Kidepo Valley National Park is embedded within the East African Rift system, a major continental rift where the African Plate is splitting into the Somali and Nubian Plates. This tectonic evolution, dating back to around 25 million years ago, has profoundly shaped the park’s landscape, creating unique valleys and mountain ranges. These geological changes have influenced the park’s climate and water systems, fostering diverse habitats. This, in turn, supports a wide variety of wildlife, including rare species like cheetahs and ostriches, and contributes to the park’s distinct biodiversity and ecological significance in the region.
Kidepo Valley National Park is also notable for its extensive herds of buffalo that roam its grasslands, providing an exceptional spectacle for visitors. Elephant sightings are also a frequent occurrence, adding to the richness of the wildlife experience in this remote setting. Additionally, the park is one of the national parks in Uganda where lions are regularly observed, giving visitors the opportunity to witness these majestic predators in their natural habitat.