How big is Kidepo? Kidepo Valley National Park was established in 1962. It is home to 77 mammal species, about 475 bird species, and 692 plant species. The park covers a total area of 1,442 square kilometers and is located in the Karamoja region of Northeastern Uganda.
The park’s altitude ranges from 914 meters to 2,750 meters above sea level. Most parts of the park have large savannah grasslands. These open grasslands are home to predators such as lions, cheetahs, spotted hyenas, leopards, and others.
The park has two rivers: the Kidepo River and the Narus River. The Narus River supplies water to Narus Valley, which is south of Apoka. This river flows even during the dry season and attracts animals such as buffaloes, elephants, and zebras.
The Kidepo River is seasonal. It flows during the wet season but dries up in the dry season.
Kidepo Valley National Park also includes Mountain Morungole, which is northeast of Apoka. This mountain is home to the smallest ethnic group in Uganda, the IK people. The mountain reaches 2,750 meters and sits between the Narus and Kidepo rivers.
In the northwest part of the park is Namumukweny Valley, a great spot for hiking. Visitors can see birds like the Turaco and Abyssinian Roller there.
In the far northeast, beyond the Kidepo River, are the Kanangorok hot springs. This is an exciting place for tourists to visit.
The Kidepo River area is known for dry palm trees and white sand, which provide a home for many animals.
There are many activities to enjoy in Kidepo, including game drives that can be done at any time of the day. Guided nature walks and bird watching are also popular. The park is home to about 20 bird species found only in this area, such as the Karamoja Apalis, Ostrich, and Pygmy Falcon.
Visitors can also meet the local communities, including the Karamojong and IK people, to learn about their unique cultures.
Kidepo Valley National Park is not very large but is a treasure of wilderness, wide grasslands, untouched nature, and great scenery that is home to many wild animals.
