Khartoum Layover Guide (KRT)

What are you looking for in KRT?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Khartoum Airport (KRT) is an international airport located in Khartoum, the capital of Sudan. It’s situated approximately 5 km (3.1 miles) from the city center. The airport began operations in the 1940s. Khartoum is Sudan’s largest city and a key economic and cultural hub. It is known for its location at the confluence of the Blue and White Nile rivers and for its rich history and vibrant local traditions.

Can you leave Khartoum Airport (KRT) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
To exit Khartoum International Airport (KRT) during a layover, most travellers must obtain a Sudan entry visa in advance or on arrival (if eligible); there is no separate transit visa. Without a valid visa, you cannot clear immigration and must stay in the transit area. Plan accordingly before booking. (more info)

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

• Sudan National Museum Home to prehistoric artifacts, including Nubian relics and ancient pottery, this museum offers fascinating insight into Sudan’s rich heritage, showcasing ancient civilizations along the Nile in a well-curated collection. (Time required: 1.5 hours / Airport to here: 25 min by taxi)
• Confluence of the Nile The meeting point of the Blue and White Nile creates a striking visual contrast, ideal for photography and quiet reflection at a scenic riverbank viewpoint overlooking the mingling waters of two great rivers. (Time required: 45 minutes / Airport to here: 30 min by taxi)
• Omdurman Souq A vibrant maze of stalls selling spices, textiles, pottery, and local crafts, Omdurman Souq immerses visitors in traditional Sudanese culture amid bustling crowds, colorful market scenes, and the aroma of street food. (Time required: 1.5 hours / Airport to here: 35 min by taxi)
• Tuti Island Accessible via a footbridge, this peaceful island at the Nile confluence offers scenic bike rides, riverside cafés, lush gardens, and local farms away from the city’s hustle and bustle, perfect for a tranquil escape. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: 30 min by taxi)
• Mahdi’s Tomb The tomb and museum of Muhammad Ahmad al-Mahdi commemorate Sudan’s historical leader, featuring grand architecture, insightful displays on the 19th-century uprising, and exhibits illuminating colonial and revolutionary narratives. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: 40 min by taxi)
• Al-Mogran Family Park A riverside park where families picnic under shady acacia trees, enjoy boat rides, and watch the Nile’s confluence, offering a tranquil green escape within Khartoum’s urban landscape and lively weekend vibe. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: 25 min by taxi)
• Presidential Palace A historic complex featuring colonial-era buildings, governmental monuments, manicured gardens, and Sudanese ceremonial halls, the Presidential Palace offers guided tours (appointment required) and panoramic views of the Nile banks. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: 20 min by taxi)
• Nile Sunset Cruise Board a traditional wooden felucca for an unforgettable sunset cruise along the Nile, enjoying gentle breezes, city skyline views, and warm local hospitality on the open deck as daylight fades. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: 30 min by taxi)

Things to Do in Khartoum Airport (KRT)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
Khartoum International offers a first-class VIP lounge airside in the International Terminal, accessible via airline membership or pay-per-use. Furnished with comfortable seating, complimentary refreshments and Wi-Fi, it provides a calm retreat. Premium services include private rooms through third-party providers like Airssist for personalized concierge, snacks and quiet workspaces. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
No on-site hotels at KRT. The closest accommodations lie within 4–5 km, including Corinthia Hotel Khartoum (4.1 km) and Acropole Hotel (4 km) offering airport shuttles, pools and dining. Downtown properties can be reached by a 10-minute taxi ride for around 400 SDG. Advance booking is recommended for early-morning departures. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
Khartoum Airport lacks dedicated rest zones, sleep pods or quiet rooms. Passengers may rest on seating in departure lounges or leave terminal for nearby hotels. Temperatures can be high; plan layovers during cooler hours. Bring a travel pillow and eye mask for comfort when sleeping on hard benches or floor mats.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Wi-Fi is available inside the VIP lounge only, often free for lounge guests. No public free Wi-Fi in terminals. Passengers outside the lounge can use paid mobile data or purchase an eSIM/SIM for internet access. Lounge Wi-Fi speeds vary; bandwidth may slow during peak periods.

SIM/eSIM Card: Physical SIM cards from Zain, MTN or Sudani are sold at airport kiosks in arrivals; a passport is required for registration. Airport rates are about 10–20 % higher than city shops. eSIM plans can be purchased online through providers like Gigago or AloSIM for instant activation upon landing. » Find out where and how to buy SIM card/eSIM in our Khartoum Airport (KRT) sim/eSim page.

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Taxis queue outside Arrivals; fare to central Khartoum is roughly 400 SDG (≈ 10 USD). Fares are negotiable, no meters. A prepaid taxi desk may offer fixed rates. Vehicles run 24/7 but consider additional late-night surcharges. Always confirm price before departure to avoid misunderstandings.

Train: There is no rail link to Khartoum Airport. The nearest train station is in central Khartoum, served by national rail lines. Passengers must take taxi or bus from the airport to the city station. No plans exist for airport rail service in the foreseeable future.

Bus: Public minibuses and buses stop outside the terminal; they serve central Khartoum and Omdurman at low fares (around 5 SDG). Services operate during daylight and into the evening but may be crowded. Schedules vary; check with local drivers. No official airport bus.

Shuttle: Shared private shuttles can be booked in advance online (e.g., ShuttleAfrica) for airport-to-hotel transfers. Rates depend on distance and group size. Hotel-provided shuttles may require reservation and run on fixed schedules. Confirm pickup point and time when booking.

Car rentals: Major brands (Avis, Budget, Europcar) maintain counters in Arrivals. Drivers need a valid international license and credit card for deposit. Rates start at ~50 USD/day including basic insurance. Vehicles range from economy to SUVs. Advance online booking secures availability and better rates. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: Short-term parking is adjacent to terminal buildings; first 15 minutes are free, then hourly rates apply. Long-term lots offer daily and weekly rates. All lots are uncovered; park at your own risk. Credit cards and cash accepted. Security patrols operate but there are no covered garages.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

Khartoum Airport does not provide luggage storage or locker facilities. Passengers must carry belongings through transit or use hotel storage services. For secure baggage options, store items at city-center hotels or private lockers downtown before returning to the airport. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Khartoum Airport (KRT) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks