South Sudan - Land of the Cattle Herders with Penguin Travel

1720 €, 5 Days

No doubt that South Sudan is one of the most challenging destinations for the intrepid traveler. This is worlds newest nation, founded in 2011 and probably Africa's least visited country. In South Sudan you will not find traditional “sights”. In fact, for most of the country, you will not find "traditional roads" either. What you will find though is ancient cultural rituals, a myriad of colorful local tribes and raw natural beauty.

During this tour we will explore the growing capital of Juba and the Sudd – Africa’s largest wetland. The highlight of the tour, however, is the time spent with the local Dinka and Mundari people – the legendary cattle herders of South Sudan. They are known for their outstanding pastoral lifestyle and the special bond they have with their cattle. We will spend a few days with them and see firsthand how this bond is expressed in their everyday life, in the culture, the language and even their gestures. Another thing that Mundari are taking very seriously is wrestling. They pride themselves in being excellent wrestlers and if we are lucky, we might witness their daily competitions.

This exclusive journey offers a rare opportunity to discover South Sudan’s untouched landscapes and living cultures. Designed for adventurous, international travelers, cultural explorers, photographers and researchers, the program combines authentic tribal immersion, wildlife rich wetlands, and meaningful community encounters all under professional guidance and logistical support.

Tour highlights:

Authentic access to Dinka and Mundari communities
Overnight experience in a traditional cattle camp
Exploration of the Sudd Swamp, a globally significant ecosystem
Professional local guides and secure logistics

View Full Itinerary

Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Juba
Welcome & Orientation Arrival at Juba International Airport, where our professional local team will warmly welcome you. Private transfer to the hotel in Juba. After check-in, a short welcome briefing is provided, including safety orientation and a full trip overview. Free time to relax after the journey. Overnight in Juba. -/-/-

Day 2: Juba City Discovery Tour
After breakfast, embark on a guided city tour of Juba, offering insights into the capital’s history, urban life, and socio-cultural context. Highlights include key administrative areas, local markets, riverside views along the Nile, short, unique hiking, and cultural interaction points. Afternoon hiking the only hill of Juba for an authentic view of the city ( Jebel el Kujur ). Evening dinner at a beautiful restaurant near the Nile River ( Affex River Camp ). Overnight in Juba. B/-/-

Day 3: Juba - Gualyar | Dinka Tribe Immersion & Traditional Camping

Morning departure by private vehicle to Gualyar, traveling through scenic rural landscapes. Arrival at a traditional Dinka cattle camp and installation at a prepared camping site. You engage in a full cultural immersion experience, including: • Guided interaction with the Dinka community • Observation of cattle-centered daily life • Traditional dances, songs, and storytelling • Cultural interpretation by local guides. A dinner is prepared and served on-site. Experience an unforgettable sunset, night, and sunrise within the cattle camp, offering exceptional moments for photography and cultural understanding. Overnight in camp. B/-D

Day 4: Gualyar – Terekeka | Sudd Swamp Cruise & Mundari Cultural Visit
Early morning activities in the cattle camp, followed by breakfast. Drive to Terekeka, situated along the Nile. Enjoy a guided boat cruise through the Sudd Swamp, one of the world’s largest wetlands, home to rich biodiversity and dramatic natural scenery. In the late afternoon, visit a Mundari community, renowned for their distinctive cattle culture. Where you will experience cultural exchange and learn about their traditions and rituals. Evening return to Juba. Overnight in Juba. B/-/-

Day 5: Departure
Breakfast at the hotel. Private transfer to Juba International Airport for international departure. B/-/-

► Visa: Citizens from almost all countries need a visa to visit Sudan. Please, contact the local Embassy in your country for visa application procedure and price. We will provide visa invitation.
► The official currency is the South Sudanese pound (SSP). US dollars are widely acceptable as well. It is recommended to carry cash as credit cars are not acceptable in most of the country.Check out our blog post about the best things to do in South Sudan here.

Price Includes:
3 nights standard hotels in rooms with private facilities
1 night in cattle camp
meals acc. itinerary
local English-speaking guide
all ground transport in 4WD
airport transfers
boat cruise through the Sudd Swamp
Penguin tour leader (at min. 10 people)
registration fee and entrance fees
all types of government permits and photo permit
tribe payment for the Mundari and Dinka visits
security clearance
visa invitation letter

Not Included:
International flight
Tips
Personal expenses
Visa fees

Additional Services:
Supplement pp. at 3 p: 380 EUR
Supplement pp. at 2 p: 520 EUR

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