Located in the northern-eastern part of Uganda, bordering Sudan, Kidepo Valley National Park covers an impressive 1,442 square kilometers. Nestled in the rugged, semi-arid valleys of Karamoja Province, Kidepo Valley National Park is one of Uganda’s most spectacular and remote parks. Its landscapes are unmatched in East Africa, showcasing a variety of faunal and floral species. The park’s vegetation is predominantly open tree savannah, with mountain forests in higher elevations and dense Acacia geradi forests along the Lorupei River.
Accessibility
Kidepo Valley National Park can be accessed by both road and air. Due to unpredictable security conditions involving the Karamajong pastoralists, we recommend air transport for safety reasons. Chartered flights are available from Entebbe International Airport directly to the Park Headquarters. For those considering road travel, please consult with Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) headquarters for the latest updates on road conditions and safety.
Mammals
The park boasts over 80 mammalian species, with about 28 species not found in any other Ugandan national park. Unique species include the caracal, bat-eared fox, klipspringer, and cheetah. Other mammals present in the park are elephants, common zebras, buffaloes, bohor reedbucks, waterbucks, kongoni, spotted hyenas, leopards, lions, oribis, Guenther’s dik-dik, Senegal galagos, and side-striped jackals, among others.
Birds
Kidepo Valley is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with 465 recorded species. Notable birds include the ostrich and the kori bustard, which are primarily found in arid regions. The park also hosts a significant number of bird species of prey, with 58 recorded, including 14 believed to be endemic to Kidepo and the Karamoja region. Other notable species include silver birds, yellow-billed shrikes, vinaceous doves, hoopoes, Nubian woodpeckers, mosque swallows, starlings, scarlet-chested sunbirds, little weavers, red-cheeked cordon-bleus, yellow-rumped seed eaters, sand grouse, clapperton’s francolin, black coucal, and various warblers and waxbills.
Safari Activities
Game Viewing: Kidepo Valley National Park offers diverse wildlife experiences, including the chance to see tree-climbing lions, particularly in the Narus Valley and around the Apoka Park Headquarters. From Apoka Rest Camp, you can view elephants, leopards, bush duikers, jackals, bushbucks, bush pigs, kavirondo bush babies, and buffaloes.
Birding: With its extensive avifauna, the park is a prime destination for bird enthusiasts. The presence of unique species and high numbers of birds of prey make it an exceptional location for birdwatching.
Hiking and Scenery Viewing: Hiking opportunities are available on the Lamoj Mountains, just a few kilometers from the Park Headquarters. The park’s dramatic landscapes and panoramic views provide excellent photo opportunities.
Cultural Performance: Local communities near the park offer cultural dances and performances. Traditional dances such as the Emuya of the Naporre and Nyangia, and the Larakaraka and Apiti dances of the Acholi are highlights. Visitors can also explore Karamajong homesteads (manyattas), witnessing traditional costumes, stools, spears, headdresses, knives, bows and arrows, and jewelry. The splendid Kidepo River Valley, dominated by Borassus palm forests, and the Kanangorok Hot Springs, located just 11 kilometers from the Kidepo River Valley, are also notable attractions. Picnicking in the scenic surroundings adds to the park’s appeal.
Kidepo Valley National Park offers an unparalleled safari experience with its unique wildlife, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.