How to get to Kidepo Valley National Park
To get to Kidepo Valley National Park located in the northeastern parts of Uganda bordering Sudan and Kenya, there are several transportation options available. The most convenient and commonly used method is by road. You can embark on a road trip to the park, enjoying the scenic journey along the way. Another option is to take a flight to Kidepo National Park via charter or scheduled flights from Kajjansi and Entebbe International Airport. These flights can be arranged through operators such as Aero Link Uganda and Fly Uganda. It’s advisable to book your flights in advance, taking into account the minimum passenger requirement of four people.
By Road:
Embarking on a road trip to Kidepo National Park is a fantastic safari experience, offering plenty to see along the way. The most popular route begins in Kampala and passes through Gulu and Kitgum, covering a distance of approximately 571 kilometers. However, the specific starting point may vary depending on your itinerary and location. Another option is to include a visit to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for thrilling on-foot rhino tracking before continuing to the park. In this case, an overnight stay in Gulu is recommended to break up the journey.
By Air:
For a quicker and more convenient option, you can opt for a flying safari to Kidepo National Park. Charter and scheduled flights are available from Kajjansi and Entebbe International Airport. Operators such as Aero Link Uganda and Fly Uganda provide these flights. It’s important to book in advance as flight routing depends on the number of travelers, with a minimum requirement of four people.
Kidepo Valley National Park offers a truly African traditional wilderness experience, with its stunning landscapes dominated by savannah grasslands, Mount Morungole, Narus Valley, and the seasonal Kidepo Valley River. The park is renowned for its exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, making game drives a must-do activity. Morning, afternoon, evening, and night game drives are available, with the morning drive starting early at around 6:00 am to maximize the chances of spotting cats until evening. Game drives typically take place along the main trails of the park, including Narus Valley and the seasonal Kidepo Valley River. To enhance your game drive experience, it is recommended to use a vehicle with a pop-up roof, allowing for clear and distant viewing as well as excellent photography. Your knowledgeable driver guide will assist in identifying the diverse range of animals and birds as you drive at a leisurely pace. Whether you choose to travel by road or air, a visit to Kidepo Valley National Park promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Uganda’s wilderness.
How are game drives in Kidepo Valley National Park worth the money?
The entrance fees for game drives in Kidepo National Park not only provide you with the opportunity to witness wildlife and savor the breathtaking African wilderness scenery but also contribute to the conservation of wildlife and their natural habitat. This makes the money invested in game drives truly worthwhile.
Moreover, the funds generated from park entrance fees and game drives also benefit the local communities residing near and within Kidepo Valley National Park. By allocating 20% of the entrance fees to these communities, their significance in wildlife conservation becomes apparent. This financial support directly reaches the local communities through monetary compensation for those involved in leading committees. Indirectly, the funds contribute to infrastructural development projects such as schools, hospitals, and agricultural initiatives, ultimately enhancing the livelihoods of the local residents. This aspect further reinforces the value of the money spent on game drives within Kidepo National Park.
By partaking in game drives and paying the corresponding fees, you not only embark on an incredible adventure but also contribute to the protection of wildlife, the preservation of their habitat, and the sustainable development of the surrounding communities.
What is the cost of game drives in Kidepo Valley National Park?
When visiting Kidepo National Park, you have the flexibility to choose from various game drive schedules based on your itinerary. Morning, afternoon, evening, and night game drives are available, allowing you to fully explore the park and its magnificent wildlife. However, keep in mind that opting for multiple game drives may require a longer stay in the park to make the most of your experience.
To participate in the game drives within Kidepo Valley National Park, there is a park entrance fee of USD 40 per person for non-foreign residents. This fee grants you access to embark on the thrilling game drives and immerse yourself in the park’s natural wonders. Night game drives have a separate fee, with a cost of USD 40 per person per day for foreigners and UGX 40,000 per person per day for East Africans. For day game drives, the fee is USD 30 per person per day for foreigners and UGX 30,000 for East Africans. These fees should be paid to the Uganda Wildlife Authority at either the Park headquarters or their head office.
By paying the required park entrance fees, you contribute to the conservation efforts of Kidepo National Park and support the ongoing protection of its diverse wildlife. Enjoy the adventure of game drives while knowing that your investment directly supports the preservation of this remarkable natural environment.
Best time to do game drives in Kidepo Valley National Park
When planning your visit to Kidepo National Park, it is worth considering the best time for game drives. The optimal periods are during the dry seasons, which typically occur from June to September and December to February each year. These seasons offer favorable conditions for wildlife viewing, as the reduced rainfall makes it easier to spot animals. However, it’s important to note that Kidepo Valley National Park can be visited throughout the year, and you can still enjoy wildlife sightings and safaris even during the wet seasons. By choosing to visit Kidepo Valley National Park, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the incredible wildlife and embark on thrilling game drives. Whether you opt for the dry seasons or visit during other times of the year, the park promises remarkable experiences and encounters with the rich biodiversity it offers.
Where to stay in Kidepo Valley National Park
Kidepo offers a diverse range of accommodation options for your safari experience. You can choose from a variety of lodges, catering to different preferences and budgets. For those seeking luxury, Apoka Lodge and Adere Safari Lodge provide high-end accommodations priced between USD 200 and USD 400 per person per night. If you’re on a tighter budget or prefer mid-range options, Kidepo Savannah Lodge, Apoka Rest Camp, and UWA Bandas offer comfortable stays at affordable rates, ranging from USD 70 to USD 100 per person per night. Feel free to reach out to us with your preferred lodge, and we’ll customize your itinerary accordingly or suggest the best option based on your budget.
Why book Safari to Kidepo Valley NP with Iconic Africa Safaris
At Iconic Africa Safaris, we specialize in crafting personalized safaris in Kidepo Valley National Park. Our dedicated team takes great pride in providing exceptional service, ensuring your travel experience is tailored to your needs. We understand the importance of prompt communication, which is why our professional tour consultants strive to respond to your queries within 30 minutes. Whether you need assistance with creating a travel plan, answering questions, or arranging necessary services in advance, our consultants will handle it efficiently to prevent any inconvenience during your trip. Furthermore, we offer highly knowledgeable safari guides who can cater to your language preferences, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience. If you have any inquiries about how to reach Kidepo Valley National Park, please don’t hesitate to contact us here. We’re here to assist you.