Uganda’s impressive wildlife diversity is why the country is often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa.” Among the countless national parks dotted across the country, Kidepo Valley is off-the-beaten but certainly not less spectacular. Kidepo Valley National Park is the epitome of raw, untouched wilderness. Unlike the more tourist-heavy parks in Uganda, Kidepo offers an exclusive rendezvous with nature.
As the last remaining bastion of wildlife in the entire area, Kidepo has unparalleled scenery nestled in the rugged, semi-arid valleys of the Karamoja province. This spectacular park is home to a variety of wild animals, birds, and plant species, offering a safari experience unmatched by any other park in East Africa.
With its breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity, Kidepo Valley National Park is a jewel that belongs on every adventurer’s bucket list. In this guide, we are going to delve deep into the park, that’s overview, wildlife, when to go, getting there, and park fees.
Overview
Located in the remote north-eastern corner, about 700km from Kampala, Kidepo Valley National Park is one of the most isolated parks in the country. The national park is tucked next to the borders with Sudan and Kenya. Sitting on a massive 557-square-mile (1,442-square-kilometer) rocky, semi-arid Karamoja province, the park’s wildlife and vegetation are similar to the Serengeti in Kenya.
The national park features rare animals not seen in other parts of Uganda. Consistently offering excellent big-cat sightings, especially lions and cheetahs, Kidepo also features incredible elephant sightings and thousands of buffalo herds spread across its savannas.
Wildlife
Kidepo Valley National Park is a biodiversity hotspot, home to over 86 mammal species, 475 bird species, and more than 692 species of plants. Among the mammals, 28 species are exclusive to Kidepo and the Karamoja region. These include the cheetah, striped hyena, caracal, and greater and lesser kudu. The national park also features common wildlife such as lions, cheetahs, elephants, and zebras.
It’s also a great opportunity to see rare species such as Nile crocodiles, bush pigs, warthogs, Rothschild’s giraffe, Cape buffalo, eland, bushbuck, bush duiker, Defassa waterbuck, Bohor reedbuck, Jackson’s hartebeest, oribi, and localized carnivores like the bat-eared fox and aardwolf.
But that’s not all! Kidepo Valley is also home to five species of primates such as Kavirondo bush baby, red-tailed monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabey, colobus monkeys, and vervet monkeys.
Kidepo Valley also has a rich avian population. The national park is home to 475 species, including the ostrich, Abyssinian roller, and the regionally endemic Verreaux’s eagle. The park’s flora is just as impressive, with over 692 plant species adding to the vibrant tapestry of life.
Getting to Kidepo Valley from Kampala
There are only two ways to access Kidepo Valley National Park; by road and air. Driving offers a rewarding journey through the unspoiled wilderness of Karamoja and Kidepo, but be prepared for rough road conditions. For a seamless safari experience, ensure you have an off-road 4WD vehicle.
There are four possible routes by road:
- Kampala-Karuma-Gulu-Kitgum-Kidepo route (571 km and taking around 10 hours)
- Kampala-Karuma-Lira-Kotido-Kaabong-Kidepo (705 km, 12 hours)
- Kampala-Mbale-Sironko-Moroto-Kotido-Kaabong-Kidepo (740 km, 12 hours)
- Kampala-Mbale-Soroti-Moroto-Kotido-Kaabong-Kidepo (792 km, 13 hours)
The most convenient is the Gulu-Kitgum route which has several hotels for you to spend the night. Before setting off, check with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) for the latest route and road condition updates.
Alternatively, flying to Kidepo Valley is a great way to save time if you have a short vacation planned. Charter flights can be arranged from Entebbe to either Lomej Airstrip or Apoka Airstrip. The flights are offered by Bar Aviation and Aero Link and take about two hours.
Best time to visit Kidepo Valley
Kidepo Valley National Park is a year-round destination, offering unique experiences in every season. But for the best wildlife viewing, plan your trip during the dry season (July to August). During this window, the park’s diverse wildlife is more easily spotted against the sparse vegetation.
In the dry season, it’s easier to find the animals because they flock around the Narus Valley. Narus Valley is usually the only water source in Kidepo during the dry season.
The wet months in Kidepo include April, May, June, October, and November. The season brings lush landscapes, though the wildlife is more dispersed because water is easily accessible.
Other things to do in Kidepo Valley
Apart from game viewing and birding, Kidepo has other activities to help enhance your experience in the wild. Here is a list of other possible adventures in Kidepo Valley National Park;
Hiking
Hiking in Kidepo Valley National Park is an experience that transcends the typical wildlife viewing tracks, offering nature walks that immerse you in the raw beauty of the African wilderness. One common trail leads through the scenic Lamoj Mountains just a few kilometers from the park headquarters.
Alternatively, you can explore the majestic Morungole Mountains as well as visit the Ik people, one of the smallest and most fascinating tribes in Uganda. These two trails are the most common and should enhance your time in the park.
Check out surrounding local communities
While on your safari in Kidepo Valley National Park, a visit to the local communities is a must. Meet the Karamojong, often referred to as the ‘Maasai of Uganda.’ The tribe is known for its vibrant culture and traditional pastoral lifestyle. While here, you can even experience a homestay with them, immersing in their daily routines and learning about their unique customs.
Another fascinating group near the park is the IK People, who reside in the mountains of Northeastern Uganda. This small ethnic community has a population of about 10,000 individuals. Visiting the IK tribe offers a rare glimpse into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged over generations.
Park Fees
Park fees at Kidepo Valley National Park are collected by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and are structured into three categories. Non-residents are charged $40 per person, foreign residents pay $30, and East African Citizens pay $6 for park entry.
For children, the fees are $20 for non-residents, $10 for foreign residents, and 5000 UGX for East African citizens. These fees are valid for 24 hours and grant access to explore the park. However, additional activities such as hiking incur separate charges.
FAQs on Kidepo Valley National Park
Do I need a car to tour the park?
Yes, you’ll definitely need a 4×4 vehicle to tour Kidepo Valley National Park. The park’s rugged terrain and unpaved roads require a sturdy vehicle that can handle the sometimes challenging conditions.
It’s highly recommended to rent a reliable 4×4 to ensure you can access all areas of the park comfortably and safely. Small 4×4 cars may struggle with the terrain, so opting for a more robust vehicle will enhance your experience.
Are unguided walks allowed in the park?
No, unguided walks are not permitted due to the park’s wild nature. It’s crucial to be cautious and avoid wandering alone, as the park is home to predators like lions and cheetahs. To ensure safety and enhance the visitor experience, armed rangers are stationed throughout the park.
Their presence not only safeguards tourists but also provides valuable insights into the park’s ecosystems and wildlife behavior during guided activities.
How much is a game drive in Kidepo Valley National Park?
Game drives in Kidepo Valley National Park offer various options to suit every visitor’s preference and budget. For a self-drive experience, the cost is 10,000 Ugandan Shillings per vehicle. Guided game drives are available both during the day and at night. A private guided day drive costs 20,000 Ugandan Shillings per vehicle while a night drive is priced at 50,000 Ugandan Shillings per person.
Alternatively, you can opt for a guided game drive in UWA vehicles, which costs 30,000 Ugandan Shillings per person for a day drive.
Conclusion
Kidepo Valley National Park is not just a destination; it’s an expedition into the heart of Africa’s untamed beauty. It’s where the spirit of adventure meets the tranquility of solitude, and every moment is a page in your personal safari storybook.
