The weather in Khartoum is very hot in the summer months, with temperatures ranging from the high 80s up to 120 F. During the winter months, it is cooler and dryer, with temperatures between 70F and 90F. The rainy season runs from July to September, bringing the temperatures down a little.

Credit cards and travellers cheques are NOT accepted in Sudan. Travellers should have sufficient cash - preferably US dollars or Pounds Sterling - to last their trip.

 

New arrivals should exercise caution when they begin driving in Khartoum. Although the traffic is not fast moving local drivers pay little attention to the rules of the road. It is common for vehicles not to have working brake lights, indicators or even brakes. Drivers tend to pull out in front without any notice or signal, irrespective of who has right of way.

Driving at night is particularly hazardous. Unfortunately many vehicles do not have lights that work or sometimes just one light. Please drive slowly and extremely carefully at night. If you are driving on the outskirts of Khartoum remember that roads have a habit of ending abruptly and turning into dirt tracks.

There are no up to date street maps and people therefore often use their own hand drawn maps with invitations. Khartoum can be confusing, so make sure you have clear directions. When new to the city you would probably be wise to follow someone else if going to a difficult location.

 

It is possible to travel outside Khartoum however some journeys require permits. Advice should be sought locally before leaving Khartoum.

 

Driving in the desert can be an exhilarating experience, but certain rules should be followed. A four wheel drive car is essential. Always check tyres including spare, water, oil etc. before setting out as well as topping up with fuel. For trips of over a day a second spare wheel and large containers of water and extra fuel cans are strongly recommended. Travellers should travel in convoys of more than one vehicle. If you break down stay with the vehicle or at least in sight of it.

The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine advises that malaria is a risk all year round in Khartoum and in all other areas of the country. Precautions should be taken. Avoid mosquito bites. Wear trousers and long sleeve shirts. Use insect repellent. Spray bedrooms with insect repellent and use mosquito nets and air conditioning in bedrooms. However, travellers should remember that no anti-malarial tablets or other actions are effective with complete certainty and if you develop fever during your travels or any time after your return (particularly within 2 months) you should seek medical advice.