Where is South Sudan Located?
Where is South Sudan located on the map? South Sudan is an independent nation located in Eastern Africa. Check out the following images to see location of South Sudan on maps.
South Sudan Location in World Map
Location Information of South Sudan
South Sudan is a landlocked country located in East-Central Africa. It became the world’s newest nation in 2011 when it gained independence from Sudan. South Sudan has a rich cultural heritage, diverse ethnic groups, and a variety of landscapes, from tropical rainforests to vast savannas. Despite facing challenges due to political instability and ongoing conflicts, South Sudan is a country with much potential and resilience.
Latitude and Longitude
South Sudan is located between 3° and 13° North latitude and 25° and 35° East longitude. It shares borders with six countries: Sudan to the north, Ethiopia to the east, Kenya and Uganda to the southeast, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to the southwest, and Central African Republic to the west.
Capital City and Major Cities
Capital City: Juba
The capital of South Sudan is Juba, located in the southern part of the country, along the banks of the White Nile. Juba serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of the country. It is the largest city in South Sudan and is home to government offices, international organizations, and numerous NGOs.
Coordinates: 4.8594° N, 31.5820° E
Juba has developed rapidly in the years since the country’s independence, despite the ongoing challenges posed by conflict and instability. It is an important hub for trade and serves as the entry point for most international visitors to the country.
Major Cities
- Wau: Located in the northwest, Wau is the second-largest city in South Sudan and an important economic and cultural center. The city has a population of around 200,000 people. It is situated in a fertile area and serves as a regional hub for agriculture and trade. Wau’s proximity to Sudan has also made it an important point of connection for cross-border trade.
Coordinates: 7.6351° N, 28.3925° E
- Malakal: Situated in the northeastern part of the country, near the confluence of the White Nile and Sobat River, Malakal is one of South Sudan’s oldest cities. It was once a major trading center and has a population of approximately 120,000 people. The city has witnessed significant conflict in recent years but remains an important economic and political center in Upper Nile State.
Coordinates: 9.3333° N, 31.6600° E
- Bentiu: Located in the northern part of the country, Bentiu is the capital of Unity State. This city is strategically important due to its proximity to oil fields and the Sudd wetlands, one of the world’s largest tropical wetlands. Bentiu has a population of approximately 100,000 people and serves as a key administrative and trade center.
Coordinates: 9.2672° N, 29.7833° E
- Rumbek: Rumbek, in Lakes State, is located in the central region of South Sudan. It is an important cultural and commercial hub for the surrounding region. The city is home to several ethnic groups, including the Dinka and Nuer, and is vital for trade, particularly livestock. Rumbek has a population of about 50,000.
Coordinates: 6.8256° N, 29.6833° E
Time Zone
South Sudan follows East Africa Time (EAT, UTC+3) throughout the year. The country does not observe Daylight Saving Time, so the time difference with countries like the United States remains consistent year-round.
- Time difference with New York City: South Sudan is 8 hours ahead of New York City during Standard Time and 7 hours ahead during Daylight Saving Time.
- Time difference with Los Angeles: South Sudan is 11 hours ahead of Los Angeles during Standard Time and 10 hours ahead during Daylight Saving Time.
Climate
South Sudan’s climate varies from tropical savanna in the south to desert conditions in the north. The country experiences distinct wet and dry seasons, which influence agricultural activities and living conditions for its population.
Climate Zones
- Tropical Wet and Dry Climate: The central and southern regions of South Sudan experience a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The rainy season typically runs from May to October, while the dry season spans from November to April. The average annual temperature is around 30°C (86°F), though temperatures can rise significantly during the dry season.
- Semi-Arid Climate: Northern parts of South Sudan, especially areas close to Sudan, experience a semi-arid climate with higher temperatures and lower rainfall. The landscape is dominated by desert and steppe environments, which restrict the potential for large-scale agriculture.
- Monsoon Influence: South Sudan’s climate is also influenced by the seasonal monsoon winds from the Indian Ocean, which bring significant rainfall during the wet season. The White Nile and Sobat River are vital to the country’s water resources and agriculture.
