So, you’re thinking about traveling to South Sudan? Maybe you’re looking for a new adventure, or maybe you just want to tell your friends that you’ve been to one of the world’s least-visited countries. Either way, South Sudan isn’t your typical vacation spot, and if you’re expecting beach resorts and all-inclusive packages, you might want to reconsider. But if you’re up for something a little different (and a whole lot more adventurous), you could be in for an experience like no other.
Let’s face it: most people hear “South Sudan” and think war zones, poverty, and danger, and they wouldn’t be entirely wrong. But here’s the thing: it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom. In fact, there are places in South Sudan where it’s actually safe to travel. You just need to know where to go, when to go, and—most importantly—who to trust once you get there.
Is it Safe to Travel Everywhere in South Sudan?
Well, no. Travel to South Sudan is a bit like playing Minesweeper—there are safe spots, and then there’s the rest. Some areas are still riddled with conflict, and you’re just not going to wander through there like it’s a regular vacation destination. But there are parts of South Sudan where things have calmed down significantly, and you can experience the country’s culture, history, and scenery without getting caught in a crossfire.
The capital, Juba, is probably your safest bet. You won’t be sipping cocktails by the pool (unless that pool is a plastic kiddie pool, in which case, we’ll get to that), but it’s relatively secure compared to other parts of the country. Some other regions have also stabilized, but your best bet is to go with a local guide who knows which areas are safe and which aren’t.
Click to read about Abyei.
Get a Guide – Trust Me, You’ll Need One
If you’re going to travel to South Sudan, the first rule is simple: Get a guide. I know, I know—you’re probably thinking, “But I’ve got Google Maps, and I’m a seasoned traveler.” Well, unless you’re fluent in South Sudanese politics and local conflict dynamics (and let’s face it, you probably aren’t), you’ll want a guide who knows the ropes.
A good guide will not only keep you safe but also teach you about the culture, the tribes, and maybe even help you avoid awkward social situations. South Sudan is a patchwork of ethnic groups, and they’ve had their fair share of beef with each other. You’ll want someone who can help you navigate those delicate waters without starting an international incident over a misunderstood comment about food. Trust me on this one.
Photography: Don’t Be That Tourist
Here’s a tip if you travel to South Sudan: Don’t take photos of everything that moves. Sure, you might be used to snapping pictures of your coffee or that cool street art, but in Juba, you could land yourself in serious trouble if you’re not careful. South Sudan is picky about photography, and taking pictures of the wrong thing (like government buildings, military areas, or certain people) can land you in jail faster than you can say “selfie stick.”
The good news is that once you venture outside the capital, the photo-taking restrictions tend to loosen up. So, while you might need to keep your camera hidden in Juba, once you’re out in the sticks, you can finally start clicking away—just make sure you’re not pointing your lens at something that could get you into hot water.
Juba By Night
I may well give Juba its own article with regards to safety, but the salient point is this, Juba is not all that safe. This means that while one can stroll a bit in the daytime you really should not walk about unattended at night. Have I done this? Of course I have, but getting away with something drunk does not mean you should do it….
So, while Juba is not Port Moresby, it is not exactly Funafuti either.
Be Mindful of Local Tensions
Here’s a fun fact: South Sudan is made up of more than 60 different ethnic groups. Some of them have been at war with each other for decades. So, while you’re there, avoid playing anthropologist and asking sensitive questions about tribes and past conflicts. It’s not that people won’t talk about these things, but you don’t want to be the guy who accidentally starts a heated debate about tribal history over a plate of goat stew.
The good news is that South Sudanese people are curious, friendly, and surprisingly welcoming, considering the hardships they’ve endured. You’ll meet plenty of locals who are eager to chat and learn about the outside world. So, just be cool, keep your questions light, and you’ll be fine.
Health and Insurance: The Fun Stuff
Let’s be honest: traveling to South Sudan is not exactly the ideal situation for a wellness retreat. Medical care in the country is—how should I put it?—less than stellar. If you catch a cold, there’s no room service with a hot cup of tea. If you need medical help, you’ll probably have to head to a neighboring country, which means you’ll need good travel insurance.
In fact, most insurance companies won’t cover South Sudan because it’s a “red zone.” So, get yourself a specialized insurance provider like First Allied Insurance if you want to make sure you’re covered in case of an emergency. Seriously, it’s not the kind of place where you’ll want to find yourself without a solid backup plan. The roads are bumpy, the hospitals are scarce, and that’s just for starters.
Flexibility Is Key – Things Are Not Going to Go as Planned
So, here’s the deal: travel to South Sudan can be unpredictable. The roads? Probably not what you’re used to. The food? Who knows? The accommodations? Let’s just say you shouldn’t expect a five-star experience. This is a country that’s still getting back on its feet, and that means things might go wrong. Flights get delayed, roads get blocked, and maybe the only hotel in town is missing a roof. But if you’re cool with rolling with the punches, it could be a pretty incredible experience.
If you’re the kind of person who needs everything to be perfect, South Sudan might not be for you. But if you can embrace the unexpected, you’ll have a story that will make all your friends jealous.
Conclusion: Should You Travel to South Sudan?
Look, if you’re looking for an easy, relaxing getaway, traveling to South Sudan probably isn’t your best option. But if you’re the type of traveler who likes to go off the beaten path, discover raw, unfiltered places, and experience something truly unique, then South Sudan might just be the adventure of a lifetime. Just remember: be smart, hire a guide, avoid taking photos of military bases, and keep your expectations realistic.
If you do all that, then who knows? You could come back with some stories that no one else will believe. And at the end of the day, that’s what travel is all about, right?
Click to read about YPT’s tours to South Sudan.