South Sudan is one of the few remaining nations on the African continent where ancient traditions thrive untouched. This extraordinary land is home to some of the continent’s most culturally conservative communities, where ancestral customs still dominate. This 9-day journey with Into Africa Safari offers an immersive experience into South Sudan’s tribal heartlands, shaped by firsthand knowledge of the world’s youngest nation.
Leaving the lively city of Juba, we venture into the homeland of the Mundari people, where intricate tribal scars are a hallmark of identity. In this region, we might witness one of their incredible wrestling matches regularly held among villages. However, participation is strictly off-limits!
Next, we head east to the Toposa homeland, a deeply traditional community connected to the Surma in Ethiopia and Turkana in Kenya. The intricate scarifications adorning their bodies and faces are so detailed they seem almost surreal. Visiting their villages and meeting tribal elders offers a rare glimpse into their lives before we return to Juba. Other stops include encounters with the Boya and Lotuko, whose ways of life have taught us invaluable lessons about Africa’s lesser-seen cultural tapestry.
The journey will have its challenges. South Sudan’s infrastructure is minimal, and tourism is virtually unknown. Yet, it promises to be among the most exhilarating adventures you’ll ever undertake.
Day 1: Juba
Day 2: Torit
Days 3-4: Toposa Villages
Day 5: Boya and Lotuko Villages
Days 6-7: Mundari Villages
Day 8: Juba
Day 9: Departure
Exploring the Capital
Arrive in Juba, South Sudan’s vibrant capital. Spend the rest of your day at leisure, exploring or relaxing after your journey. Overnight at the Royal Palace Hotel or similar.
About Juba
Juba, South Sudan’s capital, has a frontier-town feel. Since independence in 2011, rapid construction has transformed it into a bustling urban hub, leaving behind its long-neglected past under Khartoum’s rule.
Originally a 19th-century trading post called Gondokoro, Juba was a gateway for explorers like Samuel Baker seeking the source of the Nile. While it lacks major tourist attractions, notable sites include the Nile Bridge, which links Juba to Uganda, and the tomb of Dr. John Garang, the visionary leader who fought for South Sudan’s independence.
Juba is a melting pot of cultures, with South Sudanese, Kenyans, Ethiopians, Chinese, Egyptians, and Europeans mingling in its growing bars and restaurants. Riverside spots are perfect for enjoying sunset cocktails.
Travel east into East Equatoria State, navigating roads that can be challenging. Along the way, you’ll pass remnants of South Sudan’s civil war, including tanks hidden in vegetation. Overnight at Hotel Torit or similar. (BLD)
From Kapoeta, we visit Toposa villages, home to one of South Sudan’s most traditional ethnic groups. Nearby, locals dig trenches along riverbanks to pan for gold a fascinating sight. Overnights at Mango Camp or similar. (BLD)
About the Toposa People
The Toposa, a herding community closely related to Kenya’s Turkana and Uganda’s Karamojong, inhabit Kapoeta. Their villages, built with wood and mud, feature thatched roofs often adorned with cattle skulls.
Their scarification rituals produce intricate raised patterns on arms, torsos, and faces. Despite modern influences, older Toposa women still wear animal skins, while men often dress minimally.
Gold panning along the riverbank is a unique aspect of their lifestyle. Though small-scale, it attracts a rush of activity, showcasing traditional methods. Visitors should respect local customs and follow the guide’s instructions, as centralized governance is limited in this region.
Returning west toward Juba, we detour to visit the Boya villages, nestled among rugged hills. We also spend time with the Lotuko people, exploring their settlements before staying overnight in Torit. (BLD)
About the Boya People
The Boya live near Camp 15 in scenic mountain villages. Their homes are vibrantly decorated, and women wear elaborate beaded adornments. While scarification persists, younger women embrace it as a cultural trend inspired by neighboring Toposa.
Widows follow a unique mourning tradition, marked by animal skin wraps and striped patterns created with leaves. Skilled in archery, Boya youths often practice with bows and arrows near their villages.
About the Lotuko People
The Lotuko, Eastern Equatoria’s largest community, live in concealed hilltop settlements that served as wartime refuges. Traditional leadership includes “rain-makers,” who historically ensured community prosperity. Today, these picturesque villages offer a blend of modern and traditional lifestyles, making them distinct from the Boya and Toposa.
Drive to Terakeka, the Mundari people’s heartland. Here, we delve into their traditional practices, including striking facial scarring and vibrant wrestling ceremonies. Spend two days immersed in their culture, with an overnight camping experience. (BLD)
About the Mundari People
The Mundari, north of Juba, are renowned for their cattle-herding expertise and forehead scars, which remain a visible cultural marker for those over 25. Wrestling matches, held weekly, showcase their strength and community spirit, accompanied by songs and cheers from the crowd.
Despite the prevalence of AK-47s among Mundari men, visitors are safe, provided they follow their guide’s instructions. Witnessing these customs offers a rare and authentic insight into South Sudan’s cultural landscape.
Return to Juba for a final evening, staying at the Royal Palace Hotel or a similar establishment.
Transfer to the airport for your journey home.
Airport Transfers: Complimentary, whether you book flights through us or independently (additional fees may apply for early arrivals or late departures).
Accommodation: Comfortable lodgings as outlined. Occasionally, substitutions may occur due to the evolving nature of tourism in South Sudan.
Guides: Knowledgeable local guides accompany you throughout the trip. In multi-destination journeys, different guides may join for specific regions.
Meals: Included as per itinerary: B (Breakfast), L (Lunch), D (Dinner).
Entrance Fees: Covers sites mentioned in the itinerary; optional activities are not included.
