Kidepo Valley National Park, national park in Uganda
Kidepo Valley National Park is a large protected area in northeastern Uganda with vast plains, gentle hills, and deep valleys surrounded by mountains. The terrain ranges from about 3,000 feet (900 meters) to over 9,000 feet (2,750 meters) in elevation and supports hundreds of animal and bird species.
The reserve was established in the late 1950s as a game reserve to protect wildlife threatened by hunting and farming activities. It was later elevated to national park status and has served as a sanctuary for numerous species ever since.
The Ik people inhabit the mountain regions and maintain traditional ways of life that visitors can experience by visiting their villages. These encounters reveal daily customs and practices of a community that has inhabited this land for generations.
Visiting is best during the dry seasons from December to March and July to August, when animals gather at water sources and are easier to observe. Travelers can join guided safaris and walks led by experienced rangers to ensure safety and optimal wildlife viewing opportunities.
The park is home to animal species rarely or never found in other protected areas of Uganda, such as African wild dogs and striped hyenas. These specialized predators have adapted to the park's rugged terrain and offer unique viewing opportunities for visitors.
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