When to Visit South Sudan
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
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Year-Round Essentials
Dry Season (November-March)
Hot Transition (March-April)
Wet Season (May-October)
Transition to Dry (October-November)
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Month-by-Month Guide
January
January sits right in the heart of the dry season, offering some of the most pleasant travel conditions you'll find in South Sudan. Temperatures are warm but not oppressive, typically reaching around 35°C (95°F) during the day and cooling to about 18°C (64°F) at night. The skies tend to stay clear, and roads are generally in their best condition of the year, making this a prime time for getting around the country.
February
February continues the dry season pattern, though temperatures start creeping upward as you move toward the hotter months. You'll find daytime highs around 37°C (99°F), with the heat building as the month progresses. Rainfall remains minimal, and the landscape takes on a drier, dustier appearance. It's still a good time for travel, though you'll want to stay hydrated and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day.
March
March marks the transition period as South Sudan edges toward the wet season. Temperatures peak during this month, often hitting 38°C (100°F) or higher, making it one of the hottest times of year. You might catch the occasional early rain shower, particularly toward the end of the month, but it's still predominantly dry. The heat can be quite intense, and many locals consider this the least comfortable time weather-wise.
April
April signals the beginning of the wet season, with rainfall picking up noticeably as the month progresses. Temperatures remain high around 36°C (97°F), but the increasing cloud cover and rain showers start to break the intensity of the heat. Roads begin to deteriorate in some areas, and you'll want to check conditions before traveling. The landscape starts transforming from brown to green, which is actually quite striking to witness.
May
May brings the wet season into full swing, with regular rainfall and increasingly humid conditions. Daytime temperatures hover around 34°C (93°F), though the humidity makes it feel considerably warmer. Rain showers can be heavy and prolonged, and travel becomes more challenging as unpaved roads turn to mud. That said, the countryside is lush and green, and wildlife viewing can be excellent if you can navigate the conditions.
June
June sits firmly in the wet season, with frequent rains and high humidity levels. Temperatures typically reach around 33°C (91°F), but the constant moisture in the air makes it feel quite oppressive. Many rural areas become difficult or impossible to access by road, and flooding can occur in low-lying regions. If you're traveling during this time, flexibility in your plans is essential, as weather can significantly impact logistics.
July
July typically sees peak rainfall across much of South Sudan, with heavy downpours and thunderstorms being common occurrences. Temperatures moderate slightly to around 31°C (88°F), but the combination of heat and humidity can be challenging. Roads in many areas are in poor condition, and river levels are high. This is genuinely a difficult time for travel, though the dramatic weather and verdant landscapes have their own appeal.
August
August continues the wet season pattern, though rainfall might start to ease slightly compared to July in some regions. Temperatures remain around 31°C (88°F), with persistent cloud cover and humidity. Travel conditions are still challenging, particularly in rural areas, but the rains are crucial for agriculture and replenishing water sources. You'll find the country at its greenest during this period.
September
September marks the beginning of the transition back toward drier conditions, though you'll still see regular rainfall, particularly in the first half of the month. Temperatures start climbing again, reaching around 33°C (91°F), and the combination of lingering rains and increasing heat can make for sticky conditions. Roads gradually start to improve as rainfall decreases, but some areas might still be muddy and difficult to navigate.
October
October sees a noticeable shift toward drier weather, though you might still catch the occasional rain shower, especially early in the month. Temperatures rise to around 34°C (93°F), and the landscape remains green from the wet season rains. Roads start to dry out and become more passable, making this a transitional month where travel becomes increasingly feasible. It's actually a decent time to visit if you can handle some uncertainty.
November
November ushers in the dry season proper, with rainfall dropping off significantly and clearer skies becoming the norm. Temperatures hover around 35°C (95°F), and the humidity starts to decrease, making conditions more comfortable than the previous months. Roads improve considerably, and this marks the beginning of the better travel season. The landscape is still relatively green from the wet season, offering good conditions for wildlife viewing.
December
December offers some of the most pleasant weather conditions of the year, with dry, clear days and comfortable temperatures around 35°C (95°F). Nights cool down to around 18°C (64°F), providing relief from the daytime heat. Roads are in good condition, and travel is generally straightforward. This is prime time for visiting South Sudan, with festivals and cultural events often taking place during this period.