Is South Sudan Safe for Travelers in 2025? An Honest Assessment - Xplrverse

The Reality of Traveling in South Sudan: My Perspective

The first time I landed at Juba International Airport (JUB) in 2018, I was gripped with anxiety. South Sudan had been in the news for all the wrong reasons, and friends thought I was crazy for going. Seven years and four visits later, I have a completely different perspective on this misunderstood country. During my most recent three-week journey in early 2025, I found myself sitting under the stars in Eastern Equatoria, sharing a meal with Toposa villagers, feeling safer than I sometimes do in parts of my hometown. That’s the paradox of South Sudan – a country with real security challenges but also incredible warmth and hospitality that most travelers never get to experience.

South Sudan’s safety situation is complex and constantly evolving. As Africa’s youngest nation (gaining independence in 2011), it continues to rebuild after a devastating civil war while managing ongoing intercommunal conflicts in certain regions. Yet there are parts of the country where travelers can visit safely when taking proper precautions.

This guide reflects my firsthand experiences across multiple visits, including my latest trip in January 2025. I’ll share honest assessments of the risks, practical safety tips that have saved me from trouble, and guidance on which areas are relatively safe for visitors in 2025.

Current Security Situation in South Sudan (Updated 2025)

The security landscape in South Sudan has improved significantly since the 2018 peace agreement, but challenges remain. Here’s an honest assessment based on my latest visit and discussions with local contacts:

Areas Generally Safe for Travelers in 2025

Juba (Capital): Mostly stable with significant international presence. The areas around ministries, UN compounds, and major hotels have visible security.
Yei: Conditions have improved dramatically since 2023.
Nimule: Border town with Uganda that’s relatively secure.
Torit: Eastern Equatoria’s capital has stabilized.

Areas to Approach with Caution

Bor: Situation has improved but unpredictable.
Wau: Generally okay within city limits but surrounding areas can be volatile.

Areas to Avoid in 2025

Upper Nile State: Ongoing tensions make travel risky.
Jonglei State: Cattle raids and intercommunal violence continue.
Unity State: Oil-producing regions with security concerns.
Rural areas near borders with Sudan, Ethiopia, and DRC without proper security arrangements.

Types of Security Concerns in South Sudan

Intercommunal Conflicts

The most persistent security issue involves conflicts between different ethnic communities, often centered around cattle disputes or historical grievances. These rarely affect foreigners directly but can make certain regions unsafe to visit.

Crime Risks for Travelers

During my visits, I’ve learned that crime targeting travelers falls into several categories:

Type of Crime	Risk Level	Common Locations
Theft/Pickpocketing	Moderate	Markets, crowded areas in Juba
Vehicle theft/carjacking	Moderate	Isolated roads, night driving
Armed robbery	Low-Moderate	Primarily at night in certain neighborhoods
Scams/Corruption	High	Checkpoints, airports, government offices

As a foreign traveler, the most common issues I’ve encountered are petty corruption (officials seeking “fees”) and occasional pickpocketing attempts in crowded markets. Violent crime against foreigners is rare in central Juba and main towns but can occur.

Government Restrictions and Surveillance

South Sudan has an active National Security Service that monitors foreign visitors. During my 2025 visit, I noticed:

Photography restrictions near government buildings, military installations, and bridges
Occasional checkpoint questioning about travel purpose
Requirements to register with local authorities when staying outside Juba

Personal Tip: I learned the hard way about photography restrictions on my first visit when I innocently snapped a photo of Juba Bridge and had my camera temporarily confiscated. Always ask before photographing infrastructure or official buildings.

Essential Safety Preparations Before Traveling to South Sudan

Travel Documentation Requirements

South Sudan’s entry requirements have changed significantly since my first visit. As of early 2025:

Visa: All visitors need visas, which cost $100 USD for single entry. The South Sudan Embassy in Washington DC processes applications for US citizens.
Letter of Invitation: Usually required from a South Sudanese business, NGO, or registered tour operator.
Yellow Fever Certificate: Mandatory for all travelers.
COVID-19 requirements: As of 2025, a negative test is no longer required, but this can change quickly.
Photography Permit: If planning extensive photography, get this in advance from the Ministry of Information (costs 5,000 SSP, approximately $38 USD).

