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South Sudan
Sustainability Politics
✈️ Travel Guide

South Sudan

South Sudan's Wetlands and Wildlife Migration

Capital
Juba
Currency
South Sudanese Pound (SSP)
Language
English
Best Time
Dec–Mar
Time Zone
CAT (UTC+2)
Flag of South Sudan
👋 Overview

Welcome to South Sudan

Welcome to South Sudan, the world's newest nation, home to vast wetlands and one of the largest wildlife migrations on Earth. The Sudd, one of the world's largest wetlands, teems with birdlife and traditional cattle-herding communities along the Nile. Boma National Park hosts an extraordinary migration of white-eared kob and other antelope, rivaling East Africa's famous herds. Juba, the capital, sits along the White Nile, offering a gateway to the country's vast, remote wilderness.

Traditional Dinka and Nuer cattle-camp culture remains deeply rooted throughout much of the countryside. The country's rivers and wetlands support extraordinary biodiversity rarely seen by outside visitors. South Sudan's emergence as a nation reflects a story of resilience amid significant challenges. South Sudan invites the most adventurous travelers to discover one of Africa's last great wildlife frontiers.

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📍 Where to go

Popular Cities

01

Juba

Juba, South Sudan’s capital along the White Nile, offers riverside views and boat trips that give a sense of the waterway central to the region’s history and trade. The John Garang Mausoleum honors the leader of the movement that eventually led to South Sudan’s independence in 2011.

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Local markets in Juba trade goods brought from across the country’s many ethnic communities, offering a genuine look at the nation’s cultural diversity. The city’s youth as the world’s newest capital is reflected in its still-developing infrastructure and ongoing construction. Juba serves primarily as a practical entry point for those with specific reason to visit South Sudan given the country’s ongoing challenges. Its riverside setting along the Nile offers a striking backdrop to one of the world’s newest nations.

02

Wau

Wau, one of South Sudan’s oldest towns, retains a diverse mix of ethnic communities and a historic role as a regional trading center along the Jur River. The town’s cathedral, dating to the colonial era, reflects a long history of Christian missionary presence in the region.

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Local markets offer produce and crafts from the surrounding agricultural region, giving insight into daily life away from the capital. Wau’s relatively calmer atmosphere compared to some other parts of the country has allowed for modest local commerce to continue. The town’s mix of cultures and river setting give it a distinct character within South Sudan. Wau remains a significant but little-visited stop for those exploring the country’s interior.

03

Malakal

Malakal, on the banks of the White Nile in the country’s north, has long served as a trading post connecting South Sudan to Sudan further downriver. The town’s position along the Nile has shaped its economy and culture for generations, with fishing and river trade central to daily life.

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Markets in Malakal reflect the diverse Nilotic ethnic groups of the surrounding Upper Nile region, including the Shilluk and Nuer peoples. The town’s history has been shaped significantly by the conflicts that have affected the wider region in recent years. Malakal’s riverside setting and ethnic diversity offer insight into the cultural complexity of South Sudan’s northern regions. It remains a significant but challenging destination given the country’s ongoing development.

🍴 On the menu

Local Food to Try

Discover some of South Sudan's most popular flavors, traditional dishes and memorable local treats during your visit.

Kisra

Kisra is a signature South Sudan specialty known for its distinctive local ingredients, seasoning and traditional preparation.

Asida

This popular South Sudan dish brings together familiar regional flavors and is commonly enjoyed in homes, markets or local restaurants.

Ful Medames

A well-loved part of South Sudan cuisine, Ful Medames reflects the country's culinary traditions and locally available ingredients.

Combo

Combo is a comforting regional favorite, prepared in styles that may vary between families, cities and different parts of South Sudan.

Molokhia

Visitors often seek out Molokhia for an authentic taste of South Sudan's everyday cooking and food culture.

Kajaik

This traditional favorite highlights the bold, savory or gently spiced flavors associated with cooking in South Sudan.

