Overview
The youngest country in the world, South Sudan, declared its independence from Sudan after a referendum on July 9, 2011. The north and south of the country have always been rival neighboring regions, but it took decades of civil war and protracted negotiations to separate the south from the north. South Sudan is beginning its new life as a poor but positive nation, keen to put its independence into practice. The capital Juba is developing rapidly, thanks to a lot of aid money and almost unlimited opportunities to realize new business ideas. However, the infrastructure is still poorly developed and there are hardly any paved roads outside the capital. Tourism is also still in its infancy, but has immense potential because of the remarkable South Sudanese wildlife and not to forget the White Nile, which meanders through the largest wetlands in Africa.
Getting there
Arriving by plane
According to top-medical-schools, there are no non-stop flights to South Sudan from Germany, Austria and Switzerland. From Frankfurt/M. flies Lufthansa (LH) in cooperation with Egypt Air (MS) via Cairo to Juba; Feeder flights from Vienna and Zurich are possible with Lufthansa (LH) or with Austrian Airlines (OS) from Vienna and Swiss (LX) from Zurich. Ethiopian (ET) connects Frankfurt/M. and Vienna via Addis Ababa with Juba. The ticket from Vienna to Addis Ababa is also offered by Austrian Airlines (OS). Non-stop international flights to Juba also include Kenya Airways (KQ) from Nairobi (Kenya), Uganda Airlines (UR) from Entebbe (Uganda) and Badr Airlines (J4) from Khartoum (Sudan).
Flight times
Frankfurt/M. – Juba: 11 hrs 15 mins; Vienna – Juba: 17 hrs 40 mins; Zurich – Juba: 19 hrs 25 mins (Journey times vary depending on the number and length of stays.)
Departure fee
None.
Arrival by car
The border crossings with Kenya and Uganda are open. The situation in the border areas with Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Sudan is dangerous; Armed clashes break out there again and again. Documents: In addition to the national driver’s license, the international driver’s license is required. In addition, when entering the country with your own car, a Carnet de Passage, proof of funds and a certificate from the Sudanese embassy that the vehicle is roadworthy are required.
Transportation
Traveling by plane
Kush Air serves various national destinations from Juba.
Traveling by car/bus
The road network has a total length of around 7,000 kilometers. Juba is connected to most other places in the country. The Juba-Nimule Highway, the only highway, runs from Juba to the border with Uganda.
Right-hand traffic/left-hand traffic
Right
Condition of the roads
The roads are mostly in bad condition; only a few hundred kilometers are paved. Northbound roads are often impassable during the rainy season, from May to October; some places, such as Wau, can then only be reached by plane. Overland trips should only be undertaken with off-road vehicles and spare parts for emergencies.
Car rental
Rental cars are available with and without a driver in Juba, for example at Wiltins car rental. Drivers must be at least 18 years old.
Taxi
Taxis and motorcycle taxis are plentiful in Juba, and they can be dangerous to drive. Taxis are not metered; it is therefore advisable to agree on the fare before starting the journey.
Coach
Minibuses that are no longer brand new run between Juba and the cities in the south.
Regulations
Traffic regulations: – Seat belts are compulsory in the front and rear seats. – Telephoning is only permitted with a hands-free device. – The dipped headlights must also be switched on during the day. Speed limits: – in built-up areas: 50 km/h; – on rural roads: 90 km/h; – on expressways: 110 km/h; – on the motorway: 130 km/h. Speed violations are punished with heavy fines.
Roadside Assistance
The ADAC foreign emergency call offers ADAC members and holders of ADAC foreign health and accident insurance comprehensive assistance in the event of vehicle breakdowns, traffic accidents, loss of documents and money, and medical emergencies. The emergency number is available around the clock; in the event of damage to the vehicle: Tel. +49 (0)89 22 22 22, in the event of illness: +49 (0)89 76 76 76. In the event of breakdowns or accidents with the rental car, the car rental company should be contacted first.
Documentation
In addition to the national driver’s license, the international driver’s license is required. In addition, when entering the country with your own car, a Carnet de Passage, proof of funds and a certificate from the Sudanese embassy that the vehicle is roadworthy are required.
Traveling in the city
Juba is easy to explore on foot; however, it is not advisable to be on the streets at night. Taxis and motorcycle taxis (bodas) are another option, although the risk of accidents with motorcycle taxis is relatively high. It is most convenient to rent a car with a driver, and the doors should always be locked while driving.
