For travelers with a layover in Juba, the proximity of JUB to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 45 minutes via Taxi, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of JUB:
- Can you legally enter South Sudan? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 45-minute journey each way by Taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the SSP. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some SSP in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Juba, we’d suggest John Garang Mausoleum and White Nile Riverfront. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Juba. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside JUB, you can spend time at Airport Cafe & Waiting Area or try Mobile Network Provider Kiosk. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near JUB
In Juba
If you make it into town, Notos Lounge & Grill (Juba Grand Hotel) is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Da Vinci Italian Restaurant (Logali House).
Inside JUB
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Snack Bar is your main option. Coffee Kiosk works too if you want something quick.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Juba International Airport into town:
- Taxi: About 45 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 65 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
How Much Money You’ll Need
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Juba:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $6 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $21 USD total.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at JUB may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Juba’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at JUB, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Juba itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for South Sudan that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Long overnight layover? Your options at JUB include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in South Sudan also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Juba count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave JUB. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.