KIDEPO VALLEY NATIONAL PARK

Kidepo Valley National Park is located in Karamoja region, on the North Eastern part of Uganda, bordering South Sudan.



We set off at about 7am and embarked on a 9 hours journey from Kampala to Kidepo via road. This was supposed to be my birthday trip for the year 2019 so I was extremely excited. We arrived at Kidepo late that night where we spent a night at Apoka Rest Camp inside the park.


The following morning, we woke up to the sound of a lion roaring  just outside the hut like cottages we slept in. No one could step out of their room until sun came out. Immediately after breakfast, we were introduced to our tour guide and we set off for the game drive.


From the top of the tour vehicle, I got a clear view of the terrain. The vegetation was savanna grasslands with scattered trees. Several wildlife grazed the park from the  warthogs, buffaloes, elephants and zebras.



As we drove through the park,   we came across a water dam where different bird species pitched for a drink.


As we proceeded North towards the border, we crossed the seasonal River Kidepo which had dried up since it was dry season. Here, we were allowed to disembark from the vehicle and walk through the river bed. I was reminded of the point in the bible where Moses parted the Red sea to let the Israelites escape from Pharaoh's reign in the book of Exodus.


As we continued northwards towards the ostrich farm, one could view the structure of Lonyili mountain bordering South Sudan. As we drew nearer to the farm, we were welcomed by a male ostrich who followed us to our destination. Upon arrival, we were allowed to take pictures with the ostrich.


On our way back, we by passed rock formations which were inhabited by wild rats.


 We also got to visit the Kanangorok hot springs, which are known to have healing powers by the Karimojong, the local tribe of people living in this area. 


As we returned to the camp, we found some zebras grazing outside the rooms.


The memorable day ended with a beautiful sunset over the horizon.



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