Although there are various mountains in Kidepo National Park, Mount Morungole- 2,750m high above sea level overlooking Kidepo plains is among the key mountains. Some of the neighboring peaks to Morungole include Mount Zulia, Labwor and Dodoth Hills which rise about 2000m in elevation.

Kidepo park Mount Morungole might not be as tall as other mountains in Uganda but, it offers one of the best hiking experiences in Uganda.

Tourists on Uganda wildlife safaris in Kidepo park should never miss the Morungole Mount hike! In most cases, this adventure is supplemented by other game-viewing activities in Kidepo such as game drives, bird watching and even nature walks. During the Mountain Morungole hike, you’ll spot beautiful birds, wildlife, and even scenic vegetation.

A guided hike to the top of Morungole Mountain takes about 2-3 hours. While descending, you can take around 1.5 hours. The hike can be tiresome however, no previous hiking experience is needed. You’ll enjoy a cultural tour with the Ik people.

Tourist Attractions in Mount Morungole

Here are some of the main tourist attractions in Mountain Morungole to explore;

1. The IK People in Morungole Mountain

The IK people are popularly known for their remarkable unique culture. These people on the slopes of Mt Morungole used to dwell in Kidepo Valley National park but, were evacuated by the government when the area was gazetted a park in 1962.

Some of these people migrated to Morungole Mountain slopes, where they built permanent dwellings. The IK people reside in small groups of roughly 100 people on Mountain Morungole, and their homes are fenced in undisclosed.

You can climb Mt Morungole to meet the IK people and spend the day learning about their culture. The community of IK people includes a troupe of dancers who entertain tourists with traditional music and dances.

Visitors to their community can also learn about the tribe’s origins and history.

2. Beautiful Birds on Morungole Mountain Slopes

The lush vegetation along the slopes of Morungole Mountain in Kidepo Valley National Park is home to a variety of bird species that can be spotted during the hike.

Although this area is not among the ideal places for bird watching in Kidepo, it holds some amazing birds worth watching! If you love birding, come with binoculars with you.

Among the various birds in Morungole Mountain include; Red throated bee-eater, Golden pipit, White-bellied go-away bird, Fox kestrel, Pygmy falcon, Rose-ringed parakeet, Little bee-eaters, Dark chanting goshawk, Jackson’s hornbill, Purple grenadier, Red and yellow barbet, Abyssinian scimitar bill, and Chestnut weaver, among others.

3. Amazing Wildlife

Out of the 77 mammal species recorded in Kidepo park, some can be spotted along the slopes of Mountain Morungole by lucky travelers. There are no game drives but, during the hike, it’s possible to spot some of these game animals for instance, Hartebeests, Warthogs, Side Stripped Jackals, Dik-dik, and many others.

4. Scenic Rivers

Mountain Morungole has a considerable impact on the drainage system in Kidepo National Park because the sources of the Narus and Kidepo Rivers are located here.

The Kidepo and Narus Rivers are the main water systems within Kidepo Valley National Park, providing water to numerous wildlife in the park. For instance, in the Narus Valley during game drives, you can spot big herds of Elephants, Cape Buffalos, Topis, Hartebeests, Common Elands, Mountain Reedbucks, Hyenas, Cheetahs, Lions, and Leopards, etc.

Normally, the beautiful Kidepo River dries up in the dry season

Main Tourist Activities in Mount Morungole in Kidepo Park

Putting aside the enjoyment of the incredible natural views of the Karamoja plains you will get during the Morungole hike, there are other things to do on your visit to this mountain- with the highest point in Kidepo park.

These are the things to do in Morungole Mountain during a wildlife safari in Kidepo Valley Park;

a. Visiting the IK People

Kidepo cultural highlight! Uganda cultural tours with the IK is one of the main reasons why tourists visit Mountain Morungole. As earlier told you that, these people (living on Morungole Mountain slopes) make the smallest ethnic group in Uganda with a population of around 10,000 people.

On this cultural tour in Kidepo, a local guide and knowledgeable game ranger guide will lead the visit to the fabled IK community. Expect to spend almost a whole day in an authentic African village interacting with these wonderful local people as you discover their unique cultures and practices. The local traditions and customs of the IK are worth exploring.

After learning about their customs and beliefs, you’ll enjoy their traditional songs and even cultural dances which are mostly displayed in cultural ceremonies like marriage and upon reaching success in the community.

b.    Hiking Mount Morungole

Taking the Mt Morungole hike during your wildlife safari in Kidepo Valley National Park is the best way to explore the exciting & breathtaking views of Narus plains. The beautiful sights create an illusion of rocks that are about to fall over Kaabong at any time!

This hike takes you through the community of IK people and a cultural experience can be enjoyed here then embark on your climb.

The actual summit of Mountain Morungole (at 2,750m high) is believed to be a sacred place for the IK. Therefore, it’s of immense spiritual significance and this summit is out of bounds to visitors. However, this mountain has another alternative peak that visitors usually reach out to and offers views of the exciting and dramatic landscapes of Kidepo Valley National Park.

Climbing the stunning Mountain Morungole takes about 2-3 hours and descending can be around 1.5 hours. The hike is technically easy with no previous mountain hiking experience needed as it’s with other Mountains in Uganda such as the Rwenzori Mountains- dabbed the mountains of the moon due to its snowcapped whiteness.

Since the hike takes you through the homes of the IK, we strongly recommend that you use local guides (a Karamojong or IK person) to avoid misunderstandings.

This hike requires you to put on sturdy mountain hiking boots and never leave your camera behind!

The Best Time to Hike Mount Morungole in Kidepo Valley National Park

Travelers can visit Kidepo park to hike Mount Morungole almost any time of year, however, some months are more pleasant than others. The dry season months of June to September and December to February are ideal for safaris in Kidepo and hiking Mount Morungole since they have low rainfall and plenty of sunshine.

Mt Morungole hiking routes are dry and easy to navigate during the dry season. Though it’s possible to climb it in the rainy season (March to May & October to November), the roads that go to Morungole Mountain sometimes become extremely difficult to access.  Therefore, it’s better to hike in the dry months.

On your visit, ensure to refuel the vehicle in Kaabong as there are no petrol stations between this area and Kitgum.

How to Get to Kidepo Valley National Park Mount Morungole?

Traveling to Kidepo park- Uganda’s park on the south boundary of Southern Sudan in northeastern Uganda is easy. This transfer from Kampala or Entebbe can be by road or air however, most Uganda tours to Kidepo are by road.

Getting to Kidepo Mountain Morungole By Road

These are the different routes that take you to Kidepo;

• Kampala-Karuma-Lira-Kotido-Kaabong-Kidepo- takes around 705km, 12 hours drive
• Kampala-Karuma-Gulu-Kitgum-Kidepo- about 571km, 10 hours- the most popular
• Kampala- Mbale- Soroti- Moroto- Kotido- Kabong- Kidepo- roughly 792km 13 hours
• Kampala-Mbale-Sironko-Moroto-Kotido-Kaabong-Kidepo- approximately 740km, 12 hours

Each route is unique in its one way, contact our team for details. All the routes are scenic with numerous stopovers along. It’s better to use a 4WD vehicle as you transfer to Kidepo- a beautiful wilderness separated mainly by two rivers Kidepo and Narus Rivers. Some road conditions are poor.

