Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve

Things to do in Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve

Game Drives

The guided game drives across the expansive plains of Pian Upe offer encounters with some of Africa’s rarest wildlife. From the elusive cheetah and ostrich to the majestic Roan antelope—found nowhere else in Uganda—this reserve offers a unique opportunity to witness nature at its finest. Other wildlife species include Hyenas, Leopards, Giraffes, Zebras, Gunther’s Dik Dik,  Common Duiker, Mountain Reedbuck, Blue Duiker, Lions, Aardvarks,and a variety of Antelopes. Primate include patas and velvet monkeys, as well as olive baboons. 

Birdwatching Paradise

Pian Upe is a birdwatcher’s paradise boasting over 240 species of birds. The giant ostrich, with its impressive size and grace, reigns supreme in this reserve. The open plains provide the perfect environment for these birds to thrive, offering birders an unparalleled experience. Among the many species,look out for the endemic Karamoja Apalis, white-headed buffalo weaver, and Jackson’s hornbill. The Cheposukunya hot springs are particularly favored by birders seeking to discover even more bird species. 

Mountain and Rock Climbing

The reserve’s dramatic landscape is characterized by rolling plains, rugged rocks, and towering mountains. Adventurers can challenge themselves with a climb up Mount Kadam or explore the reserve’s numerous large rocks.  Mt. Kadam is the second highest and volcanic mountain of the Karamoja region with the highest peak at 3,063 metres. This hikes to Mt. Kadam range from 2 days and 3 days if you are to reach the summit. The trail passes through dense forests, bamboo groves, and rocky terrain. Visitors can camp at designated campsites along the way, offering a chance to immerse themselves in the wilderness and enjoy the sounds of the night. 

Nature Walks

Experience the raw beauty of Pian Upe on a guided nature walk. As you traverse this pristine wilderness, you will get an up close encounter with wildlife, including primates like vervet monkeys patas monkeys and olive baboons, birds. Furthermore look out for different bird species and reptiles along the trails. 

Cultural Encounters

 Engage with the local communities and learn about their unique way of life. The Upe are a Kalenjin-speaking people and are also known as the Pokot in Kenya. The Pian are a sub-group of the Karamojong. Both these tribes are pastoralists. During a guided community walk, you’ll gain insights into their daily routines, traditional customs and vibrant dances. 

Cave Exploration

Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve is great for Cave Exploration.  The Napendio cave, revered by locals, houses ancient rock paintings that depict scenes of wild animals and the early human inhabitants of the area. Nearby, the Napedet cave provides a glimpse into the past with its cooking stones dating back decades ago. The cave’s walls are adorned with art featuring elands, warthogs, and giraffes, and the view from the cave is simply breathtaking.

When to Visit Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve

Pian Upe experiences two distinct dry seasons and one rainy season. The ideal time to visit is from January to March, when the dry conditions make it easier to spot wildlife congregating around water sources. The months of November and December also offer good conditions, with the landscape still lush from the rains but without the intense heat. The rainy season from April to October, however, can make the roads challenging to navigate, and wildlife becomes more dispersed.

Where to Stay in Pian Upe

Accommodations within Pian Upe are designed to immerse you in the wilderness. The Uganda Wildlife Authority offers affordable self-contained tents and cottages that provide basic comfort while keeping you close to nature. For a more immersive experience, consider staying at the Karamoja Overland Camp, that is mid range and has ensuite tents where you’ll be surrounded by the region’s rugged beauty.

Getting Ready for Your Pian Upe Safari

Prepare for your adventure with a few essentials:

• Clothing: Pack both warm clothing for the cool nights and light attire for the hot days. The temperatures can vary greatly, so it’s important to be prepared for both extremes.
• Insect Repellent: Protect yourself from insects, some of which can have painful stings, by bringing a good insect repellent.
• Hat and Hiking Shoes: A wide-brimmed hat will shield you from the sun, while sturdy hiking shoes will help you navigate the rocky terrain safely.
• Gadgets: Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife, as well as any necessary chargers and extra batteries to stay connected during your trip.

How to get to Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve