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Guide
Wau, South Sudan πΈπΈ
#325
,
Nomad Score:
36%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Wau is one of the largest cities in South Sudan, located in the Western Bahr el Ghazal state, known for its cultural diversity and vibrant local market. |
π₯ Population | Approximate population is around 100,000. |
π» Internet Speed | Internet speed averages around 4 Mbps, but can be slower in some areas. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | Currency is South Sudanese Pound (SSP). 1 USD β 1,200 SSP. Banking services are limited; it's advisable to carry cash. |
π° Tap Water | Tap water is generally not drinkable. Filtered or bottled water is recommended. |
π Power | Electricity supply is inconsistent; generators are common. Standard voltage is 230V. |
πΆ SIM Card | Available providers include MTN and Zain, with SIM cards available at retail shops. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Limited banking options; ATMs may not accept foreign cards. Always keep cash on hand. |
π Accommodation | Options include guesthouses, hotels, and shared apartments, with prices starting around $10 per night. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | No, cash transactions are prevalent; very few places accept cards. |
π Short Term Rentals | Short-term rentals available through local guesthouses and hotels; limited online options. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Budget options start around $10 to $25 per night for basic guesthouses. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Areas around Wau Market are vibrant with easier access to local attractions. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Central Wau near major facilities and amenities is preferable for longer stays. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | There are no dedicated coworking spaces; work is typically done from hotels or cafes. |
β Best Cafe for Work | Cafes like Horizon CafΓ© offer Wi-Fi but are sometimes slow. |
πΌ Networking Events | Limited formal networking events; local community gatherings at Wau Market provide informal networking. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Socializing typically happens at local cafes or through community gatherings. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Local taxis are available, but there are no rideshare apps. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Biking is possible, but rentals are not common; local transport is primarily by foot or car. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | There are no notable beach areas nearby; however, the banks of the Jur River are scenic. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | South Supreme Airlines operates regional flights. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | Air travel is limited; look for connections via Juba International Airport. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Wau is connected by dirt roads, making transport challenging during rainy seasons. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | There are no train services; local transportation is primarily by vehicle. |
π Public Transport Passes | No organized public transportation passes; local transport relies on minibuses and cars. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Travel to nearby cities is typically by road; expect bumpy conditions. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Wau Teaching Hospital is the primary healthcare facility, offering basic services. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Wellness centers are limited; private trainers may offer sessions. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Limited options; some hotels may have basic fitness facilities. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Local laundry services available, price around $2 per kg. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | There are no food delivery apps; local restaurants provide dine-in services. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Try 'Aloo' (sorghum porridge) and various local stews. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Options are limited; local markets offer fresh vegetables. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | Limited; some local bakeries provide basic pastries. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets such as Wau Market are excellent for fresh produce and local goods. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Limited; most shopping is done locally due to low internet speed. |
π Grocery Delivery | No grocery delivery services available. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | Nightlife is subdued; small bars near Wau Market serve locals. |
π» Local Brewery | No commercial breweries are renowned; local drinks are available in bars. |
π· Wine Bars | None available; drinking is typically at local cafes or bars. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Numerous stalls near Wau Market offer local snacks and street food. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Few international options; local fare dominates. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | Visit the Wau Cathedral and the local markets for cultural experiences. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | Limited; local culture can be explored through community events. |
π° Historical Sites | Historical sites include old colonial buildings in the city. |
π Religious Sites | Wau Cathedral is a significant religious site. |
π Annual Events | Local cultural festivals celebrate traditional customs, dates vary. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | The local market area offers a glimpse into daily life and commerce. |
π Theater Venues | No formal theater venues; community performances may occur sporadically. |
ποΈ Local Markets | Wau Market is vibrant and offers an array of local goods. |
πΌ Music Scene | Traditional music plays a key role in community gatherings. |
π¨ Street Art | Limited street art; most cultural expressions are oral and community-based. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Cooking classes are scarce; some locals may offer insights into traditional cooking methods. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | There are no established art galleries but local artists sell in markets. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | Colonial-era buildings can be found around the central areas. |
π΄ Local Heritage | The culture is influenced by South Sudan's diverse ethnicities. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Several natural landscapes around Wau, including the Jur River. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Boma National Park is approximately a 3-hour drive from Wau. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | Limited; most travel is conducted by vehicle. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | Views near the Jur River offer picturesque settings. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Wildlife sighting is possible along the riverbanks. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | No established bonfire spots; outdoor activities are private. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | Limited courier services available; best to use local options. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Basic repair services are available in the city, but options are limited. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Not available; local sports activities are more traditional. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Few options; some locals offer informal English lessons. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | Public libraries are not well-stocked; study options are limited. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Local community gatherings occur in open spaces and markets. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | There are no gaming lounges; most entertainment is outdoor. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | No casinos or gaming halls exist in Wau. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $800 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $32,000). |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $600 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $24,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $72,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $800 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $48,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $80,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $800 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $64,000). |
πΌ Corporate Tax | Currently 0% for foreign companies, but regulations may vary. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | Withholding tax is generally 0%. |
π¦ Tax System | Generally based on residency for South Sudanese nationals; foreigners face different rules. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | Personal income tax rates are approx. 5% to 20%, depending on income levels. |
π§Ύ VAT | Around 18% on goods and services. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | At present, there are no CFC rules widely applied. |
π Property Tax | No formal system; property taxes are largely informal. |
π Property Transaction Tax | 5% applicable on property transactions. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | No specific tax incentives for digital nomads at present. |