Kidepo's Ultimate Wilderness & Cultural Expedition: A 6-Day Safari Adventure

SAFARI HIGHLIGHTS

• Exceptional Game Drives: Track the unique wildlife of the Narus and Kidepo Valleys, including endemic species like the Cheetah, Greater Kudu, and Ostrich, alongside Lions, Elephants, and massive herds of Buffalo.
• Profound Cultural Immersion: Spend time with the semi-nomadic Karamojong in their traditional Manyattas and embark on a rewarding trek to meet the elusive Ik people, the 'Mountain People' on the slopes of Mount Morungole.
• The Ultimate Hike: Conquer the slopes of Mount Morungole (2,749m), enjoying what is arguably the most scenic and culturally rich hike in Uganda.
• Wilderness Walking Safari: Get up close with nature on a guided walking safari, tracking footprints and observing small wildlife movements at ground level.
• Scenic Road Journey: An adventurous road transfer through rural Uganda and the spectacular, rugged landscapes of the Karamoja region.

SAFARI  ITINERARY

Day 1: The Great North Road Adventure: Entebbe to Kidepo Valley National Park

• Travel time: $\sim$13 hours | Meals: Lunch en route, Dinner at lodge

The adventure begins with an early pick-up from your hotel in Entebbe at 06:30 AM. After an early breakfast, you will embark on the long, scenic drive North. The journey takes you via Luwero, Gulu, Kitgum, and Kaabong, offering a fascinating glimpse into rural Ugandan life and changing landscapes. At 01:00 PM, you'll take a lunch break in Gulu or Kitgum town. You'll then continue your drive toward Kidepo Valley National Park at 03:00 PM, passing through the vast, semi-arid plains and dramatic mountains of the Karamoja region—the true essence of East Africa. Expect to arrive and check-in at your selected lodge near Apoka at around  7:30 PM. Dinner will be followed by a detailed evening briefing with your guide on park rules, hiking safety (for Day 4), and the cultural nuances of the days ahead.

Day 2: Predator Pursuit in Narus Valley & Karamojong Cultural Visit

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A quick wake-up call and early morning tea/coffee at 06:00 AM prepares you for the highlight of Kidepo. From 06:30 AM to 09:30 AM, you will embark on the Early Morning Game Drive in Narus Valley. This valley's permanent water makes it the park's wildlife hub. It is the prime time to spot predators like Lions on the prowl and the rare Cheetah. You'll also encounter massive herds of Buffalo (some numbering over a thousand), Elephants, Zebras, and Rothschild's Giraffes. You will return to the lodge at 10:00 AM for a hearty full breakfast. Lunch and a chance to rest or enjoy the lodge amenities will be from 12:30 PM. The afternoon, from 02:30 PM to 05:00 PM, is dedicated to a Karamojong Manyatta (village) Visit. You'll engage with Uganda's last semi-nomadic tribe, touring traditional homesteads, viewing cattle enclosures, and enjoying storytelling and captivating traditional dances. You will return to the lodge by 05:30 PM for dinner and overnight.

Day 3: Kidepo Valley's Remote Beauty, Hot Springs & Endemics

• Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast at 07:00 AM, you'll depart at 08:00 AM for a Full-Day Game Drive to the remote Kidepo Valley region, driving deeper into the untouched wilderness. This area offers a different habitat and is where you search for unique endemics. You will drive along the usually dry Kidepo River bed, famous for its borassus palms and birdlife. Keep an eye out for the elusive Greater Kudu, Jackals, and the iconic, free-roaming Ostrich. Mid-day will be spent at the Kanangorok Hot Springs near the South Sudan border, where you will enjoy a scenic picnic lunch (Packed Lunch) in the wilderness. There is an option for a short walk along the dry riverbed before returning to the lodge by 05:00 PM for dinner and relaxation.

Day 4: The Mountain People Trek: Mount Morungole Hike & Ik Community Visit

• Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner | Activity Duration: 6–8 hours total

An early wake-up and breakfast at 05:30 AM prepares you for the day’s ultimate adventure. At 06:30 AM, you drive to the Mount Morungole base (about 45 min – 1 hr drive). The guided hike up Mount Morungole (2,749m) begins at 07:30 AM. This 6-8 hour activity is challenging, involving steep terrain, but it is one of Uganda’s most culturally rewarding hikes. Led by an armed ranger and an Ik community guide, you will visit the remote Ik villages and learn about their unique language, history, and ancient traditions. The climb offers truly epic, breathtaking views of the vast park and the Karamoja plains. A packed lunch will be enjoyed on the mountain. You will descend and drive back to the lodge by 03:00 PM. The evening is at leisure to recover from the strenuous but unforgettable hike, followed by dinner and overnight.

Day 5: Tracking on Foot & Final Sunset Game Drive

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Start the day with an intimate experience: a Guided Walking Safari in Narus Valley from 06:30 AM to 08:00 AM. Accompanied by an armed ranger, you'll track animal footprints, learn about local plants, and enjoy close-up nature observation, perfect for birdwatching. You will return to the lodge at 09:00 AM for a full breakfast. The late morning from 10:30 AM to 01:00 PM is for rest or optional birding around the lodge grounds. Lunch is served at 01:00 PM. The afternoon is capped off with a Final Sunset Game Drive from 04:00 PM to 06:30 PM. This is a last opportunity to capture golden-hour photos and look for nocturnal animals beginning to stir, such as Hyenas and Jackals, before returning for a special Farewell Dinner and overnight stay at 07:30 PM.

Day 6: Kidepo → Entebbe (Return by Road)

• Travel Time: 13 hours | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch en route

Your incredible Kidepo adventure concludes with a final early breakfast and check-out at 06:00 AM, starting the long drive back toward Entebbe. A lunch stop will be made in Kitgum or Gulu at 12:30 PM. You will continue south via Luweero at 03:00 PM, arriving in Entebbe between 06:30 PM and 07:00 PM for drop-off at your hotel or the airport.

End of Tour.

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Your choice of lodge enhances your Kidepo experience. We offer three categories to suit your preference:

INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS

INCLUSIONS:

• Accommodation: 5 nights' accommodation as per the chosen category (Luxury, Mid-Range, or Budget).
• Meals: All meals as specified in the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Packed Lunch, Dinner).
• Park Fees: Kidepo Valley National Park entrance fees for all 5 days within the park.
• Activities: All scheduled activities, including Game Drives, Karamojong Cultural Visit, Guided Walking Safari, and the Mount Morungole Hike (including UWA ranger, community guide fees, and security).
• Transportation: All road transfers in a comfortable 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for optimal game viewing.
• Guide: Services of a professional, experienced, English-speaking safari driver/guide.
• Water: Complimentary bottled drinking water during transfers and game drives.

EXCLUSIONS:

• Flights: International flights to/from Entebbe International Airport (EBB).
• Visa: Uganda tourist visa fees.
• Gratuities: Tips for the guide, lodge staff, and local community guides/rangers (highly recommended).
• Personal Expenses: Laundry, phone calls, souvenirs, travel insurance, and alcoholic/premium beverages.
• Optional Activities: Any activities not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary.
• Accommodation in Entebbe: Pre- and post-safari accommodation in Entebbe/Kampala.

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