Pian Upe Game Reserve is one of the largest wildlife conservation areas in Uganda. It is located in the Karamoja region in the northeastern part of Uganda. The reserve covers an area of about 2,788 square kilometers and is found between Kidepo National park and Mount Elgon National Park. Pian Upe is bordered by the Bokora Wildlife Reserve and Matheniko game reserve in different directions. Unlike Matheniko and Bokora, Pian Upe game reserve is part of the Mount Elgon Conservation Area.
The region now known as Pian Upe was once a battleground between the Karamojong people of Uganda and the Pokot from Kenya, primarily due to cattle rustling. In 1958, the southern section was designated as the Debasien Animal Sanctuary. However, agricultural expansion threatened its boundaries, leading to its re designation as Pian Upe Game Reserve in 1964. Despite proposals to convert parts of the reserve for farming in 2003, conservation efforts prevailed, and the reserve remains intact. Recent initiatives aim to upgrade Pian Upe to National Park status, with plans to restock wildlife and enhance tourism infrastructure.
Biodiversity and Wildlife
Pian Upe boasts over 163 mammal species and 525 recorded bird species, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Historically, the reserve was home to elephants, black rhinos, and giraffes, but poaching led to their decline. In 2019, 15 giraffes were reintroduced from Murchison Falls National Park as part of ongoing conservation efforts. Other notable wildlife includes cheetahs, endangered African wild dogs, roan antelopes, zebras, and buffaloes. The reserve’s vegetation comprises undisturbed grasslands, riverine woodlands, and kopjes, supporting a variety of plant species like red acacia and desert date.
Things to do in pian upe game reserve
Birdwatching
When it comes to birds, Pian Upe wildlife reserve comes toe to toe with the largest national parks. In terms of bird density, it ranks 2nd only to Queen Elizabeth National Park. The most attractive bird species here is the giant ostrich. Ostriches in Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve Ostriches find the vast dry plains ideal for running away from predators and taking care of their young. There are fewer large trees and vegetation enabling them to have a clear view of their surroundings and any approaching danger. Apart from ostriches, over 240 bird species can be sighted here. They include the African eagles, cormorants, cranes, darters, egrets, grass birds, hawks, herons, hornbills, jacanas, lapwings, owls, pelicans, plovers, turacos, vultures and weaver birds. The reserve has not been studied extensively by bird researchers and it is believed that there are other species yet to be discovered. The best place for birding is at the Cheposukunya hot springs.
Cave exploration
Some of the rocks found within the game reserve hide ancient rock paintings. One such rock is the Napendio cave. This cave is considered sacred by the local people but hides amazing paintings of wild animals like baboons and antelopes. Caves in Pian Upe Game Reserve These paintings date back to thousands of years ago when the first humans settled in the area. Another interesting cave is the Napedet cave. The Napedet cave is located at a former key hunting area for the Pokwot and Karamojong people. It is here that meat was roasted and shared among hunters. Cooking stones dating back to over 500 years can still be seen here. The walls of the cave are decorated with ancient art showing animals like elands, warthogs, roan antelopes and giraffes. Apart from the paintings you can have a clear view of the vast wilderness and amazing wildlife from these caves. Bush camping is arranged close to the caves at a fee of 15,000 shillings.
Wildlife Game Drives
You can embark on scenic game drives guided by experienced local rangers in Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve. These wildlife safaris take you through reserve’s diverse ecosystems, including savannahs, woodlands, and hills. You look out for iconic African wildlife such as elephants, buffalos, lions, giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, and various antelope species.
Guided Walking Safaris
You can also join a guided nature walk in Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve to intimately connect with its ecosystem. Accompanied by a well-informed guide, the walk reveal the subtler aspects of the wildlife reserve’s ecology. You will learn about indigenous flora, track wildlife, and gain insights into their behavior.
Community Cultural Tours
Exploring Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve offers a unique chance to engage with the famous Karamojong people and understand their traditional lifestyle. This cultural exchange includes traditional dances, craft demonstrations, and storytelling.
Traditional dances convey history and community bonds, craft demonstrations showcase artisan skills, and storytelling reveals their worldview. Engaging with the Karamojong fosters cultural awareness and a deeper appreciation for Uganda’s cultural diversity.
Mountain Climbing
Mountain and rock climbing: One of the most striking features of the Pian Upe Wildlife reserve is its vast plains, rocks and mountains. Those who love exploring rocks or climbing less demanding mountains can try Mount Kadam. If Mount Kadam is too challenging, then one can start with one of the numerous large rocks. For adventure seekers, hiking Mount Kadam (3,063m) offers panoramic views and a challenging ascent.
How to get to Pian-Upe wildlife reserve
Pian-Upe wildlife reserve is 398 km (7-hour drive) north east of Kampala via Mbale-Soroti road. The major towns along the way include Jinja, Mbale city, and Soroti. Stopovers for refreshments and photoshoots include Jinja Nile river bridge, Namawojjoro trading center in
Mabira forest, and Mbale city.
Visitors may choose to drive through Mbale by turning left at
Terinyi or continue direct to Soroti town, which is 110 km (2-hours’ drive) to the park. Pian Upe is
212 km (3-hour drive) north of Mbale city. The protected area can also be reached by air
Through the Pian Upe airstrip.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal months to visit are during the dry season: December, January, February, June, July, August, and September. These months offer shorter vegetation, making wildlife spotting easier. The rainy season, from March to November, is less favorable for Uganda safaris due to muddy roads and dense vegetation
Conclusion
Pian Upe Game Reserve is a testament to Uganda’s commitment to wildlife conservation and community development. With its rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, and ongoing conservation efforts, it stands as a prime destination for eco-tourism in East Africa. Visitors to Pian Upe are not only treated to breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife but also contribute to the sustainable future of the region.
