South-Sudan

South Sudan’s attractions remain largely unknown to mainstream tourism, but they are both culturally and naturally significant. One of the most compelling places to visit is the capital city of Juba, where visitors can explore local markets like Konyo Konyo and see the imposing John Garang Mausoleum, a national monument dedicated to the late revolutionary leader. Nature lovers can look to Boma National Park, one of Africa’s largest protected areas, home to massive annual wildlife migrations of white-eared kob, tiang, and mongalla gazelles — an event that rivals the Great Migration in East Africa but remains largely undocumented. The Nimule National Park, located on the border with Uganda, is more accessible and offers riverine landscapes, sightings of elephants and hippos, and the striking Fula Falls along the White Nile. Cultural explorers may be drawn to the traditional homelands of the Dinka, Nuer, and Shilluk peoples, whose pastoral lifestyles, architecture, and rituals reflect centuries of heritage and identity. While tourism infrastructure is limited, the authentic cultural encounters and untouched environments provide powerful, eye-opening experiences.

South Sudanese cuisine is rooted in local produce, grains, and meats, with meals often shared communally and prepared with simplicity and care. A staple across the country is kisra, a fermented sorghum flatbread similar to a crepe, typically served with stews like mullah, made from okra, spinach, or leafy greens cooked in peanut or tomato-based sauces. Asida, a doughy porridge made from millet or sorghum flour, is often accompanied by meat stews. Ful medames, a dish of mashed fava beans seasoned with garlic, lemon, and olive oil, reflects influence from neighboring Sudan and is a popular breakfast item. Goat meat, grilled chicken, and freshwater fish from the Nile are commonly roasted or stewed for special meals. Vegetables are widely used when available, often in the form of spinach, pumpkin, or eggplant, and sauces are flavored with chili, garlic, and peanut paste. While Western-style restaurants are limited to Juba, especially in hotel restaurants catering to NGO workers and diplomats, traditional meals provide an honest and hearty taste of South Sudanese life.

Traveling around South Sudan requires patience, preparation, and local guidance. In Juba, transportation is primarily by private taxi, many of which operate informally. Rides must often be arranged via phone or word of mouth, and haggling is standard. Car rentals with drivers are the most reliable option for foreigners and can be organized through hotels or tour operators. Roads within Juba are paved but often congested and lacking signage, while those outside the city are frequently unpaved and may be impassable during the rainy season. Public transportation in the form of minibuses (matatus) exists but is not recommended for visitors due to safety and communication challenges. For regional movement, UNHAS (United Nations Humanitarian Air Service) is sometimes used by aid workers to access remote areas, though this is not available to tourists without special permission. Travel outside major cities should be conducted only with local contacts, guides, and a thorough understanding of the current security situation.

South Sudan is not a conventional destination for budget travel, and costs tend to be high due to limited infrastructure and high import prices. Accommodation in Juba often caters to the expat and NGO community, with basic rooms starting around $50 USD per night, though more affordable guesthouses may be available with local contacts. Eating local food at simple eateries or markets is more cost-effective than dining at hotel restaurants. Transport can become expensive, especially if hiring private drivers, so sharing rides with other travelers or coordinating through organizations may help reduce costs. While entry fees for parks and cultural sites are generally low or nonexistent, permits and guide arrangements may add to the cost of excursions. Travelers should expect to carry cash, as card payments are rare, and prices for everything from bottled water to mobile data may be higher than expected due to scarcity and import dependence.

Travel in South Sudan requires a high degree of caution. The country has experienced ongoing political instability, sporadic violence, and interethnic tensions since its independence in 2011. While Juba is the most stable area, crime, petty theft, and occasional civil unrest do occur, and travelers must remain alert at all times. It is strongly advised to travel only with a local guide or trusted host, and not to move around alone, especially after dark. Photography is sensitive — never take photos of government buildings, military personnel, or airports. Travel to rural areas should only be attempted with official permits and full coordination with local authorities. Medical facilities are extremely limited outside Juba, and travelers must carry comprehensive health insurance that includes evacuation coverage. It is essential to get vaccinations for yellow fever, hepatitis A/B, typhoid, and cholera, and to take malaria prophylaxis. Bottled water is a must, and all food should be freshly cooked. Register with your embassy before travel and check for updated government travel advisories, as conditions can shift rapidly.