Getting to Kidepo park by air

There are scheduled domestic flights to Kidepo airport (Apoka Airstrip) from Kajjansi or Entebbe provided by Aerolink Uganda Ltd. Normally, these flights are used by tourists on Uganda luxury safari tours.

Kidepo National Park Accommodation- Where to Stay During Your Mountain Morungole Hiking Tour?

You’ll find various lodges in Kidepo park offering various classes of accommodation from budget, midrange, and luxury. Depending on your budget and choice, you’ll choose the kind of facility to use.

The following is the best Kidepo accommodation;

1. Apoka Safari Lodge– luxury
2. Adere Safari Lodge- standard
3. Kidepo Savannah Lodge- standard
4. Nga Moru Wilderness Camp- standard
5. Apoka Rest Camp

If interested in exploring Mount Morungole during your Uganda wildlife safaris in Kidepo park, for a rewarding trip you should supplement other safari activities in Kidepo. Among these include game drives in Narus Valley where you’ll spot numerous game animals such as large Buffalo herds, Zebras, Elephants, Hartebeests, Cheetahs, Lions, and Leopards, among others.

Don’t look any further, travel with us for a wonderful adventure!

The post Mount Morungole in Kidepo National Park Karamoja appeared first on Kidepo Valley National Park Uganda.

Locals call this mountain “Moru-To,” which means “western mountain.” They gave it that name because the natives used to move westward when they migrated.

Mountain Moroto features various types of environments for instance the dry thorn savanna as well as the dry montane forest. Within the montane forest of Mt Moroto, hikers can spot different amazing wildlife species such as Potos, Monkeys, the beautiful golden cats, plus around 220 bird species including the Doherty’s bushshrike.

Mount Moroto tours can be enjoyed even by travelers without a hiking experience. You’ll take a long scenic walk to get to the higher parts, but from the town at the base of the mountain, you can get to the arid thorn savanna and rocky slopes. This mountain holds two hills; Sogolomon and Sokodek, which rise 3,082m from the plains of Karamoja, which is where the Karamojong people live.

Mount Moroto’s highest peak is “Sokodek,” but most people think “Imagit” is higher because it’s the most popular peak to hike. You can hike up to the Imagit peak in one day, and it only takes half a day to go down.

In most cases, the Moroto hike is an additional adventure on wildlife safaris in Kidepo National Park. Apart from hiking, visitors exploring Mount Moroto in the Karamoja region can also do; cultural encounters, birding, biking, & quad biking.

Amazing Things to Do During Mount Moroto Tour

Looking for what to do during your Mount Moroto safari tour? The activities for travelers are many for example; Mountain Moroto hike, quad biking, bird watching, and scenery viewing, to mention but a few.

The following are the various tourist activities in the Mount Moroto Area;

1. Climbing Mount Moroto

Various climbing trails exist! Climbing Mount Moroto is the main adventure activity as to why travelers visit Mt Moroto in the Karamoja area. There are several trails (climbing trails) to the summit and you’ll find mountain climbing guides (mountain guides) to assist you during the hike. Most of them are local guides.

Regardless of the trail you use to hike this ancient volcano, you’ll go through the beautiful arid thorn savanna, and dry montane forest which is a habitat to numerous wildlife species. Along the existing trails, lucky hikers can spot wild cats, monkeys, plus various bird species. You will come across numerous small rivers as you climb Moroto peaks.

Mount Moroto hike is a day adventure! While on the Mt Moroto hike, be expectant to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Karamoja region and even the area blanketed in arid thorn savanna and the dry montane forest. This scenery is great for photography.

The nature reserve that surrounds Mount Moroto measures 483km2 with about 220 species of birds, wild cats, and monkeys is seen also.

2. Exploring the Farming and Irrigation Scheme

Springs and small rivers are formed when the natural springs that are located on the slopes of the Mountain coalesce with one another. Karimajong people are being instructed by the World Food Program on how to collect and store water, as well as how to use it to irrigate agricultural produce or crops. The goal is to ensure that there is enough household food. More still, some of the agricultural produce is for sale for income generation.

On booking your vacation with Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd, we can arrange to visit the Karimajong people who practice the Irrigation scheme. Ever since the introduction of this scheme in the region, different people have relatively enough household food and some are sold off for income generation.

3. Bird Watching

Birding in Mt Moroto takes place in Mount Moroto Central Forest Reserve. The nature reserve that surrounds Mount Moroto measures 483km2 with about 220 birds.  Some of the notable ones include; Red-fronted Tinkerbird, Green Woodhoopoe, Cabaniss’s buntiny, White-browned coucal, Dideric Cuckoo, Little rock-thrush, Crested francolin, and African pygmy-kingfisher, etc.

While bird watching, you can spot other animals in this forest reserve such as wild cats, monkeys & Potos. You’ll be with an expert local guide.

4. Quad Biking

In the Mt Moroto area, quad biking is possible. It’s done on the foothills of this highland and it as well gives you an opportunity to go through villages while enjoying the beautiful views of the arid thorn savanna, dry montane forest as well as the forest reserve protecting this land form.

Accommodation to Use During Mount Moroto Hike

You can’t fail to get where to stay during your Mount Moroto adventure. Various accommodation facilities await you and most of them are found in Moroto Town- the nearest township to Mt Moroto.

Some of the popular hotels in Moroto Town include;

1.      Mt Moroto Hotel

2.      City Friends Hotel Moroto

3.      Kara-Tunga, Karamoja Safari Camp

4.      Zebra Safari Lodge-Kidepo

How to Get to Mount Moroto?

There are two ways to go to Moroto from Mbale: either by way of Soroti (170km on the tarmac, or by way of the straight eastern route (230km). Both of these routes offer amazing scenery! Upon reaching the Seminary in Moroto Town, you will need to make a right turn at the first roundabout in the township and then continue to go around the base of the mountain for 7.5km.

Packing List for Mount Moroto Safari Adventure

·         Sturdy walking boots

·         A sunhat

·         Sunglasses and sunscreens

·         Comfortable safari pants

·         Water bottle & energy-giving snacks

·         A camera

·         Gloves

·         Pair of socks

·         Personal toiletries

·         Rain jacket

FAQs About Mount Moroto

1. Where Is Mountain Moroto Located?

Mountain Moroto is a chain of volcanoes along Uganda’s international border with Kenya. The chain of these mountains begins at Mount Elgon which is in the south and includes also Mount Morungole and Mount Kadam.

The area around Mt Moroto is a forest reserve protecting numerous types of habitats, from dry thorn grassland to dry montane forest.

2. In Which District Is Mt. Moroto Found?

Mt Moroto is found in the Moroto District within the Karamoja region- in the northern region of Uganda. This magnificent highland is about 3km by road in the east of Moroto’s central business district. The natural springs on slopes of Moroto Mountain coalesce to form springs plus small rivers, lovely to view.

3. Is Mount Moroto An Active Volcano? : Is Mt. Moroto a Dormant Volcano?

Just like Mount Elgon or Mount Kadam in the south, Mt Moroto is an extinct volcano! These are mountains that have not erupted in human history.

4. What Is the Highest Peak of Mount Moroto?

The highest peak of Moroto Mountain is called Sokodek rising about 3,083m above sea level in northeastern Uganda within Karamoja area.

