South Sudan

South Sudan is a destination for the most hardened of expeditionary travelers. The country is home to some of Africa's most intact and traditional tribal communities, including the Dinka, Nuer, and Mundari people, known for their unique cattle camps and scarification rituals. A visit here offers a glimpse into a way of life that has vanished from most of the world. The country also hosts the second-largest land animal migration on Earth, where vast herds of antelope move across the plains.

However, since its independence in 2011, the country has been engulfed in a brutal civil war and inter-communal violence. The security situation is extremely volatile, and the infrastructure is non-existent. This guide is for informational purposes only, for a future when peace might make travel possible.

Reasons to Visit (in a future, stable context)

• Authentic Tribal Cultures: Witness the traditional lifestyles and ceremonies of some of Africa's most fascinating ethnic groups, such as the Mundari cattle camps.
• The Great Migration: See the vast, little-known migration of millions of antelope across the country's national parks.
• The Sudd Wetland: Explore one of the world's largest wetlands, a vast expanse of swamp and floating vegetation along the White Nile.

Things to Avoid (Crucial Safety Warnings)

• Traveling to the Country:All major governments have "Do Not Travel" advisories for the entire country of South Sudan due to armed conflict, kidnapping, and violent crime.
• Any Movement without Expert Security:Independent travel is impossible. Any essential travel requires professional security and local expertise.
• Photography: Be extremely careful. Taking photos can be viewed with great suspicion.

Local Transportation Tips

There is no viable tourist transportation. All travel is by 4x4 on extremely poor roads or by charter flight and is subject to extreme risk.

Travel Etiquette

• Rely on Your Guide: Navigating the complex cultural and security landscape is impossible without an expert local guide.
• Respect for Elders and Chiefs: These figures hold the highest authority in traditional communities.
• Gift-Giving: A gift (often arranged by your guide) is a necessary part of being granted access to a community.

Did You Know?

The Mundari people are famous for their close relationship with their Ankole-Watusi cattle, which have enormous, curved horns. The cattle are a symbol of wealth and status, and the Mundari use the ash from burnt cow dung to cover their skin as a form of antiseptic and protection from insects.

Cool South Sudan Stats

• World's Newest Country: South Sudan gained its independence from Sudan on July 9, 2011, making it the youngest sovereign state in the world.
• A Vast Wetland: The Sudd, a massive wetland on the White Nile, is one of the largest in the world, covering an area roughly the size of England in the wet season.
• A Nation of Many Tongues: Over 60 different indigenous languages are spoken in South Sudan.

Recommended Age Group

Due to the ongoing conflict and extreme security risks, travel to South Sudan is not recommended for any age group.

• Babies (0-2 years):Not recommended.
• Kids (3-12 years):Not recommended.
• Teens (13-19 years):Not recommended.
• Adults (20-64 years):Not recommended.
• Seniors (65+ years):Not recommended.

Accessibility Level: Low

• This is a country in conflict with no accessibility infrastructure.
• There are no provisions for accessibility.
• Infrastructure is extremely limited or destroyed.
• Travel is exceptionally difficult and dangerous.