Malakal

Overview

Malakal sits on the White Nile in the north-east of South Sudan, close to where the Sobat River flows in. For much of the twentieth century it was an important river port and administrative town.

The town has suffered greatly in recent conflicts, and travel here is not advised. This short guide looks ahead to a time when the river and its wetlands can be visited safely again.

Things to see

• 

  The White Nile

  The river is the town's lifeline, busy with boats carrying people and goods.

• 

  Sobat River

  The Sobat joins the Nile just south of Malakal, adding much of its seasonal flood.

• Malakal riverside

  The waterfront is where the town's trade and daily life have always concentrated.

Things to do

• 

  Look for river birds

  Herons, storks and fish eagles are common along the banks and in the reeds.

• 

  Learn about the Sudd

  The vast swamps of the Sudd, one of the world's largest wetlands, lie upstream to the south.

• 

  River journey

  For a future visit, boats on the Nile are the traditional way to travel between towns.

Where to stay

• Town centre

  Only very basic accommodation is likely to be available.

  Hotels in Town centre

• Organisation compounds

  Most visitors stay in accommodation arranged by their organisation.

  Hotels in Organisation compounds

Getting around

Travel only with arranged drivers or organisations; roads are poor and often flooded.

Flights from Juba are the most practical way to reach Malakal.

When to go

The dry months from December to March are the only practical time. The rains from around May to October flood large areas around the town.

Plan your trip to Malakal

• HotelsBooking.com
• Tours and ticketsGetYourGuide

Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.

More city guides for South Sudan

• Juba
• Wau

Back to South Sudan