5. How Was Mount Moroto Formed?

Mountain Moroto was formed as a result of volcanicity. This ancient volcano is found on Uganda’s international border with Kenya within the Moroto District. Within this mountain, there are numerous natural springs and streams which are sources of water for people around used to irrigate agricultural produce in the region.

Natural springs on slopes of Moroto mountain coalesce to form springs & small rivers, lovely to view.

Mt. Moroto is a great destination for mountain climbing tours. Therefore, all hikers on wildlife safaris in Kidepo National Park nearby should never miss on their bucket list. You can contact the Prime Safaris reservation team for any inquiry!

The post Mount Moroto- Mount Moroto Uganda appeared first on Kidepo Valley National Park Uganda.

Kidepo Valley National Park is among the Uganda safari parks with abundant wildlife a must-visit while on your Uganda tour holiday. The park is home to over 77 mammal species including about 20 species of predators and over 28 Kidepo endemics including cheetahs, black-backed jackals, aardwolves, caracals, greater and lesser kudus plus the bat-eared foxes.

Most animals in Kidepo Valley National Park such as 4 of the African safari big five (lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards), antelopes like the Uganda kobs, bushbucks, mountain reedbucks, oribis, waterbucks, topis, Jackson’s hartebeest, among others, are spotted in the golden plains of the Narus valley.

Please note that most animals in Kidepo national park are spotted while on a game drive however, it’s also possible to spot some while on guided nature walks in the Kidepo valley region.

The following are Kidepo Valley National Park animals:

A. Carnivores Animal In Kidepo Valley National Park

Over 20 species of predators have been recorded in Kidepo Valley National Park including lions, leopards, and spotted hyenas plus some of which are Kidepo endemics counting the cheetahs, caracals, bat-eared foxes, black-backed jackals and the aardwolves.

Below are the carnivorous animals in Kidepo national park animals.

1. Lions- Panthera Leo

Famously, the lion is known as the “King of the jungle”, the 2^nd biggest cat in the world after the tiger. On average, lions weigh about 130- 190kg. Arguably, lions are the most sought-after animals by tourists on African safaris in Uganda. They mostly inhabit grasslands and are diurnal however, can hunt at night and twilight, especially when persecuted in their environment.

Female lions are responsible for the hunt and mostly enjoy buffaloes, Zebras, and antelopes. Lions in the wild live in the pride of about 15 individuals led by a dominant male. In the wild, female lions on average live for about 15-16 years while males only 8-10 years

On your Uganda wildlife safari in Kidepo national park, they are spotted while on game drives in the golden plains of Narus valley.

2. Leopards- Panthera Pardus

For many, a leopard might be difficult to distinguish between a leopard and a cheetah however, they can be differentiated. Leopards have rosette-shaped spots with shorter limbs and are more muscular than cheetahs. Please note that leopards prefer wooded and rocky habitats thus, rarely seen due to their secretive and solitary nature.

A female leopard usually produces 2-4 cubs, usually in caves, hollow trees and thickets. The cubs are born with closed eyes that open after 4-9 days after birth. Leopards have an average life span of about 12- 17 years.

Amazingly, leopards hunt using stealth and power often getting to about 5m before pouncing their intended prey and can run at speeds of over 58km/h. In Kidepo park Uganda, they can be spotted lying on rock outcrops in Narus valley while on a game drive.

3. Cheetahs- Acinonyx Jubatus

Most people fail to differentiate between cheetahs with leopards however, these are different, cheetahs have longer limbs and black tear marks. Please also note that cheetahs are the fastest land animals on earth capable of running over 70km/hr. in short bursts. Unlike leopards, cheetahs hunt using speed as opposed to stealth.

Cheetahs live in 3 main social groups consisting of females, their cubs and the male, usually in open savannahs around rock outcrops. Cheetah cubs are highly vulnerable to predators like hyenas, and lions. Almost over 50% of their cubs are killed before they reach 3 months.

Among the large predators, cheetahs are the least powerful. On your Uganda tours, cheetahs can only be spotted in Kidepo national park while on a game drive in the amazing open savannah plains of Narus valley.

4. The Spotted Hyenas– Crocuta Crocuta

Also known as the laughing hyena, the spotted hyena is the sole member of the genus Crocuta. Hyenas have got a sloping back, and dark brown spots, and are blessed with mighty jaws that can crack open bones and slice through the thickest hides.

Please note that hyenas give birth to 2-3 cubs, born with their eyes open. Giving birth in hyenas is so difficult for females as they give birth through their narrow clitoris. During parturition, their clitoris ruptures to facilitate the passage of the young and can take weeks to heal.

Hyenas are typical nocturnals which don’t hunt for themselves in most cases, they feed on what other animals like leopards and lions have hunted by stealing from them however, they’ve exceptional hunting skills capable of killing an animal as large as a wildebeest. Please note that they’re nocturnal, lying in the day in thick bush or den. They can be spotted in Narus valley.

5. Black-Backed Jackals- Canis Mesomelas

In Uganda, black-backed jackals (silver-backed jackals) are only restricted to Kidepo national park and Pian Upe WR vicinities. They’re fox-like animals, nocturnal in nature however, they can be seen in the daytime. Being omnivorous, they feed on small mammals, reptiles, birds, eggs, carrion and fruits.

They’re closely related to side-stripped jackals however, this cunning and daring animal can be identified by its slender body, long legs, large ears, reddish brown to tan coat on the flanks and legs plus a black saddle intermixed with silvery hair extending from the shoulders to the base of the bushy tail.

Though black-backed jackals have ever been recorded in Kidepo Valley NP Uganda, they’re rarely spotted however, if lucky, they can be spotted in the Narus valley region.

6. Side-Striped Jackals– Lupulella Adusta

The side-striped jackal is a nocturnal, dog-like carnivore, slightly larger than the black-backed jackal. Its fur color is buff-grey and the back is darker grey than the underside, and the tail is black with a white tip. It has white stripes on the sides running from elbow to hip.

The side-striped jackal is less carnivorous therefore, it’s omnivorous feeding on small mammals, fruits, maize, reptiles, eggs and birds. It can be spotted while on a game drives in Narus valley.

7. African Hunting Dog- Lycaon Pictus

Known as the African painted dog, the African hunting dog is the largest wild canine in Africa listed endangered on the IUCN red list since 1990. They’re long-legged predators with large, round ears facing upwards. Their fur is stippled in black, yellow and brown colors, and the tip of their tail is white.

African hunting dogs live in packs of 5- 50 and are the most effective pack hunters in Africa. Though African hunting dogs are present in Kidepo national park, they are hard to spot.

8. Serval Cats- Leptailurus Serval

A serval cat is a wild cat native to Africa. It features a small head, large ears, a golden-yellow to buff coat, spotted and striped with black, and white marks on the ear, and a short black-tipped tail. The serval has the longest legs of any cat relative to its body size.

Mainly serval cats prey on rodents, frogs, insects, reptiles, and small birds as they can jump over 4m up in the air. On your Uganda safari in Kidepo national park, you can spot it in the rolling plains of Narus valley.

9. Bat-Eared Fox- Otocyon Megalotis

Also called the large-eared fox, a bat-eared fox is a species of fox found in the African savanna. In Uganda, it has been only spotted in Kidepo Valley National Park though, on rare occasions.

