"Uganda’s most remote and third-largest national park vies with Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls as the country’s most alluring conventional safari destination. Dense populations of elephant, buffalo and lion inhabit the main game viewing circuit through the Narus Valley, yet the rugged mountain scenery and low tourist volumes create a real wilderness atmosphere. ”
- Philip Briggs
Kidepo Valley National Park
Nudged up against the northeastern border with South Sudan and Kenya, Kidepo is essentially a fly-in destination, dislocated from Uganda’s main southwestern safari circuit by many hundreds of kilometres and some fairly arduous roads. Largely as a result of this, it retains an exclusivity that will appeal greatly to experienced safarigoers seeking a genuinely off-the-beaten-track bus retreat.
Wildlife viewing is surprisingly good. The main game-drive circuit explores the Narus Valley, a tract of open grassland named after the perennial river that flows through it. Studded with tall sausage trees and stands of acacia woodland, the valley supports several thousand-strong herds of buffalo, while smaller herds of elephant generally come to drink from the river mid-morning before marching back to more remote grazing grounds in the afternoon.
Lions are often seen climbing on the park’s trademarks granite outcrops, which they use as lookout points over the tall grass. Other common large mammals include Rothschild’s giraffe, zebra, warthog, Jackson’s hartebeest, reedbuck and patas monkey. A bird checklist of 470 species, second only to Queen Elizabeth, includes more than 60 recorded in no other Ugandan national park, notably ostrich, secretary-bird, Jackson’s hornbill and Karamoja apalis.
When to go
Find out when is best to visit
- Excellent
- Good
- Poor
DRY SEASON
The land continues to dry up after the ‘rains’, as this happens wildlife will concentrate as they seek more relatable water sources in the park. This increase in numbers combined with thinning vegetation make this a great time to visit Kidepo. Temperatures during this time can rise over 40°C/104°F as the heat begins to build before the start of the rains.
Its location so close to the equator means that Kidepo Valley National Park generally has consistent temperatures throughout the year, while the altitude (from 999 to 2,349m or 3,278 to 7,707ft) moderate these to an average of maximum daytime temperature of around 29°C/84°F within the main driving circuit of the park. Temperates at times can, however, exceed this, peaks of over 40°C/104°F are possible in December, January and February before the beginning of the rains. Mornings can, however, be a remain chilly, so be sure to bring a light fleece. Given the altitude range, there is a quite a significant climatic difference regions within Kidepo Valley, with a drop of around 6.5°C for every 1,000 meters ascended (or 3.5°F for every 1,000 feet), we recommended wearing layers to allow for changes in temperature experienced.
Unlike most of Uganda where there are are two wet seasons, Kidepo has just one long extended wet Season, which last from April to August. This wet season is characterised by afternoon thunderstorms, it is very rare to have more extended periods of rain.
Kidepo Valley is a seasonal park, with superb game viewing in the driest months of the year, as vegetation thins and wildlife becomes a little more concentrated. Ideally it this, therefore, best to visit during the height of the dry season.
DRY SEASON
The land continues to dry up after the ‘rains’, as this happens wildlife will concentrate as they seek more relatable water sources in the park. This increase in numbers combined with thinning vegetation make this a great time to visit Kidepo. Temperatures during this time can rise over 40°C/104°F as the heat begins to build before the start of the rains.
Its location so close to the equator means that Kidepo Valley National Park generally has consistent temperatures throughout the year, while the altitude (from 999 to 2,349m or 3,278 to 7,707ft) moderate these to an average of maximum daytime temperature of around 29°C/84°F within the main driving circuit of the park. Temperates at times can, however, exceed this, peaks of over 40°C/104°F are possible in December, January and February before the beginning of the rains. Mornings can, however, be a remain chilly, so be sure to bring a light fleece. Given the altitude range, there is a quite a significant climatic difference regions within Kidepo Valley, with a drop of around 6.5°C for every 1,000 meters ascended (or 3.5°F for every 1,000 feet), we recommended wearing layers to allow for changes in temperature experienced.
Unlike most of Uganda where there are are two wet seasons, Kidepo has just one long extended wet Season, which last from April to August. This wet season is characterised by afternoon thunderstorms, it is very rare to have more extended periods of rain.
