Kidepo Valley National Park - Discovering Uganda

Travelling to Kidepo Valley National Park

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kidepo Valley National Park, a pretty good destination in Uganda (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kidepo Valley National Park and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kidepo Valley National Park, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Uganda, here's everything to know about Kidepo Valley National Park for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo Valley National Park is located in the northeastern corner of Uganda, near the borders of Kenya and South Sudan. It is considered one of the most isolated and remote parks in Uganda, but it is also one of the most beautiful and picturesque. The park is known for its rugged savannah landscapes, dramatic mountains, and abundant wildlife, including big game species such as elephants, lions, cheetahs, and giraffes. Visitors to the park can also enjoy bird watching, hiking, cultural encounters with the local Karamojong people, and camping under the stars. The best time to visit Kidepo Valley National Park is during the dry season, which runs from December to February and June to September.

What to visit in Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo Valley National Park is located in the north-eastern part of Uganda. Here are some of the major tourist attractions in the park and the information about each: 1. Narus Valley - This valley is renowned for its vastness and the prairie-like savannah of short grass that covers it. The valley has a permanent source of water which supports a large number of wildlife year-round, including elephants, buffalos, zebras, giraffes, and several species of antelopes, among others.
2. Kidepo Valley - The valley opens up to the Karamoja region of Uganda and is traversed by Kidepo and Narus rivers. Visitors to the park can hike the valley, spot wildlife, and take in the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
3. Apoka Tourism Center - This center is the park's official headquarters and visitor center. Here, visitors can access maps, information about the park, and book tours.
4. Kidepo River - The Kidepo River traverses the park and is home to several species of hippos, crocodiles, and fish. Visitors can take guided nature walks along the river's banks, which is a great way to spot the abundant birdlife in the park.
5. Kanangorok Hot Springs - These geothermal hot springs are located near the South Sudanese border at the base of Mount Morungole. They are a popular attraction due to their therapeutic mineral water that is believed to have healing properties.
6. Mount Morungole - This extinct volcano rises to an altitude of 2,750 meters above sea level and is an important cultural site for the Karamajong people who live nearby. Visitors can hike the mountain and learn about the unique flora and fauna of the region.
7. Cultural encounters - Visitors can also interact with the Karamajong people, who have a rich culture and way of life that is closely tied to the land. The park offers cultural tours to local villages, where visitors can learn about traditional customs, food, dances, and crafts.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Uganda, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Kidepo Valley National Park.

When to go on holiday to Kidepo Valley National Park

The best time to visit Kidepo Valley National Park in Uganda is during the dry season, which runs from December to February and from June to September. During this time the park's grasslands are dry and visibility is better allowing easier wildlife spotting. The temperature is also cooler, making it more comfortable for hiking and other outdoor activities. However, if you prefer a greener landscape with fewer crowds and lower prices, then the rainy season (March-May, October-November) may be a good option. Just be aware that some roads may become difficult to navigate during this time and wildlife sightings might be harder due to the dense vegetation.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kidepo Valley National Park

To get to Kidepo Valley National Park, you can either drive or take a flight. Here are your options: 1. Drive: You can hire a 4WD vehicle from either Kampala, Gulu or Entebbe and drive to the park. The journey can take up to 12 hours so plan for at least a night stop.
2. Fly: You can take a domestic flight from Entebbe or Kampala to Apoka airstrip in Kidepo Valley National Park. Several airlines including AeroLink and other charter airlines operate regular flights to Kidepo Valley NP. The flight takes about 2-3 hours and offers an incredible view of the park.
It's important to note that the best season to visit Kidepo Valley National Park is during the dry season which runs from December to March and June to September.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kidepo Valley National Park, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo Valley National Park, located in the northeastern region of Uganda, has a diverse mix of cultures with the Karamojong people being the predominant tribe. Their traditional diet includes the following typical foods: 1. Ngakaramojong: This is a popular dish amongst the Karamojong people, consisting of roasted meat (usually goat meat) and a side of millet porridge.
2. Echuka: This is a soup made from groundnut paste, vegetables, and meat (usually beef or goat), and is typically served with millet porridge.
3. Amarath Greens: This leafy green vegetable is a staple in the Karamojong diet, rich in iron and minerals. It is often sautéed with spices and served as a side dish.
4. Malakwang: This is a soup made from a mixture of a variety of vegetables, including pumpkin leaves, bitter tomatoes, amarath leaves, and meat (usually goat or beef).
5. Chapati: A flatbread commonly found in East Africa, chapati is a popular food that is easy to carry and eat while travelling.
6. Matooke (cooked green bananas): This is a staple food in Uganda, and can be mashed or steamed and served with a variety of sauces or stews.
7. Rolex: This is a popular street food in Uganda, consisting of a fried egg rolled in a chapati, with vegetables and meat (usually beef or chicken).
Overall, Kidepo Valley National Park offers a unique dining experience, with traditional dishes that reflect the local culture and heritage.
You can find general info about typical foods in Uganda here.