It’s named after its amazing bat-like large ears in proportion to its head. It’s yellowish-grey with a black face and legs with black-tipped ears and a tail. It feeds primarily on insects, especially termites.

10. The Caracal– Caracal Caracal

A caracal is a medium-sized cat found in open habitats. It’s easily identified by its uniform reddish-brown coat, long canine teeth, long legs, short face, and amazing tufted cars. On Uganda safaris, caracals have only been spotted in Kidepo national game park though still on rare occasions.

Other Carnivores Animals In Kidepo Valley National Park

These include:

1. African wild cats
2. Aardwolves
3. Honey badger
4. Aardvarks
5. Mangoose for example, the banded mongoose, greater grey mongoose, lesser slender mongoose, and the marsh mongoose.
6. Weasels e.g. the African- striped weasel
7. Hedgehogs for example, the East African hedgehog.

Herbivores Animals In Kidepo National Park

There is a variety of herbivores animals in Kidepo Valley National Park and these include the following:

1. African Bush Elephant- Loxodonta Africana

The African bush elephant is the largest land animal on earth weighing over 6,000kg on average. Elephants have pillar-like legs, wrinkled grey tough skin which is 30mm thick and large ears that help them to regulate body heat by flapping them. They’ve also sturdy tusks that curve out and then point forward.

Elephants have got a trunk (an elongation of the upper lip and nose). This highly sensitive organ is thought to hold about 40,000- 60,000 muscles therefore, due to its muscular structure, its capable of lifting about 3% of the elephant’s weight. It’s mostly used for smelling, touching, drinking, feeding, sound production, dusting, loading, and attacking.

Elephants have a gestation period of about 22 months, and on average, the birth interval is about 3-5 years. Elephants are invulnerable to predators however, lions and spotted hyenas have been spotted attacking them. On your Uganda wildlife expedition in Kidepo national park, elephants are spotted on game drives in the Narus valley.

2. African Cape Buffalo- Syncerus Caffer

The cape buffalo is a large sub-Saharan African bovine- among the African safari big five. It’s generally regarded as one of the most dangerous animals in Uganda killing over 200 people per year. Cape buffaloes are heavy cow-like animals with their color ranging from grey or black and young ones are often reddish-brown.

The unpredictable temper of the African buffalo may be the reason that this incredible cow-like animal has never been domesticated, unlike its Asian counterpart. Its natural predators mostly include lions, hyenas, and crocodiles. On average, buffalos can live about  25 years in the wild.

On your Uganda safaris in Kidepo valley park, they’re spotted in the open grasslands of Narus valley while on a game drive.

3. Burchell’s Zebra- Equus Burchelli

Burchell’s zebra is also called the Plain zebra. It’s the only species of zebra spotted on Uganda safari tours here in Kidepo and also in Lake Mburo National Park. The Plain zebra has black and white stripes all over its body with fading stripes on the legs and each zebra has distinct stripes unique to each other, like fingerprints on humans.

The stripes on the neck to the forelimbs are vertical and continue in the mane which is short and sticks straight up. Zebras live in small groups however, usually gather in larger herds around water and food sources, but still keep their identity as family units. They’re most spotted in the golden plains of Narus valley while on a game drive.

4. Rothschild’s Giraffe

Also called Giraffa camelopardalis Rothschild, a Rothschild’s giraffe is one of the unmistakable large animals in Uganda you shouldn’t miss seeing on your tour. A giraffe is the tallest animal in the world towering about 5.5m high, above any animal and most plants. It has pale orange-brown patches, and it’s famously known for its long amazing neck and a 45cm long tongue.

Amazingly, the giraffes’ front legs are taller than their hind legs thus, giving it a steep sloping back from the shoulders to the rump. Please also note that giraffes have two horns called ossicones which are bone protrusions covered with skin and fur.

Giraffes have fewer predators however, on rare occasions, they can be preyed on by hyenas, lions, crocodiles, and leopards. In Kidepo national park, they can be spotted in open and wooded savannahs of Narus valley while on a game drive though, on rare occasions.

5. Uganda Kobs- Kobus Kob Thomasi

Ugandan kob is a beautiful medium-sized antelope, normally reddish-brown in color, differentiating it from other kob subspecies. It’s the national animal in Uganda appearing on the coat of arms of Uganda, representing the abundant wildlife present in Uganda. In appearance, it’s more like an impala however, more sturdily built, has a throat patch, and its muzzle, eye ring and inner ear are white.

Its belly and inside of the legs are white while the front of the forelegs is black. Only males have lyre-shaped horns. Kobs mostly dwell in open savannahs however also possible in wooded savanna. On your Kidepo safari in Uganda, it can be spotted in the golden plains of Narus valley.

6. Common Eland- Taurotragus Oryx

The common eland is a nice-looking antelope also known as the southern eland (eland antelope). Its Africa’s largest savannah antelope found in eastern and southern Africa, weighing on average 500- 600kg however, males can weigh up to 1,000kg. An eland is the slowest antelope, having a peak speed of about 40km/hr and tires them quickly.

The coat of this beautiful antelope is genuinely smooth. Females have a tan coat while males are darker, with a bluish-grey tinge and a series of vertical white stripes on the sides. Males also have dense fur on their foreheads and a large dewlap on their throats. They can be spotted while on a game drive in the rolling grasslands of Narus valley.

7. Cape Bush Buck- Tragelaphus Sylvaticus

A bushbuck is a widespread species of antelope found in a wide range of habitats such as riverine, woodlands and other thicketed habitats.  It’s generally solitary or a territorial browser and a close relative of the Nyala but, the bushbuck is rather a large antelope weighing about 45- 80kg.

Female bushbucks have a lighter brown coat however, all sexes have up to 7 white stripes and white spots on the sides. Other white patches are on the ears, chin, tail, legs and neck. The muzzle is also white and horns are found only on the males. They’re mostly spotted in Narus valley.

8. Defassa’s Waterbuck- Kobus Ellipsiprymnus

A Defassa’s waterbuck is large antelope, with a long body, neck and short legs, coarse hair, plus a mane on its neck. Only males have horns. More so, waterbucks have a cream-colored patch (a bib) on the throat. They’ve got a shaggy brown-grey coat that produces a smelly greasy secretion when nervous, thought to repel predators and waterproofing when the animal dives into the water.

Waterbucks mostly dwell in scrubs and savanna areas along valleys, rivers, and lakes, and on your Uganda tour in Kidepo national park, they can be spotted in Narus valley.

9. Hartebeest- Alcelaphus Buselaphus

The hartebeest (Jackson’s hartebeest) is a large fawn-colored antelope weighing about 100-200kg. Its most distinctive features are a steeply sloping back, long legs, elongated face, and oddly-shaped horns. Despite their awkward appearance, they’re graceful even more than other antelopes. They’re also among the fastest, antelopes capable of reaching speeds of up to 70km/h.

Hartebeests usually reach sexual maturity at about 1-2 years of age. They have a  gestation period of about 8-9 months and a lifespan of over 12-15 years. They’re mostly spotted in dry savannas and wooded grasslands. In Kidepo Valley NP, you can spot them in the Narus valley region.

10. Topi- Damaliscus Lunatus Jimela

The topi is a medium-sized antelope with a striking reddish-brown to purplish-red coat. To many, topis are confused with Jackson’s hartebeest but, these two are different. Topis have distinctive black patches on their face, upper forelegs, hips and thighs.

