Kidepo Valley National Park

Uganda’s Untamed Safari Paradise

Craving a wild African safari without the crowds? Welcome to Kidepo Valley National Park—a remote, rugged, and wildly beautiful destination in northeastern Uganda.

Quick Facts

• Location: Kaabong District, northeastern Uganda
• Distance from Kampala: ~600 km (10–12 hours by road / 2 hours by air)
• Size: 1,442 km²
• Established: 1962
• Best time to visit: June – September (dry season)

What Makes Kidepo Special?

• Remote and Untouched: Perfect for off-the-grid experiences.
• Wildlife Galore: See lions, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, buffalo herds, and more.
• Stunning Landscapes: Savannahs and mountain ranges meet the open skies.
• Authentic Culture: Visit the Karamojong and the Ik people.

Wildlife You’ll See

Kidepo offers some of Uganda’s most diverse and dramatic wildlife viewing:

• Big Cats: Lions, cheetahs, leopards
• Herbivores: Elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalo
• Birds: Over 470 species including ostrich and secretary bird
• Other Species: Hyenas, kudu, jackals

Top Spotting Areas: Narus Valley (best for game drives) and Kidepo Valley (wild and scenic)

Top Things to Do

• 🎯 Game Drives: Best done early morning or late afternoon
• 🥾 Hike Mount Morungole: Trek to meet the Ik tribe and enjoy panoramic views
• 🌋 Visit Kanangorok Hot Springs: A remote, photogenic site near South Sudan
• 🤝 Cultural Tours: Interact with the Karamojong warriors and villagers

Where to Stay

• Luxury: Apoka Safari Lodge
• Mid-range: Kidepo Savannah Lodge, Nga’Moru Wilderness Camp
• Budget: UWA Bandas & Campsites (run by Uganda Wildlife Authority)

How to Get There

🚗 By Road

Drive from Kampala via Gulu or Soroti. A 4WD is highly recommended, especially in rainy seasons. Overnight stops in Kitgum or Moroto can break up the journey.

🛩️ By Air

Take charter flights from Entebbe or Kajjansi to Kidepo airstrip. It’s fast, scenic, and the easiest option for tight schedules.

What to Pack

• Neutral, breathable clothing
• Binoculars & camera
• Sun hat, sunglasses & sunscreen
• Walking shoes
• Bug repellent
• Refillable water bottle
• Warm layers for chilly evenings

Traveler Tips

• Plan your safari drives around dawn or dusk
• Carry cash—ATMs are not available in the area
• Respect local customs during cultural visits
• Download maps in advance (limited signal)