Kidepo Valley National Park
Kidepo Valley National Park is a remote national park located on the North Eastern part of Uganda. Covering area of 1,442km2. The park is located near the borders with South Sudan and Kenya. It is in the Karamoja region especially in Kaabong district.
Was gazetted in 1962 and before it was a game reserve established by the British colonial government. The park is known for its rugged landscapes, diverse range of wildlife and the stunning views of the surrounding savannah.
It is a home for over 70 mammal species such as the lions, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes among others . It’s as well a popular destination for bird watching with over 470 bird species.
Kidepo valley National park has a logo of The True African Wilderness due to its remoteness,the savannah grassland that offers a very good view of the park. The park is located in Karamoja region that holds the largest village in Africa.
The park can be accessed by road from Kampala, which is about 571 km. The journey takes approximately 10-14 hours by car.There are also domestic flights available from Entebbe International Airport to Apoka Airstrip, which is within the park.
Activities in Kidepo Valley National Park
Game Drives
The park offers both morning and evening game drives. Explore the park’s diverse landscapes and spot wildlife such as elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and buffaloes. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for game drives.
Nature Walks and bird watching
Take a guided nature walks to explore the park on foot and learn about its flora and fauna. This can be an enjoying moment basically to the botanists and the birders due to the close interaction with nature on the bird watcher’s paradise. Spot over 475 bird species such as fox’s weaver that is only found in karamoja region in Uganda, ostriches,Kori bustard, and the Karamoja apalis.
fox weaver
The popular Trails in the park include; the Lomej Mountains and the Narus Valley are popular areas for walking safaris. The Narus and Kidepo Valleys are excellent for bird watching.
Cultural Encounters
Visit the nearby Karamojong and Ik communities to learn about their traditional way of life, customs, and crafts. Have time to interact with them, participate in cultural tours that include traditional dances, storytelling, and village visits.
Hiking and Mountain Climbing
Hike the Lome j Mountains or climb Mount Morungole for breathtaking views of the park and surrounding areas.These hikes offer a chance to see the park’s rugged terrain up close.
Visit to the Kanangorok Hot Springs
Explore the Kanangorok Hot Springs, located in the northern part of the park. It’s a unique geological feature and a great spot for relaxation, you can as well carry out the activity of boiling the egg at the point. Have enough fun and photos of the place.
Accommodation
The accommodations in kidepo valley national park ranges from luxury to budget friendly and catering for all the types of clients at the park. Some of the accommodations includes;
Apoka Safari Lodge
A luxury lodge with spacious rooms, private verandas, and stunning views of the savannah. It offers high-end amenities, including a swimming pool and a well-stocked bar.
Kidepo Savannah Lodge
Kidepo Savannah Lodge
A mid-range lodge located on the edge of the park, offering safari tents with private verandas and en-suite bathrooms. It’s known for its beautiful views of the Narus Valley.
Nga Moru Wilderness Camp
A mid-range camp offering comfortable tents and bandas with en-suite bathrooms. It provides a rustic yet comfortable experience with great views of the park.
Zebra Safari Lodge
A budget-friendly lodge with basic amenities, perfect for travelers looking for an affordable stay. It offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant.
Apoka Rest Camp
A budget option managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, offering basic bandas and camping facilities. It’s good for budget-conscious travelers.
Karatunga Safari Camp
Karatunga Safari Camp is a community-run camp offering a cultural experience with comfortable accommodations. It supports local communities and provides a unique stay.For a memorable stay and tour of Kidepo Valley National park ,book your travel with Beyond sights safaris.
