Kidepo Valley National Park is the most isolated park in Uganda but the few who make the journey to this park would agree that it is also the most magnificent and virgin places every wildlife viewer can ever visit in Uganda and ranks among Africa’s finest wilderness.

The park is transacted by 2 rivers that is river Kidepo and river Narus. These rivers normally disappear in the dry season, leaving just pools for wildlife.

Kidepo lies in the rugged, semi-arid valleys of Karamoja province between Uganda’s borders with Sudan and Kenya. It is 700km from Kampala Uganda’s capital and largest city.

It hosts over 77 mammals and 475 bird species

Activities that Kidepo Valley National Park is known for?

Bird watching

Narus valley is the greatest spot to begin your Kidepo birding. The park shelters over 475 bird species including; vinaceous dove, Hoopoe, Mosque Swallow, Scarlet-chested Sunbird, Black Coucal, Nubian Woodpecker among others.

Game drive

Wildlife is most active in the Narus valley during early mornings and late in the evening. Visitors are advised to use a ranger at all times who will help spot some of the park’s lions that may be sitting on the valley’s various rocks. Other wildlife that may be spotted includes leopards, bush duiker, jackal, bushbuck, bush pig, buffalo among others.

Hiking/nature walk in Kidepo valley national park

Hiking starts at 7 am, shorter guided walks around two hours can be taken through the Narus Valley extending over a 5km radius from Apoka Tourism Centre. This walks gives a clear view of wildlife and the beautiful scenery of the park.

Cultural encounters in Kidepo valley national park

Visitors move to the communities to discover the unique culture of this remote tribe with the Lorukul Cultural Group located just outside the park.

Here you find Karamajongs and their main activity is herding livestock other activities are well explained by the guide as you keep on moving, learn how villagers make their local cuisines, distinctive beads, meet the karamajong king who will narrate the tribe’s folklore and beliefs.

Accommodation In Kidepo Valley National Park

Apoka safari lodge;

This is a high-end lodge found in Kidepo Valley Safari Lodge strategically located overlooking the Narus River valley within the distant Kidepo wilderness thus the ability to view wildlife.

Adere safari lodge;

Its another high-end safari lodge located on the edge of Kidepo Valley National Park in a unique natural setting that enables visitors to enjoy the magic of seeing wildlife up-close when simply relaxing by the pool. Adere safari lodge features custom-designed safari cottages with functional luxury touches, exclusive settings in the wilderness of Kidepo park.

Kidepo savannah lodge;

The accomm0dation facility is a mid-rage safari lodge located 33km at the edge of kidepo Valley National Park away from kalokudo gate. It offers excellent and comfortable lodging facilities with luxurious self-contained camping tents having comfortable beds with Masai blankets and hot showers.

Location of Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo national park is located near karenga in kaabong district in northeastern Uganda.

Best time to visit Kidepo Valley National Park

Best time to visit the park is in the dry season that lasts from September and all through to March, vegetation is sparser, and sighting animals around watering holes is easier. July and August are the next best months to visit as the rainy period transits to the dry period.

What to pack when visiting Kidepo Valley National Park

All travelers need to pack light cotton clothes in dull color because bright color attracts insects / bugs. Take many non-alcoholic liquids before and during travel to keep body hydrated.

How to get to Kidepo Valley National Park

The best way to get to Kidepo Valley National Park is by a scheduled or chartered flight. It is also possible to drive from Entebbe to Kidepo. There are several routes. The most direct route, through Gulu to Lokumoit Gate, is about 600km/373mi and takes about 10 hours