Is Kidepo Valley National Park an expensive destination for tourists?

Kidepo Valley National Park in Uganda has been considered to be a relatively expensive destination for tourists compared to other national parks in Uganda. This is because of its remote location, which makes it a bit difficult to access. The cost of transportation to the park is also relatively higher compared to other national parks. Additionally, the park has a limited number of accommodation options, and most of them are luxury lodges, which are relatively expensive. However, I would recommend researching and comparing prices from different tour operators and accommodations to find the best deals and options that fit your budget.

Where to find accomodation in Kidepo Valley National Park

In order to visit Kidepo Valley National Park in Uganda, it is best to find accommodation in the towns of Apoka or Kaabong. These towns provide easy access to the park's main entrance and are a short distance from popular tourist sites within the park. Additionally, many lodges offer guided tours and safaris, making it convenient for visitors to explore the park's wildlife and natural beauty.
You can check hotel prices at Kidepo Valley National Park here:
Booking.com

Is Kidepo Valley National Park a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Kidepo Valley National Park in Uganda is considered to be a safe place for tourists. The park is located in a remote area of Uganda and is far away from any political unrest or civil disturbances. There are some cases of occasional wildlife attacks, but such incidents are rare, and visitors are always advised to take the necessary precautions and follow the park's safety guidelines.
As with any travel destination, visitors should take general safety precautions, such as being careful with their belongings and not wandering into unknown areas without a guide. Overall, Kidepo Valley National Park is a beautiful and safe destination that is well worth a visit for those interested in wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Uganda here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kidepo Valley National Park.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kidepo Valley National Park the most?

Kidepo Valley National Park is an ideal destination for adventure-seeking travelers who are interested in wildlife and nature. This park offers a unique and authentic African safari experience and is suitable for couples, families, and young people looking for adventure.
The park boasts of a diverse range of wildlife such as lions, cheetahs, leopards, buffaloes, elephants, giraffes, and a variety of antelopes. The park also has over 475 bird species which make it a great destination for bird watching.
Apart from wildlife, Kidepo Valley National Park offers scenic landscapes such as Narus and Kidepo valleys, the Karamoja plains, and the Kidepo River which makes it ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
There are also different activities for visitors depending on their interests such as game drives, bird watching, hiking, cultural visits to the Karamojong community, and nature walks.
Therefore, Kidepo Valley National Park is a perfect destination for adventurous couples, families, and young people looking for fun and adventure in a natural setting.

How to get around Kidepo Valley National Park

To move around Kidepo Valley National Park in Uganda, you can use a 4x4 vehicle. These vehicles are ideal for traversing the rough terrain within the park. You can also hire a local guide who is knowledgeable about the area and can help you navigate and spot wildlife during your safari.

What to see around Kidepo Valley National Park

Sure, here are some nice places you could visit in a day trip from Kidepo Valley National Park: 1. Karamoja Cultural Museum - This museum showcases the rich culture and heritage of the Karamajong people who inhabit the region.
2. Mount Moroto - This mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is a great spot for hiking and trekking.
3. Amudat Hot Springs - Located about 40 km from Kidepo Valley National Park, these hot springs are said to have healing properties and are a popular spot for locals to relax.
4. Napak Game Reserve - This reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and antelope, and offers excellent game viewing opportunities.
5. Kidepo Valley Viewpoint - This viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of the valley and is a great spot for photography and sightseeing.
6. Kidepo Valley National Park - If you have time, you can explore more of the park and discover its diverse wildlife and landscapes. The park is home to over 77 mammal species and 475 bird species.
For every travel information about Uganda you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel and this page was partly created with the help of AI: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.