Things To Do
in Wau
Wau is a vibrant city located in South Sudan, known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse population. It serves as a regional hub for trade and commerce, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and traditional villages. The city is characterized by its lively markets and the warm hospitality of its residents.
Wau is also a vital center for humanitarian efforts and development in the country.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Wau Market, where you can experience the local culture and shop for traditional crafts.
Visit the Wau Cathedral, a beautiful landmark that showcases stunning architecture and offers a glimpse into the local community's spiritual life.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying traditional dishes, followed by a stroll along the banks of the Jur River to soak in the sunset.
Take a guided tour to nearby villages, where you can learn about the customs and traditions of the Dinka people.
Visit the local museum to discover the history of Wau and the broader region of South Sudan.
Attend a cultural performance if available, to experience traditional music and dance, followed by dinner at a café.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a local restaurant | $5 |
| 🚕Taxi fare within the city | $3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $20 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $30 |
| 🍺Local beer | $2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural experiences
- Warm hospitality
- Unique local cuisine
- Limited infrastructure
- Safety concerns in certain areas
- Limited nightlife options
- "Nok" - Hello
- "Tani" - Thank you
- "Ai ka bī" - How are you?
- "Kūŋ" - Goodbye
- "Jok" - Yes
Places to Visit in Wau
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning architectural marvel, perfect for capturing the intricate details and vibrant community life.
The picturesque river provides a scenic backdrop for sunset photography, with opportunities to capture local fishermen.
A lively scene filled with color and activity, offering a chance to document the local culture and daily life.
Food in Wau
Wau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional stew made with meat and vegetables, often served with a side of kisra (sourdough flatbread).
Must-Try!
A staple flatbread made from sorghum, typically enjoyed with stews or grilled meats.
Fresh fish caught from local rivers, marinated with spices and grilled to perfection.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and street food vendors selling traditional dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It's important to dress modestly, especially when visiting villages or religious sites to show respect for local customs.
A firm handshake and a smile are customary when meeting someone; greetings are an important part of social interactions.
Always show respect to elders in the community; it is customary to greet them first in social settings.
Safety
Tipping in Wau
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and for service providers; a 10% tip is generally acceptable.
Cash is the primary payment method in Wau, with limited acceptance of credit cards; carrying small denominations is advisable.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm temperatures and low humidity, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city.
Heavy rains can occur, making travel more challenging but also bringing lush landscapes and vibrant greenery.
A pleasant time to visit with moderate temperatures and less rainfall, perfect for sightseeing.
A mix of warm and cool days, signaling the start of the rainy season, offering unique photography opportunities.
Wau at Night
Hiking in Wau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, suitable for moderate hikers.
Various trails along the Jur River provide opportunities for hiking and nature walks, showcasing the region's natural beauty.
Airports
How to reach Wau by plane.
Located just outside the city, Wau Airport connects to Juba and other regional destinations, making it an essential hub for travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Dinka are the largest ethnic group in South Sudan, known for their rich cultural traditions and pastoral lifestyle.
Wau is home to various ethnic groups, including the Nuer and Shilluk, adding to the region's cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a popular sport in Wau, with local teams often playing matches that draw community support.
Running is a common pastime, with local events and informal competitions held to encourage community participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional cuisine often features meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to confirm with staff.