Attractions Nearby South Sudan, Day Trips and Excursions

(South Sudan, SS, North-East Africa)

To the west of South Sudan is the Central African Republic, whilst to the east is Ethiopia. Sudan lies on its northern border, where the closest attractions and places of interest include El Daein, Kadugli and Kosti, as well as Khartoum, the capital city. Although the surrounding countries are not ideal day drip material, they do lend themselves to longer excursions and holidays.

To the south lie Uganda, Kenya and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where some very appealing national parks reside. Kenya, in particular, is famous for its plentiful wildlife and safari opportunities within its Great Rift Valley, with particularly notable highlights including Lake Nakuru, the Mount Kanya National Park and Hell's Gate.

Border regions pose a particular challenge to visitors to the newly independent state of South Sudan. The political circumstances in this part of Africa are in a constant state of flux. Visitors are, therefore, advised to check the current security situation before travelling to these areas.

Central African Republic

The current political situation in the Central African Republic is such that tourism opportunities are thin on the ground. Indeed, much of the country is deemed to be unsafe for travellers. If you are able to enter the country, you will be rewarded with glimpses of some of the most untouched areas of wilderness on the continent. When circumstances allow, the Dzanga-Sangha National Park is probably your best bet. This park is certainly the best place for wildlife spotting in the Central African Republic.

Ethiopia

Ethiopia offers a chance to explore the authentic side of Africa. For a start, there is little in the way of tourist traps. Most of the country's main attractions are historical or religious in nature. These range from the rather beautiful St. George Cathedral in the city of Addis Ababa to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fasil Ghebbi in Gondar. Ethiopia is also home to an impressive range of geological features, including the spectacular and much-photographed Blue Nile waterfalls.

Sudan

Like South Sudan, Sudan is also experiencing political instability. Consequently, some areas of the country are very unstable. Visitors to Khartoum will discover its tree-lined streets and historic buildings, a still-visible part of the country's colonial heritage. The best place to find out more about its rich heritage is Sudan's National Museum in Khartoum. Other tourist destinations include Port Sudan, which has acquired a reputation as a centre for water sports. History lovers will want to add Sudan's many archaeological sites on their itineraries, including the 18th-century sultan's palace at El Fasher (Al Fashir). The town was once the starting point for the 'Forty Days Road', one of the most famous camel caravan routes in Africa.

Uganda

Most of Uganda's major attractions can be found in Kampala, its capital city. These include busy markets and cultural sites. It is also worth visiting the Old Kampala National Mosque and the historic Naggalabi Buddo Coronation Site. Outside of Uganda's capital, visitors can explore a vast number of natural landmarks, including Lake Bunyonyi and the Murchison Falls. Heading out on safari is also a popular activity for many a tourist.

Kenya

Most tourists associate Kenya with its national parks, the most famous of all being the Maasai Mara Game Reserve. It is not for nothing that Kenya is known as the safari capital of the world. However, there is more to this fascinating country than going big game-spotting. Bordering the far south-eastern side of South Sudan, Kenya is also home to Africa's second highest peak, Mount Kenya, as well as a coastline south of Mombasa that boasts palm-tree fringed beaches and beautiful coral reefs. Just a stone's throw from Kenya's wilder side is the capital Nairobi. Tourist attractions in the city include some excellent museums.

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Many regions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo are still considered to be too risky for tourists. However, some tourist attractions are accessible and worth a visit. In particular, the capital city of Kinshasa offers plenty in the way of entertainment. So too does the eastern city of Goma. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy animal-spotting in the Virunga National Park.