Travel Report for Sudan

Country Profile for
Sudan

TRAVEL REPORTS:

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TRAVEL REPORT

Last Updated: December 5, 2006 10:21 EST
Still Valid: December 8, 2006 21:51 EST

Sudan

1.	INTRODUCTION
2.	ATTENTION
3.	SAFETY AND SECURITY
4.	LOCAL TRAVEL
5.	NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE
6.	LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS
7.	ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD
8.	ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS
9.	MONEY

10.	GENERAL INFORMATION
11.	TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM
12.	ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION
13.	RETURNING TO CANADA
14.	INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS
15.	TRAVEL TIPS
16.	HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE
17.	FOR MORE INFORMATION
18.	ANNEX

1. INTRODUCTION

A Travel Warning has been added to this report. Section 2 has been updated.

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2. ATTENTION

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the region(s) specified below. Canadians in the specified region(s) should leave. (IDW4)

You are advised against all travel to El-Fasher, North Darfur, due to clashes between members of the Sudan Liberation Movement (SLM) and armed Arab militia forces. There have been reports of casualties and persons injured. Road blocks have been put up around the city by various forces. Exchanges of gun fire were also reported.

If you cannot avoid travel to El Fasher or are currently in El Fasher, we strongly recommend you take additional precautionary measures consisting of curtailed movements and avoid public areas such as the market areas. It is strongly recommended you leave El Fasher.

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the region(s) specified below. (IDW5)

You are advised against all travel to Darfur (especially along the Chadian border), to the south of Juba (inclusively), to the area along the

Uganda

and

Congo

border, and to the region bordering

Eritrea

(including Kassala). The conflict in Darfur has created a dangerous situation in Western Sudan, particularly outside the major towns. It also affects other areas of

Sudan

and Eastern Chad. Although the Darfur Peace Agreement was signed on May 5, 2006, between the Government of Sudan and the main rebel faction, SLM, the security situation in Darfur remains extremely volatile. There have been numerous incidents of fighting, looting, kidnapping and other violence, increasing in intensity over the last several months. A curfew is in effect. Attacks continue to be reported on civilian villagers and on foreigners, including humanitarian workers and African Union personnel, and have resulted in deaths, displacement of people and general instability. Further clashes, unrest and demonstrations are expected over the coming months in anticipation of a transition from an AU to UN peacekeeping force in Darfur.

Although the border between

Chad

and

Sudan

was reopened on August 8, 2006, you are advised against all travel to the Chad/Sudan border areas, where rebel groups are active and create an extremely insecure situation.

You are also advised against all travel to Malakal, Upper Nile State, where there is heavy fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA).
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OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to the region(s) specified below. (IDW9)

You are advised against non-essential travel to all other parts of southern Sudan.

A state of emergency has been in effect since December 1999. Instability persists in parts of the south and east (Kassala region) of the country. In the south, despite the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement in January 2005 that brought an end to the civil war, there is still significant tension, mainly due to the presence of the Lords Resistance Army (LRA). Foreigners working for aid organisations have recently been involved in attacks in this area. Although fighting is confined to areas distant from the capital and from places commonly visited by business people and tourists, there can be incidents anywhere, including in Khartoum. Even if the situation is now stabilized in the capital after violence erupted following the death of the first Vice President in July 2005, with considerable loss of life, other similar events could occur in the future.

There is an ongoing security threat to Westerners and Western interests in Sudan. Exercise appropriate caution, particularly in public places frequented by foreigners such as hotels, restaurants, and shopping areas. For national security reasons, individuals from diplomatic missions or international organizations could be subject to random body searches and searches of personal effects by Sudanese authorities. In February and March 2006, a number of anti-Western and anti-UN demonstrations took place in Khartoum and other major cities. Canadians should monitor local developments, avoid demonstrations, as well as register and remain in regular contact with the Embassy of Canada in Khartoum (see section 7 below).

Canadians in the oil development region (including Unity State, southern parts of Western Kordofan and Southern Kordofan States, Northern Bahr-al-Ghazal State, Northern Warab State, and Northwestern Jonglei State) should be aware of security threats. Rebels and disenfranchised groups have stated on several occasions that they regard oil installations as legitimate targets.
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Central African Republic has closed its border with Sudan on April 14, 2006.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada offers a registration service for Canadians travelling or residing abroad. Canadians who choose to travel to this country despite this warning should register with the responsible Canadian government office. Registration can be done on-line or by calling the responsible Canadian government office abroad to request a registration form.

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

Khartoum is one of the safest major cities in Africa; petty crime and muggings are rare, however, they are increasing with the recent growth in street kids.

