Budget Travel in South Sudan 2025: An Insider's Guide to Africa's Newest Nation - Xplrverse

Introduction: Why South Sudan Deserves Your Attention

The first time I stepped off the plane at Juba International Airport (JUB) in 2018, I was terrified. South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, had been through years of civil conflict, and all my friends and family thought I was crazy. Fast forward to my fifth visit in early 2025, and I’m still here to tell you – this misunderstood country offers some of Africa’s most authentic travel experiences for those willing to venture beyond the headlines.

South Sudan won’t be for everyone. Infrastructure is limited, tourism barely exists, and yes, there are legitimate security concerns in certain regions. But for budget travelers seeking genuine cultural immersion and landscapes untouched by mass tourism, this nation offers incredible value and experiences you simply won’t find anywhere else.

One evening during my 2023 visit, I sat sharing a meal of kisra (fermented bread) and kawal (dried okra stew) with a family in a small village outside Juba. As we watched the sunset paint the White Nile golden, my host Abuk turned to me and said, “Anyuak ki beny” – “Welcome home” in Dinka. That moment perfectly encapsulated why I keep returning to South Sudan despite the challenges – the unparalleled hospitality that makes even budget travel here feel luxurious in spirit.

This guide draws from my experiences traveling throughout South Sudan on a shoestring, with updated information for 2025. I’ll show you how to navigate this fascinating country safely while spending far less than you might expect.

Understanding South Sudan’s Current Situation (2025)

Before diving into budget tips, it’s essential to understand the current context. South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in 2011 after decades of civil war. While parts of the country experienced renewed conflict between 2013-2018, a peace agreement has led to significant stability improvements in key regions.

As of early 2025, Juba and several other areas are relatively safe for travelers who take proper precautions. The security situation has improved markedly since my first visit, though this remains a country where you need to stay informed about regional developments.

Key Facts for Budget Travelers in 2025

Currency: South Sudanese Pound (SSP) – current exchange rate approximately 1 USD = 640 SSP (as of March 2025)
Visa: Required in advance for most nationalities, $100 for single-entry
Best time to visit: November-February (dry season)
Daily budget: $30-60 (basic accommodation, local food, limited transportation)
Internet: Mobile data available in major towns, but expensive and unreliable
Languages: English (official), Arabic widely spoken, plus over 60 indigenous languages

INSIDER TIP: Bring new, unfolded USD bills printed after 2013 for visa payments and major expenses. Torn or old bills are often rejected. I once had to wait three days in Nairobi because my $100 bills had tiny tears!

Getting to South Sudan: Finding Affordable Flights

Juba International Airport (JUB) is your primary gateway to South Sudan. Direct flights arrive from regional hubs including Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Cairo, and Khartoum. Unlike my first visit when options were extremely limited, 2025 sees increased flight frequency though prices remain high.

Budget Airlines Serving South Sudan (2025)

Airline	Routes	Typical One-Way Cost	Notes
Ethiopian Airlines	Addis Ababa to Juba	$280-450	Most reliable option
Kenya Airways	Nairobi to Juba	$320-500	Consistent schedule
flydubai	Dubai to Juba	$400-700	Newest route (added 2024)
Tarco Aviation	Khartoum to Juba	$220-350	Frequently rescheduled
Badr Airlines	Khartoum to Juba	$200-330	Budget option but unreliable

Money-Saving Flight Strategies

Here’s my tried-and-tested method for saving 30-40% on flights to South Sudan:

Book flights to Entebbe, Uganda or Nairobi, Kenya (much cheaper international gateways)
Spend 2-3 days exploring these cities (worth visiting anyway!)
Book a separate ticket on Ethiopian Airlines or Kenya Airways to Juba
Return the same way, breaking up your journey

In January 2025, I paid $680 round-trip from London to Nairobi, then $340 round-trip from Nairobi to Juba. A direct booking would have cost over $1,400!

INSIDER TIP: If flying via Nairobi, check flights that arrive early morning. These often connect perfectly with the mid-morning Kenya Airways flight to Juba, potentially saving you a night’s accommodation.

Visa Requirements and Documentation

South Sudan’s visa process has simplified considerably since my first visit, though it remains more complex than most African nations. As of 2025, most travelers need to obtain visas in advance from South Sudanese embassies or consulates.