South Sudan is made up of dozens of ethnic groups, each with unique customs, but shared values of hospitality, respect for elders, and community pride are consistent across the country. Visitors should dress modestly, especially in rural areas, with long pants or skirts and covered shoulders being appropriate. Greeting people respectfully is important — a handshake accompanied by eye contact and a smile is common, though elders may expect a more formal approach. In many communities, discussions around family, cattle, and clan lineage are part of introductions and show genuine interest. Religion plays a major role in society, with Christianity being the dominant faith, so visitors should act respectfully around churches and avoid controversial topics. Always ask permission before taking photographs of people, and avoid criticizing local politics or leaders. Learning a few words in Juba Arabic or a local language is appreciated and can help build trust.

South Sudan is best suited for adventurous travelers, cultural anthropologists, humanitarian professionals, documentary filmmakers, or seasoned explorers who seek meaningful, raw experiences rather than comfort or convenience. It is not a destination for casual or first-time travelers but rewards those who approach it with humility, respect, and a strong sense of purpose. The cultural richness, vast wilderness, and historical significance offer an unforgettable journey — one that challenges, educates, and lingers in memory long after the trip ends.

Budget travelers will find limited options in South Sudan, with most budget accommodations located in Juba. Modest guesthouses such as Royal Palace Hotel or Afex River Camp provide basic rooms with fans, mosquito nets, and intermittent electricity, typically priced around $50–$70 USD per night. These accommodations often cater to NGO staff or missionaries and may include simple meals. Mid-range travelers may consider lodges like Juba Grand Hotel or Acacia Village, which offer slightly more comfortable amenities, including Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and security. These properties often feature on-site restaurants serving a mix of local and international cuisine. Luxury accommodations are limited but exist primarily in Juba. Options like Pyramid Continental Hotel or Crown Hotel Juba provide higher-end services, including 24/7 power, business centers, and diplomatic-level security. These hotels cater to international organizations and business travelers, with prices ranging from $150–$300 USD per night. Outside of Juba, overnight options are rare and usually limited to mission guesthouses or NGO camps that require prior arrangement.

One of the most common mistakes travelers make is underestimating the complexity and fluidity of South Sudan’s security situation. It is critical not to assume that permits or plans arranged weeks in advance will remain valid, and travelers must remain adaptable and well-informed. Another mistake is taking photos without permission, especially near sensitive areas or government buildings — this can lead to serious consequences. Avoid relying on credit cards or ATMs, as cash is essential for all transactions. Also, some visitors fail to account for infrastructure limitations, expecting hotel standards or food availability similar to neighboring countries. Lastly, skipping cultural briefings or neglecting local customs — especially around dress, hierarchy, or religion — can hinder meaningful interactions and safety.

In South Sudan, digital tools are limited, but a few essential apps can make travel smoother. Maps.me or Offline Google Maps are invaluable for navigating areas with poor connectivity, especially when pre-downloaded. WhatsApp is the dominant form of communication and is widely used to coordinate transport or speak with local contacts. VPN apps such as ProtonVPN may be helpful for maintaining secure internet connections. XE Currency is useful for tracking volatile exchange rates between the South Sudanese Pound and the US Dollar. For safety updates, travelers should subscribe to embassy alert systems or check platforms like ReliefWeb or the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) for travel advisories and conditions. Finally, offline translation apps like Google Translate or Microsoft Translator with Juba Arabic downloads can be handy for basic communication.

A 4- to 7-day trip to South Sudan should begin and end in Juba, using it as a base for cultural immersion and day excursions. Spend 2–3 days exploring the capital’s local markets, John Garang Mausoleum, and riverside areas, followed by a trip to Nimule National Park for wildlife viewing, river activities, and visits to Fula Falls. If security conditions allow and with appropriate guides and permits, a cultural journey to nearby Bari or Mundari villages can provide rare insight into South Sudan’s ethnic traditions, cattle culture, and rural life. Travel logistics are complex, so plan extra time for coordination and flexibility.

South Sudan became the world’s youngest country in 2011, following decades of civil conflict and a historic referendum for independence from Sudan. Despite its youth, the nation is home to some of Africa’s oldest and most deeply rooted cultural traditions, particularly among pastoralist communities like the Dinka and Nuer. Cattle are central to many groups’ social and spiritual lives, symbolizing wealth, status, and beauty. In some communities, men decorate their bodies with ash and wear elaborate hairstyles to signify their age or position. The White Nile, one of the main tributaries of the Nile River, flows through the country and plays a vital role in agriculture and daily life. South Sudan also boasts one of the largest intact wildlife migration routes in Africa, though it remains vastly under-documented and under-visited.