South Sudan, Africa’s Newest Nation, is endowed with breathtaking landscapes, biodiversity and a rich cultural heritage. The country is bordered by Uganda to the south, Sudan to north, the Republic of Congo to the southwest, the Central African Republic to the west and Ethiopia to the east. South Sudan is nestled within geographical coordinates of about 7.8627o N latitude and 29.6947o E longitude. Though it is a landlocked country, South Sudan is among the least explored tourist destinations in the world, thus making it a must visit.

History of South Sudan

South Sudan has experienced unrestrained and complicated periods in its long history, marked by extended conflicts and resilience. Originally, the country was occupied by people from various ethnic groups, each with rich cultures. The region later became part of Sudan following the British-Egyptian rule. But when Sudan attained independence from both Egypt and Britain in the mid 1950s, South Sudan started demanding for autonomy. This caused 2 lengthy civil wars, one ending in 1972 with a peace agreement, and the second erupting in 1983. The latter was caused by conflict over resources, religion and governance. Over 2 decades later, their conflict led to a Comprehensive Peace Agreement in 2005, leading to South Sudan’s independence. This was officially achieved on the 9th of July, 2011.

Safety and Security in South Sudan

Since South Sudan has existed for a few years now, the country is not fully safe. There are persistent internal conflicts and political instability. South Sudan is still experiencing elevated crime rates, frequent clashes between militia groups in addition to occasional violence in the urban centers. Safaris can still be done, but with high levels of vigilance. While planning to tour South Sudan, consult with a reputable tour company like African Encounters to ensure a safe and successful experience in Africa’s Newest Nation.

The Culture and People of South Sudan

South Sudan is comprised of rich and diverse cultures of people indigenous to the country, for example there are 3 ethnic groups comprising the Bantu, Nilo Sudanic and the Nilo Hamites. The major tribes are the Dinka, Nuer, Shiluk, and Azande, each of them, speaking a unique language, and with distinct traditions, and social structures. Cultures of South Sudanese are profoundly linked to communal living, emphasizing family bonds and tribal connections. The people engage in traditional music, dance and folklore to preserve their cultural heritage. They also engage in celebrations that mark significant events and farming cycles.

Tourism Destinations and Activities in South Sudan

South Sudan presents a variety of tour sites that highlight the country’s natural wonders and cultural diversity. Visitors on South Sudan safaris can explore the numerous tourist destinations such as;

Boma National Park; located in the southeastern part of South Sudan near the border with Ethiopia. Boma covers around 22,800 square kilometers and is characterized by vast grasslands and floodplains. These provide habitat to a variety of wildlife species, including white-eared kob, elephants, hippos, tiang, crocodiles, gazelle, lions, leopards, caracals and cheetahs among others. Boma National Park is also an Important Bird Area with bird species that include the Rupelle’s vulture, secretary bird, Abyssinian rollers and the black-chested snake eagle and others. The most popular tourist activities in Boma National Park include game drives, where visitors have a unique opportunity to witness the white-eared kob migrating in millions from Boma to Bandingilo National Park. Other tourist activities include birdwatching, camping, sightseeing, nature walks and cultural tours among others.

Bandingilo National Park; spanning around 10,000 square kilometers is also situated in the southeastern region of South Sudan near the border with Ethiopia. Bandingilo is near the White Nile and popular for its remarkable wildlife migration, only second to the Great Migration in Kenya and Tanzania. In South Sudan involves the white-eared kob. Other mammals in Bandingilo National Park include the lions, cheetahs, leopards, gazelles, reedbucks, tiangs, caracals and African wild dogs among others. Bandingilo is also blessed with various bird species, including the endemic white-winged starling, ostriches, Senegal thick knee and Abyssinian roller among others. The main tourist activities include the game drives, guided nature walks, birdwatching, cultural encounters, sightseeing and photography among others.

Nimule National Park; in southeastern South Sudan near Uganda covers around 410 square kilometers. The park comprises of vast savannahs, riverine forests, wetlands and swamps among others. These are habitat to a wide range of wildlife, including baboons, zebras, vervet monkeys, ostriches, Uganda kob, leopards, and jackals among others. There are a variety of bird species in Nimlue National Park, including the African jacana, pied crow, black headed gonolek and the grey heron among others. Visitors can enjoy a number of activities, including the game drives, birdwatching tours, and camping among others.

Other tourist destinations to visit in South Sudan include Shambe National Park, Sudd wetlands, White Nile, Nyakuron Cultural Center, Wau Zoo, Mount Kinyeti and Imatong, John Garang tomb, and Wau Cathedral among others.

Climate and Travel Season in South Sudan

South Sudan experiences a tropical climate with 2 distinct dry and wet seasons. The dry season typically occurs during December to March. The national parks experience hot and dry conditions with minimal rainfall that cause the parks to be less muddy compared to the rainy seasons.

These conditions are suitable for outdoor activities such as game drives and hiking safaris among others. The wet season occurs during the months of April to November, causing the landscapes to be muddy and slippery, hence difficult to navigate.