Travel Tips

1. Visas & Entry Permits

Obtaining a South Sudan visa in advance is mandatory. Visa-on-arrival is generally not available, and attempting entry without proper documentation carries severe travel risks.

• E-Visa & Embassy Applications: You can apply online via the official South Sudan E-Visa portal or at your nearest South Sudanese Embassy.

• Required Documents:

  • Valid passport (with at least 6 months remaining validity).

  • Two (2) passport-sized photos.

  • Completed visa application form.

  • Applicable government visa fee.

  • Official Letter of Invitation: Provided directly by Mathiang Adventures upon booking confirmation.

2. Crucial Travel Permits & Media Regulations

South Sudan strictly regulates security, wildlife tourism, and photography. Mathiang Adventures arranges all mandatory permits to ensure complete compliance and uninterrupted travel.

• National Security Permit: Mandatory for all travelers leaving Juba due to local security protocols and Interpol commitments. Our team secures this for you prior to departure; your guide will hold these documents at all times.

• Photographic Permit: Issued by the South Sudan Media Authority for cameras and recording devices. Note: Obtaining this permit prior to travel is critical to prevent device confiscation. Drones are strictly prohibited nationwide.

• Ministry of Wildlife & Tourism Permits: Required to access national parks, community areas, and tribal territories.

• Local Entry Fees: Park and community entrance fees are covered within your customized itinerary package.

3. Arrival & International Transport

• By Air: Juba International Airport (JUB) is well-connected by major regional and international carriers, including Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Uganda Airlines, Turkish Airlines, EgyptAir, Badr Airlines, Tarco Aviation, and Fly Premier.

• By Land: Land borders share connections with six neighboring countries. Official, safe overland road transit is primarily conducted via Kenya, Uganda, and Sudan.

4. Vehicle Standards & Overland Logistics

Navigating South Sudan’s rugged interior requires top-tier equipment and experienced drivers.

• Expedition Vehicles: For all journeys outside Juba, we operate robust, fully serviced 4×4 Toyota Land Cruisers (76 & 78 models) fitted with air conditioning, first-aid kits, essential tools, and extra spare tires. Vehicle capacity is kept to a maximum of 3 guests plus your guide and professional driver for optimal comfort.

• City Transport: Within Juba, transfers and city excursions are conducted in comfortable minibuses.

• Road Conditions & Checkpoints: Less than 10% of roads are paved outside Juba. Expect extended travel times over unpaved terrain. Additionally, security checkpoints are standard on major routes exiting Juba. Stops take approximately 10–15 minutes, during which your Mathiang Adventures team manages all documentation and security clearances.

5. Accommodations

• In Juba: Select from a range of high-end 4-star and 5-star international hotels, comfortable mid-range boutique stays, or budget-conscious accommodations.

• On Safari & Cultural Tours: When traveling outside the capital, accommodations feature high-grade mobile tents (equipped with comfortable mattresses, clean linens, and light bedding) or authentic guest lodging in local villages.

6. Dining & Dietary Provisions

• In Juba: Enjoy dining at fine local and international restaurants along the Nile River. In-city packages include daily breakfast; lunch and dinner are flexible based on your preference.

• On Expedition: When venturing out of Juba, Mathiang Adventures provides a private professional chef to prepare fresh, hygienic meals throughout your tour.

• Dietary Needs: Please notify us of any dietary restrictions or preferences prior to departure so we can fully customize your expedition menu. Packed lunches are provided for full-day transit journeys out of the capital.

7. Health & Medical Requirements

The Ministry of Health maintains strict protocols to protect travelers and local communities.

• Yellow Fever: A valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate is mandatory for entry.

• Health Screenings: Screenings and health declarations remain in place at major ports of entry for infectious disease monitoring.

• PCR & Health Directives: Entry and health regulations are subject to government updates; our team will provide you with the most current medical requirements closer to your travel date.

8. Currency, Banking & Payments

• Local Currency: The official currency is the South Sudanese Pound (SSP).

• Cash-Based Economy: South Sudan operates primarily on a cash economy (over 80%). You must carry sufficient cash in USD for personal expenses, souvenirs, or gratuities. Ensure USD bills are crisp, un-torn, and issued recently.

• Credit Cards & Forex: Credit cards (POS) are accepted at select luxury hotels in Juba, but cannot be relied upon outside the capital. Forex bureaus, commercial banks, and mobile money agents are accessible throughout Juba.

9. Connectivity & Communications

• Local SIMs & Hotspots: SIM cards can be purchased upon arrival in Juba. Mathiang Adventures provides portable Wi-Fi hotspot access while on the road.

• Remote Areas: Cellular coverage is limited or unavailable once deep in national parks and tribal regions. Expect periodic days off-grid—a true chance to immerse yourself in nature.

10. Climate & Public Holidays

• Climate: South Sudan enjoys a tropical climate with temperatures ranging between 21°C (69°F) and 35°C (95°F).

  • Dry Season: December to March (Best for game viewing and wildlife tracking).

  • Wet Season: Early March to late November.

• Time Zone: GMT +2.

• Key Public Holidays: New Year’s Day (1 Jan), Easter, Labour Day (1 May), SPLA/SPLM Day (16 May), Independence Day (9 July), Martyrs Day (30 July), Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, Christmas Day (25 Dec), and Boxing Day (26 Dec).