Demonstrations can occur in Khartoum, particularly on a Friday. Curfews could be imposed in the event of unrest. Anyone who is outside without authorization during curfews may be arrested. Police roadblocks, at which papers are checked and vehicles searched, can be set up at midnight or earlier in the capital, and this practice has become more common. Visitors should remain vigilant, respect curfews, stop at roadblocks, and avoid large crowds and demonstrations.

Banditry is increasing throughout western Sudan, especially in the Darfur region (particularly the Jebel Marra mountain range and the Chad-Sudan border region), where several incidents have resulted in deaths.

Landmines may be laid in rural areas in many parts of the country. According to the UN, at least 11,000 kilometres of road are suspected to be mined or blocked by landmines.

The land borders with Chad, Eritrea, Kenya, Libya, and Uganda are effectively closed. At the current time, the land border with Ethiopia is open, but this situation is subject to change without notice.

The only regular surface access to Sudan is by ferry (for passengers and cars) from Aswan (Egypt) to Wadi Halfa. Attempting to cross any other land borders is extremely dangerous and not recommended. There are ferries to and from the Red Sea ports of Port Sudan and Suakin.

Commercial overland expeditions occasionally traverse Sudan's land borders with Libya, the Central African Republic, and Chad, but these routes are dangerous. There are landmines in many areas outside the main cities, including border areas.

All foreign citizens must register with the Aliens' Registration Office, Ministry of the Interior (located west of the Presidential Palace) within three days of arrival in Khartoum; two passport-style photos are required. Foreigners must obtain a permit before travelling outside of Khartoum and must also register with the police at their new destination within 24 hours of arrival. Travel permits can be obtained from the Ministry of Interior in Khartoum after arrival or through certain hotels; passport-style photos are required. For destinations to the north of Khartoum, permits are normally granted, with some delay. For travel to destinations within South Sudan, a travel permit is also required from the Government of South Sudan. Except in the case of persons working for registered humanitarian organizations, it is extremely difficult to obtain permits for destinations to the south of Khartoum. The carrying of permits is rigorously enforced.

Persons interested in visiting archaeological sites (e.g. the pyramids at Meroe) also need to obtain authorization from the Department of Antiquities prior to travel outside Khartoum. Authorization is usually granted without significant delay.

The Department publishes a booklet entitled Her Own Way: Advice for the Woman Traveller, specifically targeted at female travellers. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian women and encourage them to travel safely.

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4. LOCAL TRAVEL

Road conditions are poor. Many roads are sand tracks. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is required for overland travel except on the Khartoum-Kassala-Port Sudan, Khartoum-Atbara, and Khartoum-Obeid highways. Only experienced and fully equipped travellers should undertake desert travel; basic equipment should include a shovel, metal ramps for heavy sand, and a Global Positioning System (GPS), and spare fuel and water supplies. Roadblocks are common. Travellers should have their identity and vehicle documents readily available. Unpredictable local driving habits, pedestrians, and roaming animals pose risks. Taxis are available in urban centres but are generally old and uncomfortable.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.

Public transportation is limited outside of major urban areas. A weekly train service operates between Wadi Halfa and Khartoum. Trains are dilapidated, but service is punctual. Only top-of-the-line buses should be used; most other buses are irregularly scheduled, poorly maintained and very badly driven. Fatal accidents involving buses are routine.

Sudan Airways runs air services between most cities, mostly on aged Antonovs; however, aircraft may not meet international standards and there are serious maintenance concerns even on the more modern aircraft. A Sudan Airways Boeing 737 crashed in July 2003, killing 115 passengers. There have been crashes involving Sudan Airways and other carriers operating within

Sudan

, involving loss of life. A number of air transport options are now available for internal travel, but their safety records vary. Canadians should be extremely cautious and carefully evaluate implications for their security and safety before deciding to undertake internal air travel.

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5. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

The rainy season reaches its peak in July and August. Some roads may become impassable during this period due to flooding. Travellers should keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly. For information on severe flooding occurring in August 2006, see section 2 of this Report.

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6. LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail or death sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 7 below. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The Department publishes A Guide for Canadians Imprisoned Abroad, specifically targeted at incarcerated Canadians. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian detainees, their families, and friends about available assistance and advice.

By Western standards, Sudan is a traditional, conservative society. Islamic practices and beliefs are closely adhered to in the country's customs, laws, and regulations. Women should dress conservatively (i.e. no short skirts, bare arms, or low necklines); neither men nor women should wear shorts in public and they should be extremely discreet when swimming.

Public displays of affection between members of the opposite sex are frowned upon; overtly homosexual behaviour will render an individual liable to immediate arrest, possibly imprisonment, even the death penalty. Religious proselytization is also frowned upon and may lead to arrest.

