Kidepo Valley National Park: A Hidden Gem in Uganda’s Wilderness

February 5, 2025

Located in the far northeast of Uganda, Kidepo Valley National Park is a true gem of African wilderness. The park is nestled in the rugged, semi-arid valleys between Uganda’s borders with South Sudan and Kenya, and is home to a diverse range of wildlife and landscapes.

History and Geography

Kidepo Valley National Park was established in 1962, and covers an area of approximately 1,442 square kilometers. The park is situated in the Karamoja region, a remote and rugged area of Uganda that is home to several traditional pastoralist communities.

The park’s landscape is characterized by rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and vast expanses of savannah and grasslands. The Kidepo River, which flows through the park, provides a lifeline for the park’s wildlife during the dry season.

Wildlife and Birdlife

Kidepo Valley National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including many species that are found nowhere else in Uganda. Some of the park’s most notable residents include:

Lions: Kidepo Valley is one of the best places in Uganda to see lions, with several prides’ resident in the park.
Leopards: These elusive big cats are rarely seen, but are present in the park.
Elephants: Kidepo Valley is home to a large population of African elephants.
Buffalo: Several herds of buffalo are resident in the park.
Antelopes: Kidepo Valley is home to over 20 different species of antelope, including the rare and endangered Rothschild’s giraffe.

The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 470 species of birds recorded. Some of the park’s most notable bird species include:

Ostriches: Kidepo Valley is one of the best places in Uganda to see ostriches.
Secretary birds: These distinctive birds of prey are common in the park.
Kori bustards: Kidepo Valley is one of the best places in Uganda to see these large, ground-dwelling birds.
Pygmy falcons: These small, agile birds of prey are common in the park.

Tourism and Activities

Kidepo Valley National Park is a true wilderness destination, and offers a range of tourism activities and experiences. Some of the park’s most popular activities include:

Game drives: Take a guided drive through the park to see the wildlife and landscapes.
Guided walks: Take a guided walk through the park to get up close and personal with the wildlife and landscapes.
Birdwatching: Kidepo Valley is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 470 species of birds recorded.
Cultural visits: Visit one of the park’s several traditional pastoralist communities to learn about their culture and way of life.

Accommodation

Kidepo Valley National Park has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the park’s most popular lodges and camps include:

Apoka Safari Lodge: A luxury lodge located in the heart of the park.
Kidepo Savannah Lodge: A mid-range lodge located near the park’s headquarters.
Kidepo Valley Rest Camp: A budget-friendly rest camp located near the park’s headquarters.

Getting There

Kidepo Valley National Park is located in a remote area of Uganda, and can be difficult to access. The park is approximately 700 kilometers from Kampala, and the drive can take around 10-12 hours.

There are also several flights per week from Kampala to Kidepo Valley, which take around 2 hours.

Conclusion

Kidepo Valley National Park is a true gem of African wilderness, and offers a range of tourism activities and experiences. The park’s diverse range of wildlife and landscapes, combined with its remote and rugged location, make it a must-visit destination for any serious safari enthusiast.