For travelers seeking solitude, adventure, and authentic encounters with nature far from the usual safari crowds, Pian Upe offers an unforgettable journey through the heart of Uganda’s semi-arid savannahs. Here’s everything you need to know before visiting this hidden gem of the Karamoja sub-region.

A Wilderness of History and Culture

The name “Pian Upe” translates to “friendly enemies,” a phrase born from the two Karamojong clans — the Pian and the Upe — who historically shared and contested this region. Before becoming a protected reserve, the area served as a grazing land and cultural crossroads for pastoralist communities. Today, that heritage still thrives, as local Karimojong herders and wildlife coexist under a carefully managed conservation program led by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).

Originally designated as a wildlife reserve in the 1960s, Pian Upe was once part of the greater Matheniko-Bokora Conservation Complex, which includes Bokora and Matheniko Wildlife Reserves. Its vast and open landscape tells a story of resilience — both for the wildlife that survived years of poaching and for the people who have embraced conservation as a way to protect their ancestral lands.

Location and Accessibility

Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve is located in the Karamoja region, approximately 8 hours by road from Kampala. The reserve stretches across the districts of Nakapiripirit, Moroto, and Kumi, lying between Mount Elgon National Park in the south and the Matheniko Wildlife Reserve in the north. The nearest large town is Mbale, about 4–5 hours away, while the reserve headquarters at Moruajore serve as the main entry point.

Though remote, Pian Upe is accessible by both self-drive and guided safaris. The journey itself is part of the adventure, taking travelers through scenic highlands, terraced slopes, and rolling plains. During the dry season (December–March and June–September), the roads are in good condition, but in the wet months, 4×4 vehicles are highly recommended due to muddy stretches.

Wildlife and Birdlife in Pian Upe

Pian Upe may not yet rival Uganda’s more famous parks in wildlife density, but it offers some of the most exclusive and intimate game-viewing experiences in the country. The reserve’s remote character means that you can spend hours in the wild without seeing another vehicle—a true luxury for nature lovers and photographers.

The vast savannah supports a fascinating array of wildlife, including roan antelopes, hartebeests, eland, oribi, zebras, topi, and Ugandan kob. Pian Upe is also one of the few remaining places in Uganda where cheetahs can be spotted, occasionally seen sprinting across the plains in pursuit of prey. Lions, leopards, and spotted hyenas also inhabit the reserve, although sightings are rarer due to the expansive terrain. Other residents include jackals, aardvarks, baboons, and velvet monkeys.

Bird enthusiasts will find Pian Upe a paradise. The reserve boasts over 240 bird species, including the Secretary Bird, Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, Superb Starling, Crested Francolin, and White-headed Buffalo Weaver. The semi-arid climate and open grasslands make birdwatching rewarding, especially during the dry months when migratory species join the native flocks.

Activities in Pian Upe

The highlight of any visit is a guided game drive, offering a chance to explore the vast plains and discover wildlife in its natural setting. Early morning and late afternoon drives provide the best sightings and lighting for photography.

For adventurers, nature walks and hiking offer a deeper connection to the land. Guided walks are led by experienced rangers who explain the ecology, vegetation, and animal tracks. You can also enjoy a birdwatching expedition, a sunset drive, or a visit to the nearby Mount Kadam, a stunning backdrop rising over the reserve.

Cultural encounters with the Karimojong people are another highlight. Visitors can visit traditional homesteads, known as manyattas, to learn about local traditions, dance, and daily life. These cultural experiences reveal how the community’s heritage remains intertwined with nature and wildlife.

Accommodation and Facilities

Pian Upe is still largely undeveloped, which adds to its authentic wilderness charm. The Uganda Wildlife Authority operates a basic camping site near the Moruajore headquarters with simple bandas and tents available for hire. Visitors are advised to carry their own camping gear, food, and drinking water, as facilities are limited.

Alternatively, travelers can stay in nearby towns such as Mbale, Sipi, or Moroto, which offer a range of lodges and guesthouses. Plans are underway to establish more eco-lodges and mid-range camps within the reserve as tourism continues to grow.

Best Time to Visit Pian Upe

The best time to visit Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve is during the dry seasons, from December to March and June to September. During these months, roads are accessible, vegetation is less dense, and wildlife gathers around water sources, making sightings easier.

The wet seasons (April–May and October–November) transform the plains into lush green landscapes, creating beautiful photographic opportunities, though travel can be challenging due to slippery roads.

Conservation and Community Involvement

Pian Upe plays a vital role in Uganda’s conservation efforts, serving as a corridor that connects various ecosystems in the Karamoja region. The Uganda Wildlife Authority, together with local communities, is restoring wildlife populations and combating poaching. Community-based tourism initiatives ensure that local people benefit directly from conservation through employment, revenue sharing, and cultural tourism programs.

The reserve’s sustainable approach aims to preserve its wild integrity while creating opportunities for education and livelihood improvement in surrounding villages. This delicate balance between people and nature makes Pian Upe a model for inclusive conservation in Uganda.

Why Visit Pian Upe

Pian Upe is a destination for true explorers — those who crave the call of the wild and wish to venture beyond mainstream safari circuits. Its remote landscapes, rich cultural backdrop, and sense of untouched wilderness make it an extraordinary place to experience Uganda’s diversity. Whether you’re seeking to spot rare cheetahs, capture dramatic sunsets over the plains, or connect with Karimojong culture, Pian Upe promises a safari experience that feels both personal and profound.