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Kidepo Valley National Park

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Animal habitat
—°2
Kidepo Valley National Park (Uganda)

Weather…

Kidepo Valley National Park, spanning 1,442 square kilometres in the rugged Karamoja region of northeastern Uganda, is the country's most remote and arguably most spectacular wildlife reserve. Established in 1962, the park is known for its panoramic savanna landscapes, transected by the Kidepo and Narus river valleys and enclosed by mountains. This isolation has fostered a unique wilderness atmosphere and wildlife populations distinct from other parks in Uganda. Kidepo is the only place in Uganda where cheetahs and ostriches can be seen in the wild. It also hosts large herds of buffalo, elephants, lions, leopards, and various antelope species. The park is home to the Karamojong people, a pastoralist community with a rich and distinctive culture. Despite its beauty and rich biodiversity, Kidepo Valley National Park is among Uganda's least-visited parks due to its remoteness, offering visitors an exclusive and authentic safari experience.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C242626242323222223232323
Rain mm101144819885899982925640

📋 Practical info

📅
Best season
The dry months from December to February and June to August are good for game viewing in Kidepo Valley. Animals concentrate around permanent waterholes, making them easier to spot in this vast savanna.
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Best time of day
Early morning drives from 6 to 9 AM reveal predators returning from the night hunt. Late afternoon between 4 and 6 PM is when elephants and buffaloes emerge to drink.
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Etiquette
Stay inside your vehicle at all times except at designated picnic sites. Do not feed any wildlife and keep your voices low to avoid startling animals.
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What to bring
Bring a high-quality pair of binoculars and a camera with a telephoto lens for distant sightings. Plenty of water, sunhat, and sunscreen are essential due to the intense equatorial heat.
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Getting there
The park is accessed via a chartered flight from Entebbe to Kidepo airstrip, or by a very long 4x4 drive from Kampala through Gulu. The road conditions can be rough, especially during the rainy season.
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What to expect
Wildlife sightings require patience as animals roam wide territories; you may drive for hours without seeing much. Enjoy the dramatic landscapes and the sense of remoteness that makes this park special.

Geography

Coordinates
3.73330, 33.78330

Facts

  • Established in 1962, covering 1,442 square kilometres.
  • Located in the remote Karamoja region.
  • The only park in Uganda with cheetahs and ostriches.
  • Home to over 77 mammal species and around 475 bird species.
  • The park's altitude ranges from 910m to 2,750m.
  • Two main river systems, Kidepo and Narus, traverse the park.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Kidepo Game ReserveKidepo Game Reserve11 km · SEExplore →
Kidepo Valley National ParkKidepo Valley National Park18 km · EExplore →
Lolibai MountainsLolibai Mountains64 km · SEExplore →
Didinga HillsDidinga Hills78 km · SEExplore →
KotidoKotido79 km · NWExplore →
LaghouatLaghouat80 km · WExplore →
Dongotona MountainsDongotona Mountains87 km · SEExplore →
Mount LothukeMount Lothuke90 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Kidepo Valley National Park (2)

Chief Warden's House🏺 historical

Explore the weathered ruins of the Chief Warden's House, offering a glimpse into the early park administration of Kidepo Valley.

Nataba Gate to KNP📍 landmark

The Nataba Gate serves as an official entry point, welcoming visitors to the rugged wilderness of Kidepo National Park.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time for Kidepo?
The dry season from October to March is best for wildlife viewing.
Is the park suitable for families?
Kidepo is very remote, therefore more for adventurous families with older children.
Are there dining options in the park?
There are limited provides at lodges, so self-catering is often necessary.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, absolutely, especially the wide landscapes are very photogenic.
Do I have to pay an entry fee?
Yes, the entry fee is paid per person per day at the UWA.
Kidepo Valley National Park: where is it located?
Kidepo Valley National Park is located in Uganda.
Kidepo Valley National Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Chief Warden's House, Nataba Gate to KNP.
Kidepo Valley National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Kidepo Valley National Park: why is it worth visiting?
Kidepo Valley National Park, spanning 1,442 square kilometres in the rugged Karamoja region of northeastern Uganda, is the country's most remote and arguably most spectacular wildlife reserve.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Kidepo Valley National Park — Kidepo Valley National Park (Uganda)
Kidepo Valley National Park
One of Africa's most remote and spectacular parks, featuring vast savannas and unique wildlife.
Kotido — Kidepo Valley National Park (Uganda)
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