Islamic Sharia Law is applied in the states of Northern Sudan, and still is in Khartoum. It is prohibited to import or consume alcohol (even in private) in these areas and to import magazines or books of a sexually explicit nature. Bags are routinely searched upon arrival and departure at the Khartoum airport.

A permit for photography is required. Even with a permit, it is strictly prohibited to photograph airports, military areas, bridges, drainage stations, broadcast stations, public utilities, slum areas, or beggars.

It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving.

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7. ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following address:

Sudan - KHARTOUM, Embassy of Canada
Address: 29 Africa Road, Block 56, Khartoum 1, Sudan
Postal Address: P.O. Box 10503, Khartoum 1, Sudan
Tel.: 249 183 56 36 70
Fax: 249 183 56 36 71
E-mail: khrtm@international.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, you may call the Canadian Embassy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and follow the instructions.

Ethiopia - ADDIS ABABA, Embassy of Canada
Address: Old Airport Area, Nefas Silk Lafto Sub City, Kebele 04, House No.122, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Postal Address: P.O. Box 1130, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Tel.: 251 (0) 11-371-3022
Fax: 251 (0) 11-371-3033
E-mail: addis@international.gc.ca
Internet: www.ethiopia.gc.ca

You may also call the Department in Ottawa at 613-996-8885. It is not possible to call collect from Sudan to Canada.

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8. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Sudanese authorities and, to the best of our knowledge, was valid on March 28, 2006. However, entry and exit requirements are subject to change.

It is the sole prerogative of each country to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the country or countries to be visited. Conditions are subject to change.

Foreign Affairs Canada’s Office of Protocol provides contact details for the Embassy of the Republic of Sudan, where you can obtain further information on entry and exit requirements.

All Canadians travelling to Sudan, including southern Sudan (which is not advised), must be in possession of a visa and a valid canadian passport. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the expected date of return. Those travelling in opposition-held areas without a valid visa issued by the Government of Sudan are subject to arrest and detention should they encounter government forces. Allow at least one month between application and the intended date of travel. Visas are not granted automatically to prospective travellers.

Any traveller to Sudan with a stamp from Israel in his/her passport will automatically be denied entry.

Canadian citizens of Sudanese origin are strongly advised to use only their Canadian passport when travelling in and out of Sudan. Use of Sudanese documents could result in problems in departing the country.

Tourist Visa: Required

Business Visa: Required

Student Visa: Required

Transit Visa: Required

Travellers should arrive at Khartoum's international airport at least two hours, but preferably three hours, before departure. Departure formalities are complicated and there is no board to indicate departure and arrival times. There is a departure tax of US$20, payable only in U.S. dollars, and change is often not available. Currency exchange facilities cannot be relied upon to be open.
Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify visa requirements for this and other countries, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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9. MONEY

The currency is the Sudanese dinar (SDD). It is non-convertible outside the country and the export of the dinar is prohibited. Visitors should carry sufficient funds in U.S. dollars, euros or pounds sterling to cover their expenses for the duration of their stay and should assume that they will have to pay for all international flights booked in Sudan in U.S. dollars, euros, or pounds sterling cash. Transferring U.S. or Canadian dollars to Sudan is impossible.

Credit cards are no longer accepted in Sudan. Hotel bills must be paid in cash. Traveller's cheques are not accepted. There are no ATMs. You should bring U.S. dollars, euros, or pounds sterling.

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10. GENERAL INFORMATION

Sudan (capital: Khartoum) is located in northeastern Africa, bordered by Libya, Egypt, the Red Sea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Central African Republic, and Chad. Tourist facilities are limited. The locations frequented by tourists are the archeological sites of Meroe and Jebel Barkal, the mountains of Jebel Marra (there has been serious violence in these areas in the past), and dive sites on the Red Sea. Hotel reservations should be made in advance and confirmed. The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken. The work week is Saturday to Thursday; some offices may also be closed on Saturday. Working hours are typically 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

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11. TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Medicine Program Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada continues to closely monitor and report on occurrences of avian influenza A (H5N1), or "bird flu", in humans and in birds. Further information on avian influenza A (H5N1) and recommendations for travellers can be found on the Public Health Agency of Canada's Travel Medicine Web site as well as on the World Health Organization's Web site. For more information, see our Current Issues on Avian Influenza.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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12. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

Medical facilities are well below Western standards (e.g. it is not advisable to have surgery). Emergency medical evacuation can also be difficult; air ambulances are usually not available at on short notice. You should ensure your health plan coverage includes Sudan; many policies do not.

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13. RETURNING TO CANADA

Please consult the Current Issue on returning to Canada.

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14. INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS

Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child from another country, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

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15. TRAVEL TIPS

Please consult our Traveller's Checklist.

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16. HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE

Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

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17. FOR MORE INFORMATION

N/A

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18. ANNEX

N/A

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