Rumbek, South Sudan πΈπΈ
#328
6.80639, 29.676748
Nomad Score:
33%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Rumbek is the capital of Lakes State in South Sudan, known for its prominent role in regional governance and historical significance. |
π₯ Population | Approx. 150,000 |
π» Internet Speed | Average speed of 2 Mbps, with limited connectivity. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 USD β 1,000 SSP (South Sudanese Pounds), cash is predominantly used, and banks may have limited service hours. |
π° Tap Water | Generally not drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
π Power | Electricity supply is intermittent, with voltage of 230V, 50Hz; generators are common in residences. |
πΆ SIM Card | MTN and Zain are the main providers; obtaining a local SIM card is advisable for better connectivity. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Some banks accept international cards, but cash transactions are preferred. |
π Accommodation | Options include guesthouses and basic hotels; Airbnb is not widely available. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | No, cash is predominantly used. |
π Short Term Rentals | Limited options; best to arrange through local contacts. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Rumbek Hotel and Deng Hotel offer budget stays, starting from $20 per night. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | Local cafes such as Manna Cafe serve as informal coworking spaces. |
β Best Cafe for Work | Manna Cafe offers a basic menu and Wi-Fi for remote work. |
πΌ Networking Events | Limited formal networking opportunities; community gatherings may occur. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Social interactions usually happen in hotels or cafes, primarily with NGO workers and travelers. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Uber and Bolt are not available; local taxis can be arranged through guesthouses. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Bicycles can be rented from locals, but there are no formal services. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | There are no beaches in Rumbek; the nearest major water body is the Bahr el Ghazal River. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | South Sudan Airways operates regional flights. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | Ethiopian Airlines connects Rumbek with international destinations through Juba. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Rumbek is accessible via the Juba-Rumbek road, though conditions can be poor. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | Rail transport is not available in Rumbek. |
π Public Transport Passes | Public transport is limited; traveling by taxi or motorcycle taxi is common. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Travel to Juba takes about 5-6 hours by road. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Rumbek State Hospital provides essential medical services, but facilities are basic. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | No formal wellness centers; local gyms may offer fitness classes. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Basic fitness facilities are available at some hotels. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Laundry services are available through hotels. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | No food delivery apps; local food is available at markets and restaurants. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Try 'Nile Perch' which is popular among locals. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Limited vegetarian options; rice and beans are commonly available. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | Desserts are limited; local bakeries offer basic sweet items. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets sell fresh produce and basic necessities at reasonable prices. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | E-commerce is limited; reliance on local markets is necessary. |
π Grocery Delivery | No established grocery delivery services in Rumbek. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | Limited nightlife; some hotels host informal gatherings. |
π» Local Brewery | Local breweries are not present; beer is usually imported. |
π· Wine Bars | Limited wine options; available mostly in select hotels. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Available near the market areas, offering local snacks. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Limited; some restaurants offer pizza and Indian curry. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | The old Rumbek Cathedral is a key historical site. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | There are no dedicated museums; local culture can be experienced through community interactions. |
π° Historical Sites | Kochi Manicultural Area has historical relevance for the region. |
π Religious Sites | Many local churches and mosques can be found in Rumbek. |
π Annual Events | Annual celebrations often center around local religious observations. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | Cultural diversity is reflected in various communities around Rumbek. |
π Theater Venues | No formal theaters; storytelling is part of local culture. |
ποΈ Local Markets | Local market centers serve as vibrant communal spaces. |
πΌ Music Scene | Local music is enjoyed in informal settings; traditional drumming is common. |
π¨ Street Art | Limited street art; cultural expression is more traditional. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | No formal cooking classes; however, locals may share traditional cooking methods. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | There are no formal art galleries; local artisans may display work at markets. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | Old government buildings reflect the colonial history of South Sudan. |
π΄ Local Heritage | Heritage is mostly oral and expressed through rituals. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Visit nearby wetlands and seasonal rivers during the rainy season. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Boma National Park is accessible, but travel requires coordination. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | Limited walking paths, community roads are primarily used. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | Rumbek offers scenic views of the surrounding plains. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Seasonal wetlands are good for birdwatching. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Outdoor gatherings are possible in community areas. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | Limited to local services; international shipping might not be reliable. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Minimal; some basic repair services are offered by locals. |
π Table Tennis Spots | No formal venues; some hotels may have recreational spaces. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Limited language classes available; local contacts can assist. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | Community centers may have informal study areas. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Local community spaces host informal gatherings and activities. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | No dedicated gaming lounges; internet cafes serve similar purposes. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | No casinos or formal gaming halls in the city. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $500 per mΒ², prices may vary greatly based on condition and location. |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $300 per mΒ², subject to rural conditions. |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $700 per mΒ², depending on amenities. |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $400 per mΒ², varies with location. |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $800 per mΒ², based on available infrastructure. |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $500 per mΒ², often requiring negotiations. |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 30% on profits. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 10%; local regulations apply. |
π¦ Tax System | Simple system; international taxation agreements may apply. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | 15%; varies based on income levels. |
π§Ύ VAT | 10% on certain goods and services. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, local regulations apply. |
π Property Tax | Annual property tax based on valuation. |
π Property Transaction Tax | Approx. 3% of the property value. |