Kanagorok Hot Springs

Imagine soaking in a natural hot spring, surrounded by the stunning scenery of Uganda's Kidepo Valley National Park. You feel the warmth of the water, the breeze of the air, and the peace of the wilderness. You watch the wildlife roaming freely in the distance, and you marvel at the beauty of nature. This is not a fantasy, but a reality that awaits you at Kanagorok Hot Springs, one of the most unique and fascinating attractions in Uganda.

What are Kanagorok Hot Springs?

Kanagorok Hot Springs are a set of geothermal springs that emerge from the ground near the border between Uganda and South Sudan. The name Kanagorok means "the place of black stones" in the local Karamojong language, referring to the dark rocks that surround the springs. The springs are located in the northern part of Kidepo Valley National Park, about 40 kilometers from the park headquarters at Apoka. The park is one of the most remote and least visited in Uganda, but also one of the most diverse and spectacular, with over 80 mammal species, 500 bird species, and 600 plant species.

The springs are formed by the underground heating of water by the earth's crust, which then rises to the surface through cracks and fissures. The water temperature at the springs can reach up to 50 degrees Celsius, and the water flow is about one liter per second. The water is rich in minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, and sulfur, which give it a distinctive smell and color. The locals believe that the water has healing properties, and some people bathe in the springs to cure various ailments or to perform spiritual rituals.

How do I visit Kanagorok Hot Springs?

To visit Kanagorok Hot Springs, you need to have a valid entry permit to Kidepo Valley National Park, which costs 40,000 Ugandan shillings (about 11 USD) per person per day for foreign non-residents and 20,000 shillings (about 5.5 USD) for foreign residents and East African citizens. You also need to pay a vehicle fee of 30,000 shillings (about 8 USD) per day. You can buy the permit at the park gate or online through the Uganda Wildlife Authority website.

The best way to reach the springs is by driving from Apoka, which takes about one and a half hours on a rough dirt road. You will need a 4x4 vehicle and a guide, as the road is not well marked and there are no signs. You can hire a vehicle and a guide from the park or from one of the lodges in the area. Alternatively, you can join a guided tour from Kampala or other nearby towns, which usually includes transportation, accommodation, and other activities in the park.

The springs are open all year round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season, from September to March, when the weather is sunny and the wildlife is more visible. The wet season, from April to August, can be rainy and muddy, and the road conditions can be worse. However, the wet season also has its advantages, such as greener landscapes, more birds, and fewer tourists.

What to Do at Kanagorok Hot Springs?

The main attraction at Kanagorok Hot Springs is, of course, the springs themselves. You can walk around the springs, admire the scenery, and take photos. You can also dip your feet or hands in the water, but be careful not to burn yourself, as the water is very hot. You can also bring a picnic and enjoy a relaxing meal by the springs, but make sure to clean up after yourself and not litter.

If you are feeling adventurous, you can also try bathing in the springs, but only with the permission and guidance of the local community. The springs are considered sacred by the Karamojong people, who live in the area and use them for various purposes. You should respect their culture and traditions, and follow their rules and regulations. You should also wear appropriate clothing, such as a swimsuit or a sarong, and not expose too much skin. You should also avoid using soap or shampoo in the water, as they can pollute the springs and harm the environment.

Besides the springs, there are also other things to do and see in the vicinity. You can go for a game drive or a safari walk in the park and spot some of the amazing wildlife, such as elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, antelopes, and many more. You can also go on a birdwatching tour and see some of the rare and endemic birds, such as the ostrich, the kori bustard, the secretary bird, and the Abyssinian roller. You can also visit some of the local villages and learn about the culture and lifestyle of the Karamojong people, who are known for their pastoralism, nomadism, and warrior traditions.

Why visit Kanagorok Hot Springs?

Kanagorok Hot Springs are a hidden gem in Uganda's Kidepo Valley and a must-see for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and culture. They offer a unique and unforgettable experience that combines the thrill of exploring a remote and wild place, the pleasure of relaxing in a natural spa, and the opportunity to learn about a different and fascinating culture. They are also a great way to support the conservation and development of the park and the community, as the fees and tips you pay help to fund the protection and management of the wildlife and the environment, as well as the improvement of the livelihoods and welfare of the people. By visiting Kanagorok Hot Springs, you are not only having a great time but also making a positive impact.