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

Wau

Wau, Southsudan جنوب السودان - Complete Travel Guide

Wau is the second-largest city in Southsudan and serves as the capital of Western Bahr el Ghazal state. Located in the western part of the country, this historic trading center sits along the Jur River and has long been an important crossroads for commerce and cultural exchange between different ethnic groups. The city has a rich colonial history, having served as an administrative center during both the Turco-Egyptian and Anglo-Egyptian periods. Despite facing challenges from recent conflicts, Wau is slowly rebuilding and offers visitors a glimpse into authentic South Sudanese culture and resilience. The city is known for its diverse population, including Dinka, Balanda, Fertit, and other ethnic groups, creating a unique cultural tapestry. Visitors can experience traditional markets, colonial-era architecture, and the warm hospitality of the local communities while supporting the region's recovery efforts.

Top Wau

Wau Central Market

Visit the bustling Central Market to experience local commerce and culture firsthand. The market offers everything from traditional crafts and textiles to fresh produce and local delicacies, providing insight into daily life in Southsudan.

Booking Tip: No formal booking required, but visit early morning (7-10 AM) for the best selection and cooler temperatures. Bring small denominations of South Sudanese pounds for purchases, and consider hiring a local guide for $10-15 to help with navigation and translation.

Colonial Architecture Sites

Discover remnants of Wau's colonial past through its historic buildings and administrative structures. These sites tell the story of the city's role as an important administrative center during the Anglo-Egyptian Sudan period.

Booking Tip: Best visited during cooler parts of the day (early morning or late afternoon). Arrange visits through local guides or your accommodation for $15-25 per day, as some sites may require permissions or have restricted access.

Jur River Activities

Experience the Jur River through boat trips, fishing excursions, or simply enjoying the riverside atmosphere. The river has been central to Wau's development and continues to be an important water source and transportation route.

Booking Tip: Arrange boat trips through local operators for $20-40 depending on duration and group size. Best time is during dry season (November-April) when water levels are more predictable. Always use life jackets and verify operator safety standards.

Cultural Community Visits

Engage with local communities to learn about traditional Dinka, Balanda, and Fertit cultures. These visits offer opportunities to witness traditional dances, crafts, and storytelling while supporting community development initiatives.

Booking Tip: Arrange through reputable local organizations or NGOs for $25-50 per visit, which often includes a contribution to community projects. Book 2-3 days in advance and respect photography restrictions and cultural protocols.

Traditional Craft Workshops

Participate in workshops to learn traditional South Sudanese crafts such as basket weaving, pottery, or beadwork. These activities provide hands-on cultural experiences while supporting local artisans and preserving traditional skills.

Booking Tip: Contact local women's cooperatives or craft centers directly, with workshops typically costing $15-30 including materials. Morning sessions are preferred due to better lighting and cooler temperatures. Purchase finished products to support artisans.

Getting There

Wau Airport (WUU) serves the city with limited domestic flights from Juba, the capital of Southsudan. Flight schedules can be irregular and subject to weather conditions, so flexibility is essential. Road travel from Juba is possible but challenging, taking 8-12 hours on unpaved roads that can become impassable during rainy season. Most international visitors fly into Juba first and then take a domestic connection. It's advisable to book flights through local travel agents who understand the operational realities of South Sudanese aviation.

Getting Around

Transportation within Wau relies primarily on walking, bicycles, and motorcycle taxis (boda-bodas) for short distances. Boda-boda rides typically cost 50-200 South Sudanese pounds depending on distance. For longer trips or group travel, shared taxis and private car hire are available through local operators, though roads can be challenging. Many visitors arrange transportation through their accommodation or local contacts. Walking is common for central areas, but be prepared for unpaved roads and limited street lighting after dark.

Where to Stay

Wau Town Center
Near the Airport
Jur River Area
Government Quarter
Market District
Residential Neighborhoods

Food & Dining

Wau's dining scene centers around local restaurants serving traditional South Sudanese cuisine, including staples like kisra (sorghum flatbread), asida (porridge), and various meat and vegetable stews. Small local eateries and tea houses are scattered throughout the city, offering affordable meals for $2-5. Some guesthouses provide meals for visitors, which can be a reliable option for those unfamiliar with local establishments. Street food is available but requires caution regarding food safety. It's advisable to drink bottled or properly treated water and eat at establishments recommended by locals or your accommodation.

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 best time to visit Wau is during the dry season from November to April, when roads are more accessible and temperatures are more manageable. December through February offers the most comfortable weather conditions with cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall. The rainy season (May-October) can make travel challenging due to poor road conditions and flooding, though the landscape becomes greener and more lush. Avoid travel during peak rainy months (June-August) when transportation can be severely disrupted and some areas may become inaccessible.

Insider Tips

Always carry cash in small denominations as card payments are not widely accepted, and ensure you have sufficient South Sudanese pounds before arriving as currency exchange can be limited
Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting communities or religious sites, and always ask permission before photographing people
Stay informed about current security conditions and register with relevant authorities or organizations, as the situation can change and local knowledge is essential for safe travel

Activities in Wau