Friends, planning a trip where maps widen into river country and big skies? South Sudan rewards careful planners with culture-rich cities, broad landscapes, and riverfront sunsets.

This guide puts real numbers to key choices—when to go, how to enter, where costs add up—so you can design a safe, efficient route without guesswork.

When to Go

Travel is most reliable in the dry season (late November–April). Roads are firmer, air links steadier, and visibility better. For fewer travelers and good light, target December–January or March–April. If visiting in the rains, add buffer days for weather-related delays.

Entry & Visas

Most nationalities arrange visas in advance. Typical fees range US$100–160 depending on passport and issuing location. Bring passport photos, printed hotel booking, and (if required) proof of yellow-fever vaccination. Processing often takes 3–7 working days; some applicants use a courier service (US$20–40) to save office visits.

Arriving & Taxis

From Juba International Airport, hotel shuttles usually cost US$10–20 per person; private taxis run US$10–25 into central areas. Many taxis are meterless—confirm the fare before departure and carry small bills. Airport SIM kiosks sometimes open intermittently; your hotel can arrange a next-morning SIM if you arrive late.

Getting Around

For long hops, domestic flights are the time saver: US$180–250 one way on main routes. City rides with vetted taxis cost US$4–8 for short trips; US$10–18 cross-town. Day-hire with driver is US$80–120 (8–10 hours), plus fuel (~US$1.20–1.60/L). Intertown minibuses depart “when full”; fares vary by distance—budget US$5–20 for short to mid-range routes.

Key Regions

Juba: Lively markets, craft shopping, river views, and the widest range of services.

Nimule Area: Popular for guided river activities and scenic day trips; book ahead in dry season.

Protected Zones: Wide, open landscapes best visited with a certified operator who secures permits and navigates track conditions.

Permits & Fees

Expect US$20–40 per person/day for park or conservation access, plus vehicle fees (US$10–25). Mandatory ranger/guide services in designated areas often add US$15–25/day. Keep several photocopies of your passport and visa for checkpoints and office paperwork.

Where to Stay

Simple guesthouses: US$25–60 per night; fan rooms, mosquito nets, intermittent Wi-Fi.

Midrange hotels (Juba): US$120–200+; air-conditioning, breakfast, stronger security, airport pickup.

Top-tier stays: US$220–350+; business facilities, generators, and on-site dining.

Ask about generator hours, included breakfast, and laundry (US$3–10 per bag). Prepaying the first night often secures late arrivals.

What to Eat

Daily cuisine centers on grains and stews. Look for kisra (sorghum flatbread), gurassa (thicker corn bread), and vegetable sides such as okra or lentils.

Local canteens: US$2–6 per plate (set meals).

Midrange restaurants in Juba: US$8–15 per main, US$1–3 for sides.

Fresh fruit is excellent value—during peak mango season, a heaping portion can be US$0.50–1. Bottled water (1.5 L) runs US$0.50–1.50; hot tea or spiced coffee US$0.50–2.

Money & Data

Card acceptance is limited; carry clean, recent USD notes and change a portion into local currency for small purchases. ATMs are concentrated in Juba and can be intermittent. A local SIM typically costs US$1–3; starter data bundles run US$5–10 for 3–5 GB. Ask your hotel to confirm network strength in your area before you buy.

Health Prep

See a travel clinic 6–8 weeks before departure to review routine and destination-specific vaccinations. Comprehensive insurance with medical evacuation is essential. Pack a personal kit: rehydration salts, antiseptic, blister care, antihistamine, pain reliever, and any prescriptions. Sun is intense—use reef-safe SPF 30+, a wide-brim hat, and light layers.

Safety Basics

Plan routes in daylight, rely on licensed drivers, and share your daily outline with a trusted contact. Ask permission before photographing people. Keep valuables low-profile and carry only what you need for the day. Conditions can change; check your embassy’s latest guidance before intercity travel and adapt plans to local advice.

River Activities

Guided river days near Nimule typically include transport, safety gear, and lunch. Expect US$120–180 per person for small-group outings, with discounts for four or more. Confirm inclusions, safety certifications, guide-to-guest ratios, and minimum age/fitness requirements. Dry-season departures are more dependable; shoulder months may run with adjusted sections.

Operator Costs

Private 4×4 with driver for protected-area day trips ranges US$150–220 (fuel included, 8–10 hours). Multi-day expeditions price by itinerary: US$250–350+ per person/day typically covers vehicle, driver-guide, permits, camping gear or midrange lodging, and meals. Always request a written breakdown (vehicle, fuel, staff, permits, meals, room category).

Suggested Budgets

Shoestring (US$60–100/day): Guesthouse, local meals, shared minibuses/taxis, simple city sights.

Comfort (US$150–250/day): Midrange hotel, private day-hire car, one paid activity or permit.

Premium (US$300+/day): Top-tier stays, domestic flights, guided river/park days.

Useful Extras

Power can fluctuate—pack a surge protector and power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh). Bring a quick-dry towel, headlamp, and a small combination lock. For basic connectivity, ask your hotel for a WhatsApp driver contact; in-city day-hire is typically quicker than waiting for taxis on the street. Tipping norms: 5–10% in sit-down restaurants if service isn’t included; US$5–10 per day for guides/drivers on multi-day trips.

Conclusion

With the right season, realistic transport choices, and clear cost expectations, South Sudan becomes a purposeful, well-paced journey. Friends, which price point fits your plan—lean, comfortable, or premium—and what experience leads your wishlist: river time near Nimule, a city stay in Juba, or a guided wide-open-spaces loop?