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The cost of food in Sudan can vary greatly depending on the location, with meals at inexpensive restaurants starting from around $3 USD and monthly grocery budgets for one person ranging from $150-$300 USD.
Quick Facts
Food Costs Overview
Food prices in Sudan are generally higher than the regional average, driven up by the country's high inflation rate of 138.8% in 2022. The cost of eating out can be relatively expensive, especially in mid-range and fine dining restaurants, where a meal for two can cost between $20-$50 USD. However, traditional Sudanese cuisine, such as gurassa (flatbread) with molokhiya (stew), can be found at inexpensive restaurants and street food stalls for a fraction of the cost. Home cooking is a common practice in Sudan, with many locals preferring to buy ingredients from local markets and cook traditional meals at home.
The high cost of food in Sudan is also driven by the country's reliance on imports, which can be expensive due to transportation costs and taxes. Additionally, the country's agricultural sector is still developing, which can lead to shortages and price fluctuations for certain products. Despite these challenges, Sudan has a rich culinary tradition, with popular dishes such as kisra (flatbread) and ahwa (coffee) being staples of the local diet. Eating out is not as common in Sudan as in other countries, but it is becoming more popular, especially among the younger population.
Grocery Prices
| Item | Price (USD) | Local Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Milk (1 liter) | $1.50 | 225 SDG | |
| Bread (white loaf) | $0.50 | 75 SDG | |
| Eggs (dozen) | $1.20 | 180 SDG | |
| Rice (1 kg) | $1.80 | 270 SDG | |
| Chicken breast (1 kg) | $4.50 | 675 SDG | |
| Beef (1 kg) | $6.00 | 900 SDG | |
| Apples (1 kg) | $2.50 | 375 SDG | |
| Tomatoes (1 kg) | $1.00 | 150 SDG | |
| Potatoes (1 kg) | $0.80 | 120 SDG | |
| Onions (1 kg) | $0.60 | 90 SDG | |
| Local cheese (1 kg) | $3.00 | 450 SDG | |
| Water (1.5L bottle) | $0.80 | 120 SDG |
Restaurant Prices
| Meal Type | Price Range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Street Food / Local Eatery | $2-$5 | (typical dishes) |
| Casual Restaurant | $5-$10 | (one person) |
| Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people) | $20-$30 | (3 courses) |
| Fine Dining (2 people) | $50-$70 | (upscale) |
| Local Beer (draft, 500ml) | $5-$7 | |
| Imported Beer (330ml) | $8-$10 | |
| Cappuccino | $2-$3 | |
| Soft Drink (can) | $1-$2 |
Supermarket vs Local Market
The prices of groceries can vary significantly between supermarkets and local markets in Sudan. Supermarkets tend to be more expensive, with prices up to 50% higher than those found at local markets. However, supermarkets often offer a wider range of products, including imported goods, and can be more convenient for those who prefer to shop in a single location. Local markets, on the other hand, offer a more traditional shopping experience, with vendors selling fresh produce, meats, and other staples. Bargaining is a common practice at local markets, and buyers can often negotiate prices down by 10-20%.
When shopping at local markets, it's best to buy fresh produce, such as fruits and vegetables, as well as meats and spices. These items are often cheaper and of better quality than those found at supermarkets. However, for packaged goods, such as rice, pasta, and canned goods, supermarkets may be a better option. It's also worth noting that local markets can be crowded and chaotic, and buyers should be prepared to haggle and navigate through the stalls.
Local Food Tips
- The cheapest way to eat in Sudan is to buy gurassa (flatbread) and ful medames (stewed fava beans) from street vendors or local eateries.
- Molokhiya (stew) is a staple of Sudanese cuisine and can be found at many restaurants and markets.
- Kisra (flatbread) is a cheap and filling option for breakfast or lunch.
- Avoid buying imported goods, such as meat and dairy products, as they can be expensive and of lower quality than local alternatives.
- Ahwa (coffee) is a popular drink in Sudan and can be found at many cafes and restaurants.
- For a unique and affordable dining experience, try a traditional Sudanese diwan (guest house), where you can eat and drink with locals.