Is There Tourism in South Sudan?

By Anna Duncan

South Sudan, the world’s youngest country, gained independence from Sudan in 2011. Since then, the country has been plagued by civil war and political instability. The tourism industry in South Sudan is still in its infancy stage, and there are several factors that make it difficult for tourists to visit.

Why is it difficult to travel to South Sudan?

Security concerns

South Sudan has been facing a civil war since 2013, which has resulted in widespread violence and displacement of millions of people. The conflict has made many parts of the country unsafe for tourists to visit. The government has issued travel warnings for several areas of the country, including Juba, Bor, Malakal, and Bentiu.

Visa requirements

To enter South Sudan as a tourist, visitors must obtain a visa before arriving in the country. The process can be time-consuming and expensive. There are no consular services available in many countries, which means that visitors will need to travel to a neighboring country to obtain a visa.

What are the tourist attractions in South Sudan?

South Sudan is home to several natural wonders that could potentially attract tourists if the security situation improves. Some of these attractions include:

  • The Sudd
  • The Boma National Park
  • The Nimule National Park
  • The Imatong Mountains

What is being done to promote tourism?

The South Sudanese government recognizes the potential benefits of tourism and has taken steps towards promoting it. In 2017, they launched a campaign called “Visit South Sudan” aimed at increasing tourism in the country. The campaign highlighted several tourist destinations, including wildlife parks and cultural sites.

In addition to this campaign, the government has also made efforts to improve infrastructure in the country, such as building new airports and roads. However, these efforts have been slow due to the ongoing conflict and lack of resources.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while South Sudan has the potential to become a tourist destination with its natural beauty and cultural diversity, it is currently not safe for tourists to visit. The ongoing conflict and political instability make it difficult for visitors to obtain visas and travel safely within the country. If the situation improves, South Sudan could become a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.