Kidepo National Park

🏞️ Kidepo Valley National Park – Uganda’s Hidden Safari Gem

Overview

Kidepo Valley National Park is often called “Uganda’s most untouched wilderness”, and for good reason. Located in the remote northeast, near the borders with South Sudan and Kenya, Kidepo is a rugged and breathtaking park known for its dramatic landscapes, rare wildlife, and authentic African safari experience far from the crowds. It covers 1,442 square kilometers of open savannah, rocky hills, and seasonal rivers, offering incredible game viewing in one of Africa’s most scenic settings.

🐘 Wildlife Experience

Kidepo is home to over 77 mammal species and 475 bird species, many of which can’t be seen in any other Ugandan park.

Animals to look out for:

• Lions (often seen lounging on rocks or hunting)

• Cheetahs (rare in Uganda, but found here)

• Leopards

• African elephants

• Buffaloes (Kidepo has some of Africa’s largest herds)

• Giraffes, zebras, hyenas, jackals, and more

• Unique species like bat-eared fox, caracal, and aardwolf

Birds of note include:

• Ostriches (not found in other Ugandan parks)

• Kori bustard

• Karamoja apalis

• Secretary birds

• Vultures, eagles, and many dryland species

🌄 Scenery & Landscape

The park’s beauty lies in its raw, open wilderness. Wide savannahs stretch between the Narus Valley and Kidepo Valley, framed by distant mountains like Mount Morungole. Seasonal rivers, rock outcrops, and palm-lined riverbeds give the landscape a uniquely African character.

The Narus Valley in the south is great for spotting wildlife, especially during the dry season when animals gather near the water. The Kidepo Valley in the north is more arid but stunning, with the Kanangorok Hot Springs and views stretching into South Sudan.

🚙 Things to Do in Kidepo

1. Game Drives

Explore both Narus and Kidepo Valleys with a guide. Expect great chances of spotting predators and large herds of wildlife.

2. Cultural Visits

Meet the Karamoja people, a proud and traditional warrior tribe. You can visit their manyattas (homesteads), learn about their lifestyle, and enjoy cultural dances and storytelling.

3. Bird Watching

With its unique dryland species, Kidepo is a top spot for serious birders.

4. Nature Walks & Hiking

Guided walks can be arranged, including hikes to Mount Morungole, the spiritual home of the Ik people—one of Uganda’s most remote and traditional communities.

5. Scenic Photography

Kidepo is a dream for landscape and wildlife photographers due to its untouched beauty and golden light.

Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season (Dec–March and June–Sept): Excellent for wildlife viewing, especially in Narus Valley.

• Wet Season: The park is greener, but some roads can be rough; less wildlife visible.

Getting There

• By road: ~10–12 hours from Kampala, usually via Gulu or Soroti. A long but scenic journey.

• By air: Charter or scheduled flights to Kidepo airstrip from Entebbe or Kajjansi airfield.

Why Visit Kidepo?

• Less crowded than other East African parks

• A chance to see rare animals like cheetahs and ostriches

• Cultural richness with the Karamojong and Ik people

• Jaw-dropping landscapes and wild safari feel

👉 Add Kidepo to your East Africa safari for a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure!