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Khartoum National Zoo

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Khartoum National Zoo (Sudan)

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The Sudan National Zoo in Khartoum, once known as one of the oldest and most significant zoos in Africa, has a storied history. Founded in 1902 during the Anglo-Egyptian administration, it was originally situated in a prime location directly on the Nile, in the area where the Corinthia Hotel stands today. The zoo housed an impressive variety of native wildlife, including lions, giraffes, and rare Sudanese antelope species. For decades, it served as a vital educational and recreational site for both the local population and international visitors. In the 1990s, the original grounds were closed, leading to a decentralization of the animal collections. Ongoing efforts to revitalize the zoo at a new location reflect the nation's desire to preserve its zoological heritage and commitment to wildlife conservation. Despite various challenges, the memory of the original zoo remains an integral part of Khartoum's urban history and symbolizes the rich biological diversity found throughout Sudanese territory.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C222528313435333132322723
Rain mm000135445820900

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Khartoum National Zoo is a family-friendly outdoor and indoor zoo in the center of the capital. You can observe various animals up close and explore the well-maintained facilities.
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Typical hours
The zoo is typically open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. On Fridays and public holidays, hours may differ, so please check ahead.
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Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the zoo for personal use. Please avoid flash to avoid startling the animals.
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Time needed
Allow about two to three hours for a leisurely stroll. Children will likely want to stay longer, especially during feeding times.
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Combine with
Combine the zoo visit with the nearby Sudan National Museum for a cultural day. A walk along the Nile is also recommended.
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Getting there
The zoo is centrally located in Khartoum and well accessible by public transport or taxi. There is an entrance right on the main road.
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Insider tip
Come early in the morning when animals are most active. Bring snacks and water, as on-site facilities may be limited.

Geography

Coordinates
15.61000, 32.53000

Facts

  • Founded in 1902 under British-Egyptian administration.
  • Was one of the first zoological gardens on the African continent.
  • The original site on the Blue Nile was cleared in 1995.
  • Housed rare species such as the Sudanese shoebill stork.
  • The zoo's lions were famous for their size and health.
  • Served as a center for biological studies for nearly a century.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Mac Nimir BridgeMac Nimir Bridge<1 km · NEExplore →
GNPOC TowerGNPOC Tower1 km · SWExplore →
Khartoum BahriKhartoum Bahri2 km · EExplore →
Burri BridgeBurri Bridge3 km · NExplore →
NTC TowerNTC Tower3 km · NWExplore →
Khartoum Amusement ParkKhartoum Amusement Park3 km · NEExplore →
Nile Wildlife NurseryNile Wildlife Nursery4 km · EExplore →
Al-Nilin MosqueAl-Nilin Mosque4 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Khartoum National Zoo (2)

Atanye🏛 museum

A local art gallery situated near the former Sudan National Zoo area.

Palace Museum🏛 museum

A museum exhibiting presidential history located near the former Sudan National Zoo.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is the zoo family-friendly?
Yes, it is a popular destination for families with children.
When is the best visiting time?
In the morning, before it gets too hot in the direct sun.
Is there a café there?
Yes, there are small stalls with drinks and snacks.
Is the zoo wheelchair accessible?
The paths are partially paved, but only limited accessibility.
How long does a tour take?
Allow about 1 to 2 hours for the visit.
Khartoum National Zoo: where is it located?
Khartoum National Zoo is located in Sudan.
Khartoum National Zoo: what is there to see?
Highlights include Atanye, Palace Museum.
Khartoum National Zoo: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Khartoum National Zoo: why is it worth visiting?
The Sudan National Zoo in Khartoum, once known as one of the oldest and most significant zoos in Africa, has a storied history.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
Africa
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Africa
More places in Sudan →

Nearby cities

Ad-Damir — Khartoum National Zoo (Sudan)
Ad-Damir
Ad-Damir is the capital of the Region NR state in Sudan.
Shendi — Khartoum National Zoo (Sudan)
Shendi
Shendi is an important settlement in the Sudanese state of Region NR.
Berber — Khartoum National Zoo (Sudan)
Berber
Berber is an important settlement in the Sudanese state of Region NR.

History & landmarks

Musawwarat es-Sufra — Khartoum National Zoo (Sudan)
Musawwarat es-Sufra
An extensive Meroitic temple complex famous for its labyrinthine corridors and countless elephant depictions.
Temple of Apedemak in Naqa — Khartoum National Zoo (Sudan)
Temple of Apedemak in Naqa
A remarkably well-preserved ancient temple complex in the desert, dedicated to the lion-headed Nubian god Apedemak.
Musawwarat es-Sufra — Khartoum National Zoo (Sudan)
Musawwarat es-Sufra
A vast Meroitic temple complex in the desert, famous for its Great Enclosure and elephant carvings.
Pyramids of Meroe — Khartoum National Zoo (Sudan)
Pyramids of Meroe
An impressive collection of ancient Nubian pyramids that once served as burial grounds for the kings of Kush.

Nature

Blue Nile — Khartoum National Zoo (Sudan)
Blue Nile
A main source river of the Nile that flows through Sudan.
White Nile — Khartoum National Zoo (Sudan)
White Nile
The longer source river of the Nile that flows through Sudan.
Nile — Khartoum National Zoo (Sudan)
Nile
The longest river in the world, which flows through Sudan.
Shendi Reach — Khartoum National Zoo (Sudan)
Shendi Reach
A reach of the Nile near Shendi.
Kosti Lake — Khartoum National Zoo (Sudan)
Kosti Lake
A lake on the White Nile near Kosti.
Atbara — Khartoum National Zoo (Sudan)
Atbara
The last significant tributary of the Nile.

More places

Tuti Island Park — Khartoum National Zoo (Sudan)
Tuti Island Park
A park on Tuti Island for family leisure.
Tuti Island — Khartoum National Zoo (Sudan)
Tuti Island
An island at the confluence of the White and Blue Nile in Khartoum.
Khartoum Botanic Garden — Khartoum National Zoo (Sudan)
Khartoum Botanic Garden
A peaceful garden for families in the capital.
Nile River Cruise — Khartoum National Zoo (Sudan)
Nile River Cruise
A relaxing boat trip on the Nile for the whole family.
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Khartoum Amusement Park
An amusement park with rides for children.
Nile Wildlife Nursery — Khartoum National Zoo (Sudan)
Nile Wildlife Nursery
A center for protecting young wildlife on the Nile.
Blue Nile Fishing Village — Khartoum National Zoo (Sudan)
Blue Nile Fishing Village
A traditional village on the banks of the Blue Nile.
Jebel Shabluka — Khartoum National Zoo (Sudan)
Jebel Shabluka
A rocky mountain area near the Sabaloka Gorge.