The Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve headquarters is situated along the Mbale-Moroto road which covers about 90 kilometers if you are from Mbale and 11 kilometers north of the wildlife reserve’s Northern boundary.
Once you are at this point, you can be in position to ascertain the entry point to the game reserves’ headquarters as soon as you cross Chepsukunya Trading Centre which takes you nearly 2 hours’ drive.
Pian Upe’s Headquarters at MoruaJore is located approximately 8 ½ hours by road from Kampala, the capital city of Uganda, and about 2 ½ hours from the exquisite Sipi Falls, in Kapchorwa district, on the edges of Mount. Elgon; the Game Reserve is about 90km from Mbale Town along a bumpy road. From Pian Upe you can also drive for about 5 hours towards Kidepo Valley National Park, forming the perfect break for a safari to “Africa’s true Wilderness” – Kidepo.
The reserve can be accessed from the south through Chepsikunya Trading Centre, as one drives from Kampala through Mbale Town, or through Namalu Trading Centre to the north, for visitors traveling from Moroto. The closest operational airstrip is at Amudat.
Getting to Pian Upe Game Reserve
Accessing Pian Upe Game Reserve, situated in the northeastern region of Uganda, necessitates meticulous preparation owing to its secluded position and few transportation alternatives. The following are the main methods of accessing the reserve:
By Road:
If you are traveling from Kampala, the capital city of Uganda, the journey to Pian Upe Game Reserve takes roughly 8-10 hours by road, covering a distance of about 400-500 kilometers (250-310 miles). The path traverses communities including Mbale and Moroto prior to reaching the reserve. It is recommended to utilize a robust 4WD automobile due to the possibility of encountering tough or unpaved segments of the road. You can obtain a great 4×4 from 4X4 Africa, one of the car rental agencies in Uganda.
Public Transportation:
As an alternative, you have the option to utilize a bus or minivan, commonly referred to as matatus, for your journey from Kampala to Mbale or Moroto, which are the closest significant towns to Pian Upe Game Reserve. Subsequently, you have the option to coordinate the acquisition of a private hire vehicle or enlist the services of a local guide equipped with a vehicle to transport you to the reserve. It is important to note that public transportation options may have lower frequency and reliability when compared to renting a private vehicle.
By Air:
Charter Flights:
An alternative method of visiting Pian Upe Game Reserve is by hiring a private airplane from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield near Kampala to adjacent airstrips such as Moroto Airstrip or Amudat Airstrip. Subsequently, you can make arrangements for terrestrial transportation to the reserve. Charter flights provide a faster and more convenient alternative, particularly for individuals with limited time.
Guide to Self Drive in Uganda
Embarking on a self-guided expedition in Pian Upe Game Reserve is an exhilarating exploration, providing unmatched chances to engage with the natural world and encounter the authentic spirit of Africa. Prepare your luggage, accelerate your engine, and brace yourself for an extraordinary journey in the pristine forest of northern Uganda.
If you are a daring explorer in search of the excitement of a self-guided safari, Pian Upe provides a thrilling encounter amidst its expansive grasslands, undulating hills, and varied fauna. Prepare yourself and accompany me as I provide guidance on how to navigate this pristine environment using your own means of transportation.
Preparation is Key
Prior to commencing your self-driven expedition in Pian Upe, meticulous preparation is required. Make sure your car is properly maintained and outfitted for off-road driving, as certain parts of the reserve may be rugged and demanding. Ensure you have an ample supply of necessities such as food, water, and camping equipment, as the reserve has minimal facilities. Additionally, ensure that you acquire the requisite permissions for accessing the park and engaging in any desired activities, such as wildlife excursions or camping.
Navigating the Reserve
As an independent traveler, you have the autonomy to explore Pian Upe at your preferred speed. The reserve features an intricate system of unpaved pathways and trails, enabling convenient access to its diverse attractions. Every part of the reserve, from the expansive grasslands filled with diverse animal species to the rugged rock formations and picturesque vantage points, presents a distinct and captivating scenery that is ready to be explored.