Kidepo Valley is a seasonal park, with superb game viewing in the driest months of the year, as vegetation thins and wildlife becomes a little more concentrated. Ideally it this, therefore, best to visit during the height of the dry season.
DRY SEASON
The land continues to dry up after the ‘rains’, as this happens wildlife will concentrate as they seek more relatable water sources in the park. This increase in numbers combined with thinning vegetation make this a great time to visit Kidepo. Temperatures during this time can rise over 40°C/104°F as the heat begins to build before the start of the rains, will likely happen before the end of this month.
Its location so close to the equator means that Kidepo Valley National Park generally has consistent temperatures throughout the year, while the altitude (from 999 to 2,349m or 3,278 to 7,707ft) moderate these to an average of maximum daytime temperature of around 29°C/84°F within the main driving circuit of the park. Temperates at times can, however, exceed this, peaks of over 40°C/104°F are possible in December, January and February before the beginning of the rains. Mornings can, however, be a remain chilly, so be sure to bring a light fleece. Given the altitude range, there is a quite a significant climatic difference regions within Kidepo Valley, with a drop of around 6.5°C for every 1,000 meters ascended (or 3.5°F for every 1,000 feet), we recommended wearing layers to allow for changes in temperature experienced.
Unlike most of Uganda where there are are two wet seasons, Kidepo has just one long extended wet Season, which last from April to August. This wet season is characterised by afternoon thunderstorms, it is very rare to have more extended periods of rain.
Kidepo Valley is a seasonal park, with superb game viewing in the driest months of the year, as vegetation thins and wildlife becomes a little more concentrated. Ideally it this, therefore, best to visit during the height of the dry season.
WET SEASON
A rather unpredictable time of the year with the heavy showers or thunderstorms, but these are usually in the afternoon and are short-lived. The heat combined with humidity does make things a little uncomfortable, during the middle of the day. Roads can also be very tricky to navigate.
The air is less hazy during the wetter months, improving visibility with that some potentially incredible views.
While this park always has good birding during this time of the year migratory species can be found in full breeding colours.
Its location so close to the equator means that Kidepo Valley National Park generally has consistent temperatures throughout the year, while the altitude (from 999 to 2,349m or 3,278 to 7,707ft) moderate these to an average of maximum daytime temperature of around 29°C/84°F within the main driving circuit of the park. Temperates at times can, however, exceed this, peaks of over 40°C/104°F are possible in December, January and February before the beginning of the rains. Mornings can, however, be a remain chilly, so be sure to bring a light fleece. Given the altitude range, there is a quite a significant climatic difference regions within Kidepo Valley, with a drop of around 6.5°C for every 1,000 meters ascended (or 3.5°F for every 1,000 feet), we recommended wearing layers to allow for changes in temperature experienced.
Unlike most of Uganda where there are are two wet seasons, Kidepo has just one long extended wet Season, which last from April to August. This wet season is characterised by afternoon thunderstorms, it is very rare to have more extended periods of rain.
Kidepo Valley is a seasonal park, with superb game viewing in the driest months of the year, as vegetation thins and wildlife becomes a little more concentrated. Ideally it this, therefore, best to visit during the height of the dry season.
WET SEASON
A rather unpredictable time of the year with the heavy showers or thunderstorms, but these are usually in the afternoon and are short-lived. The heat combined with humidity does make things a little uncomfortable, during the middle of the day. Roads can also be very tricky to navigate.
The air is less hazy during the wetter months, improving visibility with that some potentially incredible views.
While this park always has good birding during this time of the year migratory species can be found in full breeding colours.
Its location so close to the equator means that Kidepo Valley National Park generally has consistent temperatures throughout the year, while the altitude (from 999 to 2,349m or 3,278 to 7,707ft) moderate these to an average of maximum daytime temperature of around 29°C/84°F within the main driving circuit of the park. Temperates at times can, however, exceed this, peaks of over 40°C/104°F are possible in December, January and February before the beginning of the rains. Mornings can, however, be a remain chilly, so be sure to bring a light fleece. Given the altitude range, there is a quite a significant climatic difference regions within Kidepo Valley, with a drop of around 6.5°C for every 1,000 meters ascended (or 3.5°F for every 1,000 feet), we recommended wearing layers to allow for changes in temperature experienced.
