South Sudan
East Africa · Africa
- Capital
- Juba
- Currency
- South Sudanese Pound (SSP £)
- Language
- English (official); Arabic and many local languages
- Timezone
- UTC+2
- Safety rating
- 1.5/10
- Best time to visit
- The dry season from December to March offers the best access, though security severely restricts travel year-round.
Overview
South Sudan is home to one of the planet's greatest wildlife spectacles, the vast antelope migration across Boma and Bandingilo, and to richly traditional cultures like the cattle-herding Mundari. It is one of Earth's least-developed and least-visited nations. Severe insecurity keeps it firmly a frontier for only the most experienced, well-supported travelers.
Visa requirements
Visas must be arranged in advance through an embassy, often requiring an invitation letter; yellow fever vaccination is mandatory.
Safety information
The world's youngest country suffers ongoing conflict, intercommunal violence and high crime, and most governments advise against all travel. Any visit requires specialist security arrangements and constant monitoring.
Travel tips
Bring all the US-dollar cash you need, as banking is minimal and cards do not work. English and Arabic are useful, and you must travel only with trusted operators and registered with your embassy. Communications are limited, so arrange reliable contacts and contingency plans.