For many people, visiting South Sudan is an unknown quantity, easily and completely slipping under the radar. The reason for this is not farfetched; the country is almost impossible to access. Decades of war and civil unrest have served to deter visitors from the world’s youngest country, a country that once promised so much.
Which is a shame, because the country is spectacularly gifted with extravagant natural beauty. You’ll find everything from gorgeous beaches to breathtaking peaks in South Sudan. What the country lacks in material wealth, it more than makes up for with the warmth in the hearts of its citizens.
For now, this country may be off limits to all but the most intrepid of travellers, but we’re hoping there’ll come a time when everyone will be free to enjoy her charms. While we look forward to that time, here are a few things to know about South Sudan.
Security Risks In Visiting South Sudan
South Sudan had to earn her freedom from Sudan through decades of sweat and blood, and to date, there’s serious bad blood between both countries. If you’re visitng South Sudan, you should, under no circumstances, visit the border between the two countries. That particular region is extremely dangerous and even foreigners are at risk of falling victim to the continued violence. Besides, Islamic groups patrol that area, and they’re not averse to kidnapping foreigners for ransom.
The country is still very poor, and some of the people will not mind engaging in petty crimes to survive, so you’ll need to be extremely careful and vigilant. Don’t move around with a lot of baggage or cash, and avoid moving at night. Take measures to also protect yourself from pickpockets and bag snatchers.
Health Challenges When Visiting South Sudan
Medical facilities in visiting South Sudan are way beneath standards and you may have to be evacuated from the country in an emergency case.
Stay hydrated. The searing heat in the country will wear you down really quickly if you don’t. Don’t just drink the tap water, under any circumstance. Instead, drink bottled water.
Mosquitoes are very plentiful in the country, so malaria is a real risk. Take precautionary measures such as wearing clothes that protect your body, using treated mosquito nets, and using repellents. Also, pack anti-malarial drugs along with you, before you leave your country.
Visa Requirements
You’ll need a visa in order to gain entry into the country. However, if you’re from Kenya, Ethiopia, Tanzania, and a few other African countries, getting a South Sudanese visa is very easy and inexpensive. All you need to do is apply online and complete the application process very quickly and easily.
For citizens of other countries, you’ll need to apply for, and obtain, a visa from any of the South Sudanese embassies.
People And Culture
South Sudan is a multicultural and multiethnic country. In spite of this, however, the people are mostly friendly and welcoming to strangers. Mixing up people’s ethnicities is however, not something that is appreciated here, and it may lead to hostility. So if you’re not very sure about the ethnicity of someone, it’s best not to speak up at all.
Being a Muslim country, South Sudan is fairly conservative. This means that modesty in dressing and character is very much encouraged here. So, no tight or short clothes, or anything that reveals a lot of skin
