Things to Do in South Sudan in December

December Weather in South Sudan

31°C (88°F) High Temp

18°C (64°F) Low Temp

5mm (0.2 inches) Rainfall

45% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season with minimal rainfall (only 2 rainy days) making remote area access possible via dirt roads that become impassable during wet months
Cool morning temperatures of 18°C (64°F) perfect for early wildlife viewing at Boma and Badingilo National Parks when animals are most active
Clearest visibility for mountain views in Eastern Equatoria - the Imatong Mountains are spectacular in December's dry air
Harvest season celebrations across Dinka and Nuer communities with traditional dances and ceremonies welcoming visitors

Considerations

Extreme UV index of 9 with zero cloud cover - sunburn happens within 15 minutes without SPF 50+
Dust storms common in afternoon hours (2-5pm) reducing visibility and making outdoor activities uncomfortable
Limited accommodation fills quickly as December is peak season for NGO workers and diplomats visiting before year-end

Best Activities in December

Boma National Park Wildlife Viewing

December offers the best wildlife viewing conditions with animals congregating around permanent water sources. The dry weather means clear dirt road access and no muddy hiking trails. Early morning temperatures of 18°C (64°F) are perfect for 3-4 hour game drives when elephants and various antelope species are most active.

Booking Tip: Book through registered operators in Juba 2-3 weeks ahead as park permits are limited. Tours typically cost $150-250 per day including park fees and 4WD transport. Ensure operators have emergency communication equipment given remote location.

Nile River Cultural Tours

Low water levels in December reveal sandy beaches perfect for riverside camping and cultural exchanges with local fishing communities. The dry season means boats can navigate shallow areas safely, accessing remote Shilluk and Dinka villages that showcase traditional pottery and fishing techniques.

Booking Tip: Arrange through Juba-based operators who work directly with village chiefs. Typical cost $80-120 per day including boat transport and village permission fees. Book 10 days ahead as community approval is required.

Imatong Mountains Hiking

December's clear skies offer unobstructed views from South Sudan's highest peaks. Cool morning temperatures make the challenging hikes to Kinyeti Peak (3,187m/10,456ft) manageable, while dry trails reduce slip hazards. This is the only month when multi-day mountain camping is comfortable.

Booking Tip: Essential to use local Acholi guides from Torit who know safe routes and water sources. Expect $60-90 per day for guides plus camping equipment rental. Book 2 weeks ahead through Torit guesthouses.

Sudd Wetlands Bird Watching

December marks peak migration season with over 400 bird species concentrated in accessible areas of the world's largest tropical wetland. Dry weather means stable boat access and clear photography conditions. The cooler mornings reduce heat haze for better long-distance viewing.

Booking Tip: Specialized birding guides cost $40-70 per day and should be arranged through Juba eco-tourism operators. Boat transport adds $80-100. Best booked 1-2 weeks ahead as few operators offer this specialized service.

Traditional Market Photography Tours

December harvest season brings vibrant produce markets in Juba, Wau, and Malakal. The dry weather means colorful displays aren't damaged by rain, and dust-free conditions are ideal for photography. Local sorghum beer brewing reaches peak activity during harvest celebrations.

Booking Tip: Photography guides familiar with cultural sensitivities cost $25-40 per day. Market access fees vary by location ($5-15). Independent travel possible but guided tours provide cultural context and permission protocols.

December Events & Festivals

Throughout December

Dinka Harvest Festivals

Community-wide celebrations featuring traditional wrestling matches, cattle displays, and cultural dances. Villages across Lakes and Warrap states welcome respectful visitors to observe ceremonies that have remained unchanged for centuries.

December 15th

Independence Day Celebrations

National holiday on December 15th with cultural performances, military parades in Juba, and community gatherings. The largest celebration occurs at Dr. John Garang Mausoleum with traditional music and food vendors.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 9 with zero cloud cover, sunburn occurs within 15 minutes

Lightweight long-sleeve shirts for morning temperatures of 18°C (64°F) and UV protection during midday heat

Dust mask or bandana for afternoon dust storms common between 2-5pm in December

Sturdy hiking boots for rocky mountain terrain and protection from thorns in national parks

Insect repellent with 30%+ DEET - mosquitoes remain active in wetland areas despite dry season

Water purification tablets - bottled water scarce outside Juba, local sources need treatment

Flashlight with extra batteries - power outages common and mountain areas have no electricity

Cash in small USD bills ($1, $5, $10) - credit cards not accepted anywhere, change often unavailable

Quick-dry pants for river activities and easy washing in areas with limited laundry facilities

First aid kit including anti-diarrheal medication - medical facilities extremely limited outside main towns

Insider Knowledge

Fuel shortages peak in December before new year deliveries - arrange transport early morning when stations have supply, expect 2-3 hour queues at petrol stations

Photography permits required for government buildings, bridges, and airports - apply at Ministry of Information in Juba, costs $25 and takes 2-3 days processing

Local mobile networks (MTN, Gemtel) work best early morning and evening - internet connectivity drops significantly midday when everyone is online

Bargaining expected at markets but not for fuel, accommodation, or official fees - start at 40% of asking price for crafts and produce

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating distances - 100km (62 miles) takes 3-4 hours on rough roads, not the 1 hour visitors expect from Google Maps

Wearing shorts and tank tops to rural areas - modest dress essential for cultural respect and avoiding insect bites in grasslands

Arriving without confirmed accommodation - December bookings fill weeks ahead, walk-in availability extremely rare in all towns