Africa
Is South Sudan safe?
L4Do not travel
Is South Sudan safe?
The UK advises against all travel to South Sudan. Conditions can worsen suddenly, closing roads and airspace. Armed violence and crime are widespread.
Key facts
- US travel advisory: Level 4: Do not travel, updated 2026-05-16.
- Homicide rate: 14.0 per 100,000 people (2012, UNODC via World Bank).
- Road deaths: 36.7 per 100,000 people a year (2019, WHO).
- Solo women: Sexual violence is documented. Solo travel by women is not advisable.
Risks, scams and laws
Main risks
- Armed clashes and sudden unrest in Juba
- Carjackings and armed robbery
- Landmines and kidnapping outside cities
- Malaria, cholera and no emergency care
Common scams
- Bribe demands at checkpoints
Laws visitors break by accident
- Photographing officials, soldiers or government buildings requires a permit.
- Same-sex relations are criminalised.
Quick answers
Is South Sudan safe for tourists?
The UK advises against all travel to South Sudan. Conditions can worsen suddenly, closing roads and airspace. Armed violence and crime are widespread.
Is South Sudan safe for solo female travelers?
Sexual violence is documented. Solo travel by women is not advisable.
Sources
- World Bank: intentional homicides
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: South Sudan
- World Bank open data
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