Things To Do
in Khartoum
Khartoum sits at the dramatic confluence of the White Nile and Blue Nile, where ancient trade routes meet modern Sudanese life. The city blends bustling markets, palm-lined avenues, and grand colonial-era buildings with riverfront cafes and contemporary developments. Visitors can explore vibrant neighborhoods like Omdurman and Khartoum proper, soaking in Nile views, mosques, and street food culture.
Expect a warm welcome, rich history, and a pace that shifts between lively urban energy and tranquil riverside moments.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Khartoum and settle into your hotel overlooking the Nile. Stroll along the Corniche and feel the gentle breeze off the river. Enjoy fresh juice from a local vendor as you watch feluccas glide by.
Visit the National Museum to discover Sudan’s archaeological treasures from Nubia and Kerma. Admire artifacts that span millennia and learn about ancient civilizations along the Nile. Stop at the museum cafe for a light lunch among historic sculptures.
Head to a riverside cafe for traditional hibiscus tea at sunset. Listen to the sound of water lapping against the shore as the sky turns golden. Sample a plate of asida with rich mullah stew under the lantern light.
Begin at the Presidential Palace to admire its impressive architecture and gardens. Observe the intricate designs on the gates and snap photos with guards in ceremonial uniform. Learn about Sudan’s modern history from your guide.
Cross the Blue Nile to Omdurman for lunch at a traditional eatery serving grilled meats and fresh salad. Wander through the sprawling Omdurman Market filled with spices, textiles, and handmade crafts. Haggling with friendly vendors offers insight into daily life.
Attend a Sufi whirling ceremony at the Khalwa Khalidiyya to witness spiritual dance under starlit skies. Feel the rhythmic drumming and chanting resonate through the packed courtyard. End the night with sweet dates and mint tea from street vendors.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🧺Grocery basket (weekly) | $15-40 |
| ☕Coffee/Tea | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-6 |
| 🏨Budget accommodation (per night) | $12-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and a rich Nile-based culture
- Vibrant markets, street food, and riverfront scenery
- Very hot summers and potential water/electricity interruptions
- Limited public transportation in some areas and uneven sidewalks
- "Marhaba" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Kam al-thaman?" - What is the price?
- "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "La shukran" - No, thank you
Places to Visit in Khartoum
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic views where two rivers meet; ideal for wide-angle riverscapes at dawn or dusk.
Promenade along the Nile with silhouettes of palm trees and boats; excellent for sunset photography and candid street scenes.
Bustling alleyways filled with stalls, textiles, and daily life; capture vibrant market portraits and texture-rich scenes.
Scenic bridge approaches and riverbank paths offering calm water reflections and neighborhood character.
Food in Khartoum
Khartoum Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fermented brick-thin bread served with a tomato-onion meat stew; a quintessential Sudanese staple often enjoyed at home or in simple eateries.
Must-Try!
A thick, doughy porridge served with sugar or savory sauces; typically eaten with the hand and dipped in savory accompaniments.
Slow-simmered fava beans with garlic and olive oil, commonly eaten for breakfast with bread and vegetables.
A comforting lentil soup spiced with cumin and garlic, popular for a light meal or starter.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market district in central Khartoum offering spices, grains, fresh produce, and street snacks; great for observing daily life and tasting quick bites.
A bustling market with stalls selling textiles, copperware, fruits, and ready-to-eat street foods; perfect for an immersive local experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly in public spaces; shoulders and knees should be covered, especially in religious or traditional settings.
Use the right hand for greetings and giving/receiving items; a handshake is common among men, with warmth and courtesy.
Be mindful during Ramadan; avoid eating in public during fasting hours and respect local customs around prayer times.
Hospitality is central to Sudanese culture; accepting invitations and sharing meals is encouraged when possible.
Ask permission before photographing individuals, especially in modest or religious settings.
Safety
Tipping in Khartoum
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always required; 5-10% in modest eateries and 10-15% in cafes and nicer restaurants is common when service is good.
Cash remains widely used, especially in markets. Credit/debit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants. Mobile money options (e.g., Zain Cash, MTN Mobile Money) are increasingly common for small payments and transfers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May brings extreme heat; plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late evenings, stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and use sunscreen. Indoor attractions and shaded markets are ideal during peak sun.
July to September sees occasional heavy showers and higher humidity. Rivers may rise, and streets can get slick; carry a light rain jacket and waterproof bag for electronics.
November to February offers milder days and cooler nights. This is the most comfortable time for outdoor exploration, with pleasant temperatures and clearer skies.
Khartoum at Night
Hiking in Khartoum
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle, scenic path on and around Tuti Island offering river views and a calmer pace away from central markets.
Short excursions from Khartoum to nearby riverbanks or dune areas provide easy short hikes and photography opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Khartoum by plane.
Main international and domestic airport serving Khartoum; located a short drive from central areas with taxi or ride-hail options available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-time residents and a growing number of expatriates, students, and professionals contributing to a diverse urban culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local clubs, leagues, and casual play throughout the city.
A growing sport with courts around schools and community centers; often played recreationally in neighborhoods.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Khartoum.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include ful medames, kisra with vegetables, lentil soups, and vegetable stews. When dining out, request dishes without meat or animal fats, and ask for oil or ghee-free preparations where possible.