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South Sudan

Discover the Untamed Beauty of South Sudan Journey to the heart of Africa and experience the raw, untamed beauty of South Sudan, a land where ancient traditions intertwine with a spirit of resilience. As the world's youn…

#East Africa#War-torn#Landlocked country#Juba#Diverse ethnic groups

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into South Sudan.

Top Hotels in Juba

Top Flights to Juba

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in South Sudan.

Tours

Visit Juba National Museum

Explore the rich history and culture of South Sudan through its exhibits.

Shopping

Craft Market Visit in Juba

Discover handmade crafts and support local artisans by shopping at the bustling craft markets in Juba.

Outdoor

Nile River Boat Safari

Embark on a safari along the Nile to witness wildlife and stunning landscapes.

Climb Mount Kinyeti

Experience a challenging climb to the highest peak in South Sudan, offering spectacular views.

Wildlife Viewing at Boma National Park

Visit one of the largest national parks to see elephants, giraffes, and other wildlife.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in South Sudan.

Currency

SSP | South Sudanese pound | South Sudanese Pound

Population

13.3 million

Languages

English, Arabic, Bari, Dinka, Nuer, Zande

Average weather

South Sudan

Jan

37°20°

Feb

38°21°

Mar

38°23°

Apr

37°23°

May

35°23°

Jun

32°22°

Jul

31°21°

Aug

31°21°

Sep

32°21°

Oct

34°21°

Nov

35°21°

Dec

36°20°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on South Sudan.

What people love

South Sudan is a unique destination with a rich culture and natural beauty. Some of the pros of traveling to South Sudan include:

Cultural Diversity: South Sudan is home to over 60 different ethnic groups, each with its own traditions, languages, and customs. Traveling to South Sudan offers a chance to immerse yourself in this diverse cultural tapestry.
Untouched Landscapes: South Sudan is known for its vast wilderness areas, including national parks such as Boma National Park and Nimule National Park. These areas are home to a wide variety of wildlife, making them ideal for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Authentic Experiences: Due to its relatively undeveloped tourism infrastructure, traveling to South Sudan offers the opportunity to have authentic and off-the-beaten-path experiences. You can interact with local communities, participate in traditional ceremonies, and explore remote areas that few tourists have visited.
Historical Sites: South Sudan has a rich history dating back thousands of years, with archaeological sites such as the ancient city of Kerma and the pyramids of Gebel Barkal. History buffs will appreciate the chance to explore these sites and learn about the region's past.
Adventure Opportunities: South Sudan's rugged terrain and rivers offer a range of adventure activities such as hiking, camping, white-water rafting, and fishing. If you're looking for an adrenaline-filled trip, South Sudan has plenty to offer.

Overall, traveling to South Sudan can be a rewarding experience for those seeking cultural immersion, nature exploration, and authentic travel experiences. However, it's important to note that the country has faced significant challenges, including ongoing conflict and political instability, so travelers should exercise caution and stay informed about the current situation before planning a trip.

Please note that conditions in South Sudan can change rapidly, so it's essential to check for updated travel advisories and consult with local authorities or travel experts before making any travel plans.

What to know

South Sudan is a country that has faced significant challenges, and there are several cons to consider when traveling there:

Safety and Security Concerns: South Sudan has experienced ongoing conflict, violence, and political instability, which can pose serious risks to travelers. The country has a high crime rate, including incidents of robbery, carjacking, and armed conflict. Travelers may be at risk of being caught in the crossfire of fighting between different factions or becoming victims of violent crime.
Health Risks: South Sudan has limited healthcare infrastructure, and medical facilities are often inadequate. Travelers may struggle to access quality medical care in case of emergencies. The country also experiences outbreaks of diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, cholera, and yellow fever, which can pose health risks to travelers.
Poor Infrastructure: South Sudan has limited infrastructure, including poor road conditions, unreliable electricity supply, and limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities. This can make travel within the country challenging and potentially uncomfortable for visitors.
Limited Tourism Infrastructure: South Sudan is not a popular tourist destination, and as a result, it has limited tourism infrastructure. Accommodation options may be limited, and amenities such as restaurants, shops, and transportation services may not be readily available in all areas.
Travel Restrictions: The government of South Sudan may impose travel restrictions, curfews, and other security measures that can impact travelers' freedom of movement and activities within the country. It is essential to stay informed about the current situation and follow any guidance from local authorities.

It is crucial to thoroughly research and consider these factors before deciding to travel to South Sudan. It is also advisable to consult travel advisories from your government and seek advice from experienced travelers or travel agencies familiar with the region.

South Sudan, officially known as the Republic of South Sudan, is a landlocked country in East-Central Africa. It gained independence from Sudan in 2011, making it the newest sovereign state in the world. Here's a detailed history of South Sudan:

Pre-Colonial Period

The region that is now South Sudan has been inhabited for thousands of years by various ethnic groups, including the Dinka, Nuer, Shilluk, and Azande. These groups had complex social structures and were primarily engaged in agriculture, cattle herding, and trade.

Colonial Era

19th Century: During the 19th century, the area fell under the influence of the Ottoman Empire and later became part of the Mahdist State.
Anglo-Egyptian Condominium (1899–1956): In 1899, the region became part of the Anglo-Egyptian Sudan, a joint British-Egyptian administration. The British largely neglected the southern region, which led to significant underdevelopment compared to the north.

Independence and Civil Wars

First Sudanese Civil War (1955–1972): Tensions between the north and south of Sudan boiled over into conflict even before Sudan gained independence from Britain in 1956. The Anyanya movement fought against the central government, seeking greater autonomy or independence for the south.
Addis Ababa Agreement (1972): This agreement ended the first civil war, granting the south regional autonomy.
Second Sudanese Civil War (1983–2005): Conflict reignited in 1983 when the Sudanese government attempted to impose Sharia law across the country. The Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA), led by John Garang, became the main opposition force in the south.
Comprehensive Peace Agreement (2005): This agreement ended the second civil war and granted South Sudan autonomy, with provisions for a future independence referendum.

Independence and Post-Independence

Independence Referendum (2011): In January 2011, a referendum was held in which over 98% of the population voted for independence. On July 9, 2011, South Sudan officially became independent.
Key Figures:
- John Garang: Leader of the SPLA and a significant figure in the peace process. He became the first Vice President of Sudan and President of Southern Sudan but died in a helicopter crash in 2005.
- Salva Kiir Mayardit: Became the first President of South Sudan upon its independence.
South Sudanese Civil War (2013–2018): Tensions within the SPLM (Sudan People's Liberation Movement) led to a civil war between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and those loyal to former Vice President Riek Machar. This conflict resulted in significant loss of life and displacement.
Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (2018): A peace agreement was signed in 2018, and a transitional government was formed in 2020, with Riek Machar reinstated as Vice President.

Important Landmarks

Juba: The capital city of South Sudan, which serves as the political and economic hub of the country.
Nimule National Park: A significant wildlife reserve known for its biodiversity.
Sudd Wetlands: One of the world's largest wetlands, crucial for biodiversity and the local economy.
Dr. John Garang Mausoleum: Located in Juba, it is a memorial for the SPLA leader.

South Sudan continues to face challenges related to governance, economic development, and maintaining peace, but it remains a country with rich cultural diversity and potential for growth.