South Sudan

South Sudan: general info for travelers

South Sudan is a landlocked country located in northeastern Africa. It gained independence from Sudan in 2011, becoming the youngest country in the world. With an area of 619,745 square kilometers, South Sudan is the third-largest country in the continent after Algeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The country is home to over 60 ethnic groups, with the Dinka being the largest. Its capital and largest city is Juba. South Sudan has a tropical climate, with a rainy season from May to October and a dry season from November to April. The economy heavily depends on oil exports, agriculture, and humanitarian aid. Unfortunately, the country has been affected by civil war and political instability, leading to humanitarian crises and displacement of millions of people.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in South Sudan, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

South Sudan: places to visit

South Sudan is a country with a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Here are some of the main places to visit and what makes them special: 1. Boma National Park: Located near the Ethiopian border, this park is one of the most impressive in Africa. It is home to a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and lions. Visitors can also see the Boma plateau, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
2. Bor Wildlife Reserve: This reserve is another great place to see wildlife. Visitors can see herds of antelope, gazelles, and giraffes, as well as a variety of bird species. There are also several hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the countryside.
3. Nimule National Park: This park is located in the south of the country and is known for its diverse range of ecosystems. Visitors can see wetlands, savannas, and forests, and spot animals such as buffalo, leopards, and hyenas.
4. Juba: The capital city of South Sudan, Juba is a bustling metropolis with a rich history. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Juba Cathedral and the Presidential Palace, as well as experience the local culture through street markets and restaurants.
5. Kajo Keji: This town is known for its vibrant arts scene, with many artists creating traditional crafts such as pottery and beadwork. Visitors can also see the Kajo Keji Health Sciences Institute, which trains local healthcare workers.
6. Malakal: Located on the banks of the White Nile, Malakal is a beautiful town with a rich history. Visitors can explore the local markets, see historic buildings such as the Anglican Cathedral, and take a boat tour of the Nile river.
There is more to see and do in South Sudan: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

South Sudan: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in South Sudan, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
South Sudan has mainly two seasons: - The dry season (December to May) - The rainy season (June to November) During the dry season, the weather is warm and sunny with low humidity. The temperatures can range from around 27°C to 32°C (80°F to 90°F). This is the best time to visit South Sudan as the roads are easy to navigate and touristic activities can be enjoyed without interruption.
During the rainy season, the weather is relatively cooler with high humidity. The rainfall can sometimes cause flooding and displace people from their homes. It's not advisable to visit South Sudan during the rainy season as some routes and roads may get blocked making transportation difficult. Additionally, touristic activities may be affected due to the frequent heavy rainfalls.
Therefore, the best months to visit South Sudan for tourism is from December to February, however, visitors are advised to check the weather forecast before planning their trip.

South Sudan: activities and what to do

South Sudan is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts who love adventure and outdoor activities. Here are some of the top activities and sports to do on holiday in South Sudan: 1. Wildlife Safaris: South Sudan is home to some of the most spectacular wildlife in the world. There are national parks and reserves where you can go on safari and witness amazing wildlife. Boma National Park and Nimule National Park are great options.
2. Trekking and Hiking: South Sudan is blessed with beautiful landscapes and mountains. You can go trekking and hiking in the mountains and the diverse terrain will give you an opportunity to explore part of this amazing country.
3. Water Sports: South Sudan has some amazing water bodies including the Nile River and the Sudd wetlands. You can enjoy water sports such as rafting, kayaking, and fishing in these water bodies.
4. Cultural Tourism: South Sudan has a rich cultural heritage. You can visit cultural sites and learn about the history of the country.
5. Scuba Diving: If you are visiting Juba, there are several scuba diving sites that you can explore. This will give you an opportunity to see marine life and colorful coral reefs. Overall, South Sudan has a lot to offer when it comes to adventure and outdoor activities. Be sure to take advantage of them and make the most of your holiday.

