Plizio Visual Lab

Boma National Park

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Animal habitat

Weather…

Boma National Park is a protected area in eastern South Sudan, bordering Ethiopia. Established in 1986, it covers 22,800 km² of savanna and floodplains. The park is part of the Boma-Jonglei ecosystem, which supports one of the largest ungulate migrations in Africa, including the white-eared kob, tiang, and Mongalla gazelle. During the civil wars, wildlife populations declined due to poaching and lack of enforcement. Since 2011, conservation efforts have been revitalized with support from international NGOs. The park also contains populations of African elephant, lion, and African wild dog. The annual migration of antelopes moves between Boma and Jonglei, covering over 200 km. In 2018, a survey estimated 200,000 white-eared kob in the park. Boma National Park gives remote wilderness experiences but has limited visitor infrastructure.

Location: South Sudan
Nearby: Pochalla (90 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Jul, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	29	31	30	28	27	26	26	26	27	27	27	28
Rain mm	15	11	47	99	114	81	85	84	84	109	74	40

📋 Practical info

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Best season

The dry months from December to March are typically the best time to observe the spectacular migration of white-eared kobs. Water sources shrink, concentrating herds, and predator activity increases accordingly, offering great viewing opportunities.

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Best time of day

Early mornings and late afternoons are prime for game drives, as animals are most active during cooler hours. The intense equatorial midday heat often forces wildlife into shade, so plan breaks accordingly to avoid the heat.

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Etiquette

Maintain a respectful distance from the migrating herds and predatory animals; never block their paths or approach too closely. Feeding wildlife is strictly prohibited, and staying inside vehicles where required is essential for your safety and the animals' wellbeing.

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What to bring

Powerful binoculars are crucial for spotting distant herds and predators across the vast savanna. Lightweight, breathable clothing and sturdy, comfortable boots are recommended for walking safaris in the hot, dry climate.

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Getting there

Boma National Park is remote and typically accessed via charter flights from Juba or by road from Bor. A 4x4 vehicle is essential, and hiring an experienced guide is strongly advised due to limited infrastructure and navigation challenges.

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What to expect

The park's immense size means wildlife sightings are not guaranteed; patience is key during long game drives. Enjoy the wide-open landscapes and diverse birdlife, even if the main migration is not visible at all times.