Things to Do in South Sudan in June
June weather, activities, events & insider tips
June Weather in South Sudan
Is June Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak rainy season means lush landscapes and dramatically swollen rivers - the Nile becomes this churning, powerful force that's genuinely impressive to witness, and wildlife congregates around water sources making game viewing surprisingly productive
- Fewer international visitors means you'll have sites largely to yourself - Boma National Park sees maybe 5-10 tourists total in June versus the relative crowds of dry season, and local guides have actual time to spend with you
- Agricultural season is in full swing so markets overflow with fresh produce - mangoes are at their absolute peak, and you'll see traditional farming practices that have disappeared in many parts of Africa
- Cooler temperatures than the brutal dry season heat - while still warm at around 28-32°C (82-90°F), it's genuinely more comfortable than the 40°C-plus (104°F-plus) days you'd face in March or April
Considerations
- Road travel becomes genuinely difficult and sometimes impossible - what takes 3 hours in dry season can take 8 hours or require waiting days for roads to dry, and some areas become completely inaccessible until July or August
- Malaria risk increases substantially with standing water everywhere - you'll need to be absolutely religious about prophylaxis and mosquito protection, particularly in rural areas where healthcare access is already limited
- Flight schedules become unreliable with weather delays common - domestic flights get cancelled or postponed regularly, which is a real problem when your international connection doesn't wait, so build in serious buffer time
Best Activities in June
Nile River boat expeditions during high water season
June is actually one of the most dramatic times to experience the Nile system because water levels are surging. The river transforms from the sluggish dry-season flow into this powerful, churning waterway. You'll see hippos and crocodiles more easily as they're concentrated in the main channels, and birdlife is exceptional with migrants still present. The downside is that some smaller tributaries become too dangerous to navigate, but the main Nile routes are typically manageable. Morning departures work best before afternoon storms roll in, usually around 2-3pm.
Boma National Park wildlife tracking
The second largest wildlife migration in Africa happens here, and June catches the tail end as animals begin moving north with the rains. You won't see the massive herds of January-February, but what you will see is concentrated wildlife around remaining water sources and dramatically green landscapes that are genuinely beautiful. The park is essentially empty of tourists - you might be the only visitors that week. That said, roads are challenging and you'll need a seriously capable 4x4 with experienced drivers who know which routes are passable.
Juba cultural market exploration and local community visits
June is actually ideal for experiencing daily life because agricultural markets are at their most vibrant. Konyo Konyo Market becomes this incredible sensory experience with fresh produce piled high, and you'll see traditional foods that aren't available during dry season. Early morning visits around 6-8am are most comfortable before heat and humidity peak. The rainy season also means more people are in town rather than dispersed to rural areas, so cultural centers and community organizations have fuller schedules of activities.
Sudd wetlands birdwatching expeditions
The Sudd is one of the world's largest wetlands and June is exceptional for birdlife. Water levels are high so access is actually easier by boat than during low water when you're navigating through mud. You'll see shoebills, Nile lechwe, and hundreds of other species. The landscape is otherworldly - this vast floating vegetation ecosystem that changes constantly. Humidity is intense and you'll be wet most of the time, but for serious birders this is genuinely world-class. Mornings before 10am offer the best viewing and slightly more comfortable temperatures.
Traditional pottery and craft workshops in Torit region
June is excellent for cultural immersion because rainy season means artisans are working indoors more consistently. The Torit area has exceptional pottery traditions and you can arrange hands-on workshops where you actually learn techniques passed down for generations. It's a genuine cultural exchange rather than tourist performance. The region is also more accessible in June than deeper rainy season months when roads completely deteriorate. Sessions typically run 3-4 hours and you'll create pieces to take home, though obviously they need careful packing.
June Events & Festivals
Martyrs Day commemorations
July 30th is the major national holiday, but community preparations and cultural events actually begin ramping up in mid-to-late June, particularly in Juba. You'll see increased cultural performances, traditional music events, and community gatherings. It's not a tourist event but rather genuine national commemoration, and if you're respectful and interested, locals are generally welcoming. Churches hold special services and there are often football tournaments and community feasts.