Both sexes have thick-ringed and lyre-shaped horns which are about 30- 40cm long. They’re among the fastest antelopes in Africa. On your safari Uganda tour in Kidepo Valley National Park, topis are spotted within the Narus valley as you’re on a game drive.

11. Greater Kudus- Tragelaphus Strepsiceros

The greater kudu is a woodland antelope found in eastern and southern Africa. It’s one of the 2 species commonly known as kudu, the other being the Lesser kudu. The greater kudus have a narrow body and are one of the tallest antelopes with the largest horns in the bushbuck tribe, averaging 120cm in length.

They’ve got a handsome grey-brown coat, marked by thin white side stripes, and a white tail tipped with a black underside. The males have small dewlap and large spiraling horns, plus a beard that runs along their throats.

During the daytime, greater kudus usually cease to be active and rest under woodlands, especially on hot days. They mostly feed and drink during the early morning hours and afternoon. On your Uganda wildlife safari in Kidepo park, they can be spotted in the beautiful Kidepo valley near Kanangorok hot springs if lucky.

12. Lesser Kudu- Tragelaphus Imberbis

Undeniably, Lesser kudus are among the most striking antelope species in Uganda. They’ve smaller horns than their larger cousins and have striking white patches on the upper and lower parts of the neck. Although both species are bluish-grey, greyish-brown, or rust color, the lesser kudus are smaller and have 5- 6 more lateral white stripes.

Both species have a crest of long hair along the spine however, Lesser kudus have no bearded throat. Facial markings consist of black stripes running from each eye towards the nose, and a white stripe from each eye to the center of the face. It’s only males having horns. In the wild, the Lesser kudus can live for about 10 years and 15 years in captivity.

If lucky, they can be spotted in the Kidepo valley region just near Kanangorok hot springs.

13. Mountain Reedbuck- Redunca Fulvorufula

A mountain reedbuck is small shy antelope (30- 32kg) found in sub-Sahara Africa. It mainly occupies areas with ridges and hillsides in the rocky country and high-altitude grasslands. It has a grey coat with a white underbelly and reddish-brown head and shoulders. Males have ridged horns which curve forwards.

Both sexes have a dark scent patch beneath the ears. In Kidepo national park, it can be spotted around Lumej Hills.

14. Bohor Reedbuck- Redunca Redunca

A bohor reedbuck is a beautiful sturdily built antelope with a yellowish to greyish brown coat (yellower than other reedbuck species). It has white undersides, plus white markings under the tail. Males only have horns that extend backward from the forehead and hook slightly forward.

You can spot them while on a game drive in the Narus valley area.

15. Oribis- Ourebia Ourebi

An Oribi is a small antelope (12- 22kg) possessing a slightly raised back, long neck and limbs. They’ve got a glossy yellowish to rufous-brown coat with a white chin, throat, underparts and rump plus a black large sound glandular patch below each ear.

Only males grow horns which are slender and upright, ridged to about halfway up the ends being smooth and pointed. It can be spotted while on a game drive in Narus valley.

16. Common Warthog- Phacochoerus Africanus

The common warthog is a wild member of the pig family commonly found in savannah and woodlands in sub-Saharan Africa. Warthogs weigh on average over 45- 150kg. They’re identified by their incredible 2 pairs of tusks that protrude out of the mouth, curving upwards. Their tusks are used for fighting other hogs and in defense against predators.

Their head is large, with a mane down the spine to the middle of the back. They’ve sparse hair covering the body, usually black or brown and have a long tail that ends with a tuft of hair. You can spot it in Narus valley.

17. Bushpigs- Potamochoerus Larvatus

The bushpig is a member of the pig family that inhabits forests, woodland, riverine vegetation and cultivated areas. Bushpigs resemble domestic pigs however, they can be identified by their blunt muscular snouts, small eyes, and pointed tufted ears. Boars usually weigh about 60-80kg while sows weigh over 45-70kg.

Their color varies from reddish brown to dark brown. They’ve got a lighter-colored mane which erects when the animal is tense. The upper parts of the face and ears are also lighter in color. Though appearing on the animal checklist of Kidepo Valley National Park, they’re rarely spotted due to their nocturnal habits.

Other Herbivores Animals In Kidepo National Park

These include:

1. Klipspringer
2. Dik-dik
3. Hares
4. Pangolins
5. Squirrels such as the African tree squirrel and the giant squirrel
6. Porcupines for example, the East African crested porcupine
7. Rats such as cane rats, langer cane rats, striped grass mice, harsh-furred rats, unstriped grass mice, common swamp rats, etc.

Primates In Kidepo National Park

Over 5 primate species have been spotted in Kidepo national park and they include the following:

1. Patas Monkey- Erythrocebus Patas

A patas monkey is mainly a ground-dwelling monkey. It can easily be confused with the vervet monkey, however, for it, it has long limbs, a light reddish-brown coat, and a black stripe above the eyes. Assuredly, patas monkeys are the fastest primates on earth running over 55 km/h.

While on your safari in Uganda Kidepo national park, if lucky, patas monkeys can be spotted in the rolling plains of the Narus valley.

2. Olive Baboons- Papio Anubis

Olive baboons are large and heavily built monkeys with sturdy limbs. Baboons have green-grey fur, and their faces look scary due to their doglike pointed muzzles and powerful jaws with long pointed canine teeth. Both sexes weigh about 10-37kg and on average, males have about 24kg and some can go up to 50kg.

Baboons live in groups of about 15- 150 individuals– made up of a few males, many females, and their young ones. Baboons can live in a range of environments and in Kidepo park, they can be spotted in Narus valley.

3. Vervet Monkeys- Chlorocebus Pygerythrus

Vervet monkeys are good-looking monkeys, easily identified by their black faces with a white fringe of hair while their overall hair color is mostly grizzled-grey. Males can easily be recognized by a turquoise-blue scrotum. You can spot them while on nature walks in the montane forests of Lonyili Mountain between Kitgum and the southern border of southern Sudan.

4. Black And White Colobus Monkeys- Colobus

A black and white colobus monkey is species of old-world monkey. It’s an amazing-looking monkey easily identified by its distinctive black body, white facial markings, long white tail, and a white side stripe. They mainly live in groups of about 3-15 individuals.

Amazingly, an adult black and white colobus monkey is capable of jumping up to 30m, an incredible sight with its white tail trailing behind. They can be seen while on nature walks through the montane forests of Lonyili Mountain.

5. Red-Tailed Monkeys- Cercopithecus Ascanius

Red-tailed monkeys have a black or dark-grey bodies however, they’re named after their red tail. These monkeys are easily identified due to their amazing appearance with white cheek whiskers, a coppery tail, and a distinctive white heart-shaped patch on their nose, giving rise to its more vivid alternative name of black-cheeked white-nosed monkey.

They’re social primates living in groups of about 7-30 individuals consisting of one dominant male, females, and their offspring. In Kidepo Valley National Park, they can be spotted while on montane forest walks in Lonyili Mountain.

Reptiles In Kidepo Valley National Park Uganda

Numerous reptile species have been recorded in Kidepo national park however, they’re rarely encountered. These include the following:

1. Pygmy Crocodiles- Osteolaemus Tetraspis

The pygmy crocodile is also called the African dwarf crocodile (dwarf crocodile). It is the smallest living species of crocodile in Uganda, endemic to Kidepo Valley National Park. Its average length is 1.5m and weighs between 18- 32kg.

