Overview
This 4 Days Kidepo Valley Fly-In Safari is perfect for those short on time but eager to explore one of Uganda’s most remote and stunning national parks. Instead of a long drive from Kampala, you’ll take a quick 2-hour flight from Entebbe to Kidepo Valley National Park, giving you more time to experience the park’s unique beauty and wildlife. You’ll stay at the luxurious Apoka Safari Lodge, where you can relax and enjoy the breathtaking surroundings. Over the next few days, you’ll embark on exciting game drives through the Narus and Kidepo Valleys, with the chance to see elephants, buffaloes, lions, and more. You’ll also visit the Karamajong people and, if you choose, the Ik tribe, learning about their fascinating cultures. Your adventure ends with a return flight to Entebbe, making this safari a seamless and unforgettable experience.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival and Fly to Kidepo Valley National Park
Your adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel or guesthouse in Entebbe or Kampala. From there, you’ll head to Entebbe International Airport to catch a flight to Kidepo Valley National Park. The flight takes about two hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenic views of Uganda from above. You might even snap some great aerial photos during the journey.
Once you land at Kidepo Valley Airstrip, a representative will greet you and take you to Apoka Safari Lodge, your home for the next few days. After a delicious lunch, you can relax in your room or take a refreshing dip in the large swimming pool.
In the late afternoon, you’ll head out for your first game drive in Kidepo Valley. Keep your eyes peeled for buffaloes, elephants, hippos, and various antelopes. If you’re lucky, you might even spot lions or leopards. After the game drive, you’ll return to the lodge for dinner and a good night’s rest.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Lodging: Apoka Safari Lodge
Flight Time: Approximately 2 hours
Day 2
Morning Game Drive and Visit to Karamajong Manyatas
Start your day early with a cup of tea before heading back to Narus Valley for a morning game drive. You might see some of the same animals as the day before, but you could also spot cheetahs if you’re fortunate. The wide-open spaces and stunning scenery of Kidepo make every game drive a unique experience.
After the game drive, you’ll return to Apoka Safari Lodge for lunch and some relaxation. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Karamajong people, who are known for their cattle-keeping culture. You’ll visit their traditional homesteads, called Manyatas, where they will welcome you with dances and stories about their way of life. After this cultural experience, you’ll return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Lodging: Apoka Safari Lodge
Day 3
Explore Narus Valley or Visit the Ik People
After breakfast, you’ll head out on another game drive through Narus Valley on your way to Kidepo Valley. This area is a haven for bird lovers, with the chance to see many species, including the endangered ostrich. You’ll also visit the hot springs, where your guide will share the cultural significance of these natural wonders to the local people. If time allows, you might also get to see the Uganda-South Sudan border before returning to the lodge for lunch.
In the afternoon, you have the option to visit the Ik people, one of the most remote and unique tribes in Uganda. They live high in the mountains and have a rich cultural heritage. This visit offers a rare opportunity to learn about their way of life.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Lodging: Apoka Safari Lodge
Day 4
Return to Entebbe
On the last day of your safari, you’ll have breakfast before being driven to the Kidepo Valley Airstrip for your return flight to Entebbe. From there, you can connect to your international flight home, marking the end of your memorable 4-day Kidepo Valley Fly-in Safari.
Meals: Breakfast