Where to Stay in Khartoum
Sudan
|Pop. 2.0M
|3 neighborhoods covered
Khartoum at a Glance
8 categories
Top Tips for Khartoum
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Learn a few basic Arabic phrases; it significantly enhances interactions and can help navigate local customs and markets.
Getting Around
Always agree on the fare with taxi drivers *before* starting your journey, as meters are rarely used.
Watch Out For
Overcharging by taxi drivers (always agree on fare beforehand).
Solo Female Travel
Solo female travelers should exercise extreme caution. Dress modestly, avoid walking alone at night, and be prepared for potential harassment. It is highly recommended to travel with a trusted local or group.
Hidden Gems in Khartoum
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Omdurman Souk
FREEThis sprawling market is a sensory delight, offering everything from traditional crafts and spices to household goods. It's a fantastic place to practice your bargaining skills and immerse yourself in the vibrant local commerce.
Hamid Idris Tree Garden
FREEA surprisingly tranquil oasis in the city, this garden is a haven for birdwatchers and those seeking a peaceful escape. It's beautifully maintained with a wide variety of trees and shaded paths.
El Gash River
FREEWhile not a formal viewpoint, strolling along the banks of the El Gash River, especially during sunset, offers a serene perspective of local life and the changing colors of the sky. You can observe fishermen and families enjoying the cool evening air.
Al-Nilin Museum
This museum showcases Sudanese archaeology and ethnography, providing a fascinating glimpse into the country's rich history and diverse cultures. It's a less crowded alternative to larger institutions, offering a more intimate historical experience.
Sitt Al-Banat Restaurant
A local favorite for authentic Sudanese cuisine, this unassuming spot serves up delicious and traditional dishes in a welcoming atmosphere. It's the perfect place to try regional specialties like fasolia or kisra.
Sudanese Friends Cafe
More than just a cafe, this is a hub for cultural exchange and relaxation, often featuring live music and art displays. It's a great spot to meet locals, enjoy a coffee or a traditional Sudanese drink, and soak in the creative atmosphere.
What It Costs in Khartoum
Daily budget per person in SDG
π‘Premium destination pricing
SDG 5000/day
SDG 15000/day
SDG 40000/day
Where to Stay in Khartoum
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- National Museum of Sudan15 min
- Souk Omdurman20 min
- Presidential Palace10 min
Pros
- +Central location for sightseeing
- +Access to major attractions
- +Vibrant market atmosphere
Cons
- -Can be very crowded and noisy
- -Limited green spaces
Top stays in City Center
Grand Holiday Villa Hotel
$$Offers comfortable accommodation with good amenities in a central location.
Acacia Hotel Khartoum
$$A well-regarded hotel known for its service and convenient access to city attractions.
Al Salam Hotel Khartoum
$$Provides a reliable stay with standard facilities for business and leisure travelers.
Best for
Walk to
- Souk Omdurman5 min
- Hamad Al Nil Mosque15 min
- Old Omdurman20 min
Pros
- +Authentic local experience
- +Famous for its large market
- +More affordable options
Cons
- -Can be chaotic and overwhelming
- -Less tourist-oriented infrastructure
Best for
Walk to
- Local Cafes10 min
- Small Markets15 min
Pros
- +Quieter than the city center
- +Developing infrastructure
- +More modern housing options
Cons
- -Further from major tourist sites
- -Fewer established hotels
Areas to be cautious
- Unspecified peripheral areas: Lack of infrastructure, potential safety concerns due to less police presence, and distance from key attractions make these areas unsuitable for tourists.
Insider tip: Learn a few basic Arabic phrases; it significantly enhances interactions and can help navigate local customs and markets.
Safety in Khartoum
Exercise cautionSolo Female Travel
Solo female travelers should exercise extreme caution. Dress modestly, avoid walking alone at night, and be prepared for potential harassment. It is highly recommended to travel with a trusted local or group.
At Night
Nighttime in Khartoum requires significant caution. Many areas become deserted, and lighting can be poor. It is best to stay in well-lit, populated areas or use reputable transportation with pre-arranged drivers.
Emergency
199
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by taxi drivers (always agree on fare beforehand).
- 2Street vendors selling counterfeit goods.
- 3Requests for money from individuals claiming extreme hardship (while genuine need exists, discerning it is difficult).
Getting Around Khartoum
Transport, connectivity, and costs
βοΈ
Airport to City
Taxis are readily available outside Khartoum International Airport (KRT). Expect to pay around 5000-10000 SDG for a ride to the city center, depending on negotiation and traffic. The journey can take 30-60 minutes.
π«
Day Pass
Not applicable for the main public transport system.
Single: Shared taxis or minibuses within the city typically cost between 200-1000 SDG depending on the distance.
πΆ
Walkability
Car NeededUber, Careem
πΆ
WiFi
Fair10-25 Mbps
Public Transport
The primary public transport consists of minibuses and shared taxis. Within the city, there are no formal metro or tram lines. Travel is often point-to-point or via shared routes.
Ride-share
There are local ride-hailing apps like 'Gamaa' and 'Go' which operate similarly to Uber/Careem. Costs are generally affordable, around 1000-3000 SDG for short to medium trips.
Transport Tip
Always agree on the fare with taxi drivers *before* starting your journey, as meters are rarely used.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Larger hotels and some cafes offer Wi-Fi, but it can be unreliable and slow. Internet cafes are more common.
Coworking
Limited; some serviced offices or business centers may offer day passes, typically costing 10000-25000 SDG per day, but availability is not guaranteed and requires local inquiry.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Jan, Feb, Dec
Hotels & Accommodation in Khartoum
Browse and compare hotels, apartments, and hostels on the interactive map below.
Powered by Stay22. We may earn a commission from bookings made through this map.
Ready to book in Khartoum?
Compare prices across Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com and more.
Who Is Khartoum Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-time Visitors to Sudan
Offers the most concentrated access to key historical and cultural sites, making initial exploration easier.
Culture Enthusiasts
Provides an authentic immersion into Sudanese daily life, traditional markets, and local customs.
Budget Travelers
Generally offers more affordable accommodation and food options compared to the more developed city center.
Digital Nomads seeking quiet
Provides a more residential and less chaotic environment, with developing infrastructure suitable for longer stays.
About Khartoum
Khartoum, also spelled Khartum, is the capital city of Sudan as well as Khartoum State. With an estimated population of 7.1 million people, Greater Khartoum is the largest urban area in Sudan. Khartoum is located at the confluence of the White Nile β flowing north from Lake Victoria β and the Blue Nile, flowing west from Lake Tana in Ethiopia.
Frequently Asked Questions About Khartoum
Is Khartoum safe for tourists?
What is the average hotel price in Khartoum?
What area should I stay in Khartoum?
When is the best time to visit Khartoum?
How do I get around Khartoum?
Khartoum Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel