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Juba, South Sudan جنوب السودان - Things to Do in Juba

Juba

Juba, Southsudan جنوب السودان - Complete Travel Guide

Juba, the capital and largest city of Southsudan, sits along the Sudan River and serves as the political and economic heart of the world's youngest nation. Founded as a small trading post in the 19th century, Juba has rapidly expanded since Southsudan's independence in 2011, though it retains a frontier-town atmosphere with unpaved roads, bustling markets, and a mix of traditional and modern architecture. The city is home to diverse ethnic groups and serves as a gateway to understanding South Sudanese culture and history. While tourism infrastructure remains limited due to ongoing development challenges, Juba offers intrepid travelers a unique opportunity to experience authentic African urban life away from typical tourist circuits. The city provides access to the Sudan's scenic beauty, busy local markets, and cultural sites that tell the story of Southsudan's journey to independence. Visitors should be prepared for basic amenities and should travel with organized groups or experienced local guides.

Top Juba

White Nile River Experience

Take a boat trip along the Sudan River to enjoy scenic views of Juba from the water and observe local fishing communities. The river offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city and provides excellent photography opportunities, especially during sunset hours.

Booking Tip: Arrange boat trips through your hotel or local tour operator for $20-40 per person. Best visited in the morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat. Ensure the boat has safety equipment and the operator is licensed.

Juba Market (Konyo Konyo Market)

Explore Southsudan's largest market, where vendors sell everything from fresh produce and spices to traditional crafts and textiles. This bustling marketplace offers an authentic glimpse into daily life in Juba and opportunities to purchase local handicrafts and souvenirs.

Booking Tip: Visit in the morning when it's cooler and selection is best. Bring small denomination USD bills for purchases ($1-20 for most items). Go with a local guide for navigation and cultural context.

South Sudan National Museum

Discover the cultural heritage and history of Southsudan through exhibits showcasing traditional artifacts, archaeological finds, and displays about the country's path to independence. The museum provides valuable context for understanding South Sudanese culture and traditions.

Booking Tip: Entry fee is typically $5-10. Open most days except Fridays, best visited in the morning. Photography may require additional fees. Contact ahead to confirm opening hours as they can vary.

Juba Bridge and Riverside Walk

Visit the iconic bridge spanning the Sudan, which serves as both a vital transportation link and a symbol of Juba's development. The area around the bridge offers pleasant walking opportunities along the riverbank with views of local life and river activities.

Booking Tip: Free to visit and walk around. Best times are early morning or late afternoon for comfortable temperatures and good lighting for photos. Exercise caution and stay aware of surroundings.

Local Cultural Village Visits

Experience traditional South Sudanese village life through organized visits to nearby communities where you can observe traditional crafts, music, and daily activities. These visits provide insight into the diverse ethnic groups and customs of the region.

Booking Tip: Must be arranged through local tour operators, typically $30-60 per person including transport. Bring small gifts for the community (school supplies work well). Respect photography restrictions and local customs.

Getting There

Juba International Airport is the main gateway to the city, receiving flights from Addis Ababa, Nairobi, Khartoum, and other regional capitals through airlines like Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, and Sudan Airways. Most international visitors require a visa obtained in advance through South Sudanese embassies or consulates. Overland travel from Uganda via the Nimule border crossing is possible but requires careful planning and security considerations. Due to limited infrastructure and security concerns, flying is generally the recommended option for international travelers.

Getting Around

Transportation in Juba primarily consists of motorcycle taxis (boda-bodas), shared minibus taxis, and private vehicles. Boda-bodas are the most common and affordable option for short distances, typically costing $1-3 per ride, though negotiate prices beforehand. Car rentals with drivers can be arranged through hotels or tour operators for around $50-100 per day. Walking is possible in the city center during daylight hours, but many roads are unpaved and can become difficult during rainy season. Most hotels can arrange transportation and many visitors opt for organized tours with transport included.

Where to Stay

Jebel Area (upscale, near this destination)
Hai Cinema (central, near markets)
Munuki (residential, quieter)
Kator (developing area, some hotels)
Hai Referendum (central business area)
Near Juba Bridge (riverside location)

Food & Dining

Juba's dining scene reflects its multicultural population with restaurants serving South Sudanese, Ethiopian, Eritrean, Ugandan, and international cuisine. Local specialties include kisra (fermented bread), ful medames (fava beans), and grilled meats. Da Vinci Restaurant and Notos Restaurant are popular spots for international cuisine, while local eateries around Konyo Konyo Market offer authentic South Sudanese dishes at budget prices. Most upscale hotels have restaurants serving reliable international food. Street food is available but exercise caution with food safety. Alcohol is available in hotels and some restaurants, though options are limited.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Juba

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Juba Restaurant & Café

4.5 /5
(1431 reviews) 1

Zucchini Restaurant & Lounge

4.8 /5
(226 reviews)

Elvis Italian Grille

5.0 /5
(105 reviews)

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Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The dry season from December to March offers the most comfortable weather conditions with less humidity and minimal rainfall, making it the ideal time to visit Juba. Temperatures during this period range from 20-35°C (68-95°F) with clear skies perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The wet season from May to October brings heavy rains that can make transportation difficult due to flooding and poor road conditions, though the landscape becomes lush and green. April and November serve as transition months with moderate weather but some rainfall risk.

Insider Tips

Always carry US dollars in small denominations as local currency can be unstable and USD is widely accepted
Hire local guides through reputable hotels or tour operators for safety and cultural insights, as they provide valuable context and help navigate local customs
Pack essential medications and toiletries as availability of international brands is limited, and bring a good flashlight as power outages are common

Activities in Juba