How to get to Kidepo valley National park
How to get to Kidepo valley National park, a remote wilderness area located in northeastern Uganda, known for its untouched landscapes and rich biodiversity. Situated in the rugged Karamoja region, the park features diverse habitats such as savannah grasslands, rocky outcrops, and river valleys. It is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including lions, elephants, and buffaloes. Kidepo Valley offers visitors a unique and off-the-beaten-path safari experience in one of Africa’s most remote and pristine national parks.
Getting to Kidepo Valley National Park typically involves a combination of road and air travel.
Here’s how to get there:
By Air:
The fastest way to reach Kidepo Valley National Park is by flying from Entebbe International Airport or Kampala’s Kajjansi Airfield to Apoka Airstrip, located near the park.
Several airlines and charter companies offer scheduled and charter flights to Apoka Airstrip. Flights usually take around 2-3 hours, depending on the departure point.
By Road:
If you prefer to travel by road, you can drive or hire a vehicle from Kampala or another major city to Kidepo Valley National Park. However, road travel to Kidepo is long and can be challenging due to the distance and road conditions.
The journey from Kampala to Kidepo Valley National Park typically takes around 10-12 hours, covering a distance of approximately 570-600 kilometers (354-373 miles).
The route passes through towns such as Gulu and Kitgum before reaching the park entrance.
It’s advisable to use a sturdy 4×4 vehicle, especially during the rainy season when roads may be impassable
Kidepo Valley National Park in northeastern Uganda doesn’t have traditional entry gates like other parks, but it can be accessed from various directions. However, there are key entry points or access routes to the park, which are:
Kakuma Gate (Southern Entrance):
This gate provides access to the park from the direction of Kakuma town.
It’s one of the entry points used by visitors coming from the south or central parts of Uganda.
From Kakuma Gate, visitors can access areas like Narus Valley and Apoka Tourism Centre.
Lokitonyi Gate (Eastern Entrance):
Located in the eastern part of the park.
This gate provides access to the park from the direction of Lokitonyi town.
It’s an entry point for visitors coming from the eastern regions of Uganda.
From Lokitonyi Gate, visitors can explore areas like the Kidepo Valley and explore the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Loputuk Gate (Western Entrance):
Situated in the western part of the park.
This gate provides access to the park from the direction of Loputuk town.
It’s an entry point for visitors coming from the western regions of Uganda.
From Loputuk Gate, visitors can access areas like the Kidepo Valley and enjoy wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.
These entry points or access routes to the park allow visitors to explore the diverse landscapes, wildlife, and attractions that the park has to offer. Depending on your itinerary and planned activities, you may enter the park through one of these routes and begin your adventure in Kidepo Valley.