of sweet tea with locals, and slept under the stars beside the ancient pyramids of Meroe when my transportation broke down – an initially frightening situation that turned into one of my most cherished memories.

This guide reflects my personal experiences navigating Sudan’s changing safety landscape, with practical advice I wish someone had given me before my first visit. The question “Is Sudan safe for travelers?” isn’t straightforward – it requires nuance, recent context, and an understanding that conditions vary dramatically across this vast nation.

Current Safety Situation in Sudan (2025 Update)

Sudan’s safety situation remains complex in 2025, with significant regional variations. The reality on the ground often differs from international headlines, which tend to paint the entire country with a broad brush.

Regional Safety Assessment

Based on my travels throughout early 2025, here’s my assessment of different regions:

Region	Safety Level	Notes
Khartoum	Moderate concern	Occasional protests; generally safe for careful travelers
Northern State	Generally safe	Most pyramids and archaeological sites; traditional Nubian hospitality
Red Sea coast	Generally safe	Port Sudan and diving areas; increased security presence
Darfur	Avoid	Ongoing conflict; not suitable for tourism
Blue Nile & South Kordofan	Avoid	Intermittent conflict; restricted access

Political Tensions and Their Impact

The political landscape shifted dramatically after the 2023 military conflict, and tensions remain in 2025. During my February visit this year, I experienced two days of internet blackouts in Khartoum during political demonstrations. These events typically affect the capital more than tourist sites in the north.

One morning in Khartoum, I woke to the sounds of chanting nearby. Rather than venturing out, I called my local friend Mahmoud who advised staying in for a few hours while a demonstration passed. By afternoon, life had returned to normal. This exemplifies how having local contacts can help you navigate uncertain situations.

Traveler Tip: Always check the latest U.S. State Department or equivalent travel advisories before your trip, and consider registering with your embassy upon arrival.

Common Safety Concerns for Travelers

Crime Rates & Personal Safety

Contrary to what many expect, violent crime against foreigners is surprisingly rare in Sudan. In seven extended visits, I’ve never experienced theft or felt physically threatened. The Sudanese culture places immense value on hospitality (diyafa) toward guests, and this extends to foreign visitors.

That said, I do take precautions:

I avoid displaying expensive electronics or jewelry
I maintain low visibility in crowded markets
I don’t walk alone at night in unfamiliar areas
I keep my passport and extra cash secure in hotel safes

My biggest safety issue in Sudan? Almost being hit by erratic drivers in Khartoum’s chaotic traffic! The roads can be genuinely hazardous, especially at night when vehicles sometimes operate without headlights (an odd fuel-saving measure I’ve observed).

Health Concerns

Health risks present more immediate challenges than security issues for most travelers. After suffering through a severe bout of food poisoning in Karima in 2022 (I stubbornly ate unrefrigerated fish despite my guide’s warnings), I’ve developed these health protocols:

Drink only bottled or properly treated water
Avoid raw vegetables unless at high-end establishments
Carry a comprehensive medical kit including antibiotics
Have evacuation insurance for emergencies
Take malaria prophylaxis when visiting during rainy seasons

Healthcare facilities outside Khartoum are limited. During my latest visit, I found that Al Saha Hospital in Khartoum has improved its international patient services, but I still recommend medical evacuation insurance for any serious condition.

Female Travelers in Sudan

As a male traveler, I can only share observations and feedback from female travelers I’ve met. Sudan is a conservative Islamic society with traditional gender roles. Women travelers I’ve spoken with consistently report feeling physically safe with very little harassment, but note the need to respect local dress codes.

My American friend Sarah, who traveled through northern Sudan in late 2024, shared: “I felt safer walking around in Khartoum than in many European cities, but the cultural restrictions were challenging. I wore loose pants and long-sleeved shirts with a light headscarf in public, which seemed to be appreciated by locals.”