Current Visa Process (2025)

Cost: $100 for single-entry (30 days)
Processing time: 3-10 business days
Requirements:
- Completed application form
- Passport valid for at least 6 months with 2 blank pages
- 2 passport photos
- Letter of invitation (can be arranged through accommodations)
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate

The South Sudan Embassy in Washington DC provides the most up-to-date information for American travelers, while the London Embassy serves UK and EU citizens.

One of my biggest visa-related mistakes came in 2022 when I trusted an online service charging $250 to “expedite” my visa. The service simply submitted my regular application and pocketed the difference! Always apply directly through official channels.

Budget Accommodation in South Sudan

South Sudan isn’t developed for tourism, which presents both challenges and opportunities for budget travelers. The good news? While high-end options targeting NGO workers and businesspeople can be expensive, basic accommodations frequented by locals and regional traders offer incredible value.

Juba Accommodation Options

As the capital and main entry point, Juba has the widest range of options:

Accommodation Type	Price Range (2025)	Notes
Budget Guesthouses	15,000-25,000 SSP ($25-40)	Basic but clean, often with fans, shared bathrooms
Mid-range Hotels	30,000-60,000 SSP ($45-95)	Private bathroom, A/C, sometimes generator backup
NGO Guesthouses	40,000-70,000 SSP ($60-110)	Some accept travelers, include meals, security
Upscale Hotels	90,000+ SSP ($140+)	International standards, reliable amenities

My go-to places in Juba as of 2025:

Juba Regency Hotel – 25,000 SSP ($40) – Clean rooms with A/C near the White Nile, friendly staff
Nile Anchor Guesthouse – 18,000 SSP ($28) – Simple but safe accommodation near Konyo Konyo Market
New Nation Guesthouse – 15,000 SSP ($25) – Very basic but the most affordable option I’ve found with reliable security

Accommodation in Other Cities

Options outside Juba are more limited but often cheaper:

Wau: Unity Hotel ($20-30) – Simple rooms with ceiling fans near the market
Malakal: Nile View Guesthouse ($25) – Basic but clean rooms when security allows visits
Yambio: Western Equatoria Guesthouse ($22) – No-frills accommodation with good security

INSIDER TIP: In smaller towns, ask for the “Sudanese price” rather than the “foreigner price.” While not always successful, this has saved me up to 40% at smaller guesthouses where rates aren’t fixed. Greeting the owner with “Salaam aleikum” (peace be upon you) and a few Arabic pleasantries goes a long way!

Accommodation Safety Considerations

When booking budget accommodation in South Sudan, prioritize:

Properties with security guards or gates
Locations in established neighborhoods (ask locals for advice)
Places with backup generators (power outages are frequent)
Access to clean water (verify before booking)

During my 2022 visit, I booked the cheapest guesthouse I could find in Juba, only to discover it was in an area even locals considered unsafe. I immediately moved to a slightly more expensive place with better security – a $10 difference that gave me peace of mind.

Getting Around South Sudan on a Budget

Transportation in South Sudan ranges from straightforward in Juba to challenging in remote areas. Roads are improving but remain underdeveloped compared to neighboring countries.

Urban Transportation

In Juba and other major towns:

Boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis): 500-1,000 SSP ($0.80-1.60) for short trips
Shared minibuses: 300-600 SSP ($0.50-0.90) per journey
Rickshaws: 800-1,500 SSP ($1.20-2.30) for short to medium distances
Private taxis: 3,000-8,000 SSP ($5-12) depending on distance

Always negotiate fares before getting into any vehicle. In 2023, I made the rookie mistake of not setting a price with a boda-boda driver and ended up paying triple the going rate!

Intercity Travel

Route	Transport Type	Cost (2025)	Duration	Schedule
Juba to Wau	Shared Toyota Land Cruiser	12,000 SSP ($19)	8-10 hours	Early morning departures
Juba to Yei	Minibus	6,000 SSP ($9)	3-4 hours	Throughout morning
Juba to Nimule	Shared van	8,000 SSP ($12)	4-5 hours	Morning departures
Juba to Bor	River boat	10,000 SSP ($15)	6-8 hours	2-3 times weekly

Money-Saving Transport Tips

Travel with locals rather than arranging private transport through hotels
Depart early morning (4-6am) when vehicles are more likely to fill quickly
Buy snacks and water before long journeys (prices double en route)
Consider splitting costs with other travelers for more remote destinations

INSIDER TIP: For the ultimate budget adventure, the weekly cargo boats between Juba and Bor along the White Nile cost just 7,000 SSP ($11) if you don’t mind basic conditions. I took this in 2023 and it was one of the most memorable experiences of all my South Sudan travels – stunning scenery and fascinating conversations with traders. Just bring a mat to sit on and plenty of patience!

