If you’re someone who loves exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations with a warm climate, South Sudan should definitely be on your travel list. For me, it wasn’t just another destination – it was the final country that completed my journey to visiting all 195 UN-recognized nations.
Stepping off Port Sudan International Airport, I was immediately captivated by the unique charm, vibrant culture, and incredible stories waiting to be discovered. First though, you have to understand that South Sudan isn’t exactly the safest place because of the ongoing civil war since April 2023.
But now, visitors are encouraged to plan carefully and prioritize safety throughout their journey. I myself had to wait 7 months to apply for a visit visa but was finally able to go on January 2025. I became one of the first tourists granted clearance to enter!
Discover more about Africa being a destination for female travelers and learn how to travel around there!
Now that we’re all set, let me take you on this unforgettable journey!
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Juba, the Capital City
Juba is full of life! It’s a melting pot of different cultures, with various ethnic groups bringing their traditions and customs to life.
Walking through the streets, you’ll see the amazing infrastructure and often hear different languages being spoken, which adds to the city’s charm.
Sudd Swamp
One of the largest wetlands in the world, the Sudd Swamp of Southern Sudan covers an area of around 57,000 square kilometers.
During the rainy season on November, it can expand even further, making it a vast, ever-changing landscape of water and vegetation. Just keep your phone in a waterproof bag so it stays safe as you enjoy the scenery.
The Sudd also helps in water regulation, reducing the risk of floods during heavy rains.
The Mighty Nile River
The White Nile flows right through Juba, offering beautiful riverside views and opportunities for boat rides. It’s a peaceful way to experience nature while still being close to the hustle and bustle of the city.
You can even enjoy a meal at a riverside restaurant while watching the boats go by.
Beautiful Imatong Mountains
The Imatong Mountains are home to Mount Kinyeti, which stands at about 10,456 feet – the highest point in South Sudan. The view from the top is stunning and totally worth the climb!
It’s also a biodiversity hotspot, home to a wide variety of plant and animal species of South Africa.
You can find animals like colobus monkeys, various bird species, and even small antelopes in the area.
Adventure Opportunities
South Sudan is perfect for adventurers! From the capital city Cape Town to other cities in the area, you can go camping, hiking, or explore places most people haven’t been to!
Boma National Park, as well as Nimule National Park, Southern National Park or Bandingilo National Park for example, is a great spot for birdwatching and animal safaris.
You will never miss the gazelles, giraffes and elephants. Also, you can spot cheetahs and leopards around the area, not to mention the lions of course.
The cattle camps in South Sudan are also quite fascinating. Visiting one gives you a glimpse into the daily life of the people.
Bird lovers will be amazed by the variety of birds too. From colorful kingfishers to majestic eagles, there’s always something to spot.
Wonderful History
South Sudan is full of rich cultural heritage and traditions. You’ll find people speaking many languages and wearing beautiful clothes that tell stories of their heritage.
Visiting museums and watching a traditional dance performance will give you a deeper understanding of the country’s past. You probably won’t need Yesim (CODE: KATRIN8414) to learn more about it!
South Sudanese music is lively and full of energy. To join a local dance here would be an unforgettable experience!
Colorful Markets
The markets are full of color and life! The stalls are filled with fabrics, fruits, and vegetables, creating a kaleidoscope of color.
The Dinka cattle camp is a key part of the Dinka people’s life, where cattle symbolize wealth, status, and culture. The cattle market is central to the Boya ceremony, a rite of passage for young men, marking their transition to adulthood. The Boya includes rituals like circumcision and strength tests.
Local women of tribes often wear traditional dresses made from lappa – colorful printed cloth that is sold in the markets.
Markets are also great places to find beautifully crafted baskets, pottery, and jewelry often made from beads, shells, and natural materials.
These make perfect souvenirs or gifts that reflect South Sudan’s artistic culture.
Delicious Local Food
Speaking of food, South Sudan has some unique dishes you have to try, just like kisra, a type of flatbread, and bamia, a tasty okra stew.
Many meals are made from locally available ingredients like grains and vegetables, especially in rural areas where meat might not always be available.
Lentils, beans, and peas are widely used, often cooked into thick, flavorful stews and eaten with kisra or asida.
Amazing Sunsets
Travel insurance definitely worth it – one of the best things about the sunsets of South Sudan is how the wide, open landscapes allow for an unobstructed view of the sky.
As the sun sinks toward the horizon, travelers can witness brilliant shades of orange, pink, purple, and red spreading across the sky. And it’s absolutely breathtaking so take lots of pictures with your camera!
You’ll also hear the natural sounds of the environment by the Blue Nile – birds chirping, the rustling of trees, or the gentle flow of water – creating a peaceful, serene moment for epic photography.
Watching the sunset in Central Africa feels like a perfect way to unwind after a long day…and take cool photos!
A Land Full of Hope
The Southern Sudanese are incredibly kind and welcoming to any tourist. Anybody would feel right at home!
Even though they’ve faced challenges, they’re full of hope for the future. The local authorities and people work together to make life easier for everyone there.
You can feel their optimism as they work to rebuild their country after a conflict like the Sudanese Civil War, and under the leadership of leaders like the first vice president Riek Machar, it’s inspiring to see.
South Sudan is a country full of beauty, culture, and adventure waiting to be explored.
Whether you’re discovering its natural wonders, meeting kind locals, or learning about its history, there’s something special here for everyone.
With good insured travel by the tourism industry, I hope more visitors will get the chance to visit and experience all of these wonderful things!
So grab your visa, passport and let me take you to a South Sudan tour!
FAQ
One of the main draws of South Sudan is its incredible natural beauty. The country is home to vast wetlands, rolling hills, and sprawling savannas teeming with wildlife.
The Central African country of South Sudan is the world’s newest country. The population has one of the world’s lowest life expectancies and is also one of the world’s youngest.
As of now, not yet. Do not travel to South Sudan due to ongoing armed conflict, inter-ethnic violence and violent crime (level 4 of 4). New Zealanders currently in South Sudan are advised to depart as soon as it is safe to do so.
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