U.S. Updates Travel Advisory for South Sudan: Level 4 - Do Not Travel
The U.S. Department of State has updated its
Travel Advisory for South Sudan as of March
8, 2025, maintaining the advisory at Level 4: Do Not
Travel. This update reflects the ordered departure of
non-emergency U.S. government personnel from Juba due to ongoing
security threats. The advisory replaces the previous version issued on
July 31, 2023.
South Sudan continues to face significant security challenges, including armed conflict, violent crime, and kidnapping, making it one of the most dangerous destinations for travelers. The Department of State has strongly advised against all travel to the country, citing the risks posed by widespread violence and instability.
Country Summary
Armed conflict remains a persistent issue in South Sudan, with ongoing clashes between various political and ethnic groups. The widespread availability of weapons exacerbates the situation, and violent incidents such as cattle raids frequently escalate into deadly confrontations. In addition, violent crimes—including carjackings, shootings, ambushes, robberies, and kidnappings—are common throughout the country, including in the capital, Juba. Foreign nationals have been victims of serious crimes, including rape and sexual assault.
Journalists face significant risks in South Sudan, where reporting without proper documentation from the South Sudanese Media Authority is illegal. Many journalists have reported harassment, and some have been killed while covering the ongoing conflict.
U.S. Government Restrictions
The U.S. government has limited capacity to provide emergency consular services to its citizens in South Sudan. U.S. personnel in the country are subject to strict security measures, including a curfew and the use of armored vehicles for nearly all movements. Official travel outside Juba is heavily restricted, and walking is limited to a small area near the U.S. Embassy during daylight hours only.
Additionally, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) due to risks to civil aviation operating within or near South Sudan. Travelers are advised to consult the FAA’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices for more information.
Implications for African Travel Agents
For African travel agents, this advisory serves as a critical reminder to exercise caution when planning travel to South Sudan for clients. The Level 4 advisory underscores the severe risks associated with visiting the country, and agents should strongly discourage leisure or business travel to the region. Instead, agents can focus on promoting safer destinations within Africa that offer rich cultural and natural experiences without the security concerns.
Travel professionals should also ensure that clients are aware of the risks and limitations of travel insurance policies, as many providers exclude coverage for destinations under Level 4 advisories. For those with unavoidable travel needs to South Sudan, agents should recommend comprehensive contingency planning, including secure transportation, emergency communication tools, and close monitoring of local developments.
Looking Ahead
As South Sudan continues to grapple with its security challenges, the U.S. government’s decision to order the departure of non-emergency personnel highlights the severity of the situation. Travelers and travel professionals alike are urged to stay informed through official channels, including the U.S. Department of State and the Federal Aviation Administration, to ensure safety and compliance with travel advisories.
While South Sudan remains a high-risk destination, the hope for long-term stability and peace persists. For now, however, the focus must remain on safeguarding lives and minimizing exposure to the ongoing threats in the region.