Safe Areas to Visit in Sudan

Khartoum and Omdurman

The capital city and its sister across the Nile, Omdurman, form the urban heart of Sudan. While certain neighborhoods experience occasional protests, most tourist areas remain relatively secure. The confluence of the Blue and White Nile rivers (called Al-Mogran locally) offers a peaceful viewpoint that I visit on every trip.

Safety tips for Khartoum:

Stay in the central districts like Al Amarat or Riyadh
Use reputable taxi services rather than walking at night
Visit the National Museum early in the day to avoid crowds
When photographing public buildings, ask permission first to avoid security concerns

Northern Archaeological Sites

The ancient pyramids, temples, and archaeological wonders in Sudan’s north are the country’s crown jewels for tourism. These areas have historically maintained good security even during periods of unrest elsewhere in the country.

Must-visit locations with strong safety records include:

Meroe Pyramids

My favorite site in all of Sudan, these pyramids often allow for a solitary experience unlike their Egyptian counterparts. I spent a dawn completely alone among these 2,000-year-old structures last October – something unimaginable at Giza. The site now has a small visitor center with security personnel. The nearby Meroe Camp provides comfortable accommodation.

Jebel Barkal and Karima

This UNESCO World Heritage site near the town of Karima features ancient Egyptian and Kushite temples beneath a distinctive flat-topped mountain. The local community is exceptionally welcoming to foreigners. During my 2024 visit, I had dinner with a Nubian family who refused payment but welcomed me sharing their photos online to encourage tourism.

Soleb and Kerma

Further north toward the Egyptian border, these archaeological sites see fewer visitors but offer spectacular preservation. The areas around them are predominantly rural and very safe, with virtually no reported incidents involving tourists.

Port Sudan and the Red Sea

Sudan’s Red Sea coast offers world-class diving with far fewer crowds than neighboring Egypt. Security in Port Sudan has improved since 2023, with increased police presence. The diving sites themselves, often accessed by liveaboard boats, remain well isolated from any mainland security concerns.

Areas to Avoid in Sudan

Some regions of Sudan remain genuinely dangerous for travelers in 2025. Based on both official advisories and on-the-ground information from local contacts:

Darfur Region

Despite peace agreements, parts of Darfur continue to experience ethnic violence and armed group activity. No matter how adventurous you are, this region should remain completely off your itinerary. During my last visit, even Sudanese friends from Khartoum told me they wouldn’t travel there.

Border Areas

The following border regions should be avoided:

Sudan-South Sudan border: Disputed territories with occasional armed conflict
Chad-Sudan border: Smuggling routes with minimal security presence
Eastern borders with Eritrea: Refugee movements and military activities

South Kordofan and Blue Nile States

These regions continue to experience sporadic fighting between government forces and rebel groups. They remain under restricted access for foreigners, with checkpoints preventing tourist travel.

Practical Safety Tips for Sudan Travel

Transportation Safety

Transportation presents some of the most tangible risks in Sudan. After experiencing a terrifying night drive from Atbara to Khartoum with a driver who seemed determined to break land speed records, I’ve become much more selective about vehicles and drivers.

My recommendations:

Use private drivers arranged through hotels or tour companies
Avoid night driving at all costs – roads are poorly lit and animals frequently cross
For longer distances, consider domestic flights on Badr Airlines or Sudan Airways (though schedules can be unreliable)
In Khartoum, use the Tirhal app (Sudan’s version of Uber) for more reliable taxis

One money-saving tip that doesn’t compromise safety: shared taxis (amjad) for intercity travel are much cheaper than private cars and generally follow safer practices than buses, as the drivers are professional and the vehicles better maintained.

Communication and Connectivity

Sudan’s communications infrastructure can be frustratingly inconsistent – a safety concern if you need emergency assistance. During political tensions, internet blackouts are common. I’ve found these solutions helpful:

Purchase a local SIM card immediately upon arrival (MTN or Zain are reliable carriers)
Download offline maps of your destinations before arrival
Carry a physical guidebook as backup
Consider a satellite communication device for remote areas

After being stranded near the Nile’s 6th Cataract with no signal in 2021, I now always travel with a satellite messenger. It’s an investment that paid for itself in peace of mind alone.

