Things to Do in Juba, South Sudan جنوب السودان

Juba, the capital and largest city of South Sudan, sits along the White Nile River and serves as the country's political and economic center. Despite being one of the world's youngest capitals, having gained prominence after South Sudan's independence in 2011, Juba offers visitors a unique glimpse into a nation in transition, with its blend of traditional African culture and emerging urban development. The city presents an authentic African experience away from typical tourist trails, featuring bustling markets, colonial-era architecture, and the scenic White Nile waterfront. While infrastructure is still developing and tourism facilities remain basic, Juba provides adventurous travelers with opportunities to witness a country building its identity, experience genuine Sudanese hospitality, and explore the cultural heritage of various ethnic groups that call South Sudan home.

Top Things to Do in Juba

White Nile River Boat Trip

Take a scenic boat journey along the White Nile River to experience Juba from the water and observe local fishing communities. The river serves as a lifeline for the city and offers beautiful sunset views along with opportunities to see traditional fishing methods and riverside settlements.

Booking Tip: Arrange through local hotels or tour operators for $20-40 per person. Best times are early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat. Ensure the boat has safety equipment and negotiate price beforehand.

Konyo Konyo Market Exploration

Immerse yourself in local culture at Juba's largest and most vibrant market, where vendors sell everything from fresh produce and spices to traditional crafts and textiles. This bustling marketplace offers an authentic glimpse into daily life and provides opportunities to interact with locals from various ethnic backgrounds.

Booking Tip: Visit early morning (7-10 AM) for the freshest goods and cooler temperatures. Bring small denominations of South Sudanese pounds and be prepared to negotiate prices. Consider hiring a local guide for $10-15 to help navigate and translate.

All Saints Cathedral Visit

Explore this significant Anglican cathedral that serves as an important religious and historical landmark in Juba. The cathedral represents the country's Christian heritage and offers insights into the role of faith in South Sudanese society and history.

Booking Tip: Free to visit during daylight hours, but dress modestly and respectfully. Sunday services provide cultural insight but arrive early as they can be crowded. Small donations are appreciated for maintenance.

University of Juba Campus Tour

Visit South Sudan's premier educational institution to learn about the country's efforts in higher education and development. The campus offers insights into academic life in the world's newest country and opportunities to interact with students and faculty.

Booking Tip: Contact the university administration in advance to arrange visits during weekdays. Tours are typically free but may require advance notice. Best visited during term time (avoid holiday periods) for the most authentic experience.

Traditional Music and Dance Experience

Attend or participate in traditional South Sudanese music and dance performances that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the country's diverse ethnic groups. These events often feature traditional instruments, colorful costumes, and storytelling through movement.

Booking Tip: Inquire at hotels or cultural centers about scheduled performances, typically costing $5-15. Weekend evenings are most common for cultural events. Some restaurants and hotels organize performances for guests with advance notice.

Getting There

Juba International Airport serves as the main gateway to South Sudan, with flights from Nairobi, Kampala, Khartoum, and other regional capitals operated by airlines like Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, and local carriers. Overland travel is possible but challenging due to road conditions and security considerations - most visitors arrive by air. Ensure you have proper visa documentation and yellow fever vaccination certificates before travel, as these are strictly enforced at entry points.

Getting Around

Transportation in Juba primarily consists of motorcycle taxis (boda-bodas), shared minibus taxis, and private car hires. Boda-bodas are the most common and affordable option for short distances, costing around 50-200 South Sudanese pounds per trip. For longer journeys or multiple stops, hiring a private car with driver is recommended and can be arranged through hotels. Walking is possible in the city center during daylight hours, but roads can be unpaved and dusty, especially during dry season.

Where to Stay

Juba City Center

Hai Malakal

Munuki

Hai Cinema

Thongpiny

New Site

Food & Dining

Juba's dining scene reflects its multicultural population with restaurants serving Sudanese, Ethiopian, Eritrean, Ugandan, and Kenyan cuisines alongside local South Sudanese dishes. Popular local foods include kisra (flatbread), ful medames (fava beans), and grilled meats. The Da Vinci Restaurant, Nile Palace Hotel, and various local eateries around Konyo Konyo Market offer diverse options. International hotels provide familiar Western dishes, while street food vendors offer affordable local specialties. Due to limited infrastructure, dining options can be basic, and it's advisable to eat at established restaurants recommended by your accommodation.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Juba is during the dry season from December to March when temperatures are more manageable and rainfall is minimal, making transportation and outdoor activities easier. April and May can be extremely hot with temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F). The wet season from June to November brings heavy rains that can make roads impassable and complicate travel plans. December to February offers the most comfortable weather conditions with cooler temperatures and clear skies, though this is also when dust levels can be higher due to harmattan winds.

Insider Tips

Always carry cash in small denominations as credit cards are rarely accepted and ATMs are limited

Dress conservatively and respect local customs, especially when visiting religious sites or markets

Stay updated on current security situations and register with your embassy upon arrival, as conditions can change rapidly

Things to Do in Juba