Enjoy Khartoum’s Nile views
Flights to Khartoum will transport you to a city where traditional Islamic buildings and modern skyscrapers line the majestic Nile.
Warm and welcoming, modern travellers are only just starting to discover what this laid-back east African capital has to offer.
The ‘three-towns capital’ is made up of Khartoum, Bahri and Omdurman. Share tea with friendly locals and you might pick up a few travel tips too.
Take a day trip north for the magnificent ancient city of Meroë. Walk among 100 ancient pyramids hidden in endless golden dunes. On Fridays, stop by Hamed el-Nil Tomb to witness a traditional Sufi worship ritual.
For a glimpse into the daily life of the Sudanese people, Omdurman’s camel market should be on your to-do list. Or take in some local sport by heading to Bahri on Friday afternoons to watch a traditional Nuba wrestling match.
Book flight tickets to Khartoum with Etihad Airways to unlock an amazing adventure in Sudan.
Reasons to visit Khartoum
Discover Khartoum’s local camel market
On Saturdays, head to the west of Omdurman for the famous camel market. This cultural experience will give you a unique insight into Sudanese traditions. It’s estimated that more than 2,000 camels (bred in the Darfur region) are at these markets on any given day. If you’ve never been to a camel market before, it’s definitely worth the journey.
Try booking a visit with a tour company for easier and more comfortable transportation, and to get some hints and tips about the market from eagle-eyed locals.
Visit the Hamed el-Nil tomb
Head to the Hamed el-Nil tomb for an impressive example of Islamic architecture. The tomb is the location for several local festivals and celebrations.
This colourful worship is a true mix of creativity, music and culture. It begins with a procession towards the mausoleum and concludes to the sound of cymbals and drums in front of the tomb.
The nearby Mahdi’s tomb is an architectural wonder to check out while you’re in Omdurman.
Relax by the Nile
Khartoum is the city where the Blue Nile and White Nile meet. Wander along Nile Street any time of the day to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the sounds of this majestic river. At sunrise or sunset, the way the light reflects off the water is particularly spectacular.
During the day, stop by one of the many cafes and restaurants to chat with the locals and sample traditional Sudanese food. You can also take a relaxing boat ride along the Nile (depending on the strength of the currents).
Flying to Khartoum: FAQs
Where should I stay in Khartoum?
Hotels in Khartoum range from luxurious to budget options. Many upmarket hotels will only accept US dollars, so ensure you have enough. Good value hotel options are located near Al-Kabir Mosque in the centre.
Can I hire a car in Khartoum?
It’s possible to hire a driver while in Khartoum. Many travellers prefer this, as it means they can venture round the city more easily and also have better access to attractions found deeper in the desert. An alternative option is to use taxis, but you should negotiate the price before departure.
How many days should I spend in Khartoum?
One week in Khartoum is enough to see the major sites of the city. In this time, you’ll also be able to visit nearby destinations on day trips, such as Meroë.
What is Khartoum know for?
The capital city of Sudan is known as the place where the two branches of the Nile converge. It’s also where the National Museum of Sudan is located, so a great place to learn about this country.