South Sudan stirs curiosity and then quickly triggers caution.
It’s landlocked in East-Central Africa, sitting just north of Uganda and Kenya, where the White Nile winds through grasslands, swamps, and savannas that should be teeming with opportunity.
It’s also the world’s youngest country, gaining independence from Sudan in 2011 after decades of brutal civil war.
That victory was short-lived.
Within just two years, South Sudan collapsed into its own civil conflict.
Rival factions have been battling for power ever since, leaving millions displaced and entire regions unsafe.
As of 2025, the violence in Upper Nile State has escalated again, including airstrikes and mass evacuations.
Tourism barely exists.
There’s no functioning tourism board, no infrastructure to support visitors, and little interest from the government in welcoming outsiders.
Instead, the focus remains on survival, oil exports, and uneasy power-sharing.
Still, the country has striking natural potential.
Boma and Nimule National Parks could rival East Africa’s great reserves, and the White Nile itself could offer world-class river adventures.
But right now, none of that is accessible.
With the highest-level travel warnings in place and no guarantee of safety, South Sudan remains one of the most dangerous destinations on Earth.
Warnings & Dangers in South Sudan
OVERALL RISK: HIGH
South Sudan is considered one of the highest-risk countries in the world for travelers. The threat comes from ongoing conflict, widespread lawlessness, and a lack of basic infrastructure. There’s no functioning tourism system, and even day-to-day services are unstable. Unless you have professional security and a mission-critical reason, travel here is not advised.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: HIGH
Roads are in poor condition, and many are controlled by armed groups or government forces who operate without oversight. Taxis are informal and unregulated, often driven by people with no credentials. Carjackings, ambushes, and bribe demands at roadblocks are common. Transportation is not just unreliable; it’s dangerous.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
Petty theft is not your biggest concern in South Sudan, but it still happens in crowded areas like markets and bus stations. The real issue is that small theft can escalate quickly. People may become aggressive, especially if they think you're carrying cash or tech. Avoid drawing attention and don’t flash valuables.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: HIGH
Seasonal flooding can wipe out roads, cut off towns, and make already limited access even worse. South Sudan’s infrastructure can’t handle heavy rains, and aid often takes time to arrive. If you get stuck somewhere remote during a flood, you’re on your own. The risk increases during the rainy season from May to October.
MUGGING RISK: HIGH
Muggings here are often violent and sometimes involve armed attackers. Foreigners are seen as easy targets, especially if traveling alone or on foot. Showing any sign of wealth will make you a target. Even short walks outside a compound can be risky. You can’t assume daylight offers safety in this environment.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
There is no known presence of international terrorist groups in South Sudan, so the risk is technically low. That said, political violence and civil unrest can feel similar to terrorism. Gunfire, explosions, or local clashes can break out without warning.
SCAMS RISK: HIGH
Scams often come in the form of false fees, fake documents, or sudden requests for payment at checkpoints. Taxis, markets, and street-level services are all ripe for exploitation. Foreigners are assumed to have money and little protection. Saying no can escalate the situation, so avoid getting cornered in the first place.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: HIGH
The risk is extremely high for women. Sexual violence is a real concern, and reports of harassment, assault, and even targeted attacks are not rare. Women should never travel here alone. Even within groups, female travelers are advised to stay in secure compounds and avoid contact with unknown locals.
TAP WATER RISK: HIGH
Tap water in South Sudan is not safe. It may contain bacteria, parasites, and other contaminants that can cause serious illness. There’s no consistent water treatment system, and bottled water is not always easy to find. Use purified or sealed water for everything, including brushing your teeth or washing produce.
Safest Places to Visit in South Sudan
South Sudan has no official, traditional tourism website.
That should also be seen as a red flag.
After reading the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in South Sudan’s tourism website, they explain why there’s such little information for would-be tourists.
The site states, in part, “Decades of conflict in the Sudan ensured that South Sudan’s tourism sector, like most other sectors, was never developed, despite limited efforts to sell it as a tourist destination.”
All that said, we’ll tell you what there would be to see if any of it was safe, but we need to punctuate that traveling here is strongly discouraged.
Boma National Park, near the Ethiopian border, is home to one of the world’s largest wildlife migrations, with massive herds of white-eared kob, tiang antelope, and buffalo moving across open land.
Nimule National Park, near Uganda, offers dramatic scenery with waterfalls, lush vegetation, and elephants roaming near the Nile.
The White Nile itself runs through the country, creating opportunities for river travel, fishing, and viewing one of Africa’s most iconic waterways at its source.
In and around Juba, you’d find bustling local markets, handmade crafts, and a handful of cultural landmarks reflecting the region’s complex history.
There’s also potential for ecotourism and community-based tourism, particularly in areas where tribal traditions and storytelling are still very much alive.
