Wau

Overview

Wau is one of South Sudan's largest towns, spread along the Jur River in the north-west of the country. It has long been a meeting point for many peoples and was an important centre in colonial and missionary times.

Its brick cathedral and riverside setting hint at that history. Travel to South Sudan is not advised at present, so this short guide is written for a future, safer time.

Things to see

• 

  St Mary's Cathedral

  A large red-brick cathedral from the colonial era, one of the most striking buildings in the country.

• 

  Jur River

  The river curves past the town, with fishermen and washing places along its banks.

• 

  Wau market

  The central market is the heart of town, with produce and goods from across the region.

Things to do

• 

  Walk the riverbank

  Early morning or late afternoon along the Jur is the most pleasant time to be outside.

• Try local tea

  Tea stalls run by local women serve strong, sweet tea and are a sociable place to stop.

• 

  Visit the old mission quarter

  The streets around the cathedral keep several early twentieth-century buildings.

Where to stay

• Town centre

  Basic hotels and guesthouses near the market and main roads.

  Hotels in Town centre

• Organisation compounds

  Most visitors stay in secure accommodation arranged by their organisation.

  Hotels in Organisation compounds

Getting around

Travel with arranged drivers; roads around Wau can be impassable in the rains.

Flights from Juba are the usual way in, as roads between the two cities are long and unreliable.

When to go

The dry season from December to March is the most practical time. Heavy rains from around May to October make travel very difficult.

Plan your trip to Wau

• 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
• Malakal

Back to South Sudan