Health Precautions

South Sudan’s healthcare infrastructure remains limited. I always take these precautions:

Comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage (I use World Nomads)
Malaria prophylaxis (I take Malarone starting two days before entry)
Personal medical kit including antibiotics and anti-diarrheals
Water purification tablets or SteriPEN (tap water is unsafe throughout the country)

I’ve found that The International Medical Clinic in Juba (near UN House) is the best option for quality care if you fall ill.

Financial Preparations

South Sudan’s economy operates primarily in cash, with limited credit card acceptance:

Bring clean, newer USD bills (2009 series or newer). Older or damaged notes are often rejected.
In January 2025, the official exchange rate was approximately 131 South Sudanese Pounds (SSP) to 1 USD, but black market rates were around 145 SSP.
KCB Bank ATMs in Juba sometimes dispense USD but are frequently out of cash.

Money-saving insider tip: I’ve found that exchanging USD at the Konyo Konyo market gives 10-15% better rates than hotels, but only change small amounts (under $100) at a time for safety. Look for money changers near the fruit stalls – they typically offer the best rates in town.

Navigating Juba Safely

Juba, South Sudan’s capital and main entry point for most travelers, deserves special attention. During my most recent 2025 visit, I found the city more developed than during previous trips, though still challenging to navigate.

Safe Accommodation Options

I’ve stayed at several places in Juba over the years, and these offer good security for travelers:

Pyramid Continental Hotel – Mid-range option with reliable security, generator power, and decent WiFi (around $120/night)
Crown Hotel – Popular with UN staff, excellent security but expensive at $180-220/night
New Age Hotel – My personal favorite with good value around $85/night and dependable security
Acacia Village – Compound-style accommodation with good security if staying longer term ($100/night with weekly rates available)

Transportation Within Juba

Getting around Juba has specific challenges:

Taxis: No metered taxis exist. Negotiate fares before entering (typically 1,000-2,000 SSP for short trips within central Juba).
Bodabodas (motorcycle taxis): Cheaper but riskier. I avoid these after dark.
Hotel transportation: Most reliable but expensive (usually $20-30 USD per trip).
Walking: Safe during daylight in central areas like Hai Malakal and around ministries. Not recommended after dark.

An unexpected travel hack I discovered: the word “ater” means “slow down” in Juba Arabic. It’s been essential when drivers take corners too quickly!

Safe Areas vs. Areas to Avoid in Juba

Based on my experience and local advice during my 2025 visit:

Relatively Safe Areas:

Hai Malakal (main diplomatic/NGO area)
Tongping (near international organizations)
Juba Na Bari (central business district during daytime)
Juba University area

Areas to Exercise Caution:

Gudele (especially after dark)
Munuki (particularly outer sections)
Jebel Market area at night
Any isolated roads after sunset

Cultural tip: South Sudanese people are generally very friendly despite the country’s challenges. Learning to say “Kudual” (hello) and “Shukran” (thank you) goes a long way in building goodwill.

Exploring Beyond Juba: Risk Assessment

While most visitors stay in Juba, I’ve ventured beyond the capital on each of my visits. Travel outside Juba requires additional planning and security awareness.

Relatively Safe Excursions from Juba in 2025

Nimule National Park

Located about 190km from Juba near the Uganda border, this park offers wildlife viewing opportunities including elephants, hippos, and numerous bird species. The security situation has improved substantially in 2024-2025, and I found it reasonably safe to visit with a reputable tour operator like Venture Beyond Safaris. A day trip costs around $150-200 per person, including transport and guide.

Jebel Kujur

This hill overlooking Juba offers panoramic views and is a relatively safe half-day excursion. Local guides charge around 3,000 SSP ($23 USD) and can explain the hill’s cultural significance to various South Sudanese communities.

Mundari Cattle Camps

Located 75km north of Juba, these camps offer fascinating cultural experiences with the Mundari people, known for their distinctive cattle-keeping traditions. Security has been stable here since late 2023. A visit requires a guide (expect to pay $100-120) and permission from local authorities.

Travel Logistics Between Cities

If you’re considering travel between major towns:

Road travel: Major roads from Juba to Nimule and Yei have improved but still require caution. Never travel after dark.
Domestic flights: South Supreme Airlines and Busy Bee operate limited domestic routes. A one-way flight from Juba to Wau costs approximately $200 USD.
UN Humanitarian Air Service: If working with an NGO, this can be an option for reaching remote locations.

