Kidepo Valley National Park, a remote savannah in Uganda’s northeast, is a bird-watching haven for global enthusiasts. With 475 recorded species across its 1,442 square kilometers, this park blends arid plains, river valleys, and rocky outcrops, creating a diverse habitat for resident and migratory birds.
Standouts include the ostrich Uganda’s only population and the massive Kori bustard, alongside the striking Abyssinian ground hornbill and Verreaux’s eagle-owl. The Narus Valley, a year-round water source, teems with waterfowl and raptors, while the Namamukweny Valley offers panoramic spotting of hornbills and bee-eaters. Seasonal migrants, like the European roller, arrive during wet months (March-May and October-November), enhancing the tally.
Guided birding walks (with a ranger) depart from Apoka, exploring trails like the Kidepo River path or Lomej Mountains. Early mornings yield the best sightings, with binoculars and a field guide (Birds of East Africa) recommended. The dry seasons (June-September and December-February) provide clearer views and drier paths, though wet seasons bring lush scenery and additional species.
Reachable by a 12-hour drive from Kampala or a 1.5-hour flight to Kidepo Airstrip, this park pairs birding with lion and zebra sightings. Kidepo’s avian richness and solitude make it an unmissable stop for birders seeking Africa’s wild skies.