Country: South Sudan
Destinations: Juba, Terekeka, Mundari, Dinka, Toposa villages, Boya Hills, Lotuko, and Torit
Itinerary at Glance
Day 1: Arrival in Juba
Day 2: Transfer to Mundari
Day 3: Mundari Cultural Immersion
Day 4: Transfer back to Juba to Dinka
Day 5: Dinka village experience
Day 6: Drive back to Juba for a city tour.
Day 7: Off to Toposa
Day 8: Explore Toposa culture.
Day 9: Drive to Boya Hills
Day 10: Transfer to Lotuko
Day 11: Transfer to Torit
Day 12: Departure
Trip Overview.
Embark on a 12-Day Unforgettable Cultural Wonders of South Sudan Tour.
Join One More Adventure Safaris on an extraordinary 12-day journey to discover the untamed beauty and rich cultural heritage of South Sudan. This immersive cultural exploration tour will take you from the bustling city of Juba to the scenic landscapes of Terekeka, the vibrant Mundari villages, the remarkable Dinka community, and the unique cultures of the Toposa and Larim tribes.
This 12-day Unforgettable Cultural Wonders of South Sudan Tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich traditions, rituals, and ways of life of the Mundari, Dinka, Toposa, and Larim people. At One More Adventure Safaris, we are committed to responsible tourism, ensuring that your journey respects the local culture and contributes to the sustainable development of the communities you visit.
Join us on this extraordinary cultural adventure and create lasting memories as you explore the captivating cultural wonders of South Sudan.
Highlights.
- Juba city tour
- Visit to Mundari cattle camp
- Mundari cultural experience
- Toposa cultural experience
- Boya hills hike
- Dinka cultural experience
- Lotuko cultural experience
- Terekeka market experience
- Larim cultural experience
- Visit to White Nile
- Countryside drives
Day 1: Arrive in Juba
Day Itinerary
Upon arrival in Juba International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by One More Adventure Safaris, South Sudan representative, who will introduce you, to your local guide, share an introductory briefing, before jumping into your vehicle, and get started with your day mission. More communication will be done, as you transfer in your vehicle, as you freely engage into informative talks about South Sudan in general. The dos and don’ts, will be brought into your attention. Arrive in Juba, the capital city of South Sudan, and be welcomed by our knowledgeable guides. Settle into your accommodation and prepare for an incredible cultural adventure.
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Overnight stay at: Afex Riverside Camp
Meal Plan: Dinner
Day 2: Transfer to Mundari. Travel time + 4 hrs.
Day Itinerary
We’ll leave Juba early in the morning and head north towards the heartland of the Mundari, semi-nomadic cattle herders that despite the relative proximity with Juba and the collateral effect of the South Sudanese Civil War have managed to keep their tribal way of life almost intact. It’s roughly a four to five hour journey that exposes you to sights of the magnificent countryside of South Sudan.
Our first stop will be the market town of Terekeka, where we’ll enjoy a quick roadside snack, while our guide pops in at the local government offices to register our visit to the Mundari cattle camp.
The Mudari people have preserved their age-old traditions and rituals, offering you a rare opportunity to witness their way of life up close. From mesmerizing dances to intricate body art, you’ll be captivated by their rich cultural heritage.
Once at the camp, we’ll pay our respects to the Mundari elders and then introduce ourselves to the rest of the tribe and he personally grants you further access to the local tribe. You have a chance to take beautiful sunset photos in the Mundari cattle camps.
The following day will be entirely spent in the company of the Mundari. Spend these days fully immersed in the Mundari way of life. Engage with the Mundari people, participate in their daily activities, and learn about their customs and beliefs. Witness traditional dances, observe the process of cattle herding, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the community. Gain a deeper understanding of the Mundari culture through conversations with tribal elders and community members.
Meals and overnights in comfortable modern tents that our guides will set up for you in the proximity of the Mundari village.
Overnight stay at: Camping
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Mundari Cultural Immersion
Day Itinerary
Today, we have a full day, dedicated to learn, interact and get to know more about the untamed culture of the Mundari people. You have the entire day to enjoy and experience an authentic Mundari culture, visit their cattle camps, and families.
As you venture into Mundari villages, you will be greeted by warm smiles and open arms, as the Mundari people are known for their hospitality and friendliness. Our knowledgeable guides will facilitate meaningful interactions, allowing you to learn about their customs, traditions, and ways of life.
One of the most notable features of the Mundari culture is their distinct body art. Both men and women adorn themselves with intricate patterns and scarifications, which hold deep cultural and symbolic meanings. Explore the significance behind these unique body decorations and witness the craftsmanship that goes into creating them.
During your visit, you will also have the opportunity to witness the famous Mundari cattle camps. These camps serve as the focal points of Mundari life, where families come together to tend to their herds and build strong social bonds. Observe the Mundari’s traditional cattle-herding techniques, learn about their grazing patterns, and gain insights into the role of cattle in their everyday lives.