Security Checkpoints: My Experience

One of the most intimidating aspects of traveling in South Sudan is navigating the numerous security checkpoints. During my four trips, I’ve learned:

Always carry passport and visa documentation (I keep digital copies as backup)
Remain polite and patient, even when requests seem unreasonable
Never photograph checkpoints
Small “facilitation fees” of 500-1000 SSP are sometimes expected (though officially not required)

On my 2023 trip, I made the mistake of becoming argumentative at a checkpoint near Terekeka when an officer demanded 2,000 SSP. This only escalated the situation. In 2025, when faced with a similar request, I politely asked for a receipt, which often results in being waved through without payment.

Common Scams and How to Avoid Them

South Sudan has its share of scams targeting foreigners. These are the most common ones I’ve encountered or heard about from other travelers:

Official “Fees” Scam

Officials sometimes invent fees for services that should be free. At Juba Airport in January 2025, I was asked to pay a 5,000 SSP “tourism development fee” that doesn’t exist. Having researched legitimate fees beforehand saved me from paying.

How to avoid it: Research official fees before arrival, ask for receipts, and if possible, confirm with your embassy or a reputable local contact.

Photography “Fines”

Taking photos in public places can result in police or security personnel demanding payment for an alleged violation, even in areas where photography is permitted.

How to avoid it: Be discreet when taking photos, avoid government buildings and infrastructure, and consider obtaining an official photography permit for 5,000 SSP from the Ministry of Information.

Currency Exchange Fraud

Money changers may count bills quickly, removing some before handing them back, or use outdated exchange rates.

How to avoid it: Count all money carefully before leaving, know the current exchange rate, and use established exchangers recommended by your hotel.

Money-saving insider tip: For currency exchange, I’ve found the Ethiopian-run shop near Quality Mall in Juba consistently offers fair rates without the tricks some other exchangers use. Ask for “Haile’s shop” and locals will point you there.

Emergency Preparedness in South Sudan

Having a solid emergency plan is essential when traveling in South Sudan. During my visits, I’ve developed the following practices:

Emergency Contacts

Police Emergency: 777
Fire Service: 333
Medical Emergency: International Medical Clinic: +211 911 044 133
US Embassy: +211 912 105 188
UK Embassy: +211 922 405 000
UN Security: +211 912 178 034

I keep these saved both in my phone and written on a card in my wallet. Cell service can be unreliable, so having multiple communication options is wise.

Communications Planning

South Sudan’s telecommunications infrastructure is improving but still limited:

Local SIM cards: Zain and MTN offer the best coverage. Registration requires your passport.
Internet access: Most hotels in Juba offer WiFi, but it’s often slow and unreliable. I use a portable WiFi device with Zain as backup.
Emergency communications: Consider renting a satellite phone if traveling to remote areas (available from Thuraya for approximately $10/day plus call charges).

Medical Emergencies

Healthcare options are extremely limited outside Juba:

International Medical Clinic (Juba): Best facility for travelers, though expensive
Juba Teaching Hospital: For true emergencies only, very basic facilities
Medical evacuation: For serious conditions, evacuation to Nairobi or Kampala is often necessary (ensure your insurance covers this)

Money-saving insider tip: Basic medications in South Sudan are extremely expensive. I bring a comprehensive medical kit including antibiotics, antimalarials, and basic first aid supplies, saving hundreds of dollars compared to local pharmacy prices.

Sustainability and Responsible Travel

South Sudan faces significant environmental and social challenges. As a visitor, I’ve learned ways to travel responsibly that also enhance safety:

Environmental Considerations

Water usage: Juba faces chronic water shortages. Short showers and reusing towels helps conserve this precious resource.
Plastic waste: There’s virtually no waste management infrastructure. I bring a water purifier rather than buying plastic bottles.
Wildlife protection: Despite civil conflict, South Sudan has remarkable wildlife. Never purchase animal products as souvenirs.

