Kidepo Valley national park is the most isolated and remote National Park in Uganda. It is 571 km away from Kampala, and it sits on 1,442 square kilometres. Kidepo Valley National Park is located in Northeastern Uganda, in the semi-arid areas of Karamoja in Kaabong district. You can access Kidepo Valley National Park by road via the Kampala-Gulu highway or by charter flight from Entebbe Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip. The government gazetted the park as a national park in 1962, and it is home to about 80 mammals and over 400 bird species. The park derives its name from the Kidepo Valley, where many borassus palm trees grow, which elephants favor as a food source. The park’s remoteness allows it to bloom with untouched wilderness, as the park’s inhabitants remain shielded from the pressures of human development.
Biodiversity
It has rich biodiversity ranging from rolling savannah grasslands, dry mountain forests, borassus palm trees, wild animals, birds, landscapes which provide varied habitats for various species, hot springs and seasonal rivers which meander smoothly through the park. The savannah grasslands stretch beyond the park, sealed off by various mountain ranges and hills which are capped by rock kopjes. Some of these are; Lomej hills which give a rich aerial view of the park. Mt. Morungule where the Ik community resides, Lonyili hills which are home for primates like the black and white colobus monkeys, red tailed monkeys and birds like the Karamoja apalis. They create breathtaking sceneries especially at sunrise and in the evening, when the blazing inferno descends behind the mountains.
Rivers in Kidepo Valley National Park
Two major rivers flow through Kidepo Valley National Park. The seasonal Kidepo river flows northwards pouring its water in the White Nile. It is surrounded by shrubs, trees and herbs. While the Narus river flows through the southern part of the park, joining the Kidepo river. It flows through the Narus Valley. This valley is the main game viewing area, because large concentrations of animals gather here to quench their thirst, forexample lions, buffaloes, cheetahs, elephants, antelopes, zebras, giraffes among others. You are advised to go with an armed ranger guide to ensure your safety and satisfaction. The Narus river is a blessing to the wild animals and communities in the park, as it flows throughout the year despite the dry seasons. In the rainy season, these rivers tend to flood.
Uniqueness of Kidepo Valley National Park
Kidepo Valley National Park still holds the reputation of being the only park with ostriches and cheetahs. The ostrich is the largest and tallest bird in the whole world. It is not only a visual spectacle but also plays a crucial role oa seed dispersers, contributing to the park’s ecosystem. The endangered cheetah which is from the cat family is protected in this park. Many other birds like the abyssinian scimitarbill, little-green bee eaters and much more also reside on the premises. The park also boasts the largest herds of buffaloes in Uganda. Kidepo Valley National Park boasts the ultimate wilderness experience.
Communities
In Kidepo Valley National Park also lies the fascinating Kanangorok hot springs. The communities in the park have found remedy to various diseases in these hot springs. The Karamojong, who are mainly semi-nomadic pastoralists, reside on the outskirts of the park. They move with huge numbers of cattle looking for pasture and water. These people were hostile but that has changed over the years. They also rely on subsistence agriculture for a living. Visiting their community will give you an in-depth understanding of their lifestyle and culture. The nearly extinct Ik hunter-gatherer tribe also resides in the park, on Mount Morungole. They have proven resilience after facing many adversities. Their delectable cuisine which you can taste after hiking to their homesteads is indeed delicious. They are hospitable, and their culture and lifestyle is very interesting.
Accomodation
Various accommodation facilities are located inside and around the park. They fit in any budget ranging from budget, mid-range to luxury settings. Your tour operator will have you covered. On your way to Kidepo Valley National Park, you may stop over at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary located in Nakasongola district for a rhino trekking session. It is the only place with white rhinos in Uganda. You might also visit the historical gem, Fort Patiko in Gulu town. It was significant during colonial rule. The beautiful Aruu falls, still in Gulu town, also await your visit. They are so calm and relaxing surrounded by a mind blowing scenery. Here you might have to spend the night in Gulu or Kitgum as it would be quite a tiresome and hectic journey to get to Kidepo in one day. However he itinerary is tailored to your convenience.
Kidepo Valley National Park is the ideal destination for adventure, wildlife, nature, birds, community and travel enthusiasts. Plan your trip at any time of the year with our packages!