By sunset, the herders will return to the village with their livestock in masses and start preparing them for the evening stay. The mist created by the smoke the Mundari prepare to repel mosquitoes will create a unique atmosphere, great for photography.
You will dine on the local delicacies if you wish as you wait in the evening for the magical sunset photos at the cattle camp.
Overnight stay at: Camping
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Transfer from Juba to Dinka village. Travel time + 4 hrs.
Day Itinerary
In the late morning we’ll take our leave from the Mundari, you may opt for an early morning sunrise photoshoot to capture that sunrise moment before we head back south for the Dinka via Juba city.
Besides the routine pauses for landscape photos and toilet stops, we’ll break the four-to-five hour drive in Lado Koda, a small traditional hamlet located on the edge of the Koda River’s floodplain. It’s a four hour journey, however you will drive at your own pace, having several stopovers at places of your convenience for photos as you wish. From there, venture into the heart of Dinka territory and experience the traditions and rituals of the Dinka tribe. Engage with the community, witness their unique dances and ceremonies, and learn about their agricultural practices. Interact with Dinka villagers and gain insights into their way of life and cultural heritage.
Arrival at the camp is still in the evening, for relaxation, dinner and overnight.
Overnight stay at: Camping
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Dinka village experience
Day Itinerary
Today you spend the day at the Dinka camp. Meet the Dinka, known for their impressive height and rich cultural traditions. Experience the warm hospitality of the Dinka people as you engage with their daily activities, witness traditional ceremonies, and learn about their agricultural practices. Explore their villages, listen to captivating folklore, and deepen your understanding of their fascinating way of life.
The Dinka’s are known as the world’s tallest people and today is the day you will prove. See their way of life, taking care of their cattle, the community elders keeping law and order in the camp, ladies taking care of homes and family, simply a virgin setting that is worth experiencing. The Dinka people predominantly inhabit the Nile basin, where they have developed a deep connection with the land and the Nile River, which plays a vital role in their livelihoods. Cattle herding is at the core of Dinka culture, and the cattle hold great significance for the community, symbolizing wealth, status, and social relationships. The Dinka people have developed intricate cattle management systems, and their daily lives revolve around the care and well-being of their herds.
You will feast on the local food today if you wish. In the evening return to the camp for dinner and overnight.
Overnight stay at: Camping
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Drive back to Juba for a city tour.
Day Itinerary
Bid farewell to the Dinka villages and return to Juba, reflecting on the incredible Dinka cultural experiences and memories you have gathered. On arrival in Juba town, you will have lunch in a random restaurant to taste the local cuisines that the people of South Sudan dine on. Discover the vibrant city of Juba as you delve into its rich cultural heritage. Visit the Juba Archaeological Museum to explore ancient artifacts and gain insights into the region’s history. Experience the lively Konyo Konyo Market, where you can interact with locals and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.
Visit the presidential palace, Garang Mausoleum and the Jubek Tomb where the town got its name from. In the evening proceed to the lodge for dinner and overnight.
Overnight stay at: Afex Riverside Camp
Meal Plan: Dinner
Day 7: Off to Toposa
Day Itinerary
Morning transfer to Juba Airport for our domestic flight to Kapoeta, the largest settlement in the heartland of the Toposa people.
After landing, we’ll take a short stroll around town and then take a deep plunge into the kaleidoscope of colours, scents, sounds and faces that is the Kapoeta Market, a traditional bazaar where the Toposa and other tribal groups converge to trade their goods.
The next day will be fully devoted to the Toposa people, a Nilotic-speaking pastoralist tribe famous for the unique architecture of its traditional fortified villages.
Overnight dinner and overnight in Kapoeta.
Overnight stay at: Camping
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 8: Explore Toposa culture.
Day Itinerary
Following your breakfast, get ready for another exciting cultural experience, to meet the Toposa people. Venture into the remote Toposa villages and experience their traditional way of life. Interact with the Toposa people, renowned for their colorful attire, elaborate body scarification, and cattle herding traditions.
Over the course of the day, we will visit three different Toposa settlements and get to understand the complex culture of this isolated and highly misunderstood people, which since the mid-80s have been at the centre of tribal conflicts and full-scale wars.
As you venture into the Toposa villages, you’ll be greeted by the warm hospitality of the community. The Toposa people have a deep sense of pride in their culture and are eager to share it with visitors. Engage in meaningful interactions with the locals, who are known for their friendliness and openness.
Discover the artistry and craftsmanship of the Toposa people through their traditional adornments and handicrafts. Admire their intricate beadwork, leatherwork, and metalwork, which are not only beautiful but also hold significant cultural symbolism. Engage with Toposa artisans, learn about their techniques, and even have the opportunity to create your own traditional crafts under their guidance.
Overnight stay at: Camping
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 9: Drive to Boya Hills. Travel time + 4 hrs.
