Washington, DC, January 30, 2026 (SSNA) — The U.S. State Department has listed South Sudan as a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” country, warning that Americans should avoid the nation entirely due to civil unrest, violent crime, kidnapping, land mines, and severely limited health services.
South Sudan, which gained independence in the 21st century, has experienced decades of civil war, and tensions are rising again between the military and opposition forces, particularly near the Ethiopian border. Organizations, including the United Nations and NGOs, report that firearms frequently cross the border from Sudan, making accurate assessments of security challenging.
The United States urges travelers to avoid border areas, comply with restrictions on photography and videography, and be aware that U.S. consular assistance is extremely limited. The State Department emphasizes that any travel to South Sudan is highly dangerous and not recommended under any circumstances.