Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, located in northeastern Uganda, is the country’s second-largest protected area, encompassing approximately 2,043 square kilometers. Situated within the semi-arid Karamojong sub-region, the reserve offers a unique blend of expansive plains, undisturbed grasslands, and wooded landscapes. Despite being less frequented than other Ugandan parks, Pian Upe provides a rich tapestry of wildlife, cultural heritage, and scenic beauty, making it a hidden gem for intrepid travelers.
Established in 1958 as the Debasien Animal Sanctuary, the area was initially designated for agricultural development, particularly fruit farming near the Greek River. However, the Uganda Game Department opposed this initiative, leading to its preservation as a wildlife reserve. The name “Pian Upe” reflects the region’s cultural dynamics. “Pian” refers to a subgroup of the Karamojong people, indigenous pastoralists known for their cattle-herding traditions. “Upe” denotes a Kalenjin-speaking community, believed to have migrated from Kenya’s Pokot tribe and settled near the reserve in the Amudat district. Interestingly, “Pian” translates to “calm-hearted people,” while “Upe” means “enemy,” collectively interpreted as “friendly enemies.”
Pian Upe’s terrain is predominantly characterized by vast, undisturbed grasslands interspersed with woodlands. The reserve is framed by several prominent mountains, including Mount Kadam (3,063 meters) and Mount Napak (2,538 meters), offering a dramatic backdrop to the savannah plains. Seasonal rivers and the Greek River further enrich the reserve’s ecological diversity.
Major Attractions
Wildlife Diversity: Pian Upe is renowned for hosting species not commonly found elsewhere in Uganda. Notably, it is the only location in the country where the roan antelope resides. Other inhabitants include cheetahs, Uganda kobs, hartebeests, zebras, buffaloes, and primates such as olive baboons and vervet monkeys. Predators like leopards and spotted hyenas also roam the reserve
Avian Population: Bird enthusiasts can delight in over 242 recorded bird species. The reserve is home to ostriches, secretary birds, the great hartlaub’s bustard, and the rare shoebill stork, making it a significant bird-watching destination
Scenic Landscapes: The juxtaposition of open plains, rugged mountains, and meandering rivers creates picturesque vistas ideal for photography and nature appreciation.
Activities in Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve
Game Drives: Embarking on guided game drives allows visitors to traverse the reserve’s diverse habitats, offering opportunities to observe its rich wildlife. Early morning and late afternoon drives are particularly rewarding, as animals are most active during these cooler periods. Sightings may include the elusive cheetah sprinting across the plains or herds of zebras grazing peacefully.
Bird Watching: With its extensive bird list, Pian Upe is a haven for ornithologists. The varied ecosystems support species ranging from the towering ostrich to the elusive shoebill. Equipped with binoculars and guided by experienced birders, visitors can spot and identify numerous avian species.
Nature Walks and Hiking: Guided walks offer an intimate exploration of the reserve’s flora and fauna. Hiking enthusiasts can challenge themselves with ascents of Mount Kadam or Mount Napak, rewarded with panoramic views and encounters with unique plant species. Additionally, the trek to Napedet Cave reveals ancient rock paintings, providing insights into the area’s historical human settlements.
Cultural Encounters: Engaging with the local Karamojong and Upe communities enriches the visitor experience. Participating in traditional dances, understanding pastoral lifestyles, and visiting homesteads (manyattas) offer a deep dive into the cultural fabric of the region.
Mountain Climbing: For adventure seekers, scaling the reserve’s mountains presents both a physical challenge and an opportunity to witness breathtaking landscapes. Mount Kadam, in particular, is favored for its relatively accessible trails and stunning summit views.
Photography: The reserve’s diverse ecosystems, dramatic landscapes, and abundant wildlife provide ample subjects for photographers. Capturing the golden hues of sunrise over the savannah or a cheetah in mid-sprint can be particularly rewarding.
Accessing Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve
Pian Upe is accessible via both road and air:
By Road:
From Kampala: The journey spans approximately 8 to 9 hours. Travelers typically take the Kampala-Mbale-Soroti route, covering about 400 kilometers. From Mbale, it’s an additional 90 kilometers along the Mbale-Nakapiripirit-Moroto road to reach the reserve headquarters.
From Mbale: A direct drive of approximately 4 to 5 hours via the Mbale-Nakapiripirit-Moroto road leads to the reserve
From Moroto: Visitors can access the reserve