Pian Upe Game Reserve

Pian Upe Game Reserve: Ultimate Travel Guide to Uganda’s Untamed Wilderness

Located in the northeastern region of Uganda, Pian Upe Game Reserve is one of the country’s best-kept safari secrets. Spanning over 2,043 square kilometers, Pian Upe is Uganda’s second-largest protected area, after Murchison Falls National Park.

Despite its size, Pian Upe remains wild, rugged, and relatively untouched by mass tourism. Here, you can experience vast savannahs, semi-arid plains, and unique wildlife far from the crowds. It’s a destination where raw nature meets authentic adventure.

If you’re seeking a remote safari experience with dramatic landscapes and rare animal sightings, Pian Upe should be at the top of your travel list.

Overview and Background of Pian Upe Game ReserveLocation and Size

Pian Upe Game Reserve is located in the Karamoja sub-region, covering parts of Nakapiripirit, Amudat, and Kween districts. It lies north of Mount Elgon National Park, about 350 kilometers from Kampala, Uganda’s capital.

The reserve stretches between Mount Elgon and the Kidepo Valley region, acting as a crucial wildlife corridor and ecological buffer zone.

History and Conservation Status

Pian Upe was first gazetted as a game reserve in the 1950s. It is currently managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and forms part of the Mount Elgon Conservation Area. In recent years, the reserve has gained attention due to government and NGO efforts to promote tourism and conservation in the Karamoja region.

The name “Pian Upe” comes from two pastoralist tribes:

• Pian: A sub-group of the Karamojong

• Upe: A Kalenjin-speaking group in Amudat

These communities historically grazed cattle in the region and are still active participants in eco-tourism and conservation partnerships.

Ecosystem and Landscape

Pian Upe’s landscape is a blend of:

• Open savannah grasslands

• Acacia woodlands

• Seasonal rivers and swamps

• Volcanic rock formations

• Mountain backdrops from Mount Kadam and Elgon

The area experiences a semi-arid climate, with average temperatures ranging from 25–32°C. The terrain is rugged and remote, which has helped preserve its wilderness character.

How to Get to Pian Upe Game Reserve

Getting to Pian Upe is part of the adventure. While remote, it is accessible via both road and air.

By Air

For a faster option, you can charter a flight:

• Fly from Entebbe International Airport to Amudat Airstrip or Soroti Airstrip.

• From there, it’s a short drive to the reserve.

Charter flights can be arranged through domestic operators like AeroLink Uganda or Eagle Air.

By Road

Most visitors prefer to travel by road, often combining the trip with visits to Mount Elgon National Park, Sipi Falls, or Kidepo Valley National Park.

Common Driving Routes:

• Kampala – Mbale – Nakapiripirit – Pian Upe HQ

• Kampala – Soroti – Pian Upe

• Sipi Falls – Pian Upe (via Chepsikunya or Muyembe)

• Travel time: Approx. 7–8 hours from Kampala

• Vehicle required: A 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended, especially during the rainy season

Top Attractions and Activities in Pian Upe Game Reserve

Pian Upe may be lesser known, but it offers exceptional wildlife viewing, dramatic scenery, and authentic cultural interactions.

1. Wildlife Game Drives

Game drives are the main activity at Pian Upe. The reserve is home to a unique mix of savannah wildlife, including:

• Roan antelopes (only found in a few areas in Uganda)

• Elands

• Hartebeests

• Buffaloes

• Zebras

• Uganda kob

• Giraffes (recently reintroduced)

• Lions and leopards (rare but present)

• Cheetahs (Pian Upe is one of the few places in Uganda where cheetahs roam freely)

You’ll also see rock hyraxes, monitor lizards, and possibly python or cobras in the rocky outcrops.

Game drives are available in the morning and late afternoon. Guides are available through UWA offices or private tour companies.

2. Bird Watching

With over 270 recorded bird species, Pian Upe is a haven for birders. You may spot:

• Secretary birds

• Abyssinian ground hornbill

• Jackson’s hornbill

• African harrier hawk

• Karamoja apalis (a regional endemic species)

• Yellow-necked spurfowl

The open terrain and acacia woodland make bird spotting easy and rewarding, especially during the rainy season.