Food and Drink on a Budget

South Sudanese cuisine blends influences from Sudan, Uganda, Kenya, and Ethiopia, creating unique flavors at very affordable prices if you eat where locals do.

Typical Meal Costs (2025)

Street food: 800-2,000 SSP ($1.20-3)
Local restaurants: 2,000-5,000 SSP ($3-8)
International restaurants: 8,000-25,000 SSP ($12-40)
Beer (local): 1,000-1,500 SSP ($1.50-2.30)
Bottled water (1.5L): 500-800 SSP ($0.80-1.20)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kisra – Thin fermented bread served with various stews
Kawal – Dried okra and meat stew
Ful Sudani – Mashed fava beans with olive oil, tomatoes and spices
Tamiya – Falafel-like fritters made from fava beans
Gibna Bayda – White cheese often served with bread
Gurasa – Thick bread similar to pancakes

The best food experience I’ve had in South Sudan was at a tiny roadside kitchen near Juba’s Konyo Konyo Market, where I paid just 1,500 SSP ($2.30) for a huge plate of kisra with lamb stew that was utterly delicious. Look for places filled with locals, especially government workers on lunch breaks – they know where to find good, affordable food.

Drinking Water Safety

Never drink tap water in South Sudan. Options include:

Bottled water (most reliable but creates plastic waste)
Water purification tablets (pack these before traveling)
Portable water filter (my preference – I’ve used a LifeStraw for years)

MONEY-SAVING TIP: Instead of buying multiple small water bottles, purchase a large 10L container for around 2,500 SSP ($4) from any supermarket in Juba and refill a reusable bottle. This saved me approximately $35 during a two-week stay in 2024 while reducing plastic waste.

Budget Activities and Experiences

Unlike other African destinations, South Sudan doesn’t have established tourist attractions with entrance fees. This is actually great news for budget travelers! Most meaningful experiences here come from cultural interactions and natural settings that cost little to nothing.

Free and Low-Cost Experiences in Juba

White Nile Exploration – Walk along the riverbank at sunset
Konyo Konyo Market – Vibrant local market experience
Dr. John Garang Mausoleum – Monument to South Sudan’s founding father
All Saints Cathedral – Beautiful church with historical significance
Juba Basketball Court – Watch evening games with passionate local fans

Worth-the-Money Experiences

White Nile Boat Trip – 10,000-15,000 SSP ($15-23) for a shared boat ride
Traditional Wrestling Matches – 1,000-2,000 SSP ($1.50-3) to attend authentic cultural events
Nimule National Park Day Trip – 30,000-45,000 SSP ($45-70) including transport and guide
Community-led Walking Tours – 8,000-12,000 SSP ($12-19) supporting local guides

During my 2024 visit, I spent an unforgettable day at a traditional wrestling match in Terekeka (about 80km north of Juba). For just 1,500 SSP ($2.30) entrance fee plus transport costs, I witnessed this centuries-old cultural tradition where rival cattle-herding communities compete. The atmosphere was electric, with hundreds of spectators singing, dancing, and cheering on their champions. No tourist infrastructure, no souvenir sellers – just authentic cultural immersion impossible to find in more developed destinations.

BUDGET TIP: Make friends with university students in Juba; they often know about free cultural events, concerts, and community gatherings that aren’t advertised to foreigners. In 2023, a student I met at a cafe invited me to a poetry night featuring themes of reconciliation and peace-building that became one of my most memorable evenings.

Local Festivals Worth Planning Around

Independence Day (July 9) – Free public celebrations throughout the country
Mundari Cattle Camp Visits – Best between December-February
Easter Celebrations – Vibrant church services and community gatherings
Dinka Cattle Wrestling – Seasonal events in rural areas north of Juba

Cultural Sensitivity and Local Interactions

South Sudan comprises over 60 ethnic groups with diverse customs. Understanding basic cultural norms will enhance your experience while keeping costs low through positive local interactions.

