Things to Do in South Sudan in June

June Weather in South Sudan

32°C (90°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

180mm (7.1 inches) Rainfall

85% Humidity

Is June Right for You?

Advantages

Wildlife viewing at its absolute peak - animals congregate around permanent water sources, making game drives incredibly productive with 80% higher sighting rates than dry season
Dramatically reduced tourist numbers mean you'll have national parks virtually to yourself - some camps see 90% fewer visitors compared to dry season
Photography opportunities are exceptional with lush green landscapes, dramatic storm clouds, and crystal-clear reflections in full rivers and swamps
Cultural immersion is most authentic as communities aren't focused on tourism - you'll experience genuine daily life and participate in seasonal agricultural activities

Considerations

Road travel becomes extremely challenging or impossible - many routes require 4WD with winches, and some areas become completely inaccessible for weeks at a time
Accommodation options are severely limited as many lodges and camps close entirely during rainy season, with only 30% of tourism facilities operating
Daily thunderstorms from 2-6pm disrupt outdoor activities and can strand you for hours - plan only morning activities and always have indoor backup plans

Best Activities in June

Boma National Park Wildlife Drives

June offers the most spectacular wildlife viewing as animals cluster around the few remaining water sources. The park's massive antelope migrations are at their peak, with over 1.2 million white-eared kob creating one of Africa's most impressive natural spectacles. Morning drives (6-11am) before afternoon rains provide incredible photography opportunities with lush green backdrops.

Booking Tip: Book through established Juba operators at least 3-4 weeks ahead as only 2-3 companies operate during rainy season. Expect to pay $150-200 per day including 4WD transport and guide. Ensure your operator has satellite communication and emergency extraction capabilities.

White Nile River Expeditions

The White Nile is at its most magnificent in June, running full and fast with dramatic rapids near Juba. River levels are perfect for both gentle scenic cruises and adrenaline-pumping white water sections. The surrounding wetlands teem with hippos, crocodiles, and over 100 bird species that are most active during rainy season.

Booking Tip: River operators charge $80-120 per person for half-day trips, $200-300 for multi-day expeditions. Book minimum 2 weeks ahead as boats require special rainy season maintenance. Look for operators with covered boats and emergency shelters.

Mundari Cattle Camp Cultural Experiences

June is cattle camp season when Mundari herders move to higher ground with their sacred cattle. This is the most authentic time to witness their incredible relationship with their animals - using cattle urine as antiseptic and sleeping beside their herds. The dramatic lighting during storm season creates otherworldly photography conditions.

Booking Tip: Cultural visits cost $100-150 per day including local guide and community fees. Arrange through Juba cultural centers at least 10 days ahead. Bring gifts like sugar, tea, and soap. Expect basic camping conditions and bring all your own food and water.

Nimule National Park Birding Tours

The park explodes with bird life during June as migratory species arrive for breeding season. Over 200 species including rare shoebill storks congregate in the expanded wetlands. Early morning walks (5:30-9am) offer the best viewing before daily storms, with some of Africa's most pristine birding environments.

Booking Tip: Specialized birding guides charge $60-90 per day with transportation from Juba adding $40-60. Book through established operators who maintain relationships with park authorities. Bring high-quality binoculars as rentals aren't available.

June Events & Festivals

June 16

SPLA Day Independence Celebrations

June 16th marks SPLA Day with military parades and cultural performances in Juba. It's one of the few times to see traditional dances from all ethnic groups in one location, plus experience genuine South Sudanese patriotic fervor.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof hiking boots rated for mud - regular rain boots won't provide ankle support needed for slippery terrain during 18+ rainy days

High-quality rain poncho and pants - umbrellas are useless in the fierce winds of afternoon thunderstorms that hit daily 2-6pm

Quick-dry synthetic clothing only - cotton stays wet for days in 85% humidity and breeds dangerous bacteria

Waterproof phone case and camera protection - electronics fail quickly in constant moisture and you'll regret not protecting expensive gear

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index of 7 combined with reflection off wet surfaces causes severe burns even on cloudy days

Malaria prophylaxis and strong DEET repellent - mosquito activity increases 300% during rainy season with standing water everywhere

Headlamp with extra batteries - power outages are daily during storms and backup lighting is essential for safety

Oral rehydration salts - combination of heat (32°C/90°F) and humidity causes rapid dehydration even without obvious sweating

Antifungal powder and cream - fungal infections are guaranteed in this climate without preventive care

Insider Knowledge

Never schedule anything between 2-6pm - this is when daily thunderstorms hit with zero exceptions. Locals call it 'government time' because even meetings stop for the rain

Carry $100+ in small US bills - credit cards don't work anywhere and ATMs are unreliable. Many services require cash payment upfront during rainy season due to access difficulties

Stock up on supplies in Juba before heading anywhere rural - shops outside the capital close randomly during heavy rains and restocking takes weeks when roads flood

Download offline maps and carry satellite communicator - cell towers fail regularly during storms and GPS is your only reliable navigation when visibility drops to zero

Avoid These Mistakes

Assuming roads marked on maps are passable - what looks like a 2-hour drive can become a 2-day ordeal when rivers overflow onto roads

Booking accommodations without confirming they're actually open - many lodges close entirely in June but still take bookings online

Underestimating how quickly weather changes - clear morning skies turn into violent storms within 30 minutes with no warning