Top Activities to Do in Kidepo Valley National Park

Top Activities to Do in Kidepo Valley National Park

If you’re planning to visit Kidepo Valley National Park and wondering what exciting activities await you, you’re in for a treat! Located in the far northeastern corner of Uganda, Kidepo Valley National Park shares borders with Kenya and South Sudan, and is nestled in the sparsely populated Karamoja region. This park is a true wilderness gem, offering one of Africa’s most beautiful and remote landscapes.

Kidepo is renowned for its abundant wildlife, including the Big 4—lions, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards. The park is also home to giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, elands, and ostriches. Additionally, Kidepo offers incredible cultural experiences, making it an exceptional destination for both wildlife and cultural enthusiasts.

Here are some of the top activities you can enjoy in Kidepo Valley National Park:

1. Game Drives in Kidepo National Park

A game drive in Kidepo is an absolute must! The park is divided into two key valleys for game viewing: Narus Valley and Kidepo Valley.

• Narus Valley: Known for its permanent water sources, this valley attracts large herds of buffaloes, elephants, and other wildlife. It’s the park’s most popular area for game drives throughout the year.
• Kidepo Valley: While wildlife sightings may be fewer here, the valley’s stunning scenery is a highlight. You can spot ostriches and a variety of bird species while enjoying the wide-open plains and pristine African wilderness.

2. Nature Walks

Kidepo is perfect for walking safaris that allow you to connect with nature up close. You can enjoy:

• Short walks around Apoka Rest Camp, where you’ll encounter the park’s flora and fauna.
• Longer hikes through East Kakine’s open grasslands, or the Rioname Trail, which leads to the southern side of Narus Valley, offering a chance to spot wildlife and soak in the natural beauty of Kidepo.

Guides are available to lead you through the walks, ensuring a safe and educational experience.

3. Bird Watching

With over 100 bird species calling Kidepo home, it’s a paradise for birdwatchers. Some of the unique species you can spot include:

• Rose-ringed Parakeets
• Clapperton’s Francolin
• Karamoja Apalis
• Ostriches
• Secretary Birds
• Kori Bustards
• Abyssinian Roller
• Red-throated Bee-eaters

Experienced bird guides will help you locate the best birdwatching spots and provide insights into the park’s avian life.

4. Community and Cultural Walks

Step outside the park for a deeper cultural experience. Community walks take you to local Karamojong manyattas (villages) in Kawalakol, Lorukul, and Karenga. Here, you can learn about the traditional lifestyle of the Karamojong people, who have lived in harmony with the wilderness for centuries.

5. Hiking the Morungule Mountains

For adventure seekers, a hike up the Morungule Mountain Range is a must. The range rises 2,975 meters above sea level and offers stunning views over Kidepo Valley. Accompanied by a ranger guide, this hike is a perfect way to explore the park’s wildlife and natural landscapes while enjoying the physical challenge of mountain trekking.

How to Access Kidepo National Park

By Road

A road trip to Kidepo National Park is one of the most scenic and rewarding journeys for any visitor to Uganda. The 571 km route from Kampala via Gulu and Kitgum is the quickest and most popular, offering plenty to see along the way. Depending on your starting point, there are various routes you can take to the park, so your travel itinerary may vary.

For those looking to make the journey even more memorable, you can stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a unique on-foot rhino tracking experience before continuing to Kidepo. If you’re planning this route, it’s recommended to stay overnight in Gulu to break up the long journey.

By Air

Alternatively, you can opt for a flying safari to Kidepo National Park. Regular charter and scheduled flights operate from Kajjansi and Entebbe International Airport, with operators like Aero Link Uganda and Fly Uganda offering these services. Booking in advance is essential, as flight availability is often determined by the number of passengers, with a minimum requirement of four travelers.

Where to Stay in Kidepo National Park

Accommodation options in Kidepo National Park cater to a range of budgets, from affordable options to luxury stays.

• Budget options:
  • Apoka Rest Camp
  • UWA Bandas
    Rates range from $90 – $100 per person per night.
• Mid-range options:
  • Kidepo Savannah Lodge
  • Nga Moru Wilderness Camp
  • Adere Safari Lodge
    Rates range from $100 – $200 per person per night.
• Luxury options:
  • Apoka Safari Lodge
    Rates range from $200 – $400 per person per night.

For those traveling by air, we recommend spending at least one night in Entebbe or Kampala before your safari. Flight schedules can change, and having an extra night allows for smooth travel arrangements, minimizing the risk of missed connections or unexpected delays.

Best Time to Visit Kidepo National Park

The best time to visit Kidepo National Park is during the dry months from December to February and June to October. During these periods, the roads are dry, making access to the park much easier. The dry season is also perfect for wildlife viewing, as animals tend to gather at the water points in Narus Valley, making it easier to spot them.

While the park is accessible year-round, the wet seasons from March to May and October to November can make travel and wildlife viewing more challenging. However, Kidepo can still be visited during the wet months, and you’ll be able to enjoy its unique activities and experiences.

Why Book Your Safari to Kidepo National Park with Excursia Adventures?

At Excursia Adventures, we craft unforgettable primate and safari experiences in Uganda and Rwanda. We’ve recently expanded our offerings to include Tanzania, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

For over ten years, our passionate team—comprising both young, energetic staff and seasoned managers—has been delivering exceptional travel experiences. We’re highly rated on TripAdvisor, and our commitment to excellent customer service ensures that you receive accurate, timely information when you reach out to us.

Contact us today to learn more about the top activities to do in Kidepo Valley National Park and plan your next adventure!