Kidepo’s Kanangorok hot springs
Kidepo’s Kanangorok hot springs : These are generally nestled between hard rocks where water boils underneath the earth crust. They later leak through vents and then come forth from outcrops onto the surface. As a result, their extra-ordinary features shape the park’s outstanding beauty. These hot springs reach the earth surface blowing temperatures beyond 50°celcius and the water flowing at 1 liter per second.
With regards to adventure in Kidepo Valley National Park, most tourists to this unique park will confess about the fauna this place. However, on the grounds, and through the streams of the park, are the kanangorok hot springs. In fact, this hot mineral-water continues to be a fairy tale to all those who have not visited the park. To a number of tourists and adventures travelling into Uganda, the puzzle of kanangorok hot springs remains an unsolved mystery due to its unique features that form its exceptional attractiveness.
The Kanangorok myth
According to the local legend, longtime ago, a long drought hit the Karamoja region and territories beyond into the current south Sudan. The traditional king by that time assigned a youth by names of Longorok to fetch water in the traditional gourd from kochetut to Lotukei village, perhaps Kidepo valley. This was meant to appease the gods to let the rains pour in south Sudan after a long period of drought. However, on the way back with water in the gourd, heavy clouds of rain gathered and it started raining heavily. Upon Longorok reaching the exact spot of the hot springs, a very bright lightning struck blinding his eyes.
More interesting facts
As a result, he fell down and water in the gourd poured leading to his abrupt death. It is therefore believed that his blood and water mixed and then begun boiling and coming out of the rock which was later named Kanangorok. In conclusion, the local legend has it that the hot springs were named after Longorok. Besides, there are breathtaking views of panoramic streams, hills and valleys and serene green vegetation as you approach the springs. In addition, the hot springs also attract tourists, drawing many to experience the phenomenon of this hot spring
Are they healing springs?
Upon reaching here, you will be able to clearly see what is believed to be healing hot springs. The water from these springs is also considered to have healing powers. In fact, you may occasionally find some local people bathing around this place as a form of “healing” and “spiritual cleansing”. To the indigenous communities, the hot spring is a sacred place, a residence of ancestors as well as the spirits. In addition, the people visit the hot springs to offer sacrifices, seek for blessings, pay homage and bathe in hot springs water for self-medication to cure body ailments.
How to get there
Getting to Kidepo using road transport, one will need a good 4×4 vehicle especially during the rainy season. There are a number of routes by road i.e Kampala via Lira; kotido, kaabong and then to Kidepo. From Kampala via Mbale, Soroti, Moroto, Kotido, Kaabong, and then Kidepo. From Kampala through Gulu, Kitgum then head to Kidepo. By air, may be arranged from Kajjansi airstrip or Entebbe international airport to Lomej airstrip near the park headquarters.