Economic Status
South Sudan’s economy is heavily dependent on oil, which accounts for nearly 90% of the country’s export revenues. However, the country has faced significant challenges in developing a diversified economy due to ongoing conflict, political instability, and inadequate infrastructure.
Key Economic Sectors
- Oil: South Sudan is one of the top oil producers in Africa, with large reserves of oil located in the Unity State and Upper Nile State. Oil extraction is the primary source of income for the government, but the sector has been disrupted due to conflict and infrastructure damage, particularly in areas where pipelines and refineries are located.
- Agriculture: Despite the challenges posed by conflict and climate, agriculture plays an important role in South Sudan’s economy. The country produces sorghum, maize, groundnuts, and livestock. Subsistence farming is common, though commercial agriculture remains underdeveloped due to limited access to markets and resources.
- Trade and Services: South Sudan’s economy also relies on trade, including imports of food, fuel, and machinery. The service sector, particularly in Juba, has grown with the presence of international NGOs, government organizations, and aid agencies.
- Infrastructure: South Sudan faces significant challenges in terms of infrastructure, with inadequate roads, electricity, and telecommunications. The country’s transport system is largely limited to air travel and river transport, with few functional roads connecting the country’s major cities.
Economic Challenges
South Sudan has been hindered by a civil war, which broke out in 2013, devastating its economy. The war severely impacted oil production, agriculture, and trade, leading to widespread poverty and displacement. The 2013-2018 civil war had a profound impact on the country’s human capital, with significant loss of life and destruction of infrastructure. Additionally, political instability and corruption remain significant barriers to economic growth.
The country’s economic growth is also affected by external factors such as fluctuating oil prices and international sanctions.
Tourist Attractions
While South Sudan is not a major global tourism destination, it does have unique attractions, including wildlife, cultural heritage sites, and natural landscapes. Tourism remains limited due to the country’s political situation, but some locations are notable for their potential in the future.
1. Boma National Park
Boma National Park is one of South Sudan’s most famous wildlife conservation areas, located in the southeastern part of the country. It is known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, and lions, as well as its birdlife. The park also serves as a migratory corridor for the white-eared kob and is part of the Greater Boma Landscape.
Coordinates: 5.5220° N, 33.1800° E
2. Bandingilo National Park
Bandingilo National Park, located in the Jonglei State, is another prominent wildlife reserve in South Sudan. It is home to the world’s largest migratory herds of white-eared kob, gazelles, and other antelope species. The park has great potential for ecotourism and wildlife safaris.
Coordinates: 6.8400° N, 31.8500° E
3. Juba Nile River
The Nile River flows through South Sudan, offering potential for river tourism. The Juba Nile is particularly scenic, with opportunities for boat rides and viewing the natural beauty of the region. The river also plays an essential role in the lives of local communities.
4. Cultural Sites
South Sudan is home to various ethnic groups with distinct cultures and traditions. Exploring the Dinka, Nuer, and Shilluk peoples’ customs, dances, and festivals provides tourists with an immersive cultural experience.
Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens
U.S. citizens require a visa to enter South Sudan. Visas can be obtained through the South Sudanese embassy or consulate. The process requires submitting a valid passport, a completed visa application, and a visa fee.
Visa Types for U.S. Citizens
- Tourist Visa: For those visiting South Sudan for tourism, a tourist visa is required. The visa is typically valid for 30 days, but extensions can be applied for at the Department of Immigration.
- Business Visa: U.S. citizens traveling for business purposes must apply for a business visa, which may require an invitation letter from a South Sudanese company or organization.
Documents Required
- Valid passport (at least 6 months’ validity)
- Completed visa application form
- Passport-sized photographs
- Proof of sufficient funds or travel insurance
- Visa fee (varies)
Distance to New York City and Los Angeles
- Distance from Juba to New York City: The flight distance is approximately 12,100 km (7,520 miles), with a flight time of about 14 hours.
- Distance from Juba to Los Angeles: The distance is around 13,000 km (8,078 miles), with a flight time of about 15 hours.
South Sudan Facts
Size | 644,329 km² |
Residents | 11 million |
Languages | English and all native languages |
Capital | Juba |
Longest river | White Nile |
Highest mountain | Kinyeti (3,187 m) |
Currency | South Sudanese pound |