Aweil - Discovering South Sudan

Travelling to Aweil

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Aweil, a pretty good destination in South Sudan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Aweil and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Aweil, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through South Sudan, here's everything to know about Aweil for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Aweil

Aweil is a city located in the northern region of South Sudan. It is the capital of Northern Bahr el Ghazal State and is situated approximately 700 kilometers northwest of Juba, the capital city of South Sudan. Aweil has a population of around 130,000 people and is home to various ethnic groups, with the predominant being the Dinka tribe. The economy of Aweil is primarily based on agriculture, with sorghum and peanuts being the main crops grown in the area. The city has an airport and is connected to other major cities in South Sudan by road. Although Aweil has experienced various conflicts over the years, it is gradually recovering and developing in terms of infrastructure and services.

What to visit in Aweil

Aweil is a city located in the northern part of South Sudan. Although there are not many tourist attractions in the city, there are a few places that visitors can explore. Here are some of the tourist attractions of Aweil: 1. Aweil Museum: The museum is located in the city center and it documents the cultural history of the area. Visitors can learn about the traditional art and music, as well as the local customs and traditions.
2. Aweil Wildlife Reserve: The wildlife reserve is located near Aweil and it is home to a variety of animal species. Visitors can enjoy wildlife safaris and experience the wilderness of the area.
3. Aweil Cathedral: The cathedral is the largest church in Aweil and it is a popular tourist attraction. The building has a unique architectural design and visitors can witness the local religious practices.
4. Aweil Market: The markets in Aweil are bustling with activity and they offer a wide range of goods including food, clothing, and other essentials. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by shopping in these markets.
5. Aweil Stadium: The city's main sports stadium is located in Aweil and it hosts many local sporting events. Visitors can experience the passion and energy of local sports fans while cheering on their favorite teams.
Note: It is important to keep in mind that travel to South Sudan can be challenging due to safety concerns and it is advisable to seek expert advice before planning a trip.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in South Sudan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Aweil.

When to go on holiday to Aweil

The best time to visit Aweil in South Sudan is during the dry season, which runs from December to February. During this time, the temperatures are cooler, making it more pleasant for outdoor activities, and there is little to no rainfall. However, it's important to note that South Sudan experiences political instability and safety concerns in some areas, so it's essential to keep abreast of current travel advisories before planning your trip.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Aweil

First, you will need to fly into Juba International Airport, which is the largest airport in South Sudan. From Juba, you can take a domestic flight to Aweil Airport, which is located about 5 kilometers east of Aweil town. Alternatively, you can take a road trip from Juba, which covers a distance of approximately 800 kilometers. However, the road conditions are poor and travel is not recommended due to safety concerns. It's always best to check with local authorities or travel agents for the latest information on travel to Aweil.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Aweil, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Aweil

Some typical foods of Aweil (South Sudan) are: 1. Kisra: A type of flatbread made from sorghum flour. It is a staple food in South Sudan and is usually eaten with stews or soups.
2. Ful: A dish made from fava beans that are cooked and mashed with spices and olive oil. It is often eaten for breakfast with bread or Kisra.
3. Bamia: A stew made from okra, tomatoes, onions, and meat (usually goat or beef). It is often served with rice or Kisra.
4. Asida: A type of porridge made from millet flour. It is a comfort food and usually eaten with stews or soups.
5. Luru/Ayoyo: A green leafy vegetable that is usually served as a side dish. It is high in nutrients and is a staple in many South Sudanese meals.
6. Shak-shuka: A spicy egg dish made with tomatoes, onions, and green peppers. It is often eaten for breakfast with bread.
7. Basi/Simsim: A dipping sauce made from ground sesame seeds, water, and spices. It is often used as a condiment for Kisra or other types of flatbread.
These are just a few examples of the typical foods of Aweil. South Sudanese cuisine varies from region to region, but it often features simple and hearty dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients.
You can find general info about typical foods in South Sudan here.

Is Aweil an expensive destination for tourists?

It's difficult to say whether Aweil in South Sudan is an expensive destination for tourists, as there are few resources available for tourists in the area. However, as a general rule, South Sudan is a relatively expensive destination due to its lack of infrastructure and high cost of living. Additionally, the country is still recovering from years of civil war, which means that there may be limited access to services and amenities that travelers are used to. It's important to do thorough research and plan carefully before embarking on a trip to Aweil or any other destination in South Sudan.

Where to find accomodation in Aweil

Aweil is located in the Bahr el Ghazal region of South Sudan, and the best areas to find accommodation would be in or around the town center or the airport, as they offer easy access to the city's main attractions and amenities. Some recommended accommodations include Aweil Hotel, River Lodge Hotel, and United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) Guest House. It's important to note that accommodation options in Aweil may be limited, so it's best to plan ahead and book your accommodations early.
You can check hotel prices at Aweil here:
Booking.com

Is Aweil a safe destination for tourists?

Aweil is not a popular tourist destination and travel to South Sudan, in general, is not considered safe due to ongoing civil conflict, crime, and the risk of terrorism. The U.S. Department of State advises against all travel to South Sudan. The country also has a high risk of infectious diseases such as malaria and yellow fever. It is important to do extensive research and consult with a travel specialist or your embassy before considering a trip to South Sudan.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in South Sudan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Aweil.

What type of travelers will enjoy Aweil the most?

Aweil, South Sudan is a relatively remote location primarily known for its agricultural industry and traditional culture. Due to its limited tourist infrastructure, it may not be an ideal destination for all types of travelers. That said, visitors interested in experiential travel and immersing themselves in the local culture may enjoy Aweil the most. This will particularly appeal to those who value experiencing remote and lesser-known destinations and their traditional cultures over more common tourist destinations.
Aweil may also be suited for families, couples, or groups of friends who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and visiting natural sites like the surrounding national parks and the Jur River.
However, due to its limited tourist infrastructure, Aweil may not be an ideal destination for young people searching for nightlife or those looking for a luxury experience.

How to get around Aweil

In Aweil, South Sudan, the most common means of transportation are motorcycles, also known as "boda-bodas," and bicycle taxis. There are also some private taxis available for hire, but they may be less common. It is important to keep in mind that some roads in Aweil may be unpaved or in poor condition, so it may be necessary to choose a mode of transportation accordingly.

What to see around Aweil

Here are some suggestions for nice places to visit on a day trip from Aweil, South Sudan: 1. Tonj: A town located about 2 hours south of Aweil, Tonj is known for its historic market and is a center for cattle trade.
2. Malualkon: This is a small town located about an hour’s drive from Aweil. You can visit the local market and explore the area surrounding the town.
3. Aborom: This is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, as there are hiking trails and scenic views overlooking the surrounding countryside.
4. Wau: This town is located about 3 hours south of Aweil and has many historic and cultural sites, such as the Wau Mosque and the Tomb of al-Fadil al-Mamlook.
5. Kejo-Keji: Another great destination for nature lovers, Kejo-Keji has beautiful landscapes, hiking trails and wild animals such as elephants and antelopes that can be watched from a distance.
Remember to plan your day trip carefully, carry plenty of water and snacks, and always follow local travel advisories and safety guidelines!
For every travel information about South Sudan you can click here.

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