Adult pygmy crocodiles are all dark above and on their sides, while their underside is yellowish with black patches. If lucky, it can be spotted in the Narus valley area with the guidance of the park ranger.

Other Reptiles In Kidepo National Park

These include:

1. Snakes such as the puff adder, green mambas, black mambas, Gabon viper, spitting cobra, slender green snake, boom slang (tree snake), and file snake.
2. Lizards like the blue-bodied Agama, snake lizard, and common house lizard.
3. Geckos counting the blue-bodied agama black-throated dwarf gecko, and Uganda house gecko.
4. Tortoises for example, soft-shelled turtles, and western-hinged tortoises.
5. Chameleons such as the bright green chameleon, the smaller chameleon, and the pigmy chameleon.
6. Skinks for example the red and black skink, side-striped skink, speckled-lipped skink, grey-black limbless skink, etc.
7. Frogs such as the bullfrog, clawed frog (plat hander), sharp-nosed frog, and tree frog, etc.

Conclusion

Arguably, Kidepo national park has the most diverse savannah fauna of any national park in Uganda. The park is particularly rich in predators, counting lions, leopards, cheetahs, caracals, bat-eared foxes, black-backed and side-striped jackals etc.

Other amazing Kidepo valley national park animals include herds of buffalos, giraffes, antelope species like Jackson’s hartebeest, topis, greater and lesser kudus, elands, Uganda kobs, Bohor reedbuck, oribis, klipspringers plus numerous primate species counting the patas monkey, etc.

Book With Us An Affordable African Safari In Uganda- The Pearl Of Africa And Experience A Remarkable Wildlife Safari In The True Wilderness Of Africa. Please, Feel Free To Email Us With Any Inquiries About Your Uganda Tour.

FAQs About Animals In Kidepo Valley National Park

1. Are there elephants in Kidepo?

Kidepo national park is a paradise for Uganda wildlife safaris as it offers the best sightings of elephants, lions, and leopards, plus over 1,000 buffaloes in the rolling golden plains of Narus valley. It’s the only park in Uganda to spot the cheetahs, caracals, aardwolves, bat-eared foxes, plus greater and lesser kudus.

2. What Animals Are In Kidepo? | Which Animals Are Found In Kidepo National Park?

Kidepo Valley National Park is home to over 77 mammal species including 4 of the African safari big five except rhinos. Other Kidepo Valley National Park animals include zebra herds, Rothschild giraffes, black-backed and side-backed jackals, numerous antelopes like elands, Jackson’s hartebeests, greater and lesser kudus, topis, mountain reedbucks, oribis, etc.

3. How Many Lions Are In Kidepo?

Kidepo national game park is among the national parks in Uganda boasting a healthy population of lions. The park holds over 132 lions total, best spotted in the golden plains of Narus valley.

4. Why Are There No Hippos In Kidepo National Park?

Though Kidepo National park holds a total of over 77 mammal species, it’s the only savannah park in Uganda without hippos. This is probably due to the aridity of the area characterized by high temperatures rising to 40⁰C, unfavorable to the hippo.

The post Wildlife & Animals appeared first on Kidepo Valley National Park Uganda.

The fact that Narus Valley holds the permanent water sources in Kidepo National Park means it’s a habitat for most game animals in this beautiful park. Narus River, a water hole, as well as Narus Dam, are the main water points within Kidepo and these attract many game animals around, including grazers and predators.

Some of the common animal species in Narus Valley include large herds of Zebras, Elephants, Cheetahs, Topis, Elands, Giraffes, Hartebeests, Hyenas, Leopards, Giraffes, and Lions, to mention but a few.

On your visit in Kidepo Narus Valley area, you can enjoy game drives, nature walks, and even bird-watching expeditions since the area holds an array of birds, for instance the black-breasted barbet, Karamoja Apalis, yellow-billed hornbill, Secretary bird, etc.

Tourists on Uganda wildlife tours can explore Kidepo’s Narus Valley any time of the year but, for the best game viewing experience, target the dry months.

Popular Tourist Attractions in Narus Valley

There are many things to see in Narus Valley by visitors on game viewing tours in Kidepo Valley National Park, including most of the African safari Big five animals as well as birds.

Below is a detail of the attractions in Kidepo’s Narus Valley:

1. Game Animals

Since the Narus Valley is rich in both water and food, it is home to a wide variety of game animals. Kidepo safari goers on wildlife tours in Kidepo are likely to see a wide variety of game animals.

The most common animal species spotted in the beautiful golden savannahs dotted with acacia trees include zebras, big herds of Cape Buffalos, elephants, cheetahs, lions, bat-eared foxes, topis, warthogs, Jackson’s hartebeests, and spotted hyenas, to mention but a few.

The best way to spot all the mentioned wildlife is going for a game drive.  In most cases, wild animals are encountered around water sources and lions are usually common in areas with rock outcrops.

2. Bird Species

Narus Valley is the best place for spotting bird species in Kidepo Valley National Park. Within the Kidepo protected area, over 450 bird species have been recorded and this region offers the best bird-watching experience.

Among others, avian lovers in the Narus area will spot species of birds such as African jacana, Kori bustards, secretary bird, Karamoja Apalis, Abyssinian ground hornbill, superb starling, black-breasted barbet, little weaver, singing bush lark, white bellied go away bird, etc. Visitors can spot the black coucal in the rainy season.

3. The Narus River

Animal species in Kidepo Park rely on the River Narus as the main water source point. Unlike the Kidepo River, the Narus River provides water to the park year-round; it doesn’t dry out completely.

This river flows into the park from the northwest and is a tributary of Lake Turkana. In the valley’s ecology, it’s crucial.

This river and its environs are the best places to see wildlife during the dry season during game viewing tours in Kidepo Park, a stunning park in Uganda’s semi-desert region.

Expenses around this river are inhabited by numerous wildlife species such as zebras, cape buffalos, elephants, hyenas, Uganda kob, water bucks, warthogs, Rothschild’s giraffe, elands, oribis, and topis, among others, plus water birds.

4. Morungole Mountain Ranges

This mountain ranges all the way to the South Sudan border and is located at the base of the Narus Valley. Mount Morungole is home to Uganda’s tiniest cultural group, the Ik, who live on its slopes.

A physically fit hiker is required to hike Morungole’s steep trails, but a park ranger provided by the park management will lead you every step of the way on your hike.

As you explore Morungole Mountain, you will be able to see the Manyattas of the IK people and learn about their fascinating traditions & norms as you walk in their local communities.

Tourist Activities in Narus Valley of Kidepo Valley National Park

Within Narus Valley, visitors on Uganda tours in Kidepo Park can enjoy various safari expeditions, and below we have discussed these thrills for you.

i. Game Drives in Narus Valley

Due to the high concentration of game animals in the Narus area, this expanse is the main region for game viewing in Kidepo Park in the Karamoja region.

Safari vehicles can reach most parts of the valley thanks to the many game tracks in the region, allowing visitors to witness a wide variety of wildlife. During the dry season, the majority of animals can be seen drinking from the Narus Dam, especially in the afternoon hours.

