South Sudan Travel Information

South Sudan is a country located in East-Central Africa that gained independence from Sudan in 2011. With vast wildlife reserves, cultural diversity, and historical sites, there are many things to do and see in South Sudan. Here are the top 10 things to do in South Sudan:

1. Visit Boma National Park

Boma National Park is the largest protected area in South Sudan and is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and lions. The park also boasts beautiful scenery with mountain ranges, rivers, and forests.

2. Explore Juba

Juba is the capital city of South Sudan and is a bustling hub of activity. Visitors can explore the markets, museums, and historical sites, such as the Juba Bridge and the John Garang Mausoleum.

3. See the White Nile

The White Nile is the longest river in the world and runs through South Sudan. Visitors can take boat tours to see the river and the surrounding countryside.

4. Learn about the Dinka culture

The Dinka are the largest ethnic group in South Sudan and have a unique culture and way of life. Visitors can learn about their traditions, music, and art.

5. Visit Nimule National Park

Nimule National Park is located near the border with Uganda and is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and antelopes. Visitors can take guided tours to see the animals and explore the park's natural beauty.

6. Explore the town of Yei

Yei is a town located in the southern part of South Sudan and is known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Visitors can hike, bike, and camp in the surrounding hills and forests.

7. See the Tomb of Sheikh Abdel Qadir

The Tomb of Sheikh Abdel Qadir is located in the town of Kosti and is an important Islamic site. Visitors can learn about the history of the tomb and its significance to the local community.

8. Visit the Kidepo Valley National Park

Located near the border with Uganda, the Kidepo Valley National Park is known for its diverse wildlife and scenic beauty. Visitors can take guided tours to see the animals and explore the park's rugged terrain.

9. See the Torit Rock Paintings

The Torit Rock Paintings are located in the eastern part of South Sudan and are believed to be over 3,000 years old. Visitors can see the ancient paintings depicting human and animal figures.

10. Take a hot air balloon ride

Visitors can take hot air balloon rides over the plains of South Sudan to see the stunning landscape and wildlife from above. It is a unique and exciting way to experience the country's natural beauty.

Climate

South Sudan has a tropical climate, with temperatures that remain high throughout the year. The country experiences two distinct seasons: a rainy season and a dry season.

During the rainy season, which lasts from May to October, South Sudan experiences heavy rainfall and high humidity. The wettest months are June, July, and August, and flooding can be a concern in some areas. In contrast, the dry season, which runs from November to April, is characterized by hot, dry weather with occasional dust storms.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit South Sudan is during the dry season, from November to April. The weather is generally more comfortable and suitable for outdoor activities during this time. However, it is essential to note that the dry season is also the peak tourist season, and prices for accommodations and flights can be high.

If you plan to visit South Sudan during the rainy season, be prepared for challenging conditions, including muddy roads and the possibility of flooding. However, this season offers a chance to witness the country's lush vegetation and vibrant wildlife.

It is also important to keep in mind that South Sudan is a country experiencing ongoing conflict and political instability, and visitors should exercise caution and remain aware of the latest safety advisories before traveling.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Hotels

There are several hotels in South Sudan, particularly in the capital city of Juba. Most of these hotels are relatively new, having been built in the last decade to cater to the influx of foreign workers and diplomats. Many of these hotels offer amenities like swimming pools, fitness centers, and on-site restaurants.

Guesthouses

Guesthouses are a more affordable alternative to hotels in South Sudan. They are usually smaller and less luxurious, but still provide comfortable accommodation options. Some guesthouses also offer a more authentic experience, as they are often run by local families.

Lodges and Camps

For visitors looking to experience South Sudan's natural beauty, there are several lodges and camps located in and around the country's national parks and wildlife reserves. These lodges and camps offer visitors the chance to experience the country's wildlife up close while enjoying comfortable accommodation.

Apartment Rentals

Finally, for visitors planning an extended stay in South Sudan, apartment rentals are an option to consider. Many apartments are available for short- or long-term rental, and offer the added benefit of allowing visitors to cook their meals and live more independently.

Air Travel

Air travel is the most convenient way to travel within South Sudan. There are several domestic airlines that offer regular flights between major cities, including Juba, Malakal, and Wau. These flights can be expensive, but they are faster and more comfortable than other transportation options.

Road Travel

Traveling by road in South Sudan can be challenging due to the country's limited road infrastructure and poor road conditions. However, there are several bus companies that operate between major cities, including Juba, Bor, and Malakal. Private taxis are also available, but they can be expensive.

River Travel

South Sudan has several navigable rivers, including the Nile and its tributaries. River travel can be a scenic way to explore the country, and there are several companies that offer riverboat tours.

Walking and Cycling

Walking and cycling are both viable transportation options in South Sudan, particularly in urban areas. Walking is a great way to explore cities like Juba and Bor, while cycling is popular in more rural areas.

It is essential to note that travel in South Sudan can be challenging due to ongoing conflict and political instability. Visitors should exercise caution and remain aware of the latest safety advisories before traveling. It is also recommended to use a reputable tour operator or travel company for added safety and convenience.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.