Unlike most of Uganda where there are are two wet seasons, Kidepo has just one long extended wet Season, which last from April to August. This wet season is characterised by afternoon thunderstorms, it is very rare to have more extended periods of rain.
Kidepo Valley is a seasonal park, with superb game viewing in the driest months of the year, as vegetation thins and wildlife becomes a little more concentrated. Ideally it this, therefore, best to visit during the height of the dry season.
WET SEASON
A rather unpredictable time of the year with the heavy showers or thunderstorms, but these are usually in the afternoon and are short-lived. The heat combined with humidity does make things a little uncomfortable, during the middle of the day. Roads can also be very tricky to navigate.
The air is less hazy during the wetter months, improving visibility with that some potentially incredible views.
While this park always has good birding during this time of the year migratory species can be found in full breeding colours.
Its location so close to the equator means that Kidepo Valley National Park generally has consistent temperatures throughout the year, while the altitude (from 999 to 2,349m or 3,278 to 7,707ft) moderate these to an average of maximum daytime temperature of around 29°C/84°F within the main driving circuit of the park. Temperates at times can, however, exceed this, peaks of over 40°C/104°F are possible in December, January and February before the beginning of the rains. Mornings can, however, be a remain chilly, so be sure to bring a light fleece. Given the altitude range, there is a quite a significant climatic difference regions within Kidepo Valley, with a drop of around 6.5°C for every 1,000 meters ascended (or 3.5°F for every 1,000 feet), we recommended wearing layers to allow for changes in temperature experienced.
Unlike most of Uganda where there are are two wet seasons, Kidepo has just one long extended wet Season, which last from April to August. This wet season is characterised by afternoon thunderstorms, it is very rare to have more extended periods of rain.
Kidepo Valley is a seasonal park, with superb game viewing in the driest months of the year, as vegetation thins and wildlife becomes a little more concentrated. Ideally it this, therefore, best to visit during the height of the dry season.
WET SEASON
A rather unpredictable time of the year with the heavy showers or thunderstorms, but these are usually in the afternoon and are short-lived. The heat combined with humidity does make things a little uncomfortable, during the middle of the day. Roads can also be very tricky to navigate.
The air is less hazy during the wetter months, improving visibility with that some potentially incredible views.
While this park always has good birding during this time of the year migratory species can be found in full breeding colours.
Its location so close to the equator means that Kidepo Valley National Park generally has consistent temperatures throughout the year, while the altitude (from 999 to 2,349m or 3,278 to 7,707ft) moderate these to an average of maximum daytime temperature of around 29°C/84°F within the main driving circuit of the park. Temperates at times can, however, exceed this, peaks of over 40°C/104°F are possible in December, January and February before the beginning of the rains. Mornings can, however, be a remain chilly, so be sure to bring a light fleece. Given the altitude range, there is a quite a significant climatic difference regions within Kidepo Valley, with a drop of around 6.5°C for every 1,000 meters ascended (or 3.5°F for every 1,000 feet), we recommended wearing layers to allow for changes in temperature experienced.
Unlike most of Uganda where there are are two wet seasons, Kidepo has just one long extended wet Season, which last from April to August. This wet season is characterised by afternoon thunderstorms, it is very rare to have more extended periods of rain.
Kidepo Valley is a seasonal park, with superb game viewing in the driest months of the year, as vegetation thins and wildlife becomes a little more concentrated. Ideally it this, therefore, best to visit during the height of the dry season.
WET SEASON
A rather unpredictable time of the year with the heavy showers or thunderstorms, but these are usually in the afternoon and are short-lived. The heat combined with humidity does make things a little uncomfortable, during the middle of the day. Roads can also be very tricky to navigate.
The air is less hazy during the wetter months, improving visibility with that some potentially incredible views.
While this park always has good birding during this time of the year migratory species can be found in full breeding colours.
