Uganda’s True Wilderness. Remote, rugged, and spectacularly beautiful with wildlife found nowhere else in Uganda
Overview
Kidepo Valley National Park is one of Africa’s most spectacular wilderness areas, covering 1,442 square kilometers in Uganda’s remote northeastern corner. It’s Uganda’s most isolated national park, bordered by South Sudan to the north and Kenya to the east.
Established in 1962, Kidepo is renowned for its stunning savanna landscapes, rugged mountain scenery, and exceptional wildlife diversity. The park features the Narus and Kidepo Valleys, surrounded by mountain ranges that create a natural fortress.
Kidepo is home to 86 mammal species and 475 bird species, including 28 species not found in any other Ugandan national park. Its remoteness ensures an authentic wilderness experience with few other visitors.
Africa’s Last True Wilderness
Kidepo Valley offers one of Africa’s most authentic wilderness experiences. The park’s isolation has preserved its pristine ecosystems and allowed wildlife to thrive with minimal human disturbance.
The park consists of two main valleys: the Narus Valley in the south with permanent water sources, and the Kidepo Valley in the north with seasonal rivers. The contrasting landscapes create diverse habitats supporting unique wildlife communities.
Unique Wildlife Experiences
Kidepo is the only park in Uganda where visitors can see cheetahs, bat-eared foxes, aardwolves, caracals, and striped hyenas. It also has substantial populations of elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and lions.
The park’s birdlife is exceptional, with raptors being particularly abundant. Seven of Uganda’s vulture species occur here, along with ostrich, kori bustard, and numerous other savanna specialists.
Park Highlights
- Only Ugandan park with cheetahs
- 28 mammal species unique to Kidepo in Uganda
- Spectacular mountain and valley scenery
- Authentic wilderness experience with few visitors
Best Time to Visit
- December to March (Dry season)
- Best wildlife viewing when animals gather at waterholes
- June to September (Dry season)
- April to May & October to November (Wet seasons, lush vegetation)
Main Park Areas
Kidepo Valley National Park is divided into two main valleys with distinct characteristics:
Narus Valley
Main wildlife viewing area with permanent water sources and abundant game
Kidepo Valley
Seasonal river with spectacular borassus palm forests and sand rivers
Apoka Area
Park headquarters and main tourist center with accommodation
Kanangorok Hot Springs
Natural hot springs near the Sudanese border with cultural significance
Quick Facts
Distance from Entebbe International Airport
705 kilometres (438 miles)
Size
1,442 sq km (557 sq mi)
Elevation
914 to 2,749 meters (2,999 to 9,019 ft)
Year Established
1962
International Borders
Borders South Sudan (north) and Kenya (east)
Wildlife Population
86 mammal species (28 unique to Kidepo)
475 bird species
80+ lions
4,500+ buffalo
Other Activities
Mountain Hiking
Hike the Morungole Mountains with IK community guides
Cultural Experiences
Visit Karamojong and IK communities to learn traditional ways of life
Bird Watching
Spot ostriches, kori bustards, and numerous raptors
Hot Springs Visit
Visit the Kanangorok Hot Springs near the Sudanese border
What to Expect on Your Safari
1
Game Drives in Narus Valley
Explore the Narus Valley’s permanent water sources where wildlife congregates. Spot cheetahs, lions, elephants, giraffes, and species found nowhere else in Uganda.
2
Cultural Encounters
Meet the Karamojong people, traditional pastoralists who maintain their age-old customs, and visit IK communities in the Morungole Mountains.
3
Wilderness Exploration
Experience true African wilderness with dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and minimal tourist crowds in Uganda’s most remote national park.