Pian Upe Game Reserve: Uganda's Untamed Wilderness and Conservation Haven Pian Upe Game Reserve, located in northeastern Uganda, is one of the largest wildlife reserves in the country and East Africa as a whole. Spanning approximately 2,275 square kilometers, it lies in the Karamoja region, bordered by Mount Elgon to the south and the Great Rift Valley to the east. This reserve is part of the larger Karamoja wildlife conservation area, which includes other protected areas like Kidepo Valley National Park and Matheniko-Bokora Wildlife Reserve. Geography and Climate Pian Upe is defined by its diverse landscape, including open savannahs, grasslands, woodlands, and volcanic hills. The northern part of the reserve is more mountainous, with volcanic remnants, while the southern region transitions to flat grasslands. This geographical diversity supports a wide range of flora and fauna, making it one of Uganda’s prime game-viewing locations. The reserve experiences a semi-arid climate, with annual rainfall averaging around 600-900 millimeters. The rain usually falls between April and November, while the dry season extends from December to March. The climate is favorable for hardy wildlife species that can thrive in less vegetated areas. Historical Background Established in the early 1950s as a hunting reserve, Pian Upe was officially designated as a wildlife reserve in 1964 to protect the endangered species that inhabited its territory. Its name, "Pian Upe," comes from two Karamojong subgroups: the Pian and the Upe, who are native to the region. The reserve has faced various challenges, including poaching and land encroachment, but conservation efforts by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and other stakeholders have improved its protection in recent years. Wildlife in Pian Upe Pian Upe Game Reserve boasts a rich variety of wildlife, including some species that are unique to this region. Here is a breakdown of notable animals you
Pian Upe Game Reserve: Uganda’s Untamed Wilderness and Conservation Haven Pian Upe Game Reserve, located in northeastern Uganda, is one of the largest wildlife reserves