These places aren’t set up for visitors now, but in another time, South Sudan would have a lot to offer.
Places to Avoid in South Sudan
The entire country of South Sudan is under Do Not Travel advisories, but Upper Nile State is especially dangerous right now.
Since early 2025, armed groups have been fighting there, and airstrikes have killed civilians.
The government issued an evacuation order for Nasir County.
If you end up in this region, the military will consider you a threat.
Anyone in or near active conflict zones risks being caught in crossfire, detained, or mistaken for a combatant.
This is not a place to go under any circumstances, even with local contacts or security arrangements.
The risk is simply too high.
Safety Tips for Traveling to South Sudan
- There’s no tourist police in South Sudan, and local police response is slow or inconsistent. In most cases, it’s better to contact your embassy or NGO security team if you’re with one. Police may not speak English, and corruption is common. Don’t expect protection unless you already have local support.
- South Sudan doesn’t have a public alert system for disasters or security threats. To stay informed, sign up for your embassy’s safety alerts and monitor local media through trusted sources. Many aid workers rely on WhatsApp or SMS groups organized by NGOs to track movements, checkpoints, or conflict activity.
- You can drive with an international license, but road conditions are rough and unpredictable. Most vehicles are four-wheel drive for a reason. Outside cities, the risk of armed robbery increases fast. Roadblocks are common, and drivers are often targeted for bribes. Always travel in convoy, if possible, and never after dark.
- Keep your car locked, and the windows just cracked if speaking to anyone. Checkpoints are often used to demand bribes, but don’t try to avoid stopping. Show documents through the window and avoid handing anything over. Many travelers carry laminated copies of ID or passports to avoid losing originals to officials demanding a payoff.
- English is the official language, but in reality, Arabic and tribal languages dominate most conversations. Even in Juba, communication can be difficult without a translator. Don’t assume someone will understand you just because you’re using simple English. Learn a few key phrases or use a reliable translation app.
- A yellow fever vaccination is required, and proof is checked on arrival. Malaria is a constant threat, and cholera outbreaks are common. Bring your own mosquito nets, water purifiers, and medications. Clinics are severely under-equipped. Do not expect reliable treatment outside of international health facilities or UN-backed operations.
- Once the sun sets, safety drops fast. Armed groups, criminals, and even rogue soldiers patrol roads and urban areas. During the day, only move around in large, trusted groups. Small groups and solo travelers are easy targets. Even within cities, keep movement limited and always tell someone your plans.
- Journalists must register with the South Sudanese Media Authority. Failure to do so is treated as a criminal offense. Reporters have been detained, deported, and in some cases killed. Even with credentials, you may face harassment. Avoid sensitive topics and always have a local fixer who knows the landscape.
- Aid workers, even with clearance, are often seen as targets. Housing for workers has been targeted in recent years. Armed raids, harassment, and attacks on vehicles are not rare. Always coordinate with your organization’s security personnel, and never leave the compound without clearance.
- Same-sex relations are illegal and carry prison sentences of up to 10 years. Non-consensual acts carry longer penalties. There’s no legal protection or support for LGBTQ+ individuals, and violence or public shaming is a real risk.
So... How Safe Is South Sudan Really?
South Sudan comes with the highest possible risk level from the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia.
The Level 4: Avoid All Travel isn’t issued lightly.
The reasons behind the high risk level are especially concerning.
They include:
- Crime
- Kidnapping
- Armed Conflict
- Ambushes
- Assaults
- Carjackings
- Air Strikes
- Violent Cattle Raids
The United States also issued this stern wording: “The population has ready access to weapons due to years of civil war, inter- and intra-ethnic conflict, and political unrest.”
In addition, many of the criminals appear dressed as military, police, or other official positions, such as manning a roadside checkpoint.
Even if you risk a trip here, you’ll likely have little to no protection from your embassy.
Even Norway’s embassy in Juba was shuttered in March 2025 due to the risks.
None of this is meant to be alarmist, but you need to know that South Sudan is in no way a safe place to visit.
How Does South Sudan Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| South Sudan | 10 |
| Djibouti | 38 |
| Croatia | 83 |
| Mexico | 65 |
| France | 64 |
| Puerto Rico | 34 |
| Somalia | 16 |
| United Kingdom | 77 |
| Peru | 50 |
Useful Information
Visas
South Sudan requires a visa for nearly all travelers, and you’ll need to apply online or at an embassy before arrival. The eVisa system is active but slow. A yellow fever certificate is mandatory. Bring printed copies of everything, including hotel reservations, since officials may ask for documents more than once.
