The Government of Canada has issued a strong advisory against all travel to South Sudan, citing an extremely volatile security environment, widespread armed conflict, inter-tribal violence, and soaring crime rates. The updated travel guidance, released on March 26, specifically recommends that Canadians leave by commercial means if it is safe to do so. The warning has triggered immediate concerns across the global tourism, aviation, and humanitarian sectors, especially in East Africa.

Military Clashes Erupt in Upper Nile State, Juba Tense

Canada’s advisory comes on the heels of intensified fighting in Upper Nile State, including reports of airstrikes and forced evacuations in Nasir County. Travellers who remain in the region risk being mistaken for combatants by military forces. Additionally, Juba, South Sudan’s capital, is under heightened security following surging tensions in the north. A dense network of military checkpoints has been established across the country, often leading to confrontations and violence.

Authorities have noted that conflict spikes during the dry season from December to April, affecting both domestic and cross-border mobility.

Border Flashpoints and Infrastructure Threats in Northern States

Northern regions, especially Unity and Upper Nile states, continue to experience escalating hostilities between government troops and opposition forces. The ongoing war in Sudan has also destabilized South Sudan’s northern borders, with mass displacements and refugee inflows. Crucial infrastructure, particularly in oil-producing areas like Paloich, is at risk of targeted attacks by rebel factions.

The Abyei region, locked in a longstanding border dispute with Sudan, remains a hotbed of violence and displacement, while cattle raids and tribal disputes continue to plague rural districts.

Jonglei, Equatoria States See Spike in Attacks and Militia Movement

Tourism remains nonviable in Jonglei State, where intercommunal violence has engulfed towns like Bor and Pibor, controlled in part by anti-government forces. In Central and Western Equatoria, militias have increased activity near Mundri and along key transit routes.

Road travel between Juba and Nimule, Kajo Keji, and Yei has become increasingly dangerous, with armed ambushes now routine. Border areas with Kenya and Uganda, especially near Nimule, are also highly volatile, subject to armed skirmishes and temporary closures.

Tourism Infrastructure in Collapse: High Crime, Limited Transport

Criminal activity, particularly in Juba, has surged amid economic crisis, with frequent reports of:

• Kidnappings, including foreign oil and aid workers in remote zones
• Armed robberies, carjackings, and compound invasions
• Attacks on international NGOs

Law enforcement is under-resourced and unable to curb crime effectively. As a result, travel insurers and operators have begun reassessing policy coverage and rerouting humanitarian missions.

Restrictions on Movement, Travel Delays, and Fuel Shortages

Roadblocks have become common, especially at night. Travellers have been advised to keep identity and vehicle documentation readily available and to comply with local security forces. Fuel shortages are increasingly affecting overland transport, logistics, and even food supply chains.

Health Risks and Medical Infrastructure Breakdown

Healthcare in South Sudan is severely inadequate. Medical supplies are scarce, and emergency care is often unavailable, especially outside Juba. Serious illness or injury will likely require medical evacuation, though air ambulances are limited and Juba International Airport closes after dark.

Travellers face risks from multiple diseases including:

• Yellow fever, malaria, meningococcal disease, polio, typhoid, schistosomiasis
• Cholera outbreaks linked to poor sanitation
• Ebola screenings may occur at points of entry

Officials stress the importance of travel health insurance covering medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Entry Requirements and E-Visa System

Travellers require a valid electronic visa (eVisa) obtained through South Sudan’s Ministry of Interior. A passport valid for at least six months beyond departure is mandatory. Health screenings at Juba International Airport may involve thermal scans due to prior regional Ebola outbreaks.

Extreme Weather Threatens Safety and Mobility

South Sudan faces severe climate extremes, especially during the rainy season from March to October, when flooding renders many roads impassable. In the dry season, heatwaves, droughts, and wildfires are common, often worsening air quality and displacing communities.

Travellers are encouraged to monitor weather alerts and follow evacuation orders issued by local authorities.

Social Customs, Legal Restrictions, and Safety for Travellers

South Sudanese society is conservative, and visitors—especially women—are expected to dress modestly. Travellers are strongly advised to avoid:

• Photographing military installations, government buildings, or infrastructure
• Wearing revealing clothing or public displays of affection
• Participating in political speech or assembly

Homosexuality is criminalized, and 2SLGBTQI+ travellers risk harassment and legal consequences.

Currency and Financial Issues

The local currency is the South Sudanese Pound (SSP). Currency exchange is legally restricted to banks and licensed bureaus. U.S. dollars (post-2006, unmarked) are often required for large transactions, including flight bookings, as ATMs are unreliable and credit card use is rare. Travellers are advised to carry sufficient USD cash to cover their entire stay.

Airlines and Travel Services Limited

Air travel options are minimal, and Canadian officials have not verified local airlines for compliance with international safety standards. International flights may become unavailable if violence escalates. The Government of Canada warns that consular assistance will be extremely limited during active conflict.

Global Travel Industry Repercussions

This advisory directly impacts international airlines, humanitarian organizations, travel insurers, and regional tourism operators, especially those covering East Africa. The risk of entrapment during an escalation of conflict is high, prompting global travel companies to reassess South Sudan in their destination portfolios.

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