Important Cultural Tips

Always ask permission before taking photographs of people
Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered, especially for women)
Greet elders with particular respect
Remove shoes when entering homes
Use right hand for eating and passing objects

Useful Local Phrases

While English is an official language, knowing a few Arabic phrases (widely understood throughout the country) goes a long way:

English	Arabic	Pronunciation
Hello	Salaam aleikum	sa-LAAM a-LAY-koom
Thank you	Shukran	SHOO-kran
Yes/No	Aywa/La	AY-wah/La
How much?	Kam?	Kam
Too expensive	Ghali	GA-lee

In the Dinka language (spoken by South Sudan’s largest ethnic group):

Ci bak – Hello
Yin adi? – How are you?
Aca leec – Thank you

During my 2022 trip, I made an embarrassing mistake by attempting to haggle over the price of food at a small restaurant. The owner was visibly offended – I later learned that while negotiating is expected for transportation and souvenirs, fixed-price establishments consider it disrespectful. Cultural awareness helps avoid such misunderstandings while traveling on a budget.

Health and Safety on a Budget

Staying healthy and safe in South Sudan requires preparation but doesn’t necessarily demand expensive measures.

Essential Health Precautions

Required vaccinations: Yellow Fever (certificate required for entry)
Recommended vaccinations: Typhoid, Hepatitis A/B, Tetanus, Cholera, Meningitis
Malaria prevention: Critical year-round – bring medication from home (much cheaper)
First aid kit: Pack basic supplies plus treatments for diarrhea, pain, and allergies

In 2023, I came down with food poisoning in Wau with no pharmacy nearby. Since then, I always carry activated charcoal, oral rehydration salts, and antibiotics – a $20 investment that saved me a potential $200+ emergency clinic visit during my next trip.

Budget-Friendly Safety Measures

Register with your embassy upon arrival (free service)
Use WhatsApp groups of other travelers for security updates (I can recommend several active groups)
Invest in a good money belt rather than flashing cash
Download offline maps before arrival (Google Maps, Maps.me)
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance (the one budget item never to skip)

SAFETY TIP: Rather than hiring expensive security services, build relationships with locals in your area who can provide reliable advice about which areas are safe. My guesthouse manager in Juba has consistently given me better security information than official sources, helping me explore safely while avoiding unnecessarily restricted movement.

Restricted Areas and Security Updates

As of early 2025, these regions are generally accessible for budget travelers with proper precautions:

Juba and immediate surroundings
Yei (improved security since 2023)
Wau and western regions
Nimule and border areas with Uganda

Areas requiring special permits or presenting higher risks include:

Jonglei State (except Bor town)
Upper Nile regions
Parts of Unity State

Always check the latest travel advisories from your country’s foreign office and connect with South Sudan Travellers Facebook Group for current on-the-ground information.

Communication and Connectivity

Staying connected in South Sudan has improved significantly since my first visit but remains challenging and relatively expensive compared to neighboring countries.

Mobile Networks and Internet (2025)

Provider	SIM Cost	Data Packages	Coverage
MTN	1,000 SSP ($1.50)	1GB: 3,000 SSP ($4.70)	Best in urban areas
Zain	1,000 SSP ($1.50)	1GB: 3,500 SSP ($5.50)	Good alternative
Digitel	1,500 SSP ($2.30)	1GB: 3,200 SSP ($5)	Newer network

To purchase a SIM card, you’ll need your passport for registration. I recommend buying at official provider shops rather than street vendors to ensure proper registration.

Internet Cafes and WiFi

In Juba, several locations offer reasonably priced internet access:

Buffalo Wings Restaurant – 2,000 SSP ($3) minimum order for WiFi access
Nile Grand Hotel Lobby – Free WiFi with purchase
Juba Landmarks Hotel – Customer WiFi with reliable connection
Thinkers Internet Cafe – 1,000 SSP ($1.50) per hour computer usage

CONNECTIVITY TIP: Instead of relying on expensive local data, I’ve saved significantly by using an international eSIM from Airalo. Their East Africa regional package costs about $15 for 3GB and works across South Sudan and neighboring countries – perfect for a multi-country trip.