Wala-Wala

Wala-Wala is widely recognized in South Sudan and is often served at casual meals, celebrations or community gatherings.

Grilled Goat

A memorable choice for travelers, Grilled Goat offers a flavorful introduction to the ingredients and techniques used across South Sudan.

Mandazi

This classic food is an important part of South Sudan's culinary identity and is best sampled freshly prepared.

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💡 Did you know?

Little-Known Facts

1

South Sudan is the world's newest country, having gained independence from Sudan in 2011 following a long and devastating civil war, making it younger than many people currently living within its own borders. The country contains the Sudd, one of the largest freshwater wetlands in the world, formed by the White Nile as it spreads out across a vast, flat floodplain, an ecosystem so significant it plays a major role in regulating downstream Nile water flow for Egypt and Sudan.

2

South Sudan is home to one of the largest wildlife migrations on Earth, involving over a million antelope species such as white-eared kob moving across the Boma-Jonglei landscape, a migration comparable in scale to East Africa's more famous wildebeest migrations but far less studied and documented due to the region's remoteness and instability. Despite gaining independence with substantial oil reserves, South Sudan has struggled with recurring internal conflict since its founding, complicating efforts to develop the infrastructure needed to fully capitalize on its natural resources.

3

The country is home to more than 60 distinct ethnic groups, and cattle herding remains deeply embedded in cultural identity and wealth measurement for many communities within its borders.

🧳 Before & during your trip

Travel Tips

Tap a topic to open it.

Before You Go
  • Confirm passport validity and entry requirements.
  • Check whether a tourist visa is required.
  • Keep digital copies of important documents.
  • Consider purchasing travel insurance.
Money & Payments
  • Review the local currency and exchange rate.
  • Carry some cash for small businesses and markets.
  • Check for international bank transaction fees.
  • Learn the country's customary tipping practices.
Stay Connected
  • Review your mobile carrier's international plan.
  • Consider purchasing a local SIM or eSIM.
  • Download maps for offline use before traveling.
  • Avoid sensitive transactions on unsecured Wi-Fi.
Transportation
  • Research public transportation before arrival.
  • Use licensed taxis or reputable rideshare services.
  • Check which side of the road vehicles use.
  • Confirm whether an international permit is needed.
Electricity
  • Check the country's voltage and outlet type.
  • Bring the correct plug adapter for your devices.
  • Use a voltage converter when required.
  • Pack a portable charger for longer excursions.
Weather & Clothing
  • Review the seasonal weather before packing.
  • Bring layers for changing temperatures.
  • Pack rain protection when appropriate.
  • Use sunscreen even on cool or cloudy days.
Food & Water
  • Research whether tap water is safe to drink.
  • Communicate food allergies clearly.
  • Try traditional dishes from reputable vendors.
  • Observe local dining customs and meal times.
Safety
  • Secure valuables in crowded tourist areas.
  • Avoid displaying large amounts of cash.
  • Share your itinerary with someone you trust.
  • Review current government travel advisories.
Language & Etiquette
  • Learn a few polite words in the local language.
  • Respect dress requirements at religious sites.
  • Ask permission before photographing people.
  • Follow local traditions, laws and social customs.
Emergency Planning
  • Save the country's emergency telephone number.
  • Locate your nearest embassy or consulate.
  • Keep medication in its original packaging.
  • Store emergency contacts offline and on paper.
Smart Packing
  • Pack comfortable shoes for walking and tours.
  • Keep essential medication in your carry-on.
  • Bring a reusable bottle where appropriate.
  • Leave room for locally purchased items.
Local Research
  • Check attraction hours and reservation policies.
  • Review national holidays and local closures.
  • Download important addresses before departure.
  • Leave flexibility for unexpected discoveries.

Important: Entry requirements, transportation rules, weather conditions and safety guidance can change. Verify important information with official sources before traveling.

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