How to Find Hotels in Khartoum, Sudan

Khartoum is an oasis for foreigners because it is one of the only safe places in Sudan. Because of ongoing violence in the northern Darfur region, tourism has all but disappeared. Despite this, the capital city of Khartoum is undergoing an economic boom.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access
• Passport
• Visa

Find Accommodations

1. Understand that Khartoum is really not indicative of the rest of Sudan. While the rest of the country is dangerous, Khartoum is considered relatively stable. Many nice hotels operate freely in the capital.
2. Adjust to the Sudanese concept of luxury. Luxury accommodations might have features like Internet access, swimming pools and even tennis courts, but you still might get stuck with an uncomfortable bed.
3. Expect to pay moderate rates (by U.S. standards) at a Khartoum luxury hotel.
4. Pay next to nothing for one of the many budget accommodations in the city.
5. Ask about a shower before you stay at a guesthouse or other budget accommodation. Showers are not unusual but also not a sure bet.

Travel Around Khartoum

6. Choose between two main modes of transit. Taxis are plentiful and the preferred option for tourists, but the bus system is fairly reliable and cheap. The main bus station in Khartoum is at Souk Arabi.
7. Shop for deals at Souk Arabi. This is the city's largest market district, with textiles and exotic Sudanese delights in abundance.

Tips & Warnings

• The Sudan Ministry of Tourism and National Heritage has neither a Web site nor a central accommodations booking phone number.
• If your hotel has a Web site, try to book your room online. You'll save yourself a communications hassle and may have access to photos of guest suites, dining areas and other features of the property.
• To travel trouble-free to Khartoum, Americans must possess a passport that has been valid for at least six months as well as a Sudanese visa.
• Bring a dust mask you can keep on your person. Dust storms are frequent in Khartoum.
• Unless you like unbearably hot weather, visit during the winter months only.
• Despite the violence outside the capital, Khartoum is peaceful and full of friendly people.
• Sudan is a predominantly Muslim country. Most women wear sleeved shirts and skirts that extend below the knee.
• Virtually all Khartoum accommodations are run on a cash-only basis. Foreign currency like dollars and euros are accepted.
• If you are a woman and traveling alone, many budget hotels will not be available to you.
• If you are staying in a guesthouse, be advised that theft does occur (sometimes by the landlords themselves). If you're staying for an extended period, get the lock to your room changed.
• Make sure your valuables are safe on your person; Khartoum is a pickpocketer's paradise.