Money Matters: Banking, ATMs and Currency

Managing money wisely is crucial for budget travel in South Sudan, where banking infrastructure is limited and cash is king.

Current Banking Situation (2025)

ATMs are rare and frequently out of service
Credit cards are accepted only at upscale hotels and a few supermarkets in Juba
Most transactions are cash-only in South Sudanese Pounds (SSP)
US Dollars are widely accepted for larger expenses (hotels, flights)

Money Exchange Tips

The official exchange rate versus street rates can differ significantly. As of March 2025:

Official bank rate: 1 USD = approx. 590 SSP
Street/market rate: 1 USD = approx. 640-660 SSP

For best rates, exchange money at:

Konyo Konyo Market forex bureaus (best rates but verify counts carefully)
Custom Market money changers (slightly lower rates but reliable)
Avoid hotel exchange services (typically 10-15% worse rates)

In 2023, I made the mistake of exchanging all my dollars at once, only to find the rate improved significantly a few days later. Now I exchange smaller amounts every few days to average out rate fluctuations.

MONEY-SAVING TIP: Bring crisp $50 and $100 bills for the best exchange rates. Smaller denominations ($1, $5, $10) typically receive 5-10% worse rates. Also, bring more cash than you think you’ll need – getting money if you run out is extremely challenging.

Sustainable Budget Travel in South Sudan

Traveling sustainably in South Sudan isn’t just good for the environment – it often saves money too. Here are approaches that benefit both your wallet and the local community:

Environmental Sustainability

Bring a water filter rather than buying plastic bottles (saves approximately $40/week)
Use local transport – shared vehicles have a lower carbon footprint per passenger
Bring rechargeable batteries and a solar charger – electricity is unreliable and battery disposal facilities don’t exist
Pack biodegradable soap and shampoo – many accommodations lack proper wastewater treatment

Economic Sustainability

Buy directly from artisans at markets rather than middlemen
Use local guides from communities rather than tour companies based abroad
Eat at small, locally-owned restaurants rather than international chains
Learn basic bargaining etiquette – fair prices benefit both you and sellers

During my 2024 visit, I befriended a university student in Juba who offered to show me around for a day. Instead of hiring an expensive tour guide, I paid him a fair rate (10,000 SSP, about $15) and bought meals throughout the day. This approach cost half what a formal tour would have while providing him much-needed income and giving me authentic local insights no commercial tour could match.

CULTURAL SUSTAINABILITY TIP: Before photographing cultural practices or ceremonies, always ask permission and consider offering a small contribution (2,000-3,000 SSP/$3-5) to community elders. This acknowledges the value of their cultural heritage while supporting community needs. In 2023, this approach gave me access to a traditional Mundari cattle camp where commercial photographers are increasingly being turned away.

Sample Budget Breakdown (7 Days)

To give you a realistic idea of costs in 2025, here’s a breakdown of a typical week’s expenses based on my most recent visit:

Expense Category	Daily Cost (SSP)	Daily Cost (USD)	Weekly Total (USD)	Notes
Budget Accommodation	18,000 SSP	$28	$196	Basic guesthouse with fan
Food (local options)	8,000 SSP	$12.50	$87.50	Three meals daily at local eateries
Transportation	5,000 SSP	$8	$56	Shared transport and boda-bodas
Activities	4,000 SSP	$6	$42	Local experiences, museum donations
Drinking water	1,000 SSP	$1.50	$10.50	Using water filter + occasional bottles
Internet/SIM	1,500 SSP	$2.30	$16.10	Basic data package
Miscellaneous	2,000 SSP	$3	$21	Toiletries, small gifts, etc.
TOTAL	39,500 SSP	$61.30	$429.10	Excluding flights and visa

You could further reduce this budget to around $45-50 daily by:

Staying at the most basic accommodations ($20/night)
Eating exclusively at local street food vendors ($8/day)
Using only shared public transportation ($5/day)
Focusing on free activities and experiences

5-Step Action Plan for Your Budget South Sudan Trip

Ready to experience South Sudan on a budget? Here’s my proven step-by-step approach to making it happen in 2025:

Pre-Trip Preparation (3-6 months before)
- Research current security situation through government advisories and traveler forums
- Apply for visa through nearest South Sudanese embassy
- Get required vaccinations and stock a comprehensive medical kit
- Book flights during sales periods (typically Jan-Feb or Sep-Oct for best rates)
- Download offline maps, translation apps, and currency converters
Financial Planning (1-2 months before)
- Obtain new, unmarked USD bills in various denominations
- Purchase comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage
- Book first 2-3 nights accommodation in Juba only (remain flexible after)
- Notify your bank of travel dates to prevent card freezes
- Create a detailed budget spreadsheet with 20% contingency funds
Arrival Strategy (First 48 hours)
- Exchange only enough currency at the airport for 1-2 days
- Register with your embassy in Juba
- Purchase local SIM card at official provider shop
- Connect with local contacts or guesthouse managers for current safety advice
- Exchange bulk of currency at Konyo Konyo market for best rates
Daily Money-Saving Routines
- Eat main meal at lunch when prices are lower (same food, 20-30% cheaper)
- Use shared transportation departing in early morning
- Refill water bottles using water purification system
- Negotiate prices in advance for services and transportation
- Connect with other travelers to share costs for longer excursions
Maximize Cultural Experiences
- Learn 5-10 basic Arabic or Dinka phrases to build rapport
- Visit local universities to connect with English-speaking students
- Attend free community events (markets, wrestling matches, church services)
- Volunteer English conversation practice in exchange for local knowledge
- Seek community-based tourism initiatives rather than commercial tours

Frequently Asked Questions About Budget Travel in South Sudan

Is South Sudan safe for budget travelers in 2025?

Parts of South Sudan, particularly Juba and Western Equatoria, have become significantly safer since 2018. As a budget traveler who has visited five times since 2018, I’ve found that staying in areas known to be stable, following local advice, and avoiding political discussions allows for safe travel. That said, conditions vary by region, and you should always check the latest travel advisories before planning your trip.

What’s the absolute minimum daily budget needed for South Sudan?

The bare minimum for basic travel in South Sudan is approximately $35-40 per day, covering the most basic accommodation ($20), simple local food ($8-10), limited transportation ($5), and essential expenses like drinking water. However, I recommend budgeting $50-60 daily for a more comfortable experience with better security and occasional activities.

Can I travel to South Sudan without a tour guide?

Yes, independent travel in South Sudan is possible and how I’ve always traveled there. For budget travelers, hiring local guides for specific activities rather than comprehensive tours makes more sense. However, having local contacts is invaluable – I recommend connecting through resources like Couchsurfing, university student groups, or expatriate Facebook groups before arrival.

How reliable is internet access for digital nomads?

South Sudan is not yet suitable for digital nomads requiring consistent internet. Even in Juba, connectivity is unpredictable, with frequent outages and slow speeds. During my 2025 visit, I averaged download speeds of 1-3 Mbps at best locations, with frequent disconnections. Essential communications are possible, but bandwidth-intensive work is challenging.

What’s the best way to exchange money?

Bring clean, new USD bills (preferably $50 and $100 denominations) and exchange at local markets for the best rates. Konyo Konyo Market in Juba offers 8-12% better rates than hotels or banks. Exchange small amounts every few days rather than all at once, as rates fluctuate frequently. ATMs are unreliable and often empty, so don’t count on them.

Can I cross borders to/from Uganda or Ethiopia by land?

The Nimule border crossing between South Sudan and Uganda is generally open and relatively straightforward, though conditions change. I used this crossing in both 2023 and 2024. Budget buses run from Juba to Nimule (8,000 SSP/$12.50), and from there you can find transportation to Gulu, Uganda. The Ethiopia border is more complicated and less reliable for independent travelers. Always check current border status before attempting crossings.

Are there any budget accommodations with reliable electricity?

Most budget accommodations in South Sudan experience power outages, but several affordable options in Juba have generators that run during peak evening hours. New Nation Guesthouse (15,000 SSP/$25) and Juba Regency Hotel (25,000 SSP/$40) both offer generator backup from approximately 7pm-11pm. For 24-hour electricity, you’ll need to budget at least $60-70 per night for mid-range hotels.

How do I get a local SIM card as a foreigner?

Foreigners can purchase SIM cards from MTN or Zain with a passport. Visit official company shops rather than street vendors to ensure proper registration. The SIM itself costs about 1,000 SSP ($1.50), with data packages starting around 3,000 SSP ($4.70) for 1GB. Registration typically takes 15-30 minutes.