Here Is Our ‘Not To Do’ List When Visiting Khartoum!
It’s always a nostalgic feeling when you book your next vacation to Sudan; you know it’s going to be something special, right up until the very last minute.
Before you land in Khartoum International Airport, there are a few things you should keep in mind, we’ve helped put them together…
10. Ask someone to pick you up from the airport
Avoid taking one of the taxis that are lined up outside the airport – especially if it’s been sometime since your last visit. If you are unaware of the recent price hikes, you might just end up spending your holiday budget just on a ride home!
9. If you’re arriving past 10PM, make sure somebody knows
Full disclaimer – Sudanese people aren’t fond of surprises, even if you’ve been out of the country for a few weeks. It’s quite common that these surprises might just end up with a dramatic scene we’d prefer to avoid – SO, let people know, or at least a relative who can help break the news to your hosts 🙂
8. Fridays and Saturdays are your new best friends
Traffic in Khartoum can be suffocating on most days, especially on Thursdays and Sundays when Khartoum, Bahri, and Omdurman seems to feel like we’re moving around in circles.
On the bright side, the quiet and calm atmosphere on Fridays makes this day for your out and abouts in the city perfect – especially since everyone is at home sleeping the day off..
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7. Lookout for the sneaky bicycle riders!
In the mood for a stroll? We recommend walking around your house’s courtyard if you’re in the mood to empty your head in the evenings.
If you’re looking for a longer walk you could head over to Freedom Yard – and be sure to always keep a look out to make sure that your phone is in a safe spot.
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6. If your Raksha driver is wearing sunglasses, PASS!
Khartoum’s Raksha might be the easiest way to get around the city, but you need to know that this does not apply if you want to cross a bridge. Stopping a Raksha is very easy especially all around Khartoum’s busy streets – by yelling out RAKSHA you’ll find them lining up for you!
Now, your Raksha trip can always be negotiated and the rate can be reduced since they begin always with a higher rate. Keep an open mind and heart!
5. Don’t just dine in at the ‘recommended places’
Yes, Ozone is definitely one of our favourite place to dine at, and is one of the only thing that is rooted in everyone’s trip to Sudan.
But, make sure you don’t miss out on all the latest cafes and restaurants that are quickly gaining popularity around the city. Especially if you’re craving some local dishes – Kornok on Al Safaa Street for some hot shaaya and mullah taagalia! Check out our website and socials for more recomendations!
How ALL the people I’m following on IG spent their December
Go to sudan *after posting at the departure airport “guess where to”*
Go to Ozone repeatedly
Attend 99 weddings in 5 days
Camp in Tuti Island
Go on a boat
Go to one Rotation party
Post: leaving Sudan all sad n shit— A z a m ! (@SirAzamAlot) January 5, 2020
4. Don’t just stay in Khartoum
We love hanging around the city, especially with all the different activities you could be up to, but a trip to Sudan deserves a trip for some real serious views.
Don’t miss out on the beautiful countryside, particularly the east of the capital where the saturated colours of the nature is completely unique in comparison to what it’s like in Khartoum.
READ: FIVE Super Interesting Places To Visit In Sudan
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3. Avoid the rainy season
If you’re planning on visiting Sudan, opt for the cooler months of the year!
Visiting during the rainier seasons will mean, difficulty with transportation, possibility of contracting malaria and spoilt trainers.
Whereas the months of November, December & January are known for being popular for events and celebrations – so you’ll even get the chance to experience the amazing Sudanese wedding ceremonies! Winter vibes in Sudan are JUST different.
2. Be very specific about your coffee order
Tea and coffee are ubiquitous in Sudan and a huge part of everyday life here. Normally served on the sidewalks by women with mini stands, the coffee is Turkish-style, black, and with lashings of sugar.
You could also go for one that is flavoured with cinnamon and cardamom, and usually costs 200-300 SDG for a short cup. If you’re lucky, they might even have some fresh side dishes available!
Always specify the type of cup, how sweet you want it, and what flavours you prefer.
Traditional “Jabana” coffee in Khartoum, Sudan#SudaneseCulture #ثقافة_سودانية pic.twitter.com/A1LKerth7r
— ثقافة سودانية (@SudaneseCulture) July 18, 2017
1. Don’t refuse people’s invitations
You’ll be invited into people’s homes… a lot.
Emphasising the insane hospitality of the Sudanese culture, it’s humanly impossible to walk down any street without being invited into people’s home several times for tea or food.
Refusing the invitation can seem rude sometimes. Therefore, be careful.
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