Currency
The official currency is the South Sudanese pound, which is unstable and difficult to exchange outside the country. U.S. dollars are widely used, but bills must be clean and printed after 2009. ATMs are rare and not reliable. Bring enough cash for your entire trip, and avoid large denominations.
Weather
Expect intense heat year-round. The dry season runs from November to May, with temperatures soaring. The rainy season brings flooding that can shut down roads and isolate areas, especially outside Juba. Travel is easier in the dry months, but always check conditions before heading anywhere off the main routes.
Airports
Juba International Airport is the main entry point, but it’s chaotic and poorly maintained. Delays are common, and staff may ask for bribes. Security screenings are inconsistent, and luggage can go missing. Allow extra time and patience. Domestic flights are available but often canceled or rescheduled with little notice.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive insurance is critical. Choose a plan that includes emergency evacuation, since local healthcare is limited. Political instability and armed conflict are real risks. Most policies won’t automatically cover South Sudan. Expect it to be a struggle to even get basic travel insurance, much less adventure insurance.
South Sudan Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C |
37 | 38 | 38 | 35 | 34 | 32 | 31 | 32 | 33 | 34 | 35 | 36 |
| Low °C |
20 | 22 | 24 | 23 | 23 | 22 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 20 |
| High °F |
99 | 100 | 100 | 95 | 93 | 90 | 88 | 90 | 91 | 93 | 95 | 97 |
| Low °F |
68 | 72 | 75 | 73 | 73 | 72 | 70 | 70 | 70 | 70 | 70 | 68 |
South Sudan Is Very Dangerous You Shouldn’t Go To The Country
South Sudan’s safe!
Back in 2018 I went to South Sudan it was definitely a really safe if you stay in the areas the people are super nice and will do anything if you ask! This country really has a personality of its own and is definitely an amazing spot for photos! I’d actually say it’s one of the safest places on earth! Over all I’d say South Sudan was one of the best Trips of my life and wouldn’t wanted to miss a second of it!
I don't agree
It’s not one of the safest places on Earth. That’s a lie.
I do agree
The person above me can’t understand a joke when it’s clear as day.
r/woooosh
a joke? where is the joke? i dont find any fun in your “joke”
its ok
not all is safe but it has a nice culture and people
Here you have your first scammer
South Sudan is VERY Unsafe!!
If South Sudan is so safe, why was a friend of mine on a humanitarian mission beaten by border guards TODAY, 6-11-22 while trying to get back into Kenya?
He had no contraband, he had no weapons, he was only trying to help poor people in a poor country.
All of you who think people who think it is safe need to talk to the Kenya border police and ask how many people come back to Kenya haven been beaten by someone in authority in South Sudan.
The country is NOT a safe place if it’s own border police beat civilians for no reason!!!!
/
"Safety" is relative.
It’s safe if you “know people”. Am going back next week to visit friends.
Juba Is Well Secured
No
Nonsense
Are ya sure about that
no
NoNoNo
NoNoNoNo Juba Is Well Secured
Helo
Yes
are you sure?
Did you know some places are safe and some are not!! So it does not really mean it is 100% not safe.
Hey!! South Sudan is a great place and well Secured if you don’t think the same then your an idiot
its maybe safe but whoever said its the safest place on earth is a noob
It’s the safest place on earth
safest. place. on. earth.
I know you S Sudan
not really good and superrr poor but that no mean s sudan unsafe!
no jangweed
jangweed doesnt operate in South Sudan please get your facts right.
I dont know that much about their safety but there are issues with safety here and there
ITS BAD
South sudan
Bruhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh. South Sudan is veryyyyyyy boring. This is very boring. Plz dont travel.
Half of you didnt actually go
Yes south Sudan is in a conflict but don’t post a review if you have not been to the country.
Beautiful
When I was living there last year I was amazed at how beautiful the country is. The animal diversity is incredible and the population are very very nice when meeting a traveller . I was in the country for 20 weeks and neither saw or heard any trouble or scams.Not sure why it has been rated as one of the most dangerous countries in the world. To be honest I have seen more trouble in Glasgow during any Friday or Saturday night.
Very Safe Country
Our country is very safe, and also very rich. We are so safe that security cameras aren’t a thing, as everyone is very honorable. We have no police as none are needed! It’s amazing and you should come. Solo woman? You won’t be raped! We respect women greatly. There is no greater place than South Sudan! Also, we have no COVID!
We are so safe that we do not require 4473 to purchase firearms and we trust every individual in this well safe society to purchase a rifle without a 4473 or a NICS background check
liar
south sudan is the poorest country in the world and the unheathiest and very dangerous
decent
As long you are in good secured areas you are ok
What
How is terror risk high if theres no attacks recently…
TERRIBLE PLACE DO NOT GO
Dangerous and
It is a much safer country than believed, on par with safe societies like Idaho or Montana USA!