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How to Get to Juba

How to Get to Juba

Juba Central Equatoria, South Sudan Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airports & Airlines

Juba International Airport (JUB) serves as the main and only international airport for the city and the country. Several regional and a few international airlines operate flights to Juba. Airlines include Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Flydubai, EgyptAir, African Express Airways, Badr Airlines, Tarco Aviation, SkyUp Airlines.

Typical Routes

  • Juba connects mainly to regional hubs across East Africa and the Middle East.
  • Common connection points: Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), Nairobi (Kenya), Entebbe (Uganda), Khartoum (Sudan), Dubai (UAE).
  • No direct flights from major global hubs outside the Middle East.

Airport Services & Transfers

Juba International Airport features simple facilities: a small duty-free shop, a few cafes, and currency exchange services. Do not expect extensive shopping or dining. The airport environment may be busy. Flight availability is generally consistent, but political events or economic shifts may impact schedules. Booking Flights in advance is sensible.

Transfer Options

  • Pre-arranged transport is highly recommended (e.g., hotel pick-up).
  • Taxis are available but require caution regarding safety and just pricing. Negotiate fares beforehand.
  • Arrange transport through a reputable hotel or trusted local contact due to security concerns, especially for evening arrivals.

Airport Accessibility

Juba International Airport features simple facilities, suitable for arrivals and departures but not extensive services.

Price Fluctuation

Flight prices fluctuate based on demand, fuel costs, and economic situations. Early booking is advisable. Use Skyscanner for comparisons.

Immigration Process

Upon arrival, proceed through immigration checks. Officials verify passport and visa. Be ready for biometric data collection. Maintain a courteous and patient demeanor.

Arrival Considerations

Airport Experience

  • Anticipate a busy and somewhat chaotic environment.
  • Limited Wi-Fi and electrical outlets may exist.
  • Currency exchange is available, but rates may not be optimal.
  • Signage is basic; rely on staff for direction.

Pre-Arrival Tasks

  • Keep all payment receipts for visa fees.
  • Have your hotel or local contact write your address in Juba Arabic.
  • Ensure your phone is charged and area contacts are accessible.
  • Confirm airport pick-up arrangements before travel.

Airport Facilities

Duty-Free

A small duty-free shop offers limited selections.

Dining

Few cafes offer light refreshments.

Currency Exchange

Services are present, but rates may vary.

Land Transportation

Border Crossings Not Recommended

Land travel to and from Juba is generally not recommended for tourists. This stems from significant security risks, poor road conditions, and a lack of reliable infrastructure. South Sudan shares land borders with Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Central African Republic.

Overland Risks

  • High risks of banditry and inter-communal violence.
  • Road conditions are extremely poor.
  • Travel advisories strongly caution against overland travel.

Self-Driving Not Recommended

Self-driving is not advised for tourists or foreigners in South Sudan. Roads outside Juba are mostly unpaved, poorly maintained dirt tracks. They are prone to damage, severe erosion, and become impassable during the wet season.

Driving Hazards

  • High risk of armed robbery, carjacking, and ambushes.
  • Unmarked landmines present a threat in some regions.
  • An International Driving Permit (IDP) is technically required, but practicalities outweigh this.

Bus & Train Services

There are no operational passenger train services connecting Juba with other parts of South Sudan or neighboring countries. Long-distance bus travel within South Sudan or across borders is generally not recommended for tourists.

Reasons for Caution

  • Severe security risks on bus routes.
  • Extremely poor road conditions.
  • Lack of reliable companies or safety standards.

Road Conditions & Safety

Paved roads are rare, mostly limited to Juba's city center. Outside Juba, the network consists of dirt tracks that degrade severely during the wet season, with deep ruts, mud, and flooded sections. The main concern is security, with an ever-present risk of armed robbery, carjacking, and ambushes.

Dangers

  • Armed robbery and carjacking are common.
  • Ambushes pose a threat, especially outside urban areas.
  • Travel outside Juba may necessitate security escorts.

Overland Travel Warnings

  • Unexploded ordnance and landmines in certain areas.
  • Government and international advisories strongly caution against unescorted road travel.
  • Routes connecting towns often present higher risks.
  • Hiring a car with a reputable driver and security detail is standard the custom for foreigners.
  • During the wet season, many dirt tracks become impassable.
  • Always prioritize safety over cost savings.

Sea/River Arrivals

No Sea Access

South Sudan is a landlocked country. Sea arrivals are not relevant for Juba. There are no sea access points or cruise ports available.

Not Applicable

  • No access to the sea.
  • No cruise ports.
  • Immigration procedures at seaports not relevant.

River Transportation

The Nile River runs through Juba. Limited commercial and local passenger boat services operate on sections of the Nile, connecting Juba with other towns. These services do not typically cater to tourists and carry significant safety and security risks.

River Travel Risks

  • Vessel conditions may be poor.
  • Potential for piracy in some areas.
  • Lack of emergency services.

Exit Fees

Exit fees sometimes apply at Juba International Airport. Confirm with your airline if there are any separate fees are due upon departure. Keep a small amount of USD or SSP cash available.

Departure Timing

Arrive at Juba International Airport at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure. This allows ample time for check-in and security screening.

Airport Transfers

Arrange your airport transfer well in advance. Confirm your flight status before heading to the airport. Avoid walking outside the airport perimeter.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

Check-in procedures can be slow. Be prepared for queues. Security checks are thorough; follow all instructions from airport staff. Have your passport, boarding pass, and any other required travel documents readily accessible.

Steps

  • Check-in (expect delays).
  • Thorough security screening.
  • Documents ready (passport, boarding pass).

Airport Facilities for Departing Travelers

Juba International Airport offers basic facilities for departing travelers. You will find small cafes and limited waiting areas. Do not expect extensive duty-free shopping, executive lounges, or a wide variety of dining options. Plan accordingly for any specific needs before arriving at the airport.

Available Services

  • Little cafes for refreshments.
  • Limited waiting areas.
  • Basic duty-free options.

Pre-Departure Checklist

Flight Status

Confirm your flight status with the airline before heading to the airport.

Transfer

Arrange airport transfer well in advance through a trusted source.

Cash

Keep some USD or SSP cash for any potential exit fees.

Final Departure Note

Ensure all arrangements are confirmed, and allow ample time at the airport.