The Pian Upe wetlands complex in Northern in Uganda is an extensive flat grassland, floodplain grassland and swamp system, draining Mount Elgon and South Karamoja into Lake Kyoga. The area is important for Tourism, the Southern valley grass wetlands are elongated along narrow flat-bottomed valley systems within densely settled large herds of herbivores wild animals namely Gazelle, Hartebeest, Waterbuck, Buffalo, Common Eland and Uganda Kob.

Pian Upe is the second largest Wildlife Reserve, stretching from the foothills of a Mount Kadam to Lake Kyoga – it covers an area of approximately 2780 km². The reserve holds the last population of Ostriches, hunting Dog and Roan Antelopes; the reserve is also a route for migratory species of birds from Europe. Millions of birds migrate southwards during winter and use Pian Upe wetland on their back and forth.

Birding safaris in Pian Upe

Pian Upe is a home to 194 species of birds, including 40 migratory species, 26 threatened species of conservation concern, 6 threatened species of global concern and 20 species of regional concern, unique bird species that makes it an ideal place for birding safaris in Uganda namely Egyptian vulture, Jackson hornbill, white headed buffalo weaver and the Ostrich.

Getting there

Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve is located at the north of Mount Elgon – the distance from Kampala to the Reserve is approximately 410 km approximately 8 – 9 hours drive via Mbale – Soroti road.

Accommodation near Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve

The best accommodation option on your safari to Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve is to stay around Sipi Falls, there many lodges around the Sipi for relaxation and a night stay, and it takes approximately 2 hours drive from Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve to Sipi Fall.