Narus Valley Game Drive in Kidepo: Lions, Elephants and Dry-Season Waterholes
Kidepo's best game-viewing area.
The Narus Valley is the wildlife heart of Kidepo. In the dry season, water remains in the valley, so large herds of buffalo and elephants gather. Lions follow, and cheetahs are sometimes seen.
Game drives start from Apoka; see Kidepo Valley and game drives in Uganda.
This guide is part of our Uganda park trails and activities guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.
At a glance
- Area: Narus Valley
- Highlights: Buffalo, lions, elephants
- Best time: Dry season
- Start: Apoka
What You See
Wide views of mountains, buffalo herds and predators.
Plan It
Add it to your trip: tell us your dates and we will arrange guides, permits and transport.
Game Drive in the Narus Valley
The Narus Valley is the best-known wildlife area in Kidepo Valley National Park. A river runs through the valley, and in the dry season the pools that remain draw buffalo, elephants, zebras, hartebeest, giraffes and lions. Many animals found here, such as cheetahs, Jackson's hartebeest and the greater kudu, are rare elsewhere in Uganda.
Game drives are usually done in the early morning and late afternoon.
Tips for the Drive
Plan at least two nights in Kidepo, since the park is remote. The best months are December to March when the valley is dry and animals gather at water. Carry a hat, sunscreen and binoculars. Read about Kanangorok Hot Springs and the Ik people for other experiences nearby.
See our Kidepo savannah safari for an example itinerary.
Related Tours, Guides and Resources
- Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
- Uganda safari packages
- Uganda travel guide
- How to book a Uganda safari
- Plan your safari with our team
Itineraries That Include This Experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Uganda Safari Pages
- Kidepo Valley National Park: Uganda's Remote Wilderness
- Game Drives in Uganda: Best Parks, Times and Tips
- Kanangorok Hot Springs in Kidepo: A Remote Hot Spring on the Sudan Border
- Sasa Trail on Mount Elgon: The Steepest Route to Wagagai
- Sipi Trail on Mount Elgon: The Gentle Route Through Waterfalls and Villages
- Uganda Park Trails and Activities: Sector, Trail and Site Guides
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