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
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
