History

Sudan’s modern history is intertwined with Egypt and colonialism. Until the 1890s, Sudan was deeply integrated with Egyptian politics and existed under various Egyptian empires until the British arrived and colonized the country. Around 1953, the Egyptian revolutionary movement began to gain strength and led to the country’s eventual independence from Britain. Later, in 1956, Sudan officially became independent of both Britain and Egypt.

During the year prior to independence, civil war erupted between northern Sudan and southern Sudan. Besides the regional differences, Sudan has suffered from religious clashes: while northern Sudan was closely affiliated with Egypt and was mainly Arab Muslim, the southern part of the country was predominantly Christian. Political instability didn’t help matters.

Most of the world is aware of the civil unrest that has been plaguing Sudan for decades. Since a ceasefire in 2002 and after the ethnic killings in Darfur, Sudan has been making progress toward achieving stability and peace. 

The Top 5: Local Advice

1. We recommend sticking to Khartoum and Omdurman during your visit. They are the safest and consequently the biggest tourist destinations in the country.

2. Pay attention to specific rules in any city that you stay in. Curfews are implemented in most large cities, usually from about midnight until four in the morning.

3. Sudan is an Islamic country. Be mindful and respect the culture in order to forestall any negative attention.

4. No American credit cards can be used in Sudan, because of embargoes. Make sure you change your money before traveling or at the airport at an authorized vendor, and also be mindful when you’re carrying cash on your person.

5. The official languages are Arabic and English. Learn some basic words in Arabic; even greetings will suffice.

Travel Video

.

123