South Sudan

Travel Facts

US State Dept Travel Advisory

The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens DO NOT TRAVEL to South Sudan due to crime, kidnapping, and armed conflict. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country.

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html

Passport/Visa Requirements

US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 2 blank pages in their passport for any entry stamp and or visa that will be required. A visa is required. US citizens will need to get in touch with the country’s embassy or nearest consulate to obtain a visa prior to visiting the country.

US Embassy/Consulate

[211] 912-105-188; US Embassy in Juba, Kololo Road, adjacent to the European Union’s compound, Juba, South Sudan; ACSJuba@state.gov; https://ss.usembassy.gov/

LGBTQIA+ Travelers

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) travelers can face unique challenges when traveling abroad. Laws and attitudes in some countries may affect safety and ease of travel. Legal protections vary from country to country. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage. Approximately seventy countries consider consensual same-sex sexual relations a crime, sometimes carrying severe punishment.

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html

Telephone Code

211

Local Emergency Phone

Ambulance: 997; Fire: 998; Police: 999

Vaccinations

The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for South Sudan: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, COVID-19, and influenza.

http://www.who.int/

Climate

Hot with seasonal rainfall influenced by the annual shift of the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone; rainfall heaviest in upland areas of the south and diminishes to the north

Currency (Code)

South Sudanese pounds (SSP)

Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)

230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): C, D

Plug Type CPlug Type D

Major Languages

English, Arabic (includes Juba and Sudanese variants), regional languages include Dinka, Nuer, Bari, Zande, Shilluk

Major Religions

Animist, Christian, Muslim

Time Difference

UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)

Potable Water

Opt for bottled water

International Driving Permit

Suggested

Road Driving Side

Right

Tourist Destinations

Boma National Park; Wau; Southern National Park; Kidepo Game Reserve; Bandingilo National Park

Major Sports

Soccer, basketball, track and field

Cultural Practices

In South Sudan men typically inherit their father's wealth. Children usually live with their parents until they marry. After marriage, many sons live near their parents. It is important to represent your family's name honorably in South Sudanese culture.

Tipping Guidelines

Tipping is not customary.

Souvenirs

Ebony-wood-carved animal tribal items, grass woven baskets, leather items, gold jewelry, spices

Traditional Cuisine

Ful Medames — a vegetarian dish typically made with fava beans and served with toppings such as tomatoes, greens, feta, red onions, hard-boiled eggs, or shata (hot sauce)


Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.

World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.

US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.

To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)

How to get help in an emergency? 
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444


Page last updated: Wednesday, October 04, 2023