South Sudan: few words on history and culture

South Sudan is a relatively new country that gained independence from Sudan in 2011. However, this does not mean that it has no history or culture of its own. South Sudan is home to numerous ethnic groups that have lived in the region for many centuries, each with its own unique culture and traditions.
The region has a rich history dating back to ancient times when kingdoms and empires flourished in the area. One of the most notable kingdoms was the Nubian Kingdom of Alodia, which ruled the region for several centuries and left behind an impressive legacy of architecture, art, and literature.
In more recent times, South Sudan has been marked by conflict, including the long-running Sudanese Civil War, which lasted for over two decades and caused significant damage to the region's infrastructure and cultural heritage. Despite this, the people of South Sudan continue to preserve and celebrate their rich cultural heritage through music, dance, art, and traditional dress.

South Sudan: how to move around on holiday

South Sudan is a landlocked country and doesn't have direct access to the sea. Consequently, the most common way to get into the country is by air or by road from neighboring countries. Currently, Juba International Airport is the major airport in the country and is served by various international airlines.
If you're planning to travel within South Sudan, road travel is an option, but it can be challenging in some areas due to poor road infrastructure and insecurity. Flying is an alternative as there are various domestic airlines that offer regular flights to different parts of the country.
It's important to note that travel restrictions and security situations can quickly change in South Sudan, so it's always best to check with your embassy and local authorities before making travel plans. To hire a car to visit South Sudan, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

South Sudan: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit South Sudan with a full stomach:D
The South Sudanese cuisine is diverse and delicious, with a variety of flavorful dishes that are influenced by different regions and ethnic groups. Here are some of the main typical foods of South Sudan: 1. Assida: Assida is a porridge made from sorghum or millet flour. It is often served with meat or vegetable stews.
2. Kisra: Kisra is a type of flatbread made from sorghum flour. It is commonly eaten with stews, soups, and curries.
3. Bamia: Bamia is a stew made from okra, onions, tomatoes, and meat (usually beef or lamb). It is often served with rice or kisra.
4. Ful medames: Ful medames is a dish of cooked fava beans that are typically seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. It can be served as a breakfast dish or as a snack.
5. Malakwang: Malakwang is a stew made from spinach or other leafy greens, peanuts, and meat (usually goat or beef). It is often served with kisra or rice.
6. Goraasa: Goraasa is a type of bread made from wheat flour. It is similar to naan or pita bread and is often served with stews and curries.
7. Shai tea: Shai tea is a popular hot tea that is flavored with cinnamon, cardamom, and other spices. It is often served with dates or other sweet snacks.
These are just a few examples of the delicious South Sudanese food you can enjoy during your trip.

South Sudan: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

South Sudan is generally considered an expensive country for tourism due to its lack of infrastructure and limited tourism industry. Accommodation and transportation can be quite costly, and food and other amenities are often scarce. However, if you are adventurous and looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, South Sudan can be a fascinating country to visit. It's important to research and plan your trip carefully to ensure your safety and maximize your experience.

South Sudan: where to find accodation

There are a few options for finding accommodation in South Sudan. One option is to search online travel websites such as Booking.com or Hotels.com to compare prices. You can also use online travel forums like TripAdvisor or Lonely Planet to find recommendations from other travelers. Another option is to contact a local travel agency in South Sudan, as they may have connections with hotels or know of lesser-known, budget-friendly options. Additionally, you can search for accommodation on social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram, as some smaller guesthouses or homestays may not have a website but utilize social media to promote their offerings.
You can check hotel prices in South Sudan here:
Booking.com