Cultural Sensitivity

South Sudan has over 60 ethnic groups with different customs. Some general guidelines I follow:

Dress modestly (shoulders covered for women, no shorts for men in official settings)
Ask permission before photographing people
Learn basic greetings in Arabic or local languages
Respect religious practices (South Sudan is predominantly Christian with Muslim minorities)

Economic Impact

How your money affects local communities matters greatly in a struggling economy:

Use local guides where possible (I recommend South Sudan Tours)
Buy crafts directly from artisans at Konyo Konyo market
Tip fairly (10-15% is standard for services)

Sustainability tip that saves money: Instead of buying bottled water (which creates waste and is expensive at $2-3 per bottle), I use a SteriPEN water purifier. It paid for itself within the first week of my trip and prevents dozens of plastic bottles from entering South Sudan’s non-existent waste management system.

Conclusion: Should You Visit South Sudan in 2025?

After multiple visits to South Sudan, including my most recent trip in early 2025, I’ve come to a nuanced conclusion: South Sudan can be visited safely, but it’s not for everyone. The country offers incredible cultural experiences, wildlife viewing opportunities, and the chance to witness a nation rebuilding itself. The warmth and resilience of its people left a profound impression on me.

However, it requires careful planning, realistic expectations, and a flexible attitude toward changing security situations. South Sudan is not yet ready for casual tourism – it’s a destination for travelers with experience in challenging environments who are willing to accept certain risks and inconveniences.

5-Step Action Plan for Planning a Safe Trip to South Sudan

Research and monitor: Follow security updates from your country’s embassy and the UN Mission in South Sudan for at least two months before your planned trip
Connect with local contacts: Arrange reliable transportation and accommodation through established providers before arrival
Prepare documentation thoroughly: Ensure visas, permits, and vaccinations are complete well in advance
Create a comprehensive safety plan: Include emergency contacts, medical evacuation options, and regular check-ins with someone outside the country
Start with Juba: Spend your first days in the capital to acclimate and assess conditions before attempting travel to other regions

For those with humanitarian interests, professional connections, or a genuine passion for experiencing places few travelers visit, South Sudan offers rewards that match its challenges. The opportunity to witness traditional cattle camps, explore nascent national parks, and experience the birth of the world’s newest nation is unparalleled.

The sound of traditional Dinka drums echoing across the White Nile at sunset, the taste of fresh fish grilled over open fires at Juba’s riverside restaurants, and the sincere hospitality I’ve encountered even in the most basic conditions – these are the memories that draw me back despite the difficulties.

Is South Sudan safe for travelers in 2025? With proper preparation and a realistic approach, yes – but it remains a destination that demands respect, careful planning, and an adventurous spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Safety in South Sudan

Is it legal for tourists to visit South Sudan?

Yes, tourism is legal and South Sudan issues tourist visas. However, you’ll need a letter of invitation from a registered South Sudanese business or tour operator. Independent tourism without local support is extremely challenging and not recommended from a safety perspective.

What’s the best time of year to visit South Sudan?

The dry season (December to March) offers the best conditions for travel. Roads become impassable during the rainy season (April to November), and security incidents sometimes increase when mobility is restricted. January and February provide the most comfortable temperatures and best wildlife viewing opportunities.

Can I drive myself around South Sudan?

I strongly advise against self-driving in South Sudan. Road conditions are poor, checkpoints are numerous and can be difficult to navigate, and breakdowns in remote areas create serious safety risks. Always use experienced local drivers who understand the security landscape and road conditions.

How reliable is internet access for remote work?

Internet access is improving in Juba but remains unreliable. Major hotels offer WiFi, but speeds typically range from 1-3 Mbps with frequent outages. Mobile data through Zain or MTN provides backup but is expensive (approximately $10 for 1GB). Remote work is possible in Juba but challenging – I wouldn’t count on video conferencing working reliably.

Is it safe for solo female travelers?

Solo female travelers face additional challenges in South Sudan. While respect for women is part of many South Sudanese cultures, the country’s conservative social environment and security concerns make independent travel difficult. Female travelers should consider joining organized tours or traveling with companions and should be prepared for unwanted attention in some situations.

What should I do if I experience a security incident?

Report any security incident to your embassy immediately. For minor issues like petty theft, local police can be contacted, but expectations for assistance should be modest. Having a trusted local contact is invaluable in navigating the aftermath of any security problem. The UN security office can also provide guidance to international visitors in emergency situations.