Located in the northeastern corner of Uganda, Kidepo Valley National Park is one of the country’s most remote and ruggedly beautiful wilderness areas. Known for its dramatic landscapes of vast savannahs, rugged mountains, and deep valleys, Kidepo is a true haven for wildlife enthusiasts seeking an off-the-beaten-path safari experience. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including the Big Five (lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceros), but also lesser-seen species like cheetahs, jackals, and giraffes. Kidepo offers the rare opportunity to witness wildlife in its rawest and most untouched state, where visitors can engage in thrilling game drives, nature walks, and cultural interactions with the local Karamojong people.
In addition to Kidepo, a visit to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, located closer to Kampala, offers a chance to observe white rhinos up close in their natural habitat. This sanctuary plays a vital role in rhino conservation in Uganda, providing a sanctuary for these majestic creatures that have been reintroduced into the country after being extinct in the wild for several decades.
This 3-day itinerary combines the remote adventure of Kidepo Valley with the wildlife conservation experience at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, providing a well-rounded wildlife experience in Uganda.
Destination | Rhino Sactuary |
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Depature | Yes Required |
Departure Time | 08.00AM |
Return Time | After 2 days |
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Excluded |
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Morning:
7:00 AM – Departure from Kampala
Begin your journey from Kampala to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, located about 2.5 to 3 hours north of Kampala, through Uganda's scenic rural countryside.
10:30 AM – Arrival at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Upon arrival, check-in and begin your rhino tracking experience. Ziwa is home to Uganda's only population of white rhinos, which were reintroduced to the country after being extinct in the wild. With a guide, walk through the sanctuary to spot these incredible creatures in their natural environment. Learn about the sanctuary’s efforts in rhino conservation and Uganda’s plans for expanding rhino populations.
Afternoon:
12:30 PM – Lunch at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Enjoy a light lunch at the sanctuary, taking in the peaceful surroundings of the sanctuary.
2:00 PM – Depart for Kidepo Valley National Park
After lunch, continue your journey toward Kidepo Valley National Park, a drive that will take about 5-6 hours. The landscape begins to change dramatically as you approach the park, with vast savannah plains and distant mountain ranges. The journey offers stunning views of Uganda’s remote northeastern terrain.
Evening:
Morning:
6:00 AM – Early Morning Game Drive
After an early breakfast, head out for a morning game drive through Kidepo Valley National Park. The park is renowned for its large herds of buffaloes, elephants, and prides of lions, which roam freely across the savannah. You may also encounter cheetahs, leopards, and the elusive bat-eared foxes. The dramatic backdrop of the Narus Valley and the Kidepo River make this experience especially picturesque.
9:00 AM – Return to Lodge for Brunch
After a few hours of thrilling game viewing, return to your lodge for brunch. Enjoy the stunning views of the park and relax for a short break.
Afternoon:
12:30 PM – Visit the Karamojong Village
After brunch, take a cultural tour to a nearby Karamojong village, an indigenous pastoralist community known for their unique traditions and vibrant culture. Engage with the Karamojong people, learn about their lifestyle, traditional dances, and customs, and discover their relationship with the land and wildlife around them.
3:00 PM – Afternoon Game Drive
After the village visit, head out for another afternoon game drive. The wildlife here is abundant, with regular sightings of giraffes, zebras, waterbucks, and oribi. The park’s remote nature makes it less crowded, providing a tranquil safari experience.
Evening:
Morning:
6:00 AM – Morning Nature Walk or Game Drive
On your final morning in Kidepo, opt for a nature walk with a local guide or enjoy one last game drive through the park. The early morning hours are ideal for spotting wildlife as the animals are most active before the heat of the day sets in. You might spot the rare pallid harrier or witness a predator’s hunt.
9:00 AM – Breakfast and Check-out
Return to your lodge for breakfast before checking out and preparing for the return journey.
Late Morning:
Evening:
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