While Juba’s nightlife scene isn’t exactly thriving, it’s certainly not dead either. For those willing to explore, there are a handful of notable spots that offer a decent night out. From laid-back bars aimed at locals to exclusive venues catering to NGO workers and expats, the nightlife in Juba has something to offer—if you know where to look.
Among the most established venues are Lotus, Afex, and the increasingly well-known Pyramid Club. Whether you’re in town for business, pleasure, or something in between, Juba’s limited nightlife has a few gems worth seeking out.
What’s the Juba Nightlife?
Despite being the capital of the world’s youngest nation, Juba’s nightlife is a mixed bag. You’ve got your high-end options like Lotus and the Radisson Blu Hotel, Juba, offering a polished, modern experience for those with cash to burn. Both feature solid dining options and well-stocked bars with prices to match. The Quality Hotel Juba similarly provides a safe and sanitized environment where comfort is the main draw.
For the more adventurous, Afex Camp offers a rustic setting that serves as a gathering point for both expats and locals. It’s got a casual vibe, good food, and decent drinks, making it a go-to for anyone looking to mingle in a slightly less sanitized environment.
Meanwhile, Juba’s real heartbeat is found in the myriad of smaller, local venues aimed at South Sudanese clientele. Cheap beers, loud music, and a more relaxed, anything-goes atmosphere are the order of the day. These places are where you’ll find the real Juba experience, although they can be hit-or-miss when it comes to comfort and safety.
Somewhere between these two extremes sits the Pyramid Club—a place that straddles the line between the upscale and the rough-around-the-edges. And it’s probably the most interesting of the lot.
What’s the Pyramid Club?
The Pyramid Club has established itself as one of the most iconic nightlife spots in Juba. Opened in the early 2010s, it was conceived as a multi-purpose entertainment complex aimed at serving both expats and the rising South Sudanese elite. Located in the bustling downtown area, the club has grown from a modest establishment to a full-fledged entertainment hub.
Initially, the Pyramid Club started as a modest bar and hotel but gradually expanded its offerings to include a casino, a rooftop bar, and a restaurant serving international fare. Its appeal has always been rooted in its ability to provide a semblance of luxury and safety in a city where such things are often hard to find.
The casino, one of the few in South Sudan, draws a crowd of high-rolling locals, foreign contractors, and NGO workers looking to unwind after long days in the field. Slots, card tables, and roulette wheels make up the bulk of the gaming options. And while it’s not exactly Las Vegas, the Pyramid Club offers enough glitz to keep patrons entertained.
But the real gem is the rooftop bar—a place where the chaos of Juba melts away and is replaced by good music, decent drinks, and some of the best views in the city. Watching the sunset over the dusty skyline with a cold beer in hand is an experience that’s hard to beat.
For those interested in the broader context of nightlife and hospitality in South Sudan, sites like The New Humanitarian offer insights into the economic challenges faced by businesses in the region.
What Makes the Pyramid Club Unique?
The Pyramid Club’s appeal lies in its contrast to the rest of Juba. Walking through its doors feels like entering a different world—one where the drinks are cold, the lights are bright, and the music is pumping. The rooftop bar, in particular, stands out for its vibrant yet somewhat surreal atmosphere. It’s a place where expats rub shoulders with South Sudanese elites, and where freelancers from across Africa come seeking opportunity.
It’s also one of the few places in Juba where you can find something resembling a party. Most nights feature a DJ spinning everything from Western pop to Afrobeat, and while the dance floor might not always be packed, there’s usually enough of a crowd to keep things interesting.
The clientele is diverse, ranging from high-ranking officials and businesspeople to international NGO workers, contractors, and those simply looking to enjoy a night out. But it’s the freelancers—ladies from across the continent looking to make their fortunes in one of the world’s poorest countries—that add an extra layer of intrigue to the place.
It’s a curious phenomenon: people from all over Africa making their way to South Sudan, a country most would never consider a land of opportunity. Yet here they are, drawn to the Pyramid Club’s lights like moths to a flame.
The Pyramid Club Menu
The menu is straightforward but serviceable, designed more for convenience than culinary excellence. Pizza is the staple, and while it’s not going to win any awards, it’s hot, cheesy, and exactly what you need after a few rounds of drinks.
Beers here will set you back around $4.50—steep by regional standards, but perfectly reasonable if you’re in the Pyramid Club. Sodas are available for $3, but if you’re feeling fancy and opt for a fruit juice, prepare to shell out $7.
The bar is decently stocked, with international beers, spirits, and a few local options. The rooftop bar experience is all about the atmosphere and the views, not the drinks themselves. Still, you’ll have plenty of options to keep yourself entertained for an evening.
Where is the Pyramid Club?
The Pyramid Club is located in downtown Juba, making it one of the most accessible entertainment options for anyone staying in the city center. Most local drivers know the location well, but it’s always wise to confirm your route in advance.
Address: Pyramid Club, Downtown Juba, South Sudan
For those staying in the city, the Pyramid Club is well within reach of most major hotels. Whether you’re staying at the Radisson Blu, Quality Hotel, or one of the more modest guesthouses, getting to the Pyramid Club is relatively straightforward. You will though need a car due to safety reasons, particularly if coming at night.
Final Thoughts
The Pyramid Club is an intriguing snapshot of Juba’s nightlife—a place where international workers, South Sudanese elites, and fortune-seekers from across Africa converge. Whether you’re here for the casino, the rooftop bar, or just to take in the atmosphere, it’s an experience worth adding to your itinerary.
If you’re interested in experiencing the Pyramid Club or other unique spots in Juba, consider joining one of our South Sudan Tours.
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