Car Rental in South Sudan - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in South Sudan is generally not recommended for most tourists due to challenging conditions. The country has limited paved roads outside Juba, with most routes being unpaved and difficult to navigate, particularly during the rainy season when many become impassable. Driving is on the right side of the road. Security concerns remain significant in various regions, making self-drive travel risky without proper local knowledge and security arrangements. Road infrastructure is underdeveloped, with poor signage and limited fuel stations outside major towns. For those considering car rental, it's primarily viable for organized groups with security escorts or NGO/business travelers with local support networks. Independent tourists should avoid self-driving and instead use chartered vehicles with experienced local drivers who understand current security situations and road conditions. Public transportation options are extremely limited, but hiring a vehicle with a driver is far safer than self-drive rental. If you must rent, ensure comprehensive insurance, carry emergency supplies, and verify current security conditions for your intended routes through official sources before traveling.

International Driving Permit

Information not available for South Sudan specifically. Generally recommended to obtain an IDP from your home country before travel to African nations.

Minimum Age

Specific age requirements for South Sudan not available. Typically rental agencies require drivers to be 21-25 years old - verify with rental provider.

Insurance Coverage

Comprehensive insurance is essential due to road conditions and security concerns. Verify coverage details with rental agency for South Sudan operations.

Valid Passport

A valid passport is required for identification when renting vehicles. Check with rental agencies for any additional documentation needed.

Credit Card for Deposit

Information not available for South Sudan specifically. Most international rental agencies require a credit card for security deposits - confirm requirements in advance.

Local Driving Conditions Knowledge

Familiarize yourself with local road conditions and security situation. Consider hiring a local driver due to challenging infrastructure and navigation requirements.

International agencies at Juba International Airport are generally the most reliable option for car rentals in South Sudan, though availability can be limited - book well in advance and confirm your reservation before arrival.

Before driving off, thoroughly document any existing damage with photos and verify you have emergency contact numbers, as road conditions can be challenging and assistance may be limited outside major urban areas.

GPS coverage in South Sudan is limited and maps may be outdated - download offline maps in advance and consider hiring a local driver who knows current road conditions and security situations.

Fuel stations are scarce outside Juba and other major towns, so always fill up when possible and consider carrying extra fuel in approved containers for longer journeys.

When returning the car, allow extra time for inspection and paperwork, and ensure you get written confirmation of the return condition to avoid disputes about damage claims.

Road conditions in South Sudan are extremely poor with most routes unpaved and prone to severe deterioration during rainy season (April-November), making many areas completely inaccessible - always verify current road status before traveling and consider 4WD vehicles essential.

Security checkpoints are frequent throughout the country operated by various armed groups - always carry proper documentation, remain calm and cooperative, and avoid traveling after dark when checkpoint risks increase significantly.

Information not available on specific traffic patterns or rush hours in South Sudan's cities - exercise extreme caution at all times as road infrastructure and traffic management systems are minimal to non-existent.

Flooding during rainy season creates dangerous and unpredictable driving conditions with roads becoming impassable - monitor weather forecasts closely and avoid travel during heavy rains as rescue services are extremely limited.