Day Itinerary
After breakfast we’ll embark on a scenic road trip towards the Boya Hills, the homeland of the Larim, a Surmic ethnic group speaking an Eastern Sudanic language and known for being excellent architects. Journey to the Larim people, renowned for their artistic expressions and rich cultural heritage. Engage with the Larim community, witness their traditional ceremonies, and learn about their unique way of life.
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Boya Hills, known for their stunning rock formations and panoramic views.
The practices of piercing and body scarification are widespread amongst the Larim, making them one of the most traditional tribes you’ll ever have the honour to encounter during your gallivanting around Africa.
The hilly area around the small town of Kimatong is the place to be to get in touch with this secluded gens of brave hunters, scarified warriors and resilient herders, who will open for us the well-guarded doors of their houses and of their souls – and this is precisely where we’ll be setting up our camp. These mountains are not only a physical landscape but also a spiritual realm where they believe their ancestors reside. Engage with the Larim community and witness their deep reverence for the mountains as they share their spiritual beliefs and rituals with you.
Dinner and overnight in the Boya Hills.
Overnight stay at: Camping
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 10: Transfer to Lotuko
Day Itinerary
From Boya we’ll head further west, slowly making our way back to Juba.
Before returning to the hectic chaos of the capital, we’ll allow ourselves a final detour into the untamed wilderness of Eastern Equatoria and pay a visit to the Lotuko tribe. Visit the Lotuko tribe and immerse yourself in their cultural traditions. Engage with the community, witness traditional ceremonies, and learn about their artistic expressions, including intricate beadwork and body adornments. Explore the picturesque town of Torit and discover its historical landmarks and vibrant markets.
The Lotuko, also known as Otuho, are Nilotic agro-pastoralists, whose native region is characterized by spectacular ranges and gorgeous mountain spurs such as the Imotong, the highest mountain in South Sudan.
One of the most striking aspects of the Lotuko tribe is their intricate beadwork. Admire the exquisite craftsmanship of their traditional jewelry, which is intricately designed using vibrant colors and patterns. The beadwork holds great cultural significance, symbolizing beauty, status, and identity within the community. Engage with local artisans and learn about the techniques and symbolism behind these beautiful creations.
The main settlement of the area is the picturesque hilltop hamlet of Iliu and—needless to say—it is here that we’ll spend the rest of the day and the night in.
Dinner and overnight in Iliu.
Overnight stay at: Camping
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 11: Transfer to Torit
Day Itinerary
After breakfast we’ll leave Iliu and set off for the last leg of our journey back to Juba.
The trip will last approximately ten hours and will include a visit to Torit, the capital and largest city of Eastern Equatoria State, as well as a few photo breaks in the traditional South Sudanese hamlets scattered along the road. Explore the picturesque town of Torit and discover its historical landmarks and vibrant markets.
Late-afternoon arrival in Juba, and if time permits, spend your final day in Juba exploring the city at your own pace, shopping for souvenirs, or simply relaxing. Later in the evening, grand South Sudanese dinner in the best restaurant in town, completed with a stunning evening view over the White Nile.
Overnight stay at: Afex Riverside Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 12: Flight back home or transfer to further destinations
Day Itinerary
Today, you South Sudan, cultural experience comes to an end!
After enjoying a last lavish South Sudanese breakfast together, we’ll take care of your transfer to Juba International Airport for your flight back home.
Bid farewell to the enchanting cultures of South Sudan as you depart from Juba, carrying with you cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the country’s diverse cultural tapestry.
Thank you for choosing One More Adventure Safaris as your host, we look forward to hosting you again in future and your recommendations to family and friends! End of the tour!
Meal Plan: Breakfast only
The Safari Package includes;
- Accommodation and meals per the itinerary
- Visa support services
- All ground transport by air conditioned 4WD
- Domestic flight
- Mundari cultural experience
- Juba city tour
- Terekeka market visit
- Lotuko cultural experience
- Dinka cultural experience
- Visit to Mundari cattle camps
- Larim cultural experience
- All meals outside of Juba
- Site entrance fees
- Service of a local English Speaking guides
- Camera permit for 1 camera per person
- Unlimited bottle of mineral water
- Service of an English Speaking OMAS Tour Leader
The package excludes expenses of personal nature like:
- Flights to and from Juba
- Visa Fees ($100 – $160 depending on nationality)
- Optional activities
- Pre-tour accommodation
- Tips & gratuities
- Laundry
- Alcoholic drinks
- International vaccinations
- Health test requirements
- Porter fees while trekking
- Camera permit paid on arrival into Juba (+$100 per extra camera – DSLR, GoPro, etc)
- Personal travel Insurance
- Personal shopping bills
- Phone call bills
- Extras while at the hotel
- Items of personal nature
Please contact us for a free detailed quote on the option of your choice. We can tailor a request that suits your interests, and budget, as well as we can change or upgrade the lodge options. Write to us with more details about your safari.