Sudan in January: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for January
Average temperature across Sudan in January.
City Weather in January
| City | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Khartoum | 30° | 15° | 0 mm | very high | Mild |
| Omdurman | 30° | 15° | 0 mm | very high | Mild |
| Khartoum North | 30° | 15° | 0 mm | very high | Mild |
| Nyala, South Darfur | 31° | 14° | 0 mm | very high | Mild |
| Port Sudan | 27° | 20° | 4 mm | high | Mild |
| Kassala | 33° | 16° | 0 mm | very high | Warm |
| El-Obeid | 30° | 13° | 0 mm | very high | Mild |
High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.
Northern Desert & Nile Valley (Wadi Halfa, Dongola, Meroe)
Late-night temperatures can drop sharply here, even if daytime heat is intense; January nights at Wadi Halfa and the Meroe pyramids often feel cool compared with the daytime 20-25°C sun. Days are dry and bright - perfect for visiting the archaeological sites when the low humidity keeps the skies clear - though mornings can be dusty. Pack a warm layer for evenings and strong sun protection for daytime exploration along the Nile and desert tracks.
The Khartoum & Central Nile Corridor (Khartoum, Omdurman, Wad Medani, Gezira)
January mornings often feel sharp along the Nile but the days warm quickly into pleasant 20-25°C weather-ideal for strolling the confluence at Khartoum or visiting Omdurman markets. The dry air keeps dust down and tractors in the Gezira irrigation scheme are active, so rural scenery is easy to enjoy. Bring layers for cooler evenings and expect the tourist-friendly rhythm of town life.
Kordofan & Darfur (El Obeid, El Fasher, Nyala, Jebel Marra)
January’s clear skies and mild days make El Obeid and Darfur’s plains pleasant for travel; mornings can be cool, especially up on Jebel Marra where temperatures drop. With fields dormant and little dust compared with the spring months, it’s a reasonable time for overland travel on main routes. Pack layers for cooler nights and be aware that services outside larger towns remain limited.
Blue Nile, South Kordofan & the Southern Agricultural Belt (Damazin, Sennar, Roseires)
January’s mornings in Damazin and Sennar are mild and dry, with the Nile plain pleasantly warm and great for boat trips near Roseires Dam. The agricultural belt is quiet after the harvest, offering easier access to local villages. Mosquito numbers are lower this time of year, so river-side nights are comfortable with just a light sheet needed.
Red Sea Coast & Eastern Highlands (Port Sudan, Suakin, Kassala, Red Sea Hills)
January offers pleasantly warm days on the coast and much cooler nights inland in Kassala’s foothills; Port Sudan’s sea breeze makes diving and boat trips enjoyable. The Red Sea clarity is excellent for underwater visibility and Suakin’s ruins are comfortably walkable. Pack light layers for evenings in Kassala where temperatures drop more than on the coast.