3. Hikes and Nature Walks

Pian Upe is ideal for hiking and walking safaris. Guided walks take you through:

• River valleys

• Hillsides

• Lava-strewn plains

• Traditional cattle trails

Popular walking routes include climbs near Mount Kadam, offering panoramic views and insights into local geology and flora.

4. Cultural Tours and Village Visits

Meet the Pian and Upe communities, known for their pastoralist traditions, music, and colorful beadwork. Cultural visits include:

• Homestead tours

• Traditional dances

• Storytelling and folklore

• Visits to local craft markets

These interactions not only enhance your safari experience but also contribute to community-based tourism and development.

5. Camping and Stargazing

Due to its remote location, Pian Upe offers some of the clearest night skies in Uganda. Camping under the stars here is peaceful and immersive.

UWA provides basic campsites and facilities at the reserve headquarters, or you can camp with your own gear at designated spots.

Accommodations Near Pian Upe Game Reserve

While accommodation options are limited compared to Uganda’s more commercial parks, several comfortable and scenic options are available.

Where to Stay in and Around Pian Upe

1. Pian Upe UWA Bandas and Campsites

• Managed by Uganda Wildlife Authority

• Located at the reserve HQ

• Basic bandas and campsites

• Shared bathrooms and kitchen areas

• Affordable and close to main attractions

2. Karamoja Overland Camp (Nakapiripirit)

• About 1 hour from Pian Upe HQ

• Offers tents, cottages, and camping space

• On-site restaurant and bar

• Great for groups and overland tours

3. Sipi River Lodge (Sipi Falls)

• Ideal for those combining Pian Upe with Sipi Falls

• Luxury cottages and budget bandas

• Excellent food and mountain views

4. Mount Moroto Hotel (for travelers coming from Moroto side)

• Clean, mid-range hotel with restaurant

• Ideal overnight stop for travelers en route to or from Kidepo

Best Time to Visit Pian Upe Game Reserve

Dry Season (Best Time)

• December to March

• June to August

This is the ideal time for wildlife viewing, as animals gather near water sources and vegetation is sparse.

Rainy Season

• April to May

• September to November

Birdwatching is excellent, and the scenery becomes lush. However, roads may be difficult to navigate without a 4×4.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Pian Upe safe for tourists?

Yes. Pian Upe is considered safe, with regular patrols by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. However, always travel with a guide and check for updates before your trip.

Can I see cheetahs in Pian Upe?

Yes, though sightings are rare and require patience. Cheetahs roam the open plains, and early morning game drives increase your chances.

Are guided tours available?

Yes. You can book guided game drives, birding tours, and hikes through UWA or local tour operators. Most camps also assist with bookings.

What should I pack?

• Light, breathable clothing (neutral colors)

• Sun hat and sunglasses

• Insect repellent and sunscreen

• Reusable water bottle

• Camera and binoculars

• Sturdy hiking boots

• Rain jacket (for unexpected showers)

Are there washrooms or restaurants in the reserve?

Basic facilities are available at the UWA HQ, including restrooms and cooking areas. However, amenities are limited, so bring snacks and water.

What are the entrance fees?

• Foreign non-residents: $35 per adult per day

• Residents: $25 per day

• Children: 50% of adult rates

Fees support conservation and community development initiatives.

Why Pian Upe Should Be on Your Safari Itinerary

Pian Upe Game Reserve is one of the last true wilderness areas in Uganda. With its sweeping savannahs, rare wildlife, and rugged beauty, it offers a raw and authentic safari experience—far removed from crowds and commercialization.

Whether you’re tracking cheetahs, stargazing under clear skies, or learning about the vibrant cultures of Karamoja, Pian Upe delivers a unique and soulful adventure.

So if you’re ready to explore a hidden gem in East Africa, pack your bags and head north—Pian Upe is calling.