Top Safari Activities to Do in Kidepo Valley National Park

Tucked away in Uganda’s far northeastern corner, Kidepo Valley National Park is a true gem for safari lovers in search of raw beauty and unmatched wilderness. Unlike the more frequented parks in the country, Kidepo rewards intrepid travelers with dramatic landscapes, an astonishing range of wildlife, and cultural interactions that connect you with Uganda’s most traditional communities. If you’re planning a safari to this untouched destination, here’s what you should not miss.

Explore the Wildlife on Thrilling Game Drives

Game drives in Kidepo are nothing short of spectacular. The park’s expansive valleys—especially Narus and Kidepo—are teeming with wildlife, and game viewing is at its peak during the dry season when animals congregate near water sources. From large herds of buffaloes and elephants to predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards, the experience is exhilarating. You’ll also encounter Rothschild giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species that roam freely across the golden plains.

Experience the Magic of Night Game Drives

For those seeking something extraordinary, night game drives offer a glimpse into the park’s nocturnal world. Armed with spotlights and guided by experienced rangers, you’ll search for shy creatures like hyenas, jackals, civets, and if you’re lucky, elusive leopards or even the rarely seen aardwolf. This is a thrilling extension of the classic safari experience that reveals how alive the African bush becomes after dark.

Go on Guided Nature Walks and Mountain Hikes

Kidepo is also a paradise for nature lovers who enjoy walking safaris. With a trained ranger, you can set out on foot to explore areas around Apoka, the Narus Valley, or climb the Lomej and Morungole Mountains. These walks bring you close to the landscape’s hidden details—animal tracks, birds, unique plant species, and breathtaking scenery. The hike to Mount Morungole, in particular, is a memorable journey into both nature and culture as it leads to the fascinating IK people.

Discover Rich Birdlife on a Birding Safari

Kidepo is one of the best birding destinations in Uganda. With over 470 species recorded, including some that are hard to find elsewhere in East Africa, birdwatchers will be thrilled by the variety. Look out for ostriches, Abyssinian ground hornbills, Kori bustards, Karamoja apalis, and pygmy falcons, among many others. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a beginner, the park’s open landscapes and quiet environment make bird spotting incredibly rewarding.

Engage in Cultural Encounters with Local Tribes

Beyond the wildlife, Kidepo offers meaningful cultural interactions with the Karamojong and IK communities. Visiting a Karamojong manyatta gives you insight into their traditional lifestyle, cattle-keeping culture, beadwork, and rich oral traditions. Trekking to the IK people, who live atop Mount Morungole, is a more challenging yet deeply rewarding experience. Their unique customs, language, and way of life are a fascinating testament to resilience and isolation.

Visit the Hot Springs and Scenic Highlights

Don’t miss the natural wonders like the Kanangorok Hot Springs. Located in the northern part of the park, these springs bubble up near the Sudanese border, offering a beautiful and remote corner to explore. The surrounding scenery—wide plains, palm-dotted landscapes, and distant mountain ridges—provides ideal opportunities for photography and peaceful reflection.

Enjoy the Clear Skies and Astounding Photography Moments

The open skies and wide vistas in Kidepo make it a photographer’s paradise. Early mornings bathe the land in golden light, while sunsets cast a fiery glow over the savannah. The absence of light pollution also makes stargazing a surreal experience—ideal for quiet evenings around the campfire after a day of adventure.