Cultural Respect and Safety

Perhaps the most effective safety strategy in Sudan is showing genuine respect for local customs and traditions. Sudan is a deeply conservative society where cultural offenses can create unnecessary tension.

Essential cultural guidelines:

Dress modestly – long pants for men, long sleeves and loose clothing for women
Ask permission before photographing people
Remove shoes when entering homes or mosques
Use your right hand for eating and passing objects
Avoid public displays of affection
Respect prayer times and Ramadan restrictions

Learning a few Arabic phrases goes remarkably far in building goodwill. I still remember how faces lit up when I first used “Salaam alaikum” (peace be upon you) and “Shukran jazilan” (thank you very much).

Insider Money-Saving Tips

Travel costs in Sudan have risen dramatically since 2023, but these insider tips can help you save while staying safe:

Currency strategy: Bring new, unmarked USD notes and exchange small amounts at a time. The black market rate is significantly better than official rates, but be discreet and only use trusted contacts for exchanges. I typically change money with hotel managers rather than on the street.
Transportation pooling: In Khartoum, I’ve saved hundreds by finding other travelers at the Acropole Hotel (a traveler hub) to share transportation costs to distant sites.
Local eateries: While maintaining food safety, try local fuul (bean) restaurants for breakfast and lunch. At 800-1200 SDG (approximately $1.50-2.25 USD at current black market rates), these meals are a fraction of hotel restaurant prices.

Sustainability Tip: Bring a high-quality water filter rather than relying on bottled water. I use a UV purifier that has prevented hundreds of plastic bottles from entering Sudan’s waste stream while saving approximately $10-15 per day on bottled water.

Legal Considerations for Travelers

Visas and Permits

Sudan’s visa process has become more streamlined for most nationalities in 2025, but still requires advance planning. The photography permit situation has changed several times during my visits – most recently becoming more restrictive after political changes.

Current requirements include:

Tourist visa obtained in advance from Sudanese embassies (no visa-on-arrival except in rare cases)
Photography permit for cameras (30 USD as of January 2025)
Travel permits for areas outside Khartoum (obtainable through tour agencies)
Archaeological site permits (purchased at the National Museum in Khartoum)

One mistake I made in 2022 was assuming my regular camera permit covered drone photography – it absolutely does not. My drone was confiscated at a checkpoint near Naga and only returned after extensive negotiations and a separate 200 USD fee. The lesson: explicitly ask about any special equipment you plan to bring.

Laws to Be Aware Of

Sudan operates under a mixed legal system including elements of Sharia (Islamic) law. Some laws that might surprise Western travelers:

Alcohol is strictly prohibited throughout the country
LGBT+ relationships are illegal and severely punished
Public displays of affection between opposite genders can result in arrest
Photographing military installations or bridges can lead to detention
Immodest dress, particularly for women, can result in police intervention

I once witnessed a fellow traveler detained for several hours after innocently photographing the Nile bridge in Khartoum. The situation was eventually resolved, but it created unnecessary stress that could have been avoided with better awareness.

Conclusion: Is Sudan Right for You in 2025?

After seven extended visits, I can confidently say that Sudan offers some of the most rewarding travel experiences I’ve encountered anywhere – but it’s definitely not for everyone. The safety situation requires flexibility, awareness, and a tolerance for unpredictability.

For certain travelers – particularly those with previous experience in challenging destinations, a genuine interest in ancient history, or a desire for authentic cultural exchanges – Sudan’s rewards far outweigh the risks. The hospitality I’ve encountered has been unmatched anywhere in my travels across 60+ countries.

Yet I won’t sugarcoat the challenges. Infrastructure remains basic, political situations can change rapidly, and comfort levels are generally below what many Western travelers expect. My own experiences have ranged from transcendent (watching the sunset bathe the Meroe pyramids in golden light while completely alone) to frustrating (enduring a two-day delay in Khartoum during protests with limited information).

