Game Drive in Pian Upe Reserve
A game drive is One of the major safari activities done by tourists in Pian Upe Game Reserve. It is done on designated trails in the reserve, and it enables tourists to see multiple animal species, Which are designed to view the wildlife. Game drives in Pian Upe Reserve are done in 4×4 safari vehicles with pop-up roofs for scenic views. Some of the animals one should expect on a game drive in Pian Upe Reserve include lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebras, buffaloes, water bucks, oribi, Jackson hartebeests, topi, roan antelopes, ostriches, and many others. Game drives in the Pian Upe Game Reserve are done in different sessions. These include the morning, afternoon, evening, and full-day sessions.
How much is a game drive in the Pian Upe National Reserve?
Like any other safari destination in Uganda, Pian Upe Game Reserves demands that tourists pay entry fees before they can do a game drive. These fees are as follows for different categories of tourists: 35 USD for foreign nonresidents, 25 USD for foreign residents, and 15,000 UGX for East African residents. Please note that the above fees do not include other related expenses like car, fuel, and guide. Talk to a travel expert at Native Africa Tours for an all-inclusive price.
What to pack for the game drive in the Pian Upe Game Reserve
While you plan to take a game drive tour in Pian Upe Reserve, you must make the right packing list. Below are some of the essential items you must not miss;
- A refillable water bottle to keep you hydrated
- Energy-giving snacks
- A camera with spare batteries
- Binoculars to ensure distant views
- Light clothing since temperatures are usually high in the reserve
- Sunscreen glasses and hut to shield you from direct sun
Can I do a self-guided game drive in Pian Upe Game Reserve?
Pian Upe Game Reserve is not yet declared a national park in Uganda. More so, it is home to some endangered species in Uganda. This implies that the authorities have set strict laws on game drives in the reserve. You may request a self-guided game drive through a reputable tour operator in Uganda. You will be given the right information depending on your travel dates and circumstances at hand.
How long does a game drive in the Pian Upe game reserve take?
A typical game drive in Pian Upe Game Reserve can vary depending on the desires and needs of the person doing it. Avid game drive lovers want to spend more time in the reserve and thus can do longer game drives. Generally, a typical game drive in Pian Upe Reserve takes 2 to 6 hours of the day.
Accommodation in Pian Upe Game Reserve?
Are you planning to visit Pian Upe Game Reserve and wondering where to stay? There are several accommodation facilities in the reserve. One might opt for UWA bandas or one of the camping sites in the reserve. You can also book a hotel in Mbale Town.
Other safari activities done in Pian Upe Game Reserve
Apart from game drives, there are other activities that travelers can do in Pian Upe Game Reserve. Some of these include;
Nature walks
This is another activity that travelers do in Pian Upe. The activity is done on foot under the guidance of a professional ranger guide. He or she takes you around the reserve and also ensures your safety. Nature walks take 2 to 6 hours. They are a good opportunity to spot several wildlife species like buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and many others.
Cultural tours
Cultural tours are yet another thrilling activity done by tourists in Pian Upe Game Reserve. They can be easily done along with other activities like game drives. The communities visited include the Karamajong and Kalenjin. These communities have unique lifestyles that attract travelers from different parts of the world. They engage in activities like cultural dances, preparation of the local cuisines, storytelling, and many others.
Birding
In this reserve, there are several bird species that travelers on their safaris encounter. There are over 240 bird species that are encountered by travelers around the reserve during their birding safaris.
These species of birds include Karamoja apalis, secretary bird, African hill babbler, superb sterling, black-throated wattle eye, Dusky turtle, and many others.
Rules and regulations governing game drives in Pian Upe Reserve
Game drives in Pian Upe are monitored and supervised by authorities. That is why they are done in the company of an experienced ranger or guide. Below are the guidelines or rules and regulations governing game drives in the reserve;
- Off-tracking is not allowed (You must drive through designated trails only)
- Littering or dumping waste in the reserve is prohibited
- Tourists must remain in a safari vehicle throughout game drives
- Speeding is not allowed, only 40km/hr. and less is allowed
- Acquire authorization for a game drive from the authorities
What is the best time to visit Pian Upe Game Reserve?
Pian Upe Game Reserve is open for travelers throughout the year. However, the best time to visit is during the dry season (June to September and December to February). This is the time when the park is dry and clear for seeing animals. The roads also be less challenging during these seasons.
How to get to Pian Upe Game Reserve?
Pian Upe Game Reserve is accessed by road transport. It takes 8 to 9 hours to reach the reserve through the Kampala – Mbale Highway in eastern Uganda. You can also access the reserve through Kidepo Valley National Park. This takes about 5 to 6 hours.
