Kidepo Safari adventures are the most exclusive Uganda Discovery Journeys. They are done in Uganda’s most isolated Park and protected area, Kidepo Valley National Park. The Park is located in Northeastern Uganda in the Karamoja region in Kaabong district. It was established in 1962 and covers a land area of 1,442 square kilometers. The park is referred to as a True African Wilderness because of its intact wildlife ecosystem. It is also among the national parks in Uganda with a high wildlife density.
We recently took on Kidepo Safari Adventures via Sipi falls in Eastern Uganda and had an incredible experience. Below are our most recommended Kidepo Safari Adventures one can be part of when on a Uganda safari and Journeys of Discovery.
Birding Safari adventures
Kidepo is home to over 450 bird species 60 of which endemic to the park and therefore not occurring in any other destination in Uganda. All bird species in Kidepo have not yet been fully discovered. You therefore stand a chance of spotting Bird that have never been recorded.
The park has different ecosystems ranging from open savanna grasslands to woodlands. This is more visible in the Kidepo Valley region that has an ecosystem comprising the open savannas, palm tree vegetation and the woodlands. All these are home to different bird species especially raptors.
Some of the notable Bird species you can spot on Kidepo Safari Adventures include the Abyssinian ground hornbills, Kori Bustard, and rufous chatterer among others. Migratory birds are present in the park from November to April and you can spot many including the Egyptian Geese. Kidepo Birding safari adventures are best enjoyed in the dry season when there are minimal rainfall disturbances.
Cultural Safaris
Kidepo National Park lies in the Karamoja region that is home to several Nilotic tribes. These include the Karamojong and the Ik all with several clans. The Ik are mountain people who are predominantly hunter gatherers. All these groups initially depended on the park for food and survival until they were evicted when the park was gazetted.
The Karamojong are among the few groups of people in Uganda who still live by their traditional ways of life. On the visit to their community you therefore experience an authentic African culture as they take you through their routine. The Karamoja region is generally the best Uganda cultural safari destination.
Nature walks
Kidepo Safari Adventures are also best enjoyed on nature walks. The park has a flat landscape offering great views of the far horizons. There are also many small wildlife species you can easily spot on a guided nature walk unlike when on game drives. These include insects, butterflies, reptiles and several plant species.
Kidepo has a view point that raised on a rock where you can base from for a walk. Nature walks are also ideal for birders as you can get close to some birds. All nature walks are guided by an armed ranger for your safety in case the big game try to charge.
The best time for these exclusive experiences are early morning and late evening. On both you can capture great images of the sunrise and sunset of the true African wilderness.
Game drives
Game drives are the typical ways of exploring any safari destination. These are often rewarding in a destination with diverse wildlife and Kidepo never disappoints. The park has the one of the highest buffalo population the East and Central Africa of more than 20,000 individuals.
Zebras, elands, elephants, bushbucks, giraffes and waterbucks are also present there. There are also many other antelope species including hartebeests, Kobs and the common duikers. Kidepo Valley is relatively dry compared to the Narus valley and there you find semi arid adoptive species like the dik dik.
The big cats population has drastically reduced due to poaching. Kidepo has three of the Big Cats species that are leopards, lions, and cheetahs. Leopards being solitary animals are rarely seen. Cheetahs are also not common and the lion population is really low compared to Murchison Falls National Park. Nonetheless, you will still enjoy your game drives hoping to see the leopard at least and on a lucky day you can sport it.
Game drives in Kidepo are rich and extensive given the parks large size. They are highly recommended for the best Kidepo Safari Adventures and discovery Journeys.
Sundowner Safari Adventures
Sundowners are chilled and best ways to end a day while on Kidepo Safari Adventures. The parks open ecosystems makes it ideal for a sundowner setting. There are several renowned spots for this experience including a view point at Kidepo.
Sundowners are best for honeymooners and families who prefer to relax and have intimate moments while at a destination.
All the above safari adventures and discovery journeys can be at anytime of the year. The dry season months from December to June are better with minimal rainfall disturbances. Some of our best seller Kidepo Safari adventures include the 4-day Kidepo Tour and the 8-day eastern Uganda Safari. These can be further tailor made to suit ones’ preference and convenience.
You can also opt to be part of other Discovery Journeys in Uganda’s leading safari destinations like Murchison Falls & Bwindi Impenetrable National Parks.
Northern Kenya is also recommended for off beaten safari adventures like one’s in Kidepo. Southern Tanzania also offers such experiences and beach holidays at Zanzibar. Contact us to start planning your African safari adventure to any of these destinations.