5-Step Action Plan for Safe Sudan Travel

Pre-departure preparation (3-6 months out): Research current conditions, secure proper insurance, begin visa application, and establish connections with reputable local guides.
Health preparations (2-3 months out): Visit a travel clinic for vaccinations, obtain necessary medications, and assemble a comprehensive medical kit.
Security planning (1 month out): Register with your embassy, download offline maps, prepare communication backup plans, and share your itinerary with trusted contacts.
Upon arrival: Purchase a local SIM card immediately, confirm local safety conditions with your accommodation, and establish contact with any pre-arranged guides.
During travel: Maintain regular check-ins with contacts at home, stay informed about local developments, respect cultural norms rigorously, and prioritize flexibility in your plans.

Perhaps the most important advice I can offer is this: travel to Sudan with an open mind, genuine respect for local customs, and a willingness to adapt your expectations. Those who do will discover one of Africa’s great hidden treasures – a place where ancient history, stunning landscapes, and extraordinary hospitality combine to create truly unforgettable experiences.

FAQ: Safety in Sudan for Travelers

Is it safe for solo travelers to visit Sudan?

In my experience, solo travel in Sudan is generally safe in the northern regions and Khartoum, particularly for men. Solo female travelers should expect more cultural restrictions but typically report feeling physically safe. For any solo traveler, I recommend connecting with reputable local guides, especially for transportation between cities. My first solo trip focused exclusively on Khartoum and the northern archaeological sites, which proved to be a manageable introduction.

What should I do in case of emergency in Sudan?

Sudan’s emergency infrastructure is limited. Your embassy should be your first point of contact in serious situations. Save local emergency numbers: 999 (police) and 333 (ambulance), though response times vary dramatically. I recommend purchasing comprehensive evacuation insurance and carrying a satellite communication device for remote areas. After my food poisoning incident in 2022, I relied on a pre-established relationship with a Khartoum doctor who provided remote consultation until I could return to the capital.

How is the internet and phone connectivity in Sudan?

Connectivity is unreliable throughout Sudan. Major cities have 3G/4G coverage, but political events frequently trigger internet shutdowns. During my February 2025 visit, Khartoum experienced a 38-hour internet blackout during protests. Remote areas have minimal coverage. I routinely download offline maps, carry physical guidebooks, and use a satellite messenger for emergency communication when traveling outside urban centers.

Can I drink alcohol in Sudan?

No. Sudan strictly prohibits alcohol under Sharia law. Penalties for possession can include imprisonment and corporal punishment. Don’t attempt to bring alcohol into the country or purchase it locally. After a long day exploring in Sudan’s heat, I’ve grown to appreciate the delicious fresh fruit juices widely available – mango and guava juices have become my favorites.

Is it safe to photograph people and places in Sudan?

Photography requires sensitivity in Sudan. Always ask permission before photographing people, and be prepared for occasional refusals. A photography permit (approximately 30 USD) is required for cameras. Never photograph military installations, bridges, airports, or government buildings. During my 2021 trip, I unknowingly photographed a distant military facility while capturing desert landscapes and was detained for questioning for several hours – an experience I’m eager not to repeat.

What’s the best time of year to visit Sudan safely?

November through February offers the most comfortable temperatures (70-85°F/21-29°C during daytime) while avoiding both extreme heat and potential flooding. I’ve visited during different seasons and found that summer (May-September) brings potentially dangerous heat (often exceeding 110°F/43°C) that creates additional health risks. The Nile flooding season (August-September) can disrupt transportation in some areas.

How much does a trip to Sudan typically cost?

Sudan has become considerably more expensive since 2021. A mid-range 10-day trip now costs approximately $2,000-3,000 USD excluding international flights. This includes $80-120/night for decent hotels in Khartoum, $150-250/day for a private vehicle with driver/guide, and $15-30/day for meals. Budget travelers can reduce costs by using shared transportation and basic accommodations, potentially halving these amounts. I’ve found that prices fluctuate with Sudan’s economic instability, so build flexibility into your budget.