Pian Upe Wildlife Safari Experience
Pian Upe Game Reserve is one of Uganda’s best-kept secrets. This beautiful, raw, and less visited game reserve is the second largest conservation area after Murchison Falls National Park. It covers an area of about 2,788 km² north of Mountain Elgon and is managed by the Mountain Elgon Conservation Department.
Pian Upe Game Reserve
Pian Upe Game Reserve is one of Uganda’s best-kept secrets. This beautiful, raw, and less visited game reserve is the second largest conservation area after Murchison Falls National Park. It covers an area of about 2,788 km² north of Mountain Elgon and is managed by the Mountain Elgon Conservation Department.
The Reserve is located in Nakapiripiti district and can easily be accessed by road:
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About 8 hours from Kampala
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Around 2 hours from Mbale
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Approximately 6 hours from Pian Upe to Kidepo Valley National Park
The beauty of this game reserve is in the stunning landscape sceneries with surrounding mountains – and most of the time, you will have the whole game reserve to yourself.
Pian Upe Wildlife Safari Highlights
Birdwatching
Pian Upe is a birder’s paradise.
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Over 242 confirmed and 11 unconfirmed bird species
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Ranks second only to Queen Elizabeth National Park in bird species density
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Home to Uganda’s largest bird – the ostrich – only found here and in Kidepo Valley National Park
Guided Nature Walks in Pian Upe
Guided nature walks are a great way to get up close and personal with the wilderness.
Be on the lookout for:
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Zebras
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Antelopes
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Baboons
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A variety of birds
Walks are led by experienced rangers from the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
Cultural Community Visits
To understand the local culture, go for a guided community visit.
You'll experience:
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Traditional weddings and marriage customs
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Authentic local dances (you can even take part!)
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Historical cattle raiding stories and practices
Visit to Napendio Cave
This is an ancient cave deeply connected to the local community.
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Historically used as a recreational and artistic space
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Features cave art including drawings of baboons and other animals
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A glimpse into the lives of the first inhabitants of the area
Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve is a safari gateway to untouched nature.