Kidepo Valley National Park
Tucked away in the remote northeastern corner of Uganda, where the borders of South Sudan and Kenya meet, lies Kidepo Valley National Park—arguably the country’s most pristine and dramatic wilderness area. Spanning 1,442 square kilometers, Kidepo offers sweeping savannah landscapes, rugged mountain ranges, and an incredible array of wildlife in near solitude. It is often described as “Africa’s most picturesque safari destination”, and it remains one of Uganda’s most rewarding yet least explored parks.
Attractions in Kidepo Valley National Park
Kidepo boasts an impressive diversity of fauna, with over 77 mammal species, including several not found in any other Ugandan park. Key species include: Lions, Leopards, Cheetahs (unique to Kidepo in Uganda), Elephants, Cape buffaloes (one of the largest herds in Africa, sometimes numbering over 1,000), Giraffes, Zebras, Elands, hartebeests, kudus, and oryx (in nearby reserves). Kidepo is also the best place in Uganda to see ostriches in the wild.
Kidepo is renowned for its breathtaking scenery. The park is set between two parallel valleys—Narus Valley and Kidepo Valley—surrounded by rugged mountains and rocky outcrops, including the Morungole Mountains to the south. These dramatic landscapes, combined with golden savannahs, seasonal rivers, and open skies, create unmatched photographic opportunities.
The Narus Valley, with its year-round water supply, is the main wildlife viewing area and home to most of the park’s game. The Kidepo Valley, while drier and more remote, offers stunning scenery, palm tree-lined river beds, and opportunities to see ostriches and rare desert-adapted species.
With over 475 bird species, Kidepo is a premier birding destination in Uganda. It’s one of the few places in the country where you can see: Ostriches, Kori bustards, Secretary birds, Karamoja apalis (endemic), Clapperton’s francolin, Abyssinian ground hornbill.
Activities to Do in Kidepo Valley National Park
Kidepo’s vast plains make it ideal for game drives, especially in the Narus Valley, where wildlife is most concentrated. Morning and evening drives offer excellent chances to see predators and large herds of grazers
Birders can explore diverse habitats including riverine forests, acacia savannah, and rocky outcrops. The Kidepo Valley and Kanangorok Hot Springs are prime birding spots.
Explore the park on foot with a ranger guide, especially around Apoka, Narus Valley, and along the banks of the Narus River. Walks offer close encounters with smaller mammals, birds, and interesting flora.
The Mount Morungole hike is a must for adventure seekers. The trek takes you through rugged terrain, up to about 2,750 meters, and rewards you with panoramic views of the park and a visit to the IK community.
Meet the local Karimojong people, who are semi-nomadic pastoralists with a rich warrior culture and vibrant traditional dress. Cultural visits include homestead tours, traditional dances, and storytelling.
Best Time to Visit Kidepo Valley National Park
Dry Seasons (Best Time)
- December to February
- June to August
These months offer ideal conditions for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around the few remaining water sources in the Narus Valley. The skies are clear, the terrain is more accessible, and predator sightings are more frequent.
Wet Seasons
- March to May
- September to November
Rainfall is usually sporadic but can make some roads difficult to navigate. The landscape turns lush and green, with dramatic skies and fewer tourists. Birdwatching is excellent during the wet season due to the presence of migratory species.