Visiting Sudan is more complicated than visiting its northern neighbour, Egypt. However, a visit here is considered to be the highlight of a trans-African tour, with many people returning to explore its hidden treasures.
The historical sites, pyramids (smaller than those in Egypt, but as interesting) and desert villages beg to be explored, while the people of Sudan are said to be among the most hospitable in Africa.
Visas, Permits and Documents Sudan
Visas for Sudan are expensive to obtain and regulations apply to everyone except Egyptian nationals. Expect to pay US$160 and expect to wait for 2 weeks, unless the visa is applied for in Cairo. Nationals of America or Britain may have to wait up to a month, unless the visa is obtained through a Sudanese tour operator. If the latter is the case, expect to pay around $150 or more for the service.
If there are stamps in your passport to indicate that you have visited, or have any ties with Israel, the visa will be denied.
Application can be made at the Sudanese embassy in Cairo or at an embassy in your country of residence, if there is one.
After arriving in Khartoum, Port Sudan, Gallabal or Wadi Haifa, you must register within three days of arrival. This can be done in Khartoum at the Alien's Registration Office. Copies of your passport will need to be presented, plus approximately $45 per passport.
Transit Permits within Sudan
A travel permit is required when visiting any area outside of Khartoum, except northern villages and sites along the Nile towards Egypt. Once again, expect to part with around $45 and be prepared for a wait of up to 2 days. This permit can be obtained at the Ministry of Humanitarian affairs in Khartoum. Once again, copies of passports and photos will need to be obtained.
Neighbouring countries to Sudan, such as Egypt and Ethiopia have Sudanese embassies where transit visas can be obtained. Expect to wait for a couple of days, alternatively employ the services of tour operators, who can usually bypass the slow process of obtaining visas.
Complying with the regulations may be rather irritating and time consuming by western standards, but just be patient and go along with it and you will be assured of a peaceful and pleasant stay.
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Fleur Hupston - Fleur Hupston is a professional freelance writer based in Botswana, Southern Africa. From this unique perspective, she writes travel ...
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