Its location so close to the equator means that Kidepo Valley National Park generally has consistent temperatures throughout the year, while the altitude (from 999 to 2,349m or 3,278 to 7,707ft) moderate these to an average of maximum daytime temperature of around 29°C/84°F within the main driving circuit of the park. Temperates at times can, however, exceed this, peaks of over 40°C/104°F are possible in December, January and February before the beginning of the rains. Mornings can, however, be a remain chilly, so be sure to bring a light fleece. Given the altitude range, there is a quite a significant climatic difference regions within Kidepo Valley, with a drop of around 6.5°C for every 1,000 meters ascended (or 3.5°F for every 1,000 feet), we recommended wearing layers to allow for changes in temperature experienced.
Unlike most of Uganda where there are are two wet seasons, Kidepo has just one long extended wet Season, which last from April to August. This wet season is characterised by afternoon thunderstorms, it is very rare to have more extended periods of rain.
Kidepo Valley is a seasonal park, with superb game viewing in the driest months of the year, as vegetation thins and wildlife becomes a little more concentrated. Ideally it this, therefore, best to visit during the height of the dry season.
DRYER PERIOD
During this period as the land gradually dries up after the ‘rains’, as this happens wildlife will begin to concentrate as they seek more relatable water sources in the park. This increase in numbers combined with thinning vegetation make this a great time to visit Kidepo. The occasional thunderstorm is still possible.
Its location so close to the equator means that Kidepo Valley National Park generally has consistent temperatures throughout the year, while the altitude (from 999 to 2,349m or 3,278 to 7,707ft) moderate these to an average of maximum daytime temperature of around 29°C/84°F within the main driving circuit of the park. Temperates at times can, however, exceed this, peaks of over 40°C/104°F are possible in December, January and February before the beginning of the rains. Mornings can, however, be a remain chilly, so be sure to bring a light fleece. Given the altitude range, there is a quite a significant climatic difference regions within Kidepo Valley, with a drop of around 6.5°C for every 1,000 meters ascended (or 3.5°F for every 1,000 feet), we recommended wearing layers to allow for changes in temperature experienced.
Unlike most of Uganda where there are are two wet seasons, Kidepo has just one long extended wet Season, which last from April to August. This wet season is characterised by afternoon thunderstorms, it is very rare to have more extended periods of rain.
Kidepo Valley is a seasonal park, with superb game viewing in the driest months of the year, as vegetation thins and wildlife becomes a little more concentrated. Ideally it this, therefore, best to visit during the height of the dry season.
DRYER PERIOD
During this period as the land gradually dries up after the ‘rains’, as this happens wildlife will begin to concentrate as they seek more relatable water sources in the park. This increase in numbers combined with thinning vegetation make this a great time to visit Kidepo. The occasional thunderstorm is still possible.
Its location so close to the equator means that Kidepo Valley National Park generally has consistent temperatures throughout the year, while the altitude (from 999 to 2,349m or 3,278 to 7,707ft) moderate these to an average of maximum daytime temperature of around 29°C/84°F within the main driving circuit of the park. Temperates at times can, however, exceed this, peaks of over 40°C/104°F are possible in December, January and February before the beginning of the rains. Mornings can, however, be a remain chilly, so be sure to bring a light fleece. Given the altitude range, there is a quite a significant climatic difference regions within Kidepo Valley, with a drop of around 6.5°C for every 1,000 meters ascended (or 3.5°F for every 1,000 feet), we recommended wearing layers to allow for changes in temperature experienced.
Unlike most of Uganda where there are are two wet seasons, Kidepo has just one long extended wet Season, which last from April to August. This wet season is characterised by afternoon thunderstorms, it is very rare to have more extended periods of rain.
Kidepo Valley is a seasonal park, with superb game viewing in the driest months of the year, as vegetation thins and wildlife becomes a little more concentrated. Ideally it this, therefore, best to visit during the height of the dry season.
DRIER PERIOD
During this period as the land gradually dries up after the ‘rains’, as this happens wildlife will begin to concentrate as they seek more relatable water sources in the park. This increase in numbers combined with thinning vegetation make this a great time to visit Kidepo. The occasional thunderstorm is still possible.
