Best time to travel to Sudan

Choosing the right period for your trip to Sudan can make all the difference. It's important to consider climatic elements, seasonal events and busy tourist periods to maximize your travel experience.

Photo d'un paysage localisรฉ en Soudan

Climate

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THE SudanAfrica's second-largest country by surface area, is a little-known destination for tourists. Yet the country abounds in cultural and historical treasures, such as the pyramids of Meroe and the pharaonic temples of Gebel Barkal.

Low and high season periods

Sudan's climate is predominantly desert, with a varied relief that influences temperatures and rainfall. So the ideal time to visit will depend in part on the regions you wish to discover.

High season: October to April

The peak tourist season generally runs fromoctober to april. During this period, temperatures are milder and rainfall less frequent, making it easier to visit archaeological sites and national parks. Days are pleasant and nights cool, especially in the north of the country. However, it should be noted that accommodation and air fares can be higher during this period.

Low season: May to September

The low tourist season in Sudan corresponds to the hottest months, from May to September. Temperatures can rise to 45ยฐC in some desert regions, making visits to historic sites less comfortable. Moreover, this period coincides with the rainy season, especially in the south of the country. However, if you're prepared to brave these conditions, you'll be able to take advantage of lower tourist numbers and more affordable rates.

Public holidays and closures

Before planning your stay, it's important to be aware of Sudan's public holidays, when shops and administrations are generally closed. Here is a non-exhaustive list of the main public holidays in Sudan:
  • January 1: Independence Day
  • January 6: Orthodox Christmas
  • March 8: International Women's Day
  • May 1: Labour Day
  • June 25: Revolution Day
  • June 30: Anniversary of the Republic
It's also worth noting that some Muslim holidays vary according to the lunar calendar, such as Eid el-Fitr (marking the end of Ramadan), Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice) and Mawlid (birth of the Prophet). These dates change every year, so it's a good idea to check before you leave.

Major cultural events

Sudan has a rich history and diverse cultural heritage. Participating in local events can be a great opportunity to experience authentic Sudanese culture. Here are a few must-see events:

Khartoum International Film Festival

Every year in October, the Sudanese capital hosts the Khartoum International Film Festival. This event brings together directors, actors and film professionals from all over Africa and the Middle East. The films shown highlight themes reflecting the cultural and social diversity of the African continent.

Meroe Music Festival

Held every two years in the Meroe region, this festival celebrates Nubian arts and culture. For several days, visitors can enjoy concerts, workshops and exhibitions. It's also an opportunity to discover the archaeological site of Meroe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Port Sudan Carnival

In February, the coastal city of Port-Soudan organizes a major carnival to celebrate its cultural and ethnic diversity. During this festive event, colorful parades and traditional dance performances punctuate the city streets.

Pyramid Festival

The Festival of the Pyramids is an annual event held in November to celebrate Sudan's heritage and history. It takes place at the archaeological site of Gebel Barkal, where you can enjoy dance, music and theater performances showcasing Sudan's rich cultural heritage.

Insurance

Your credit card does not cover you in all situations, that is whyIt is essential to take out insurance before you leave to avoid any unpleasant surprises. If you need to see a doctor or be hospitalized, in some countries, medical costs are very high and you will then find yourself having to pay several thousand euros.

Our partner Chapka Insurance proposes the contract CAP ASSISTANCE 24/24 with many essential guarantees.

Flights

Your flight has been cancelled or delayed ?
You may be eligible for a compensation of up to โ‚ฌ600 ! For this, lawyers are responsible for handling your claim with the airline and are only paid when the reimbursement is effective.

In conclusion, no financial risk for you, only advantages!

Sudan immigration statistics: a diverse population

According to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the total number of refugees and asylum-seekers living in Sudan was around 1.1 million people in 2020. This population is mainly composed of :
  • South Sudanese refugees,
  • Ethiopian asylum seekers,
  • Eritrean refugees.
In addition, the Sudanese government has granted Sudanese nationality to almost 15,000 Chadian refugees since 2017.

Consular pass applications

As regards requests for consular passes, the main nationalities concerned are as follows:
  • Egyptians,
  • Nigerians,
  • Syrians.

Most popular visas in Sudan: the importance of work and study visas

In Sudan, different types of visas are offered to foreigners wishing to stay in the country. The main visas requested are :
  • Work visa This visa is intended for people wishing to work for pay in Sudan. This type of visa is generally issued for a period of 3 months to one year, depending on the nature of the work contract.
  • Study visa visa: granted to foreign students enrolled in a Sudanese higher education institution. The duration of this visa is generally aligned with the duration of the planned studies, and can be renewed if necessary.
  • Family visit visa For those wishing to visit family members living in Sudan. The duration of this visa varies according to the request, but is generally granted for a period of 1 to 3 months.
On the other hand, tourist visas are still in short supply due to the country's complex political and economic situation, as well as its security problems.

International tourism in Sudan: growing figures despite challenges

Despite a difficult context, international tourism in Sudan is seeing a gradual increase in the number of arrivals. According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the country welcomed around 420,000 international tourists in 2019This represents an increase of almost 34 % over the previous year. This positive trend is due in particular to :
  • Relative stability restored after the fall of Omar al-Bashir's regime in 2019,
  • The government's efforts to improve the country's image and encourage the development of the tourism sector,
  • Sudan's cultural and historical potential, with archaeological sites such as the Meroรซ pyramids and Soleb temple.

Profile of international tourists

The vast majority of international tourists to Sudan come from neighbouring countries, including : Other visitors from Europe and America also come to discover Sudan's cultural and natural riches, although their numbers are still limited.

Challenges for tourism development in Sudan

Despite this growth, Sudan's tourism sector still has to overcome several obstacles to attracting more international visitors:
  • Improving tourism infrastructure Sudan currently lacks quality hotel facilities, as well as means of transport adapted to the needs of foreign tourists.
  • Safety Some parts of the country remain unstable and present risks for travellers, particularly in terms of kidnappings and terrorist attacks.
  • Respect for human rights The government must continue its efforts to put an end to human rights violations and improve the humanitarian situation in certain areas of the country, in order to strengthen its image in the eyes of the international community.