Journey into the Heart of South Sudan

Introduction

South Sudan is Africa’s youngest country, gaining independence in 2011 after decades of conflict. Despite its tumultuous history, South Sudan remains largely unexplored by tourists. I recently had the chance to embark on a journey into the heart of this nascent nation. What I discovered was a land of incredible natural beauty, vibrant culture, and welcoming people. Join me as I recount my odyssey into the heart of South Sudan.

Geography and Climate

South Sudan occupies a large swath of East Africa, bordering six countries. Most of the country consists of flat plains dotted with swamps and wetlands. In the eastern part of the country, the landscape rises to mountains and rolling hills. The White Nile River flows through the country, providing a lifeline for wildlife and communities along its banks.

South Sudan has a tropical climate with distinct rainy and dry seasons. The rainy season lasts from April to October, with heavy downpours turning dirt roads into impassable mud. The dry season runs from November to March, bringing hot and dusty days.

People and Culture

South Sudan has a population of around 11 million people comprised of numerous ethnic groups, including the Dinka, Nuer, Bari, and Zande peoples. Most South Sudanese have roots in pastoralism and agriculture. Christianity is the dominant religion, but traditional African religions persist. While English is the official language, local languages like Dinka and Bari are widely spoken.

Despite decades of war, South Sudanese culture remains vibrant. Herders adorn their cattle with bells and colorful beads. Women hand-craft ornate baskets. And through music and dance, poetic traditions endure. I was continuously impressed by the genuine warmth and hospitality shown to outsiders.

Journey to Juba

Most journeys into South Sudan start in the capital of Juba. After securing my visa, I flew into Juba International Airport. Juba emerged as a trading outpost along the Nile River during the 19th century. Today, it’s a bustling city defined by an expansive river market selling everything from electronics to livestock.

In Juba, I visited the Kator Catholic Cathedral with its striking architecture. The Juba National Museum provided insight into the region’s ethnic diversity through masks, musical instruments, and other cultural artifacts. And along the Nile River, local markets hummed with activity as vendors sold mangoes, fabrics, and other goods.

Trip Along the Nile River

From Juba, I embarked on a journey down the White Nile, the lifeline of South Sudan. A riverboat served as my transport, moving slowly against the current. For hours, I watched sparsely populated marshlands and savannas drift past. Occasionally, elephants, giraffes, and families of baboons came into view.

The boat stopped at small riverside villages. I was invariably greeted by excited children and welcomed into the rustic mud-and-thatch tukuls to sample meals of goat stew, millet, and greens. The river people rely on small-scale farming, fishing, and cattle herding. Their way of life deeply resonates with the Nile’s natural rhythms.

Safari to National Parks

Eager to witness more of South Sudan’s wildlife, I joined a 4×4 safari to Boma and Bandingilo National Parks near the Ethiopian border. These parks safeguard some of the country’s last remaining savanna elephant herds.

I was awe-struck when our vehicle pulled up to dozens of elephants drinking from watering holes. Herds of tiang antelope and Kobs sprung through the grasslands. At night, the parks come alive with the sounds of lions roaring and hyena calling. Our local guide helped track rhinos, one of the park’s most endangered species. His passion for safeguarding these parks was inspiring.

Cuisine

Traditional South Sudanese cuisine reflects the livestock and crops cultivated locally. Staples include millet, sorghum, maize, peanuts, beans, cassava, and greens. Meals feature stews cooked with peanuts or sesame seeds and spiced with chili peppers and leeks.

In markets, I sampled fresh mangoes, guavas, and papaya. Restaurants in Juba served traditional fare like foul, a spicy bean dip, and asida, a porridge. Everywhere, coffee spiced with ginger, cinnamon, and cloves was generously offered. The cuisine is simple but rich with the flavors of the land.

Music and Dance

South Sudan’s musical traditions are deeply woven into daily life. Women vocalize in high pitches as they work. Communally composed songs and poetry relay oral histories. The mesmerizing hum of the thumb piano provides gentle background rhythm.

Dance is integral to celebrations, storytelling, and courtship. The Afro-Arab influenced Bambouti dance features elegant hand movements. Upbeat dances like the Tombura and Katta emphasize bouncing shoulder and hip movements. The dances pull the community together through shared joy.

Challenges Facing the Country

South Sudan is grappling with substantial development challenges. Decades of civil war have left much infrastructure destroyed. While the country is oil-rich, poverty remains widespread with poor health indicators. Corruption and ethnic tensions still undermine security.

Yet, the resilience and determination of ordinary South Sudanese leaves me hopeful. “We have seen worse,” one man told me. Many refugees are returning home to rebuild. With continued international support, South Sudan can develop in an inclusive, sustainable way. Its future remains unwritten.

Reasons for Hope

Despite the difficulties, South Sudan overflows with promise thanks to its people, nature, and global partnerships. The resourcefulness and sheer grit of South Sudanese instill confidence that they can steward their country forward. The stunning, untouched natural scenery provides potential for responsible tourism. Groups like the UN and USAID are actively supporting nation-building initiatives.

The road ahead is long, but the will to traverse it runs deep. The world can only benefit from South Sudan realizing its full potential. I left believing that bright days do lie ahead for Africa’s youngest nation.

Reflections on the Journey

My time in South Sudan profoundly enriched my perspective. Daily life carries on through communal singing, dancing, and sharing of meals. Generations of tradition flow seamlessly into the present through language and arts. The epic landscape dictates the pace of life dictated by the rains and solitude under infinite stars.

Above all, I will cherish the kindness extended to me by complete strangers. Though I arrived alone, their hospitality ensured I never felt that way. It is this humanity that makes visiting South Sudan so worthwhile. My journey into the heart of South Sudan showed me the power of joy, resilience, and openness that transcends a nation’s current circumstances. I left with my own heart full.

Conclusion

My journey into the heart of South Sudan revealed a complex nation with compelling history, breathtaking wilderness, and welcoming people. While substantial challenges remain, the country overflows with promise and perseverance. For the open-minded traveler, South Sudan offers discovery and transformation through rugged natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. By bravely crossing into the unknown, you just may find your heart – like mine – forever changed.

FAQs

What is the best time of year to visit South Sudan?

The best time to visit South Sudan is during the dry season from November to March. Roads are more passable, there is less rain, and abundant wildlife congregates around water sources.

What vaccinations are required for South Sudan?

Recommended vaccinations for South Sudan include hepatitis A, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, and routine boosters. Malaria prevention medication is also essential.

Is it safe for foreigners to travel in South Sudan?

Parts of South Sudan are safe for travel, but the country still faces sporadic conflict and crime. It’s vital to check government travel advisories and hire experienced local guides. Travel with caution to Juba and stable parts of Eastern Equatoria.

What languages are spoken in South Sudan?

While English is the official language, over 60 indigenous languages are spoken in South Sudan. Common languages include Dinka, Nuer, Bari, Zande, Shilluk and Acholi. Learning some basic phrases in the local language can go a long way.

What are the top things to do in South Sudan?

Top highlights include a Nile River cruise, visiting Boma National Park, exploring Juba and local markets, learning about the culture, and meeting South Sudanese from diverse ethnic groups. Enjoy traditional music, try local cuisine, and take in the stunning natural scenery.