Things To Do
in Juba

Sunrise and sunset over the Nile provide dramatic light; you can photograph boats, fishermen, riverside activity and small islands close to town.

Vibrant stalls, colorful produce and busy trade offer candid cultural photography — always ask permission before photographing people, especially women.

Small hills and elevated spots east of the city give panoramas of Juba, the Nile and the surrounding flatlands—best at golden hour.

If you travel south to Nimule you can photograph waterfalls, wildlife, birds and rural landscapes — requires planning and appropriate permits.

Bustling market selling fresh produce, charcoal, spices, and some cooked snacks; great for photos, watching commerce and trying fruit and simple street foods when hygiene looks acceptable.

Small vendors near the White Nile sometimes grill fish or sell snacks and tea — good for experiencing local riverside life but inspect food handling carefully.

Greet elders first and use polite, formal greetings; handshakes are common, often with the right hand. Showing respect to elders and community leaders is important.

Always ask permission before photographing people, particularly women and children; some communities may refuse or ask for a small fee.

Dress modestly in public—cover shoulders and knees, especially outside expatriate compounds and in conservative neighborhoods.

Avoid sensitive political or tribal topics in casual conversation; conflict and security issues are sensitive and may cause tension.

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; small tips for hotel staff, drivers and guides are common (a few dollars), and rounding up in restaurants is customary where service is good.

Cash is king—both South Sudanese pounds (SSP) and US dollars are commonly used; ATMs are limited and may not be reliable, so bring sufficient cash and use bank-exchange bureaus or hotel services for currency exchange. Credit cards are accepted in a few hotels and larger businesses but generally not in markets.

One of the indigenous groups in the Juba area with cultural ties to the region and presence in the city.

Large ethnic groups across South Sudan with members living in Juba for work, trade and government; cultural practices and languages are influential nationally.

Ethnic groups from the greater Equatoria region who contribute to the city’s cultural diversity and markets.

Large numbers of UN, NGO and diplomatic staff living in Juba create an international community that supports many services, restaurants and social venues.

Vegetarian options exist (porridges, bean stews, vegetable sides) but are more limited than meat dishes; communicate clearly in English or Juba Arabic and be prepared to accept simple meals.

Vegan meals are available but less common; check whether stews use animal fat and ask about ingredients when ordering at markets or local restaurants.

Many meat sources are halal or slaughtered according to Muslim practice because of Sudanese influence, but ask for confirmation in hotels or restaurants if this matters to you.

Ingredient transparency may be limited—carry necessary medications and communicate allergies clearly; bottled water and packaged foods reduce risk.