At the crossroads of Kenyan, Sudanese and Ugandan ecosystems, Kidepo Valley National Park provides an amazing wildlife experience in a remote and pristine wilderness. Ringed by mountains, Uganda’s third largest national park is its most far flung and isolated. It is considered one of the best wilderness areas on the African continent. A visit is as much about the wildlife and beauty as it is about its glorious seclusion.
Game viewing in the park is exceptional. More than 77 mammal species are found in the park (including 4 of the Big 5 – excluding rhino), and Kidepo Valley is the only park in Uganda with cheetah, aardwolf, caracal and bat-eared fox. Huge herds of Cape buffalo can be seen, along with elephant, 20 species of predators, Rothschild’s giraffe, oribi and many other plains species. Bird lovers will delight in the 470 species found in the park that include 56 types of raptors, 34 endemics and 60 species not found in any other park in Uganda.
Kidepo Valley National Park is a year-round destination but is especially rewarding in the later dry season between January and March when the Narus River is the only water source for wildlife.
Apoka Safari Lodge is located on a beautiful kopje overlooking the Narus River Valley in the southwest of Kidepo Valley National Park. This small and intimate lodge is an Africa Adventure Consultants favorite. Everything in the 10 expansive rooms were handmade by local craftsmen. They have natural canvas walls and are built around a rocky kopje with endless views across the savanna. With inside sitting rooms and private verandas there are plenty of places to relax. There is a rock-hewn swimming pool for cooling off on hot days. We especially love the outdoor stone bathtubs with views for miles.
Guests can enjoy day and night game drives, walking safaris, guided hikes and visits to local communities. Kids of all ages are welcome.
Photos courtesy Apoka Safari Lodge and Slim Emcee