On the game drive, spectacular herds of buffalos are commonly spotted around Apoka feeding in golden, rugged savannah. Lions and cheetahs are common around rock-out crops normally nearby Lomej Hills.

Tourists on the Kidepo Valley tour in this valley can do a morning game drive, an afternoon game drive, and even an evening game drive.

Kidepo game drives cost $40 for international tourists in the country of Uganda.

ii. Bird Watching in Narus Valley

The biggest number of birds in Kidepo Valley National Park can be spotted within the Narus game area.

In some areas, visitors are only limited to safari drives but guided game walks are possible in some parts.  Birding expeditions in this valley are mostly done with a local birding guide who holds extensive knowledge about the birds in this protected area.

On your bird checklist for Kidepo, be expected to see: white-billed buffalo, red-billed Oxpecker, Black-breasted barbet, Marsh Tchagra, Singing bush lark, Chanting goshawk, Clapperton’s francolin, Straw-tailed whydahs, Secretary bird, Bateleur, Fan-tailed raven, Meyer’s parrot, Vivacious bird, Yellow-billed hornbill, Pygmy falcon, Silver shrike, Abyssinian ground hornbill, Yellow-billed Shrike, etc.

For a wonderful birding experience in Narus, birders should have binoculars, cameras, and walking boots. If you are to have a whole-day bird-watching adventure, get a packed lunch from your lodge.

The cost of bird watching in Kidepo Narus Valley is $40 for international tourists.

iii.  Enjoy Guided Game Walks

Guided nature walks are possible in Narus Valley of Kidepo Valley National Park. While on this adventure, travelers will enjoy close-up encounters with the amazing fauna and flora in Kidepo park.

This thrilling walk is led by an armed ranger from the Uganda Wildlife Authority so you’ll be safe.

Visitors on the hike have a wonderful opportunity to spot wildlife such as zebras, cape buffalos, elephants, antelopes, Rothschild’s giraffe, bat-eared fox, olive baboons, and beautiful unique bird species. You will also have views of the Narus Valley and even Morungole Mountain.

Hikes to Morungole Mountain offer breathtaking views of the park and even the surrounding areas of this wonderful park holding two valleys.

What to Park for Uganda Safari in Kidepo Valley National Park Narus Valley?

An adventure to explore Narus Valley in Kidepo National Park is part of Uganda wildlife safaris in Kidepo Park, Uganda’s isolated national park. Therefore, this packing list is not different from any other game-viewing thrill in this country.

These very ones can work even on wildlife safaris in Tanzania and Kenya.

Here is what you need for a remarkable wildlife viewing tour in the Kidepo Narus game area:

1. A nice camera for photography
2. Safari hat: this region in country Uganda receives much shine; therefore, a safari hat will be of help to you.
3. Binoculars
4. Insect repellents
5. Safari walking boots
6. Environmentally friendly safari clothes
7. Travel documents
8. Personal toiletries
9. Simple day pack bag
10. Water bottle
11. Sunglasses
12. Personal medications for emergencies

Best Time to Visit Kidepo National Park Narus Valley

From extensive experience in tailoring Uganda wildlife safari tours in various national parks, Narus Valley in Kidepo Park is open to visitors year-round despite the fact that it’s in a semi-desert. However, visitors should note that the dry months offer the best game viewing expeditions.

Being an area with semi-arid conditions in the north-eastern part of Uganda, the dry months in Kidepo run from September to March. Kidepo’s wet season is from April-August and normally during this time, the temperatures are pleasant and the scenery is great for photography.

Other Attractions in Kidepo Park to Explore

These include:

1. Kanangorok Hot Springs: Kanangorok Hot Springs is the only hot spring in Karamoja region.
2. The Karamojong people
3. Namamukweny Valley—the vegetation and animal populations in this area are wonderful.
4. Lonyili Mountain
5. Lomej Hills
6. Apoka Tourism Centre
7. Ostriches. It’s possible to spot ostriches also in Pian Upe Game Reserve.

How to Get to Kidepo Narus Valley?

Kidepo Valley National Park has two main access points (gates). Among these are the Lokumoit gate and the Apoka gate, which are near the park headquarters. The other gates include Lopi, Lotukei, Kalokudu, and Nataruk.

Through all these gates, you can easily access this valley for a game drive in Kidepo Park, a scenic park situated in Uganda’s semi-arid valleys on borders with South Sudan & Kenya.

From Kampala, Uganda’s capital, it is about 628 km by road to this park. If you don’t love long drives, it’s possible to take a chartered flight to this protected area.

Best Lodges in Kidepo National Park for Tourists Exploring Narus Valley

Visitors on Uganda safari tours in northern Uganda—Kidepo Valley NP—have various options for accommodation as they explore the Narus game area. Safari lodges in Kidepo welcome every class of traveler, budget, and even those tourists on luxury Uganda safaris.

The following are the common lodges in Kidepo Park, a lovely park managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority:

1. Apoka Safari Lodge 

Apoka Lodge is a wonderful luxury facility built around a beautiful rock outcrop overlooking Kidepo’s Narus Valley. Its cozy rooms hold canvas walls, thatched roofs, as well as massive outdoor rock tubs ideal for spending a day overlooking the incredible beauty of the park with open tree savannah vegetation featuring Guinea grass & sausage trees.

A massive swimming pool carved from the rock face serves as the showpiece of Apoka, inviting visitors to dive in with yelps and screams of delight.

2. Kidepo Savannah Lodge 

Situated on the edge of Kidepo Park, Kidepo Savannah Lodge is a lovely, comfortable standard facility for travelers. This lodge has the best views of the Narus Valley, Mount Morungole, and the faraway mountain ranges that form the border with South Sudan.

Kidepo Savannah Lodge has 12 beautifully decorated safari tents that are set up on high decks. Each of the large tents has its own private verandah with a view of the vast grassland.

3. Adere Safari Lodges 

Adere Safari Lodge is among the best luxury lodges for tourists on Uganda safaris in Kidepo Park. It features twenty separate chalets, each with a grass-thatched roof and gorgeous furnishings, which are available to visitors, creating an atmosphere of unparalleled luxury.

A king-size bed and a mosquito net are standard in each room. The views from your own balcony have the potential to be quite stunning. For the convenience of business travelers, this lodge features a spa, steam bath, sauna, and a business center.

Other accommodation facilities in Kidepo Park, a beautiful park bordering South Sudan;

4. Apoka Rest Camp
5. Nga Moru Wilderness Camp
6. Kara-Tunga Safari Camp

To summarize, wildlife safari tours in Kidepo Park are incomplete without exploring Narus Valley, the main area to spot wildlife in Kidepo Valley National Park. Within this beautiful area, tourists will enjoy safari drives, game walks, Mountain Morungole hikes, and even bird-watching adventures.

The lovely scenery of this area is incomparable to other national parks in Africa; however, it can be only matched with Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and even Masai Mara in Kenya.

The post Narus Valley in Kidepo Valley National Park appeared first on Kidepo Valley National Park Uganda.

Normally, travelers on Uganda wildlife safaris in Kidepo park explore Kanangorok Hot Spring while on guided nature walks in the Kidepo Valley region. The hot spring is just 11km from the Kidepo River on the South Sudan border. It’s a glorious place to sit and view the mountains and the beautiful savannah plains in the Karamoja area.

