Uganda is a country in East Africa that is well known for its gorilla trekking adventures in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga National Park. However, Uganda has a lot more to offer than just gorilla trekking, and one of its best-kept secrets is Kidepo Valley National Park.
Kidepo Valley National Park is located in the northeastern part of Uganda, close to the borders of Kenya and South Sudan. The park covers an area of 1,442 square kilometers and was established in 1958. Kidepo Valley National Park is one of Uganda’s most remote and least visited national parks, making it a hidden gem for those who want to experience a truly wild and untouched wilderness.
Wildlife
One of the main reasons to visit Kidepo Valley National Park is the abundance of wildlife that can be found here. The park is home to over 77 mammal species, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffalos, zebras, giraffes, hyenas, and various antelope species like the eland, bushbuck, and waterbuck.
Kidepo Valley National Park is also home to over 475 bird species, making it one of the best birding destinations in Uganda. Some of the birds that can be seen here include the ostrich, Kori bustard, and the rare and endangered African white-backed vulture.
Scenery
The park’s landscape is breathtaking, with vast open savannah plains, rugged mountain ranges, and river valleys. The Narus Valley is the park’s most visited area and is home to a wide variety of wildlife. Visitors can take a game drive or a guided nature walk in the Narus Valley to see animals such as elephants, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species.
Another beautiful area to visit in the park is the Kidepo Valley, which is located in the north of the park. This area is more remote and less visited than the Narus Valley, but it offers incredible scenery and wildlife sightings. The Kidepo Valley is home to the Kidepo River, which provides a source of water for the wildlife in the area. Visitors can take a game drive or a guided nature walk in the Kidepo Valley to see animals such as lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and various antelope species.
Activities
There are several activities that visitors can participate in while visiting Kidepo Valley National Park. One of the most popular activities is a game drive. Game drives can be done in the morning or afternoon, and they usually last between two to three hours. Visitors can choose to do a game drive in the Narus Valley or the Kidepo Valley. During a game drive, visitors can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, and various antelope species.
Another popular activity is a guided nature walk. Guided nature walks usually last between two to three hours and can be done in either the Narus Valley or the Kidepo Valley. During a guided nature walk, visitors can expect to see a variety of wildlife and learn about the park’s flora and fauna from their guide.
Visitors can also choose to go on a cultural tour of the nearby Karamojong community. The Karamojong people are pastoralists who have lived in the area for centuries. Visitors can learn about their way of life and traditions, as well as see their traditional dances and crafts.
Accommodation
There are several accommodation options available for visitors to Kidepo Valley National Park.
Apoka Safari Lodge: This lodge is situated inside the park and offers luxurious rooms and suites with spectacular views of the savannah. The lodge also has a swimming pool, spa, and restaurant.
Kidepo Savannah Lodge: This lodge is located just outside the park and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.
Nga’moru Wilderness Camp: This camp is located inside the park and offers basic but comfortable tents with en-suite bathrooms. The camp also has a restaurant and a bar.
Kidepo Guesthouse: This guesthouse is located just outside the park and offers basic rooms with shared bathrooms. The guesthouse also has a restaurant and a bar.
How to Access Kidepo Valley National Park
Kidepo Valley National Park is located in the remote northeastern part of Uganda, near the borders of South Sudan and Kenya. Here are some ways to access Kidepo:
By Air: The easiest way to access Kidepo is by air. You can take a flight from Entebbe International Airport to either Apoka Airstrip or Kidepo Airstrip. There are several local airlines that offer flights to Kidepo, including Aerolink Uganda and Fly Uganda.
By Road: You can also access Kidepo by road. However, the journey is quite long and can take up to 10-12 hours from Kampala. You can hire a private car from a reputable company such as Car Rental in Uganda or take a public bus from Kampala to the town of Kitgum, and then proceed to Kidepo Valley National Park.
By Organized Tour: Another way to access Kidepo is by joining an organized tour. Many tour companies offer packages that include transportation, accommodation, and activities in Kidepo Valley National Park. This is a great option if you want a hassle-free trip and want to explore the park with the help of an experienced guide.
Best time to visit Kidepo
The best time to visit Kidepo depends on your interests and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:
Wildlife viewing: The dry season from December to February and June to September is the best time to visit Kidepo if you’re interested in wildlife viewing. During this time, the vegetation is less dense, and the animals tend to congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot.
Bird watching: The best time for bird watching in Kidepo is during the wet season from March to May and October to November. The migratory birds from Europe and Northern Africa can be seen in Kidepo during this period.
Scenery: The best time to visit Kidepo for stunning scenery is during the wet season. The landscape is lush and green, and the waterfalls are at their most impressive.
Overall, the best time to visit Kidepo is during the dry season, from December to February and June to September, as the weather is pleasant and the wildlife is easier to spot.
It’s important to note that Kidepo is located in a remote part of Uganda and the infrastructure can be basic, so it’s recommended to plan ahead and prepare accordingly.
In conclusion, Kidepo Valley National Park is undoubtedly Uganda’s best-kept secret, a hidden gem waiting to be explored by adventure-seekers and nature lovers alike. This remote wilderness area boasts breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and an authentic African safari experience that is hard to find elsewhere. Whether you’re interested in game drives, bird watching, or simply soaking up the stunning scenery, Kidepo offers an unforgettable adventure for every traveler. With its remote location and off-the-beaten-path feel, Kidepo Valley National Park is a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the less-visited corners of Uganda and experience the true beauty of the African wilderness.