Things to Do in South Sudan in February

February Weather in South Sudan

32°C (90°F) High Temp

21°C (70°F) Low Temp

35mm (1.4 inches) Rainfall

45% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season with virtually no rain - only 35mm (1.4 inches) across the entire month makes road travel reliable and wildlife viewing optimal
Rivers are at their lowest levels, concentrating wildlife around water sources in Boma and Badingilo National Parks - best game viewing of the year
Cooler morning temperatures of 21°C (70°F) make early activities comfortable before the intense midday heat
Clear skies provide excellent visibility for the spectacular Sudd wetlands aerial views and photography opportunities

Considerations

Extreme midday heat reaching 32°C (90°F) with UV index of 9 limits outdoor activities to early morning and late afternoon slots
Low river levels make White Nile boat excursions less scenic and some routes inaccessible north of Juba
Dust storms become frequent in the northern regions, affecting visibility and respiratory comfort for sensitive travelers

Best Activities in February

Boma National Park Wildlife Safaris

February offers the year's best wildlife viewing as animals concentrate around shrinking water sources. The dry conditions mean excellent road access and dust-free game drives in early morning when temperatures are manageable at 21°C (70°F). This is prime season for spotting elephants, buffalo, and antelope before they disperse with the rains.

Booking Tip: Book through licensed tour operators in Juba at least 3-4 weeks ahead as vehicle permits are limited. Expect costs of $150-200 USD per person per day including transport and park fees. Early morning departures (5:30am) are essential - see current safari options in booking section below.

White Nile Cultural River Journeys

While water levels are lower, February's calm conditions make for peaceful boat trips to Dinka and Shilluk villages near Juba. The dry season means communities are accessible by land backup routes, and clear weather provides stunning sunset photography opportunities. Cooler evening temperatures make these 3-4 hour excursions comfortable.

Booking Tip: Arrange through established operators in Juba 2-3 weeks prior. Typical costs range $80-120 USD per person including boat, guide, and cultural permissions. Afternoon departures (2pm) avoid morning heat but end before peak UV hours. Check current river tour options in booking section below.

Sudd Wetlands Aerial Photography Tours

February's clear skies and minimal cloud cover create perfect conditions for scenic flights over the world's largest tropical wetland. With 45% humidity and excellent visibility, photographers capture stunning aerial shots of the papyrus channels and seasonal islands. The stable weather patterns make flights reliable.

Booking Tip: Book scenic flights through Juba International Airport operators minimum 5-7 days ahead due to limited aircraft availability. Costs typically $200-350 USD per person for 45-60 minute flights. Morning flights (7-9am) offer best lighting and cooler cabin temperatures. See current flight tour options in booking section below.

Traditional Cattle Camp Visits

Dry season is when Dinka and Mundari cattle camps are most accessible, with herders moving animals to permanent water sources. February's favorable weather allows comfortable overnight stays in these temporary settlements, experiencing authentic pastoralist culture. The clear, dry conditions make the 2-3 hour drives from Juba manageable.

Booking Tip: Arrange through cultural tourism operators in Juba with 10-14 days advance notice for community permissions. Expect $100-160 USD per person per day including transport, cultural guide, and camp accommodation. Essential to book with operators who have established community relationships. Check current cultural tour options in booking section below.

Juba Market and City Heritage Tours

February's lower humidity makes walking tours through Konyo Konyo Market and Juba's colonial architecture more comfortable than wet season months. Early morning tours (7-10am) take advantage of cooler 21°C (70°F) temperatures while markets are most active. The dry conditions mean better preservation of historical sites and clearer access.

Booking Tip: Book city tours through established Juba-based guides 3-5 days ahead. Costs typically range $40-70 USD per person for half-day tours including market visits and historical sites. Morning tours essential due to afternoon heat reaching 32°C (90°F). See current city tour options in booking section below.

Nimule National Park Border Adventures

February's dry conditions provide reliable road access to South Sudan's southern border park. The low rainfall means excellent hiking conditions along the Albert Nile, and wildlife viewing is enhanced as animals concentrate near permanent water sources. Clear weather offers stunning views across to Uganda's Murchison Falls.

Booking Tip: Arrange through operators offering Uganda-South Sudan cross-border packages, booking 2-3 weeks ahead for permit processing. Expect $120-180 USD per person per day including park fees and transport. Early morning activities crucial due to February heat. Check current border park tour options in booking section below.

February Events & Festivals

Throughout February

Dry Season Cultural Festivals

Various Dinka and Nuer communities hold traditional celebrations during peak dry season when travel between villages is easiest. These include cattle blessing ceremonies and harvest thanksgiving rituals, though specific dates vary by community and aren't formally scheduled.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

High SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 9 with minimal shade outside urban areas

Lightweight long-sleeved shirts in light colors for UV protection during 32°C (90°F) midday temperatures

Quality dust mask or bandana - frequent dust storms in northern regions affect breathing comfort

Insect repellent with DEET despite dry conditions - tsetse flies remain active near water sources

Portable shade like travel umbrella for wildlife viewing when temperatures soar after 11am

Electrolyte supplements and large water bottles - dehydration risk high in low 45% humidity

Sturdy closed-toe shoes for rocky terrain at national parks and protection from thorns in dry vegetation

Light fleece or jacket for early morning game drives starting at 21°C (70°F)

Power bank and solar charger - unreliable electricity outside Juba combined with high device usage for photos

Cash in small USD bills - limited ATM access and preference for US currency throughout the country

Insider Knowledge

Schedule all outdoor activities before 11am or after 4pm - locals retreat indoors during peak heat hours when temperatures hit 32°C (90°F) and UV index peaks at 9

Carry extra water beyond what you think you need - the 45% humidity is deceptively low for East Africa and dehydration hits quickly without warning

Book internal flights instead of road travel for distances over 200km (124 miles) - while roads are dry, the heat makes long drives exhausting and dust storms reduce visibility

February is prime season for authentic cultural experiences as communities are settled at permanent water sources rather than migrating - this access won't last once rains begin in March

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating the intensity of dry heat - visitors plan full-day outdoor activities not realizing that 32°C (90°F) with 9 UV index is dangerous without proper preparation and timing

Not bringing enough cash - ATMs are scarce outside Juba and card payments virtually nonexistent, leaving travelers stranded when dollars run low

Assuming all roads are passable just because it's dry season - while better than wet season, many routes still require 4WD and local knowledge for safe navigation