Local people believe that the hot spring water in Kanangorok hot springs contains some healing powers or spiritual cleansing! Therefore, expect to find locals bathing within. Within the thickets around this hot spring, visitors can spot Greater kudus, Speckle fronted weavers, Secretary birds, Jackson’s hornbills, and even the Ostriches.

Interesting Facts About Kanangorok Hot Springs in Kidepo Valley National Park

The term “Kanangorok” is a local Karamojong dialect which translates as a place of black stones.

Being the only hot spring in the Karamoja region, the spectacular Kanangorok hot springs is an essential destination worth exploring by tourists on game viewing safaris in Kidepo Park. As it is situated approximately 40km from Apoka Rest Camp, adventures to this geothermal feature provide an opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife species, such as Burchell’s zebras, Elands, Rothschild giraffes, Cheetahs, Cape Buffalos,  Greater kudus, leopards, Hyenas, Lions, and many others.

Science holds Kanangorok hot spring formation! It’s due to geothermal reactions under the Earth crust that heat the underground water. When pressure increases, the heated water is forced up through fissures.

Around Kanangorok hot spring is a traditional and cultural village of natives. These people consider Kanangorok to hold spiritual powers, able to bless, give wealth, and birth to infertile ladies. Therefore, local communities normally offer sacrifices to this magical site to please the spirits.

A Legend About Kanangorok Hot Spring

In the past, the Karamoja region and territories as far as present-day South Sudan were affected by a prolonged drought. At the time, the African traditional king dispatched an adolescent named Longorok to collect water from the Southern ends (Kidepo park) in a traditional gourd.

A heavy cloud of rain formed on his return journey with the water in a gourd, and it was subsequently followed by heavy rainfall. According to legend, upon reaching the location of the Kanangorok hot spring, an unexpected flash of lightning hit. The bright lightning blinded him and Longorok suddenly died (eventually he collapsed to the ground), and the gourd poured out water.

Natives believe that the spectacular Kanangorok hot springs were formed after water mixed with blood flowing from Longorok’s corpse, following his sudden death. To this day, locals from both near and far travel to the Kanangorok hot springs to pay respect to the ancestors or appease the spirits. Some even bathe in the hot springs as it holds the power to cure many body ailments.

Around this hot spring is a foul smell. According to science, this geothermal feature emits some Sulphur compounds.

Best Time to Visit Kanangorok Hot Spring in Kidepo Valley National Park

The Kanangorok hot spring is accessible year-round; however, the dry season, which spans from June to September and December to February, is the preferred time for exploration. During this time, the roadways in Kidepo Valley National Park are less difficult to navigate and are drier, making it easier to access the hot springs.

Also, in the dry season, the views of the magnificent landscapes around with different vegetation zones are remarkable. It’s possible to encounter several wildlife species as you hike to explore the beautiful hot springs just near Kidepo River. Ostriches, & Secretary birds are the notable birds in this region.

Getting to Kanangorok Hot Springs in Kidepo Valley National Park

Getting to Kanangorok Hot Springs in Kidepo Valley National Park is not easy however, the walk through the grassland forest with its thorny acacia trees, bushes, tall grass, and thickets is worth it.

As you hike to explore this glorious place with powers to hill many body ailments, sighting rare wildlife species is common. Kanangorok hot spring is between two hard rocks. It is marked by boiling water that comes up through cracks and out of rock outcrops to the Earth’s surface. The water moves at a speed of about 1 liter per second with a temperature of 500C.

Travelers who come to this beautiful hot springs can see different types of plants and have unique experiences with the natural beauty of Kidepo Valley National Park. Through savannah fields, bushlands and shrubs, and wooded areas, you can get to the Kidepo Valley Borassus palm forests. You can expect to see animals at random, especially Cape buffaloes & Elephants.

Various visitors intending to explore this natural wonder with powers to heal body illnesses and bless people start their journey from Apoka Tourism Center. This adventure can also start from Entebbe International Airport.

Accommodation in Kidepo National Park Near Kanangorok Hot Springs

Visitors on wildlife tours in Kidepo Valley National Park within north eastern Uganda have numerous options for accommodation. From your lodge, our driver guide will pick you up and connect to the Kidepo Valley region where this hot spring is found.

These are the notable lodges in Kidepo Valley National Park to use as you explore Kanangorok Hot Spring;

• Apoka Safari Lodge
• Kidepo Savannah Lodge
• Apoka Rest Camp
• Adere Safari Lodge

Other Attractions in Kidepo Park

Apart from exploring Kanangorok hot spring- a geothermal feature with healing powers, tourists will also explore numerous attractions in this beautiful national park including colorful birds, and game animals to mention but a few.

Here are other interesting things to see in Kidepo Park;

• Game Animals- Kidepo is rich in game animals; This beautiful national park is home to all the big game animals except the Rhino. Other animals include big herds of Zebras, Reedbucks, Topis, Hartebeests, Uganda kobs, Cheetahs, and Hyenas to mention but a few game animals in East Africa. Game drives and game walks are possible.

In Kidepo, night game drives can be done but, a few visitors go for it. The night game drive start at 6:30 or 7 pm.

• Bird Species in Kidepo Valley National Park; Among the many birds to look for include the Common Ostrich, Secretary bird, Karamoja Apalis, Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, Red-and-yellow barbet, etc.
• Kidepo Valley; This is a stunning section in Kidepo park for nature walks on the bed of Kidepo River- which dries up in the dry season. Few game animals dwell in this area but its spectacular beauty is worth exploring.
• Narus Valley; This is the main area for game drives in Kidepo park. The region features sprawling golden savannah plains dotted with various animal species. While on the game drive here, be expectant to encounter Lions, Cape Buffalos, Elephants, Hyenas, Cheetahs, plus an array of bird species.
• Mountain Morungole– home to the Ik People

Some FAQs About Kanangorok Hot Springs

1. Which National Park Has the Most Hot Springs in Uganda?

Most of the national parks in Uganda including Queen Elizabeth National Park don’t have hot springs.  A few of the parks with these geothermal features include Semuliki National Park in western Uganda as well as Kidepo park in eastern Uganda.

2. How Many Springs Are in Uganda?

Uganda features many hot springs but, tourists on Uganda safari tours normally visit; Sempaya hot spring waters, Kitagata Hot spring, and Kibiro hot springs. Among others include Ihimba hot spring, and Rwagimba hot spring. Most of them are believed to hold ancestral healing powers that can cure body ailments.

3. Can You Get in the Springs In Kidepo Park?

There is a point around Kanangorok Hot Spring where locals take a natural sauna. For a great safari experience, some visitors also enjoy this experience. According to science, the mineral component found in the waters of this hot spring near the South Sudan borderline can ill diseases, especially skin ailments.

4. What Is Special About Hot Springs in Kidepo Park?

According to locals, Kanangorok hot spring holds healing powers (spiritual cleansing) therefore, visitors will find natives around bathing to be healed.

In summary, don’t let anyone tell you about the spectacular Kanangorok Hot Springs! It’s very easy to reach this magical site during your Kidepo safari tour in north eastern Uganda. According to the locals, this hot spring holds the power to cure body complaints as well as offer blessings.

The post Kanangorok Hot Springs in Kidepo Valley National Park appeared first on Kidepo Valley National Park Uganda.