The meeting point of the Blue and the White Nile rivers, the Sudanese capital of Khartoum is a huge, sprawling city that has embraced modern culture while still retaining its own traditional character.

Khartoum has quite a frenetic pace of life, and its busy streets and bustling markets are always on the go from the early hours through to late at night. This makes it an enchanting and chameleon-like location, and its character shifts according to the time of day.

Book a flight to Khartoum with Qatar Airways and explore a city that is a classic example of modern life in ancient surroundings.

Khartoum, the Sudanese capital, is located where the White Nile meets the Blue Nile. It is a confounding mix of then and now. Its skyline, glittering with towering glass buildings, stands alongside colonial structures. While it may be home to Ancient Egyptian temples and historic palaces, a trip to Khartoum will show you that it also embraces the present.

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is one of China’s busiest air transport hubs and is the country’s third largest airport. Just 27 kilometres north of the city, it is also one of China’s most modern airports, opened in 2004. Passengers travelling from Guangzhou with Qatar Airways will discover a bright, incredibly efficient and ultra-modern starting point to their journey, where staff go out of their way to make your journey as comfortable as possible.

Transportation and parking

Travel in China is incredibly well organised, and Guangzhou is no different. If you are driving then the airport is served directly by its own Airport Expressway, which avoids many of the usual traffic jams in the centre of the city. A metro service goes straight to the station and you’ll also find five Airport Express and six Airport non-stop bus services between the city and the airport, calling at major hotels, plazas and train stations. Taxis are plentiful and can be arranged by your hotel concierge, or pre-booked. The airport has both indoor and outdoor parking, which is relatively close to the terminals.

Arriving at the airport

Passengers flying from Guangzhou with Qatar Airways depart from the International Departures hall. There are four check-in islands and 102 check-in counters, and the process is very quick and efficient, as long as all your documentation is in order. Islands F and J are the most likely locations for Qatar Airways flight check-ins, but do consult the information boards to be sure. Allow approximately two hours to clear customs and check-in.

Facilities and amenities

Guangzhou International Airport has excellent facilities, ranging from business centres offering photocopying, fax and internet services, through to mother and baby changing rooms, a post office and banking facilities. A range of retail outlets and food vendors is located on the first floor of the domestic lounge, or you can head for the Jinlong Food Street by Gates 17 and 18 in the Departure Hall for tasty, local food and on-the-go snacks. Retail outlets include jewellery, leather and cosmetics shops, as well as the usual travel essentials.

The meeting point of the Blue and the White Nile rivers, the Sudanese capital of Khartoum is a huge, sprawling city that has embraced modern culture while still retaining its own traditional character.

Khartoum has quite a frenetic pace of life, and its busy streets and bustling markets are always on the go from the early hours through to late at night. This makes it an enchanting and chameleon-like location, and its character shifts according to the time of day.

Book a flight to Khartoum with Qatar Airways and explore this enigmatic city for yourself. From presidential palaces to the natural beauty of two of the most important rivers in Africa, huge souqs and ceremonial splendour, Khartoum has it all.

Tourist attractions

The natural splendour of the Blue Nile and the White Nile are undoubtedly one of Khartoum’s biggest draws. Where the two meet (the Confluence) can be seen at Al-Mogran, located at the very end of Nile Street.

For the best view stand on the old metal bridge and you’ll see the two rivers meeting right underneath your feet.

The Sudan Presidential Palace Museum is an excellent starting point for visitors to learn more about the culture of Sudan. Souq Omdurman is said to be one of the largest markets in Africa, and a rich hunting ground for genuine souvenirs and good quality accessories.

Head for the handicraft street towards the northern end of the market.

Every Friday (except during Ramadan) head to the Hamed al-Nil tomb to witness a colourful display of Sufi dancing.

Alternatively (and if you’re prepared to travel a little further out of town) on Friday afternoons at 4pm outside the Sita Al Haj Yousef souq you’ll find two teams of Nufa wrestlers battling it out in front of hundreds of spectators!

Travel Considerations

Flights to Khartoum with Qatar Airways land at Khartoum International Airport. Visa restrictions for entry into the country will depend on your country of origin, length of stay and whether your trip is for business or pleasure. Before you fly to Khartoum please check the visa and passport requirements.