What areas should you avoid in Juba?

Informal settlements on the outskirts: Lack of infrastructure, limited security, and potential for unpredictable situations make these areas unsuitable for tourists.. Areas near sensitive government or military installations: These zones often have heightened security and can be subject to restrictions or sudden security operations, posing an unnecessary risk.

What are the safest areas to stay in Juba?

The safest neighbourhoods for tourists in Juba include Gudele. These areas are popular with visitors and well-regarded for safety.

What scams should you watch for in Juba?

Common scams in Juba: Overcharging by taxi drivers (always agree on fare beforehand). Requests for money or 'gifts' from people approaching you on the street. Impersonation of officials or aid workers.

Areas to Avoid in Juba

Q: Is Juba safe for tourists?

Juba is rated as "Exercise caution" for tourists. Nighttime travel is strongly discouraged for tourists. If absolutely necessary, use pre-arranged, trusted transport and stay in well-lit, secure areas. Petty crime and potential for more serious incidents increase significantly after dark.

South Sudan

|⚠️ Caution

Honest 2026 safety guide for travellers visiting Juba. Which areas need extra caution, common scams to watch for, and safe neighbourhoods to stay instead.

Last updated: March 2026

Book a safe hotel in Juba

Skip the risky areas. Compare hotels in safe neighbourhoods on Expedia.

🚨

Juba is generally Use Caution

2 areas to be aware of · Best areas to stay: Gudele

🛡️

Travel Insurance for Juba

SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.

Get covered

💡

Quick tip: Most tourist areas in Juba are safe. This guide covers areas locals recommend avoiding.

Areas That Need Extra Caution

These areas are not necessarily dangerous, but travellers should be more aware

Informal settlements on the outskirts

Lack of infrastructure, limited security, and potential for unpredictable situations make these areas unsuitable for tourists.

🛡️ Stay here instead: Juba Town Center

The bustling heart of the city, offering commercial activity and essential services.

Areas near sensitive government or military installations

These zones often have heightened security and can be subject to restrictions or sudden security operations, posing an unnecessary risk.

🛡️ Stay here instead: Jebel Kujur

A developing residential area with a mix of local life and new constructions.

Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Juba

Now you know which areas to avoid, here are the best guided experiences to explore the city with confidence.

Guided walking tour through a European city

Juba Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems

Discover Juba on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.

View Tour Details

Juba Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites

Eat your way through Juba with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.

View Tour Details

Best of Juba: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions

Skip the queues and get straight into Juba's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.

View Tour Details

Day Trip from Juba: Scenic Excursion

Escape Juba for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.

View Tour Details

Local cultural experience and traditions

Juba Cultural Experience: History & Traditions

Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Juba's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.

View Tour Details

View all tours in Juba

We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.

🛡️

Stay Safe, Explore Confidently

Book a hotel in a safe neighbourhood or join a guided tour in Juba

🏨

Stay in a safe neighbourhood

Compare hotels in Juba on Expedia

🗺️

Book a guided tour

Explore Juba safely with a local guide

We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.

🏨

Book a Hotel in a Safe Neighbourhood

These areas are recommended by locals and popular with travellers

🛡️

Gudele

A large, mixed residential and commercial district with growing infrastructure.

Exercise standard precautions; be mindful of your surroundings, especially after dark, and secure your accommodation.

View All Safe Neighbourhoods

General Safety Tips for Juba

🌙

At Night

Nighttime travel is strongly discouraged for tourists. If absolutely necessary, use pre-arranged, trusted transport and stay in well-lit, secure areas. Petty crime and potential for more serious incidents increase significantly after dark.

👩

Solo Female Travel

Solo female travelers should exercise extreme caution. Avoid walking alone, especially after dark. Dress conservatively and be discreet. It's highly advisable to have a trusted local contact or use hotel-arranged transport exclusively.

🚨

Emergency Number

112

📱

Stay Connected

Save your accommodation address and emergency contacts on your phone. Download offline maps before exploring.

Common Scams to Watch For in Juba