THE SUUD WETLAND Realm; Afrotropical; Biome, flooded grasslands and savannas....
Explore South Sudan – the land of Dinka and Mundari.
South Sudan is a landlocked country located in the East of Africa. South Sudan is characterized by short dry grasslands, thickets and woodlands. These are a great habitat for a variety of wildlife species living in her gazetted conservation areas. South Sudan is a key safari destination in Africa, popular for cultural tours and wilderness encounters. Other activities are usually conducted in the areas of Juba, Malakal, Wau, Rumbek and Aweil. Most of the exciting tourist activities happen along the areas crossed by the White Nile and its tributaries.
The South Sudan was a renowned slave trade area in the period prior 1820 just when it was invaded by Muhammad Ali who was the viceroy of Egypt in the Ottoman Empire. By the end of 19th century, South Sudan was being ruled by the British in collaboration with Egyptians. All this time, it was still Sudan. South Sudan gained her independence and became a fully-fledged country in 2011 when the people of South Sudan voted in large numbers to secede from Sudan.
This brought about an era of peace and improvement in the economic lives of local people since they were now in charge of their economy and minerals. South Sudan had long enough fought for independence but it seemed just a dream until 2011.
Safety and security in South Sudan.
South Sudan over the past years was known for unending conflicts both from internal and external causes. It was until the recent past with joint East African forces that peace was revived in the country through peace talks with both conflicting sides.
A common understanding was reached by both parties and this saw an end of insecurity and war in this country. South Sudan is currently a safe place for travelers. Security for the nationals and foreigners is assured since the security personnel have been deployed all over the national parks and big cities to ensure that peace prevails in the country and businesses thrive.
The culture and people of South Sudan.
South Sudan is dominated by the Nilotes who are further subdivided into other different ethnic groupings. The Dinka who are the biggest Nilotic group of people in South Sudan account for approximately 35.8% of total population. Some of the Dinka sub-tribes include the Twic, Rek, Agar, Ngok, Dinka Malual and Bors. They are usually dark skinned and aren’t vertically challenged. Other tribes in South Sudan include the Luo, Bari, Kakwa, Mandari and Bongo. These tribes have a history of conflict among themselves and usually conflict over land, resources and even dominance over others.
Cultural elders lead the young ones and youth in society. Age is a sign of respect in South Sudan and plays a high role in social hierarchy. Traditionally, South Sudanese dress in throws and cow hide sandals, they also carry a stick with them since they have a pastoral background. The people of South Sudan practice pastoralism, they live in grass thatched houses in an extended family setting.
Climate and travel seasons in Sudan.
Southern Sudan is dominated by tropical climate and high temperatures which usually exceed 35°C. the country has a dry season which runs from January to April and this is the best season to visit South Sudan. The dry season is characterized by low rainfall which favours safaris in the country, as compared to the rainy seasons with high rainfall characterized by mud and other hindrances to travel.
Top Tourist destinations in South Sudan.
South Sudan has a handful of beautiful destinations that are scattered all over. These are visited by thousands of travelers throughout the year. Some of the top tourist destinations in South Sudan include;
Bandingilo National park. This captivating National Park was established in 1992 with the aim of protecting numerous wildlife species that were prone to extinction due to the threat of human activities especially poaching, agriculture and encroachment on their land for purposes of settlement.
Bandingilo is situated in the Woodlands near the White Nile and is a habitat for wildlife species especially the African wild dogs, Caracals, cheetahs, lions, spotted hyenas, leopards and elephants. Travelers get the opportunity to observe these animals when they conduct game drives through the National Park. The nearest city to the park is Juba.
Shambe National Park. This breathtaking National Park is seated on an area of approximately 620 square kilometers of land on the western banks of the White Nile. It is a home to a number of wildlife species especially caracals, serval cats, jackals, tree hyrax, common genets, warthogs, elands, African wild dogs, cheetahs and spotted hyenas.
Shambe National Park is famous for its remote experiences which are popular among travelers for the love of exploring unexploited natural areas.
Khatmiya mosque. South Sudan being a highly Islamic society, Khatmiya mosque wouldn’t miss mention in the most iconic tourist destinations in the country. This mosque is famous for its historical significance in the region, it played a key role in helping spread Islam in South Sudan.
The park is located at the base of the Taka mountains and therefore it’s associated with the beautiful scenery of the landforms unveiled while at the mosque, historical artifacts which the travelers get the opportunity to observe and take beautiful pictures to help remind them of their exhilarating South Sudan adventures.
