Algeria National Parks
Botswana National Parks
Cameroon National Parks
DR Congo National Parks
Egypt National Parks
Ethiopia National Parks
Ghana National Parks
Kenya National Parks
Madagascar National Parks
Morocco National Parks
Namibia National Parks
Rwanda National Parks
South Africa National Parks
Tanzania National Parks
South Sudan, one of the world’s newest countries, boasts a rich array of wildlife and diverse ecosystems, much of which is protected within its national parks. Despite its tumultuous history, the national parks in South Sudan remain vital for conserving the country’s savannas, wetlands, and tropical forests. South Sudan has six national parks: Boma National Park, Bandingilo National Park, Southern National Park, Nimule National Park, Lantoto National Park, and Shambe National Park.
Boma National Park, located in the southeastern part of the country, is one of the largest and most significant national parks in South Sudan. Covering over 22,000 square kilometers, Boma is famous for its large-scale migrations of white-eared kob, tiang, and Mongalla gazelle, one of the largest wildlife migrations in Africa. The park is also home to elephants, buffalos, and various species of antelope, along with predators like lions and leopards.
Bandingilo National Park, located in the south-central region, is another critical wildlife sanctuary, known for supporting a similar migration of white-eared kob. This park also provides habitat for elephants, giraffes, and a variety of bird species, making it an important center for biodiversity. Southern National Park, established in 1939, is one of the country’s oldest protected areas and is known for its diverse ecosystems, from woodlands to grasslands, which support hippos, crocodiles, and various species of monkeys and antelopes.
Nimule National Park, located near the Ugandan border along the Nile River, is one of South Sudan’s most accessible parks and is famous for its populations of hippos, elephants, and crocodiles. Its proximity to the Nile makes it an essential habitat for aquatic and semi-aquatic species.
Despite the wealth of biodiversity, national parks in South Sudan face several challenges. Poaching, especially of elephants for ivory, remains a significant issue. Deforestation, illegal logging, and agricultural expansion also threaten the parks’ ecosystems. Furthermore, political instability and the aftermath of civil conflict have limited the government’s ability to manage and protect these areas, leading to weak enforcement of conservation laws.
Efforts are underway to strengthen conservation initiatives through partnerships with international organizations and local communities. The national parks in South Sudan are crucial for the survival of the country’s wildlife and for fostering eco-tourism as the nation seeks to rebuild and develop sustainably.
The first national park in South Sudan is Boma National Park, established in 1977.
Located in the eastern part of the country, near the Ethiopian border, this park was created to conserve the region’s extensive grasslands and wetlands, which host one of the world’s largest wildlife migrations.
Boma National Park plays a crucial role in safeguarding the unique biodiversity and ecosystems found in South Sudan.
Boma National Park is also the largest national park in South Sudan, covering an impressive area of approximately 8,364 square miles (21,000 square kilometers).
The park features vast savannahs, floodplains, and woodlands, supporting a rich array of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and various antelope species.
The park is particularly famous for its annual migration of white-eared kob, tiang antelope, and Mongalla gazelle, making it a critical area for wildlife conservation.
The smallest national park in South Sudan is Southern National Park, covering about 8,666 square miles (22,434 square kilometers).
Situated in the southwestern part of the country, this park features a mix of forests, grasslands, and wetlands.
It is home to diverse wildlife, including leopards, hippos, and numerous bird species, contributing significantly to the country’s biodiversity.
Boma National Park is considered the most popular national park in South Sudan, renowned for its extraordinary wildlife migration and diverse ecosystems. The park’s main attractions include witnessing the spectacular annual migration of millions of antelopes, which rivals the great migrations of East Africa.
Visitors can explore the park’s sweeping landscapes, observing its abundant wildlife and birdlife. Despite challenges such as limited infrastructure and ongoing conservation efforts, Boma National Park remains a key focus for ecotourism development and research, highlighting the natural beauty and ecological significance of South Sudan.
The park’s dynamic habitats and iconic wildlife experiences offer a unique opportunity for adventure and discovery, attracting wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists interested in exploring South Sudan’s natural heritage.
Approximately 15% of South Sudan’s land area is protected through national parks and wildlife reserves, covering around 58,000 square miles (150,000 square kilometers). These protected areas are vital for conserving the country’s biodiversity, especially in its savannas and wetlands.
Apart from national parks, South Sudan has several other protected areas, including Game Reserves such as Ez Zeraf Game Reserve, which is an important wetland area that protects large populations of waterbirds, antelopes, and the endemic Nile lechwe.
Additionally, Shambe National Park, although lesser-known, contributes to conserving wetland ecosystems along the White Nile. These areas provide critical habitats for a variety of species, ensuring biodiversity conservation outside the main national parks.
Beyond its national parks, South Sudan boasts natural attractions like the Sudd Wetland, one of the largest freshwater wetlands in the world. This vast swampy area is a haven for birdlife and a critical habitat for aquatic species.
The Imatong Mountains, in the southern part of the country, offer dramatic landscapes, including South Sudan’s highest peak, Mount Kinyeti. These mountains are rich in biodiversity, with forests that provide a home for unique flora and fauna.
South Sudan is home to several species unique to the region, particularly in its wetlands and savannas. The Nile lechwe, an antelope species adapted to life in wetlands, is endemic to the Nile River basin and can be found in the Sudd Wetlands and Ez Zeraf Game Reserve.
Additionally, South Sudan supports the white-eared kob, which participates in one of the largest animal migrations in Africa. While not strictly endemic, these species are regionally significant and are among South Sudan’s most iconic wildlife.
South Sudan’s main international airport is Juba International Airport (IATA code: JUB), located in the capital city, Juba. It serves as the primary hub for international flights into the country.
The following international airline companies fly into South Sudan:
The national parks and wildlife reserves in South Sudan are managed by the Ministry of Wildlife Conservation and Tourism. The ministry is responsible for protecting wildlife, promoting sustainable tourism, and managing conservation areas.
International organizations, such as the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and African Parks, also collaborate with the government to help protect South Sudan’s biodiversity.
More information can be found on government platforms and partner organizations’ websites, though there is no official ministry website currently available.
