Sudan🇸🇩
Sudan, located in northern Africa, is bordered by seven countries, including Egypt to the north, Ethiopia to the east, and Chad to the west. Its relationship with neighboring countries has been historically influenced by conflict and shared socioeconomic interests. Sudan is known for its vast desert landscapes, including the Sahara, as well as its rich history, housing the pyramids of Meroe and archaeological sites of Kerma. The vibrant culture can be appreciated through traditional music, dress, and cuisine. Despite the persistent political instability, Sudan's people are known for their hospitality and resilience. Travelers are often recommended to explore Khartoum’s bustling markets, marvel at Sudan's forgotten pyramids and experience the annual Sufi spiritual ceremony in Omdurman.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid political discussions and demonstrations due to instability.
- Avoid drinking tap water to reduce the risk of waterborne diseases.
- Avoid public displays of affection if you’re LGBTQ+ as it is illegal.
- Avoid night travel outside major cities due to poor road conditions.
- Avoid unlicensed taxi or private carriers, use only verified services.
- Avoid travel to conflict-affected regions like Darfur, Blue Nile, and South Kordofan.
- Avoid flaunting wealth or electronics, as it may attract crime.
- Be cautious when taking public transportation due to safety concerns.
- Avoid independent exploration of desert areas due to potential landmines.
- Avoid consuming raw or undercooked food to minimize food poisoning risks.
Overall
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Crime 🔫
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Criminal activity in Sudan is moderately high, particularly in the capital city, Khartoum, and in regions such as Darfur, Blue Nile, and South Kordofan affected by residual conflict. Common crimes include theft, robbery, and petty crimes. Violent crimes and crimes targeting foreigners are less common but do occur. The low ranking is due to the persistent instability and insufficient law enforcement in the country.
Terrorism 💣
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Sudan has experienced several terrorist incidents, particularly associated with extremist groups. A prominent incident occurred in 2007 when gunmen attacked the African Union peacekeeping base in Haskanita, killing several soldiers. More recently, in 2020, there was a failed assassination attempt against Sudan's Prime Minister. Terrorist threats remain a concern, particularly near conflict zones and in other sensitive geopolitical areas.
War ⚔️
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Sudan has been plagued by intermittent civil war since it achieved independence in 1956. The most detrimental were the First and Second Sudanese Civil Wars, causing countless deaths and displacements. In 2003, the conflict in Darfur resulted in a substantial number of casualties and was coined genocide by some international bodies. Tensions remain, especially in the conflicted regions of Darfur, South Kordofan, and the Blue Nile.
Natural Disasters 🌊
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Sudan's location in the Sahara Desert makes it susceptible to certain natural disasters like droughts. Flash floods are also common during the rainy season (June to October) especially in Khartoum. The country experienced severe floods in 2020, affecting hundreds of thousands of people and damaging infrastructure. However, earthquakes and other seismic activities are relatively rare.
Medical Care 🏥
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Medical facilities in Sudan, especially outside of Khartoum, are limited and do not meet Western standards. The public healthcare system faces various challenges, including inadequate infrastructure and a shortage of medical supplies. Private sector healthcare, while of a higher standard, is out of reach for many due to the high cost.
Tap Water Quality 💧
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Tap water quality in Sudan can be inconsistent and often unsafe for direct consumption. While tap water in major cities like Khartoum may be treated, contamination is possible due to poor sanitation. It is recommended to use bottled or appropriately treated water for drinking and other consumptive uses.
Disease Burden 🤒
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Sudan bears a high disease burden, characterized by both communicable and non-communicable diseases. Malaria, diarrheal diseases, and lower respiratory infections are among the top causes of death. Inadequate healthcare coupled with poor sanitation increases risk of disease transmission. Outbreaks of diseases like cholera and dengue fever have been reported in recent years.
Corruption 💸
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Corruption is a serious and pervasive issue in Sudan. It manifests in various forms, including bribery, embezzlement, and nepotism. Its impact has been highlighted in several instances, most notably the extensive corruption allegations against former President Omar al-Bashir which became a focal point in the 2019 Sudanese protests.
Safety for Women ♀️
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While women in Sudan have achieved significant gains in terms of political representation and legal rights, the societal norms and practices can still put them at risk. Incidences of gender-based violence, including domestic violence, are problematic. Cultural and legal measures have been enacted to improve women's safety, but their effectiveness varies.
Safety for Queer People 👬
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Sudan remains highly intolerant of LGBTQ+ individuals due to social conservatism and legal restrictions. Homosexuality is criminalized, and cultural attitudes are overwhelmingly negative. LGBTQ+ individuals risk legal penalties and social ostracization, making the country unsafe for queer residents and visitors.
Censorship 📺
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Sudan has implemented broad censorship of media and internet usage. During the 2019 Sudanese protests, an internet blackout was enforced as a form of controlling information dissemination. Freedom of expression remains constrained, although the transitional government that assumed power in 2019 has promised to improve press freedom.
Public Transportation 🚌
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Public transportation in Sudan, especially outside major cities, can be unreliable and uncomfortable due to aging infrastructure and vehicles. Khartoum has a more developed network of buses and taxis. However, safety can be a concern due to variable driving practices and occasional accidents.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Overall, Sudan presents a challenging safety landscape due to ongoing political unrest, crime, terrorism, and a high prevalence of communicable diseases. Visitors should remain alert, avoid areas of conflict, take precautions when using public transportation, and drop expectations of Western-standard healthcare. Consuming untreated water or food can lead to health problems. Thus, it is essential to procure a comprehensive travel and health insurance before visiting.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
There are several embassies in Sudan, mostly located in its capital, Khartoum. This includes embassies of the USA, UK, Germany, France, Canada, Australia, and various African, Asian, and European countries.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Before traveling to Sudan, it's recommended to get vaccinations for diseases like Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Meningitis, and routine vaccinations like Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), and Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
Sudan is home to a variety of wildlife, a small portion of which can be dangerous. These include various snake species, scorpions, and wild dogs. Mosquitoes are a particular concern due to the risk of transmission of diseases such as malaria.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter Sudan. An exception includes Malaysia, with which Sudan has a visa-free agreement. Visa applications should be made sufficiently in advance at a Sudanese embassy or consulate.
💲 Currency
Sudan's official currency is the Sudanese pound (SDG). Currency exchange can be performed at the airport, local banks, and authorized currency exchange centers.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
The acceptance of international credit cards is limited in Sudan. Many businesses prefer cash transactions. However, international credit cards may be accepted at certain international hotels and big businesses in major cities.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Sudan's complicated political and economic scenario makes work and travel challenging. Opportunities for foreigners, especially in the formal sector, are limited. It is advisable to secure a job before moving, particularly given the current economic instability.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
The cost of travel and living in Sudan are relatively inexpensive by Western standards. However, fluctuating currency rates and economic instability can affect costs. Budget for increased costs if planning to stay at international hotels and eat at upscale restaurants.