Lomej Hills is located near the headquarters of Kidepo Valley National Park in northeastern Uganda. The best time to visit is during the dry season from September to March when the trails are easy to walk. During the rainy season, the plants grow thick and green, but the trails become muddy and hard to use. While the green plants add to the beauty, animals are harder to see when the vegetation is thick.
You can reach Lomej Hills by flying to Apoka airstrip in Kidepo from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip. You can also travel by road from Kampala, which is about 700 km away. Because the land is rough, a 4×4 safari vehicle is recommended.
Guided nature walks to Lomej Hills start from Apoka Tourism Centre. There is a short hike that takes about 2 hours and a longer hike lasting 4 to 5 hours. Along the trails, you may see mountain reedbucks. Around the hills, you may find buffaloes, greater and lesser kudus, zebras, warthogs, elands, giraffes, wild pigs, oribis, and waterbucks grazing. This is a good chance to see these animals.
You will likely meet the Karamojong people during your walk. You can learn about their culture, traditions, beliefs, and daily life. You can also visit their manyatta homesteads and support them by buying handmade items such as baskets and stools.
Lomej Hills is home to many bird species like kori bustards, Jackson’s hornbills, ostriches, pygmy falcons, and Karamoja apalis. Bird watchers will enjoy this place.
For your hike, bring comfortable boots, sunglasses, a safari hat, a camera to capture moments, insect repellent, sunscreen, light clothes, binoculars to see distant wildlife, snacks for the longer hike, and bottled water to stay hydrated.
Climbing to the hilltops offers wide views of Karamoja’s rough land. The views are especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset. Lomej Hills offers a raw, natural experience, perfect for photography and for travelers looking to see the true African wilderness.
Lomej Hills is a must-visit place when you are in Kidepo Valley National Park. It is easy to reach from the park’s headquarters and offers many animals, birds, and beautiful views.
