Kidepo Valley National Park is in the North Eastern part of Uganda which is semi-arid. Depending on your time of travel, it is necessary to pack light dull decent clothes for the safari and lots of non-alcoholic beverages to keep you hydrated as you marvel at the wilderness. Temperatures here are between 27-40 degrees Celsius. Sunglasses and sun cream are very essential too.
Carry and use an insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquito bites some of which may cause malaria, the number one killer disease on the African continent. Also, check into accommodation facilities with mosquito nets. During evening nature walks, ensure to wear long clothes to protect yourself from insect bites.
Very short dresses and skirts are considered inappropriate in this area full of very traditional people who associate skimpy dressing with lack of morals. It is better to be safe than sorry.
Taking travel photos is okay, however, if it going to include the natives, it is more polite to request for their permission. Keep in mind that they may not understand your language and may respond rudely with actions. Take the photo with them to avoid ambiguity.
Speaking of language barrier, it is advisable to always move with a ranger guide especially in the cultural tours to help with translation of the language spoken there. For game viewing as well, the rangers are very aware of the most recent locations of wildlife and have a lot of meaningful information to share. Follow the instructions that the rangers give you for a comfortable travel experience.
Keep a safe distance from the animals because they are wild, especially when closely approached and when they are sure that you have no escape route. Also, the KIDEPO VALLEY NATIONAL PARK is their home, implying that they have right of way. It is necessary therefore to be patient as they cross trails. Hooting disrupts wildlife and calls for a heavy fine. Driving in the middle of some wildlife species like elephants is a suicide mission.
Keep in a car at all times unless a ranger guides accent to it. Visit the washroom before embarking on the safari to avoid environmental pollution.
Keep the voices down when fascinating over animals as shouting may scare them and or render you to be an enemy of theirs. Also if you feel endangered or charged at by wildlife, stay as calm as you can. Do not attempt to run, wail or turn your back at it. Instead, slowly walk backwards.
Do not leave foodstuffs in the tent because food attracts wildlife. Light fire all through the night because wildlife is scared of fire.
