By Nancy Okenagwa

Since the signing of CPA in 2005, Juba has seen rapid growth in the hospitality industry. From the old prefabs to now concrete built storeyed hotels. The recent entry of international hotel brands makes it more interesting. By 2020, a number of international hotel brands have shown interest in investing in South Sudan.

Sheraton Hotel, an international hotel chain has been under construction in Juba since 2013. It was due to open its doors to the public in 2015 but unfortunately suffered a setback when war broke out in the country.

Radisson Blue has finished building its 13-storeyed tower with only interior decor remaining. It was initially slated to open doors in 2017 but was pushed back due to war. It’s expected to finally open in late 2020.

Radisson Blue will rival the 15-storey UAP Equatoria Tower as the second tallest building in Juba and entire South Sudan. The two buildings will grace the emerging skyline of Juba City.

Talk of Juba’s team went around Juba city and listed some of the most beautiful hotels in Juba.

1. Pyramid Continental Hotel

Located at the heart of Juba and exactly 0.3km from Juba International Airport, this grande dame is one of the most desired luxurious elegant hotels in South Sudan. Its pyramid-like architectural design is breathtaking and exudes ancient splendor.
Equipped with the state of the art facilities such as rental cars, garden, terraces, fitness centre, casino, hot tub and sauna and a wide range of high profile amenities to give guests a grandeur retreat.

2. La Corte Tuscana Hotel & Resort

One of the best-kept secrets in Juba situated next to River Nile offering a nice terrace enjoying the beautiful scenery of the river, and only a 10-minute walk from the famous Konyo Konyo market. The facility provides a round the clock front desk, airport transportation, and room services for guests. Some of the activities that one can do during their stay at the hotel are canoeing, adventure in the garden, and outdoor swimming. The rooms are spacious exceptionally equipped with air conditioning and coffee/tea makers for the guests’ ease and expediency.

3. Royal Palace Hotel

This tranquil provides a renaissance style frill making it an irresistible stopover for both locals and safari guests for leisure and business. The views alone of the mountainous landscape and the long curvy stretch of the Blue Nile are therapeutic. Royal Palace Hotel is a world-class destination for nature lovers who are seeking to explore the second largest migration of animals in the continent.
The highlights of this facility is the 18 hour access wellness centre furnished with professional gym equipment for comfort and ease, the aqua bar that is adjacent to the pool and baby-sitting services making it super ideal spot for parents with young ones especially.

4. Tulip Inn Hotel, Juba

Comprises of an exquisite boutique hotel, on site restaurant, rooftop bar and next door villas radiating with a European vibe and touch. This haven of top-notch of mouthwatering cuisines is highly recommended for the Lebanese menus. The guest rooms are fitted with climate control and heating abilities giving visitors a choice to create an ambience of their own preference. At the Tulip Inn, one can as well enjoy fine European cuisines with an exotic twist carefully prepared by highly trained and skilled chefs to satisfy all tastes.

5. Panorama Sarovar Portico

A home away from home when visiting Juba offering great service and accommodation especially for travelers looking for glam, revitalization and convenience. Strategically located and bids an opportunity to see the city’s must-see destinations such as John Garang Memorial. This hotel has a wide range of facilities including currency exchange and concierge services.

6. Crown Hotel, Juba

Situated at the landslide borders of Juba International Airport, Crown Hotel gives guests a lifetime retreat combining the right blend of with luxury and serenity. It provides accommodation, free private parking, room service, fitness centre, restaurant, shared lounge and bar.
The guest rooms are spacious, fitted with air conditioning and furnished with state of the art equipment for comfort and relaxation. Buffet and halal breakfast are served in the morning consisting of a variety of continental meals and refreshments.

7. Regency Hotel, Juba

Adjacent next to Dr. John Garang International School equipped with 79 spacious rooms with en-suite bathrooms. This is an ideal place for those seeking for an ample recreational amenities to hold events and business meetings offering up to 6 conferencing facilities.
The hotel features including an all-day dining restaurant, children’s playing ground, lush gardens, gymnasium and spa.

8. Acacia Village Hotel, Juba

Only 15 minutes’ drive from Juba Airport, Acacia Village is situated in a private, quiet, secure and serene ambience away from the noisy city life. This oasis of Juba gives the impression of a true African village and camp covered in a canopy of acacia trees. This property has infrequent features such as a tennis ball court adding to a diversity of activities that visitors can explore. There is no room services offered here.

9. Palm Africa Hotel

Located just opposite Juba Stadium, this facility is vibrant spot that offers consistent, services, and hospitality. The facility has a capacity of 85 master guest rooms and suites elegantly furnished and highly maintained to offer a feel of class and politesse.
This property’s proximity and closeness makes it is ideal for meetings, seminars and cocktail parties for both natives and those visiting Juba.

10. Grand Hotel, Juba

Elegantly furnished with an ideal mix of value, comfort and convenience, the Grand Hotel provides an assortment of niceties for travelers such as a business centre, children activities and entertainment, concierge, mini bar, air conditioning, free parking, breakfast and room service.
The banquet halls and gardens are ideal for hosting events accompanied with high end technology audio visual equipment. The thatched outdoor venue Africa hut is just the right choice for your private functions such as bridal showers, product launch, birthday parties and however one would prefer it.