Plizio Visual Lab

Wau Railway Bridge

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

Weather…

The Wau Railway Bridge is a significant engineering landmark and a crucial infrastructure asset spanning the Jur River in Wau. Completed in the early 1960s, it marks the terminus of the railway line that runs from Babanusa in present-day Sudan to Wau. This bridge was vital for the transport of goods and passengers, connecting the Bahr el Ghazal region with the north of what was then a unified Sudan. The steel structure is a testament to mid-20th-century transport planning and has endured despite decades of neglect and the impact of war. During the civil war, the bridge held high strategic importance and was damaged and repaired on several occasions. Today, it primarily serves road traffic and pedestrians, as regular train services have largely ceased. The bridge provides an impressive view of the Jur River and is a popular gathering spot for city residents. Plans to revive the railway network identify the bridge as a key element for future trade with Sudan and other neighboring states.

Location: South Sudan
Nearby: Gogrial (80 km)

Best time to visit & climate

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

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	28	31	32	31	29	27	26	25	26	27	27	28
Rain mm	1	2	18	59	135	145	162	191	168	125	16	9

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Wau Railway Bridge is a railway bridge over the Jur River and can be viewed from outside. Access onto the bridge itself is typically not allowed as it is still in operation.

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Typical hours

As it is an active railway bridge, there are no visiting hours. The best time to visit is during daylight hours with good light.

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Photography

The bridge is a popular photo subject for railway and industrial enthusiasts. Photograph best from the bank of the Jur River to capture the whole structure.

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Time needed

A short visit to the bridge takes about 10 to 20 minutes. Allow extra time if you want to walk along the river or explore the surroundings.

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Combine with

Combine the visit with a trip to the city of Wau, just a few kilometres away. Wau Market and Wau Stadium are other sights in the area.

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Getting there

The bridge is located on the southern outskirts of Wau and is best reached by car or motorbike taxi (Boda-Boda). A short footpath from the main road leads to the riverbank.

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Insider tip

Be aware of approaching trains as the bridge is still actively used. A visit early in the morning or late afternoon features the best light and more pleasant temperatures.

Geography

Coordinates

7.72000, 28.02000

Facts

The bridge spans the Jur River, a major tributary of the Nile system.
The construction of the railway line to Wau was completed in 1962.
The bridge was designed to support heavy steam and later diesel locomotives.
Wau represents the southernmost point of the region's 1.067 m gauge railway.
The line was briefly rehabilitated following the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement.
The bridge serves as a vital connection for vehicles between the city's districts.