South Sudan: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Unfortunately, South Sudan doesn't receive many tourists due to its ongoing conflicts and security concerns. According to the latest data available, in 2019, only 25,000 international tourists visited South Sudan. Therefore, there are no crowded periods in South Sudan. However, it is important to note that the security situation in South Sudan can change quickly, so it's always important to check the latest travel advice from your government before planning a trip.
The US Department of State currently advises against all travel to South Sudan due to crime, kidnapping, and armed conflict. The country has experienced ongoing violence since gaining independence in 2011 and safety is a major concern. As such, it is not currently considered a safe destination for tourists.
If for any reason you must travel to South Sudan, it is important to take all necessary precautions and remain vigilant at all times. In general, it is best to avoid traveling to the border regions with Sudan, Uganda, and Ethiopia, as well as to areas where armed groups are known to operate. The security situation in the capital city, Juba, can also be volatile and should be closely monitored by anyone planning to travel there. It is strongly advised that you check your own government's travel advisories before making any travel plans to South Sudan.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in South Sudan on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

South Sudan: events for tourists

South Sudan is a relatively new country and tourism infrastructure is still developing, but here are some events and experiences that may interest tourists: 1. South Sudan Independence Day - The country celebrated its independence on July 9th and it's a time of festivities, parades and cultural events.
2. Dinka Tribe Cattle Camps - The Dinka tribe is the largest ethnic group in South Sudan. Their cattle camps offer a unique experience of traditional pastoral life. You can learn about the tribe's way of life and get close-up views of their cattle.
3. Nimule National Park - This park is home to many species of wildlife including buffaloes, giraffes, cheetahs and elephants. Game drives, safaris and bird watching are some of the activities that can be enjoyed at the park.
4. White Nile River Rafting - The White Nile is considered one of the most thrilling rafting destinations in the world. Tourists can raft the Nile for a half day or full day.
5. Juba Market - The bustling Juba Market is the perfect place to experience the daily life of locals. You can find everything from fresh produce to locally made handicrafts.
Keep in mind that South Sudan is a developing country and it's important to check travel advisories and safety tips before planning a trip.

South Sudan: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in South Sudan, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
I must inform you that travel to Sudan is not recommended at the moment due to safety concerns and travel advisories issued by many governments. Current risks include terrorism, armed conflict, landmines, kidnapping, and violent crime, among others. It is important to always consult with your government's foreign travel department for the latest travel warnings and safety precautions for any travel destination.

South Sudan: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in South Sudan described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Aweil is a city located in the northern region of South Sudan. It is the capital of Northern Bahr el Ghazal State and is situated approximately 700 kilometers northwest of Juba, the capital city of So... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aweil
- Bor is a city located in the Jonglei state of South Sudan, which is situated in the eastern part of the country. It is the capital of the Jonglei state and is located on the west bank of the White Nil... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bor
- Juba is the capital and largest city of South Sudan, a country located in East-Central Africa. It is situated on the banks of the White Nile and is a major commercial, cultural, and transportation hub... CONTINUE here for a trip to Juba
- Malakal is a city located in South Sudan, specifically in the Upper Nile state. It is situated on the eastern bank of the Nile River and has a population of approximately 160,000 people. Malakal is a ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Malakal
- Renk is a town located in the northeastern part of South Sudan, near the border with Sudan. It is situated on the west bank of the White Nile river, about 650 kilometers north of the capital city of J... CONTINUE here for a trip to Renk
- Rumbek is a city located in the Lakes State of South Sudan. It is situated about 325 kilometers northwest of the capital city, Juba. Rumbek has an estimated population of around 32,000 people and serv... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rumbek
- Torit is a town located in the Eastern Equatoria State of South Sudan. It is situated on the banks of the Imatong Mountains, about 150 kilometers east of Juba, the capital of South Sudan. The town has... CONTINUE here for a trip to Torit
- Wau is a city in Northwestern South Sudan. It is the capital of Western Bahr el Ghazal State. It is a major commercial center in the region known for its trade in gold and other minerals. The city is ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wau
- Yambio is a city located in the Western Equatoria region of South Sudan. It is the capital of the Gbudue State and is situated close to the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. Yambio is home... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yambio
- Yei is a town located in the southern part of South Sudan, near the borders of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It has a population of approximately 300,000 people and is the capital of th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yei


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