If you’re considering whether it’s safe to travel to South Sudan, you’re likely wondering about the risks and rewards of visiting one of the world’s youngest and most complex nations. At Young Pioneer Tours, our mission is to take you safely to places that your mother might rather you avoided! We believe that through travel, you get to experience the world firsthand, free from the biases often presented by the media. South Sudan, despite its challenges, is no exception.
While it may seem intimidating at first glance, travel to South Sudan can be a fascinating and enriching experience if you approach it with the right mindset and precautions.
While South Sudan certainly has its risks, it’s important to note that parts of the country have become much safer in recent years. This is though is very much an ongoing an evolving situation that needs to be constantly checked.
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Is It Safe to Travel Everywhere in South Sudan?
The simple answer is no, travel to South Sudan is not safe in all areas. Some regions of the country are still embroiled in conflict, making them dangerous for outsiders. However, there are several parts of South Sudan that have stabilized significantly, offering a safer environment for visitors. While Juba, the capital city, is the most secure destination, other regions have also seen improvements in safety, allowing for a more peaceful and insightful travel experience.
Much like traveling to other high-risk destinations, it’s crucial to research your destination thoroughly and take all necessary precautions. Some areas of South Sudan are still considered volatile, and these should be avoided if you’re planning to travel there. And of course YPT not only offer fabulous group tours, but also bespoke packages to the country.
Get a Guide for Your Journey
One of the most essential aspects of traveling to South Sudan safely is finding competent and reliable local guides. The country’s political landscape is complex, with various factions and ethnic groups involved in ongoing power struggles. Understanding the intricate dynamics of the region requires local knowledge. This is why we strongly recommend you avoid independent travel. Like in Afghanistan, the political situation in South Sudan is fluid and unpredictable, which makes it essential to have a trustworthy guide who knows where to go and when it’s safe to travel.
A local guide doesn’t just keep you safe—they also provide you with invaluable insights into South Sudan’s culture, history, and the challenges it faces. And of course we only deal with the best South Sudanese guides that are available!
Photography in South Sudan: A Sensitive Matter
One of the things that travelers to South Sudan often overlook is the sensitivity around photography. While many people think they can freely snap photos like they would in other countries, taking photographs in Juba, the capital city, can lead to serious consequences. Authorities in Juba are highly sensitive about what is photographed—especially when it involves government buildings, military sites, or other sensitive locations.
In fact, taking photos in the wrong place could result in fines, imprisonment, or worse. It might come as a surprise to some travelers that photography is often much more restricted in South Sudan than in countries with more established tourism industries. Always be sure to follow your guide’s instructions on where and what you can photograph. Once you leave the capital, however, restrictions become more relaxed, and you’ll be able to capture the beauty of South Sudan with less concern.
Avoiding Tensions: Respecting Local Tribes
South Sudan is a diverse nation, home to numerous ethnic groups with a complex history of conflict. Relationships between these tribes are intricate, and interactions between outsiders and locals should be approached with sensitivity. To travel to South Sudan in a respectful and responsible way, it’s essential to avoid questions or topics that might provoke local tensions.
Let the locals guide conversations, especially when discussing tribal or political issues. While some topics might seem innocuous to outsiders, they can be deeply sensitive to South Sudanese people. That being said, the people of South Sudan are incredibly welcoming and curious about the rest of the world. You’ll likely be surprised at their hospitality and openness, despite the country’s turbulent past.
Health and Travel Insurance: A Must for South Sudan
If you plan to travel to South Sudan, it’s important to understand that the country’s healthcare system is not on par with Western standards. In the event of a medical emergency, treatment might not be readily available, and evacuation could be necessary. That’s why having comprehensive travel insurance that covers evacuation is essential.
In fact, most standard travel insurance policies won’t cover travel to high-risk areas like South Sudan. We recommend purchasing specialized insurance from companies like First Allied Insurance, which cater specifically to travelers heading to high-risk destinations. Your insurance should cover both medical treatment and evacuation to neighboring countries in case of emergencies.
Be Open-Minded and Flexible
When you travel to South Sudan, don’t expect luxury accommodations or modern infrastructure. The country’s tourism industry is still in its infancy, and many parts of the country lack the developed infrastructure you might find in more traditional tourist destinations. The roads can be in poor condition, and the journey from one area to another may take longer than expected.
Flexibility is essential in South Sudan—your travel plans might need to change due to safety concerns, logistical issues, or unforeseen events. Whether it’s a road closure, security update, or change in plans, having an open mind will help you adapt and enjoy your adventure. Embrace the unexpected and remain adaptable—this is what makes traveling to off-the-beaten-path destinations so exciting and rewarding.
Click to read about Abyei.
Conclusion: South Sudan—An Adventure Like No Other
In conclusion, travel to South Sudan can be a safe and enriching experience when approached with the right planning, attitude, and local support. While parts of the country remain unsafe, there are regions that have stabilized and offer a unique glimpse into one of the world’s most fascinating and underexplored nations.
And YPT can arrange all of this for you and more through our full range of South Sudan Packages.
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