Best Time to Visit Juba

Two seasons, one hot year

Juba sits close to the equator, so you won't find a cold month. The year splits into a dry season and a rainy season. The rains run from May to October, and the dry months fill the rest of the year.

The dry season isn't gentle, though. February is the hottest month at 39°C, and March is close behind. Afternoons are hard work, and the air is dry and dusty. Mornings and evenings by the Nile are the best times to be outside.

From May to October, it rains on 20 to 23 days a month. Showers often turn dirt roads to mud, and that can slow trips outside town. July, August and September are the wettest and stickiest, with humidity around 74%. September is the wettest by a small margin at 149 mm, with May, July and August just behind.

Which month for which trip

November and December are our top picks, and both rate Fair. That's the best Juba gets. November is still green from the rains and a bit cooler, but it can be showery. December is drier and sunnier, with about 7 hours of sun a day.

January is also dry and a little cooler than February. It suits a trip where you'll spend most of your time in meetings, markets or visiting people. Road travel is easier then, too.

If you can pick, avoid April. It's hot and the rains are starting, so you get the worst of both. The wet months can work if you're staying in town and don't mind delays. Flights and roads are the weak spot.

Crowds and events

Juba doesn't have a tourist high season. Most visitors come for work, aid projects or to see family, so demand follows business schedules more than the weather. The dry months, especially December and January, tend to be busiest for travel and for hotel rooms. Book early if you're coming then.

Independence Day on 9 July is the big national date. It falls in the middle of the rains, so expect wet ceremonies and soggy streets. Christmas and New Year are also busy, with families gathering and churches full.

Conditions and security can change quickly, so check your government's travel advice before you book. Ask a local contact about road conditions outside Juba too.