Its location so close to the equator means that Kidepo Valley National Park generally has consistent temperatures throughout the year, while the altitude (from 999 to 2,349m or 3,278 to 7,707ft) moderate these to an average of maximum daytime temperature of around 29°C/84°F within the main driving circuit of the park. Temperates at times can, however, exceed this, peaks of over 40°C/104°F are possible in December, January and February before the beginning of the rains. Mornings can, however, be a remain chilly, so be sure to bring a light fleece. Given the altitude range, there is a quite a significant climatic difference regions within Kidepo Valley, with a drop of around 6.5°C for every 1,000 meters ascended (or 3.5°F for every 1,000 feet), we recommended wearing layers to allow for changes in temperature experienced.
Unlike most of Uganda where there are are two wet seasons, Kidepo has just one long extended wet Season, which last from April to August. This wet season is characterised by afternoon thunderstorms, it is very rare to have more extended periods of rain.
Kidepo Valley is a seasonal park, with superb game viewing in the driest months of the year, as vegetation thins and wildlife becomes a little more concentrated. Ideally it this, therefore, best to visit during the height of the dry season.
DRIER PERIOD
The land continues to dry up after the ‘rains’, as this happens wildlife will concentrate as they seek more relatable water sources in the park. This increase in numbers combined with thinning vegetation make this a great time to visit Kidepo. Temperatures during this time can rise over 40°C/104°F as the heat begins to build before the start of the rains.
Its location so close to the equator means that Kidepo Valley National Park generally has consistent temperatures throughout the year, while the altitude (from 999 to 2,349m or 3,278 to 7,707ft) moderate these to an average of maximum daytime temperature of around 29°C/84°F within the main driving circuit of the park. Temperates at times can, however, exceed this, peaks of over 40°C/104°F are possible in December, January and February before the beginning of the rains. Mornings can, however, be a remain chilly, so be sure to bring a light fleece. Given the altitude range, there is a quite a significant climatic difference regions within Kidepo Valley, with a drop of around 6.5°C for every 1,000 meters ascended (or 3.5°F for every 1,000 feet), we recommended wearing layers to allow for changes in temperature experienced.
Unlike most of Uganda where there are are two wet seasons, Kidepo has just one long extended wet Season, which last from April to August. This wet season is characterised by afternoon thunderstorms, it is very rare to have more extended periods of rain.
Kidepo Valley is a seasonal park, with superb game viewing in the driest months of the year, as vegetation thins and wildlife becomes a little more concentrated. Ideally it this, therefore, best to visit during the height of the dry season.
Experiences
Explore Kidepo Valley National Park Properties
Apoka Safari Lodge
Apoka Safari Lodge
The remote Apoka Safari Lodge is the only accommodation in the centre of Kidepo Valley National Park. Operated by WildPlaces, Apoka is a warm, luxurious retreat where wildlife roams right on your doorstep. Perfect for travellers ..
What People Say
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The personalised service provided was far beyond my expectations. A three week trip visiting four countries in Africa, multiple game reserves, wineries and much, much more was flawless. While a close encounter with a leopard and her cubs…
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We got in touch after hearing about Hide & Seek from a friend. Have to say hats off to Jamie, he was so patient throughout, even through our indecisiveness! Ultimately we ended up with the most incredible holiday of our lives. Thank you again, we will be back!!
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Thank you for arranging our Safari holiday in Kenya and Tanzania for us. It was to celebrate our 40th. Wedding anniversary which was on July 1st. 2018, and through your arrangements, we have had a holiday that we will never forget...
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Thanks so much for a truly unforgettable once in a life time holiday. Hopefully we will be in touch again soon!
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Spot on in terms of itinerary . We not disappointed by any of the suggestions and had the best holiday ever! Thank you!
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Jamie was very helpful throughout the booking process and recommended the perfect holiday. There was nothing we would change having now been out to Tanzania. I would highly recommend Hide & Seek to friends and relatives.
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Jamie was excellent. Once I described what we wanted I knew he would come up with the business. ..and he did!!! 5 stars
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We spoke to numerous travel agents over the period we looked at booking our honeymoon and only hide and seek gave me the confidence I was looking for. Really pleased with our decision.
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Hide and seek dealt with our last minute travel plans extremely well. Obviously, our accommodations shifted as availability diminished but ultimately they came up with a vacation that we will never forget.
