Safety. South Sudan carries the highest possible risk rating from every major government travel advisory. Violent crime — carjacking, robbery, assault, kidnapping — is common in Juba and throughout the country. Armed conflict continues in multiple regions. US Embassy staff in Juba operate under a strict curfew and use armored vehicles for most movements. Consular assistance is severely limited if something goes wrong. This is not a place to take risks lightly.
Currency. The official currency is the South Sudanese Pound (SSP), but the US dollar functions as a parallel currency and is accepted almost everywhere. Bring clean, undamaged US dollar bills issued after 2009 — torn, worn, or pre-2009 bills are routinely refused. ATMs exist in Juba but are unreliable. Carry enough cash for your entire stay.
Health. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory. Malaria is present year-round — take prophylaxis and use repellent. Cholera outbreaks occur periodically, especially during the rainy season. Drink only bottled or purified water. Medical facilities in Juba are very limited; serious cases are evacuated to Nairobi. Medical evacuation insurance is not optional.
Communications. Mobile coverage exists in Juba and some larger towns; outside urban areas it is patchy to nonexistent. MTN and Zain are the main providers. Internet is slow and expensive. Download offline maps before you travel.
Power. Electricity in Juba is unreliable. Most hotels and guesthouses use generators. Bring a power bank.
Language. English is the official language and is widely used in government, business, and among the educated population. Arabic is also spoken, as are dozens of local languages including Dinka, Nuer, Zande, and Bari.
Register your presence. If you are not affiliated with an organization, let your embassy know you are in the country. Keep your phone charged and have an exit plan.