The U.S. Deparment of State has issued a travel warning for Sudan, advising travelers to avoid travel to the Darfur region, the Blue Nile and the Southern Kordofan states, as well as to carefully consider the risks of travel to other areas in the country. This warning replaces the State Department’s previous warning issued on June 22, 2011 to remind travelers about the ongoing security concerns in the region.
“While the Government of Sudan has taken some steps to limit the activities of terrorist groups, elements of these groups remain in Sudan and have threatened to attack Western interests,” the State Department warning said. “The terrorist threat level throughout Sudan and particularly in the Darfur region remains critical.”
Violent incidents in these regions can break out with little warning, the State Department warns, and U.S. citizens found in these areas without permission from the Sudanese Government could face detention by government security forces. Travelers are advised to avoid public demonstrations and rallies, keep a low profile, vary travel time and routes, exercise caution while driving and ensure that their passport and Sudanese visa are valid and up to date. Violent crime, including kidnapping, armed robbery, home invasion and carjacking is also high, particularly in the Darfur region. The State Department recommends that U.S. citizens maintain safe haven and evacuation plans.
U.S. citizens can find emergency messages regarding Sudan at http://sudan.usembassy.gov/warden_messages.html. The State Department asks travelers who intend to travel to Sudan despite this warning to keep up to date with important safety and security announcements by enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program at https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/.
Read the full warning here.
