Things to Do in South Sudan

About South Sudan

Where the White Nile carves through vast wetlands and ancient cultures thrive in Africa's youngest nation, South Sudan unveils a landscape that few have witnessed but many will never forget. This is a land where territorial boundaries fade against endless horizons of floodplains and savannah, where communities maintain traditions untouched by mass tourism, and where the raw authenticity of travel still exists. South Sudan invites the intrepid to discover a corner of Africa that remains genuinely uncharted—a place where every journey writes its own story.

Travel Tips

• Currency and Cash: The South Sudanese Pound is highly volatile and US dollars are widely preferred and often required for hotels, flights, and larger purchases—bring clean, newer USD bills in small denominations as change can be difficult to obtain.

• Travel Permits: Movement outside of Juba requires travel permits from the Ministry of Interior's Relief and Rehabilitation Commission, which can take several days to process, so plan your itinerary well in advance and work with a local contact or organization.

• Communication: Internet connectivity is limited and expensive outside major towns, so purchase a local SIM card from providers like Zain or MTN upon arrival in Juba, and download offline maps and essential information before traveling to remote areas.

• Cultural Respect: South Sudan is home to over 60 ethnic groups with distinct customs—always ask permission before photographing people, dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees), and learn basic greetings in Juba Arabic like "Keif al hal?" (How are you?) to show respect.

When to Visit

The optimal time to visit South Sudan is during the dry season from December to March, when temperatures range from 25-35°C and unpaved roads remain passable, though February can see temperatures spike to 40°C in northern regions like Malakal. April and May mark the transition period with increasing humidity and sporadic rainfall that turns much of the country's infrastructure—largely consisting of dirt roads—into impassable mud, making travel outside Juba extremely difficult. The wet season from June to November brings torrential rains, particularly heavy in July and August when 150-200mm of monthly rainfall floods the Sudd wetlands and isolates many communities, though wildlife viewing in places like Boma and Bandingilo National Parks peaks in October-November as migrating antelope herds concentrate on drier ground. Independence Day celebrations on July 9th offer unique cultural experiences but coincide with challenging weather and occasional security concerns. Budget travelers should note that costs remain relatively consistent year-round due to limited tourism infrastructure, though the December-February window offers the crucial advantage of reliable transportation and reduced malaria risk, while the extreme heat of March-April (often exceeding 38°C with 70% humidity) can be physically demanding for travelers unaccustomed to equatorial climates.