VISITE DU PARC

The magnificent Kidepo Park can be explored on four wheels (motorized) or two feet (well-shod). Inveterate walkers will opt for a guided nature walk . Between the short stroll around Apoka, where zebras and antelopes await you, and the ascent of one of the peaks (like Lonyili) punctuating the perimeter of this wildlife sanctuary, it's the hikes on the trails of Kakine, Rionomoe and Katurum, in the south of the park, that attract visitors (count US$20). On these trails, there's a good chance of spotting elephant, giraffe, buffalo and, if you're lucky, lion. If you enjoy being in direct contact with the bush, you can extend the experience by spending the night (25,000 Ush per person) in one of the two rudimentary (sanitary facilities, fireplace...) and guarded UWA camps, at Kakine, whose surroundings are tasted by the big cats, and at Nagusokopire, not far from Savannah Lodge (reservation and payment with UWA staff in Apoka). Apart from birding (US$25), game drives are the other main activity in the park. If you have your own vehicle, you can explore the park at your leisure. However, a trip to Apoka may be a good idea, as UWA offers park maps for sale (35,000 Ush). In addition, hiring a guide (US$20) multiplies your chances of spotting the four-legged beasts. On the other hand, the night game drive (7-10pm) requires the presence of a mahout (US$30/person) and prior registration of your vehicle. The visit to the Kanatarok hot springs, not far from the southern Sudanese border, must also be accompanied by a ranger from the Uganda Wildlife Authority. If you don't have a car, the UWA can provide a vehicle for visitors (US$35/person for the day and US$45/person for the night, not including the optional or compulsory services of a guide), provided that at least three people are in the car. If you're staying in Karenga, you'll have to reach Apoka by boda-boda or, as a last resort, by UWA (100,000 Ush per car). Daytime game drives organized by the Ugandan agency take place at the beginning of the day (6.00-6.30 a.m.) and at the end of the day (4.00 p.m.); they generally last between two and two and a half hours. Last but not least, guests of Apoka Safari Lodge have the option of two game drives, included in the price of the overnight stay, in a private vehicle driven by a friendly and competent guide.