Things To Do
in Juba
Juba is the capital and largest city of South Sudan, located on the White Nile. It is a busy hub of government, commerce, and culture with a mix of modern buildings and traditional markets. The city offers riverfront views, lively street life, and serves as a gateway to both wildlife and regional heritage.
Visitors should be prepared for hot weather, vibrant markets, and a welcoming, community-oriented pace of life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Wake to the soft chatter of the city and the glow of early light along the river. Savor a cup of strong coffee as you plan a gentle stroll through the heart of Juba.
Explore the central market and let the colors, textures, and sounds guide your senses. Try kisra with a local stew and chat with a vendor to hear stories of city life.
As dusk settles, wander the riverfront where palm shadows soften the skyline. Find a quiet spot to reflect on the day and toast the new discoveries with a warm beverage.
Rise before the heat and walk along the quiet edges of the city, listening to distant drums. Breathe in the morning air and plan a visit to a nearby cultural center for a gentle introduction to local art.
Visit a market stall and watch artisans craft beadwork and woven mats. Share a light snack with a vendor and learn how traditional meals are prepared.
Return to the river for a golden hour stroll as the water mirrors the fading light. Taste a fresh fish dish from a riverside vendor and listen to a small live performance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Lunch or dinner at a mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $30-70 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $1-5 |
| 🚕Taxi within the city | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant riverfront culture and warm hospitality
- Gateway to wildlife and cultural sites in the region
- Heat and dust can be intense
- Inconsistent infrastructure and transportation reliability in some areas
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكراً" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "كم ثمن هذا؟" - How much is this?
- "أنا لا أفهم" - I don't understand
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Juba
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light along the riverbank with ferries and palm silhouettes.
A vantage point along the waterfront offering views of the central districts.
Colorful stalls and architectural details ideal for street photography.
Architectural lines and outdoor displays provide interesting subjects.
Food in Juba
Juba Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fermented flatbread served with a rich stew, a staple of the region.
Must-Try!
Fresh Nile perch or other river fish, marinated and grilled, often served with kisra or rice.
Tender goat cooked with spices, commonly eaten with sorghum porridge or bread.
A hearty porridge eaten with a side of vegetable or meat stew.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market with fresh produce, dried fish, grains, and snacks, great for tasting street bites.
A busy market for fresh ingredients, herbs, and prepared foods; try street-side stews and fried snacks.
Casual stalls near the waterfront offering quick bites like fried dough, kebabs, and fish dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a handshake or kiss on the cheek among friends; respect elders and communities.
Conservative clothing is advised in markets and religious sites.
Ask permission before photographing people or private spaces; some places require consent.
Safety
Tipping in Juba
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips around 5-10% in restaurants and for guides; cash tips are preferred.
Cash is widely used; USD is frequently accepted; cards are not yet common in many places.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant daytime temperatures, clearer skies; great for outdoor tours and river activities.
Showers and higher humidity; occasional flooding can affect some roads; carry a light rain jacket.
Juba at Night
Hiking in Juba
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hilly terrain near Nimule with viewpoints over plains; best with a local guide.
Short, easy trails along river corridors offering wildlife viewing and palm groves.
Airports
How to reach Juba by plane.
Main international airport serving Juba; connections to regional capitals and international flights; taxi or shuttle to the city center.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of the largest ethnic groups in South Sudan; diverse dialects and rich cultural traditions.
A major ethnic group with distinct language and customs; active in urban and rural areas.
Includes Bari, Zande, Lotuko, and others; Juba hosts a diverse population from across the country.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with local leagues and casual games across neighborhoods.
Growing in popularity with courts in community centers and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Juba.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available with lentil stews, vegetable medleys, and kisra; mention your needs and they can tailor the dish.