Enjobe Safaris

Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo Valley National Park

A remote wilderness with vast savannas, rugged mountains, and abundant wildlife

Overview

Kidepo Valley National Park, located in northeastern Uganda, is one of Africa’s most pristine wilderness areas, covering 1,442 square kilometers. Its remote location near the borders of South Sudan and Kenya offers a sense of untouched beauty.

The park’s dramatic landscapes include vast savannas, rugged mountains, and the Narus and Kidepo valleys. It is home to 77 mammal species, including lions, cheetahs, and ostriches, and over 475 bird species, making it a biodiversity haven.

Kidepo’s isolation ensures fewer crowds, offering an exclusive safari experience with a rich cultural heritage from the local Karamojong and Ik communities.

The Ultimate Wilderness Safari

Kidepo Valley National Park is renowned for its raw, untamed beauty and diverse wildlife. The park hosts species rarely seen elsewhere in Uganda, such as cheetahs, aardwolves, and bat-eared foxes, alongside large herds of buffaloes and elephants.

Game drives in the Narus Valley offer sightings of lions, leopards, and hyenas, while the park’s 475+ bird species, including the black-breasted barbet, attract birdwatchers. Cultural visits to the Karamojong and Ik communities add depth to the experience.

Game Drives and Cultural Tours

Game drives are the highlight of Kidepo, conducted in the early morning or late afternoon for optimal wildlife viewing. Drives last 3-4 hours, led by expert guides who navigate the park’s rugged terrain.

Cultural tours to Karamojong villages or the remote Ik community offer insights into traditional lifestyles, including dance, crafts, and storytelling, providing a rich cultural complement to wildlife adventures.

Park Highlights

  • 77 mammal species, including cheetahs and ostriches
  • 475+ bird species, including black-breasted barbet
  • Vast savannas and rugged mountains
  • Cultural experiences with Karamojong and Ik communities

Best Time to Visit

  • June to September (Dry season)
  • Better wildlife viewing in dry months
  • October to May (Wet season, lush landscapes)
  • Year-round access, fewer crowds

Key Areas for Activities

Kidepo offers diverse experiences across its key areas:

Narus Valley

Prime area for game drives and predator sightings

Kidepo Valley

Seasonal riverbed for ostriches and migratory birds

Kanangorok Hot Springs

Scenic natural springs with cultural significance

Morungole Mountains

Home to the Ik community and hiking trails

Quick Facts

Distance from Entebbe International Airport

599 kilometers (372 miles)

Size

1,442 sq km (557 sq mi) of savanna and mountains

Elevation

914 to 2,750 meters (3,000 to 9,022 ft)

Year Established

1962 (National Park status)

UNESCO Status

Not designated

Key Species

Lions, cheetahs, ostriches

Biodiversity

475+ bird species
77 mammal species
Seasonal wetlands

Entry Fee

$40 per person (Foreign Non-Residents)
$30 (Foreign Residents)
UGX 20,000 (East African Residents)

Other Activities

Nature Walks

Guided walks to explore savanna and birdlife

Cultural Visits

Experience Karamojong and Ik traditions

Bird Watching

Spot 475+ species, including black-breasted barbet

Hiking

Trek the Morungole Mountains for scenic views

What to Expect on Your Safari

1

Preparation

Morning briefing at park headquarters. Bring water, sunscreen, and binoculars. 4WD vehicles recommended.

2

The Safari

Game drives last 3-4 hours in Narus Valley. Guided by experts. Cultural tours available.

3

The Experience

Spot lions, cheetahs, and ostriches. No flash photography. Enjoy vast savanna views.

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