Embark on an incredible adventure to Uganda’s most remote region. In Karamoja, you’ll encounter close wildlife encounters, untamed adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and unique cultural experiences. The northeastern part of Uganda is home to a diverse array of tribes, many of whom are semi-nomadic. Their communities revolve around cattle, living a lifestyle distinct from the rest of the country. This journey takes you far off the beaten path, inviting you to discover a world where people live in harmony with nature and take immense pride in their rich cultural heritage and traditions.
Our Itinerary
Day 1 – To Pian Upe
On your first day in Uganda, you will be met by your driver at the Entebbe airport and head directly to Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve. The journey will take you through the bustling capital city of Kampala, the ancient Mabira rainforest, across the Nile River, and past small villages, idyllic tea plantations, and vast swamps. As you approach Pian Upe, you’ll catch sight of the slopes of Mount Elgon, the world’s largest solitary volcanic mountain. On a clear day, you might see the entire mountain! Upon arrival at Pian Upe, immerse yourself in the magnificent views and the soothing sounds of nature.
Day 2 – The First Safari
Your day begins with an early morning game drive, offering the chance to see giraffes, zebras, leopards, cheetahs, lions, and a variety of antelopes. The reserve is also home to over 240 bird species, including the impressive ostrich. In the afternoon, join a ranger guide from the Uganda Wildlife Authority for a nature walk. You’ll learn about the reserve’s flora and fauna, the ongoing conservation efforts, and take in the breathtaking views.
Day 3 – Exploring Moroto
Leave the wilderness behind and head to Moroto, the largest town in the Karamoja region. After lunch, embark on an immersive cultural experience with the Tepeth tribe at Mount Moroto. The Tepeth were formerly hunters and gatherers, but they became agro-pastoralists in the 1970s and 1980s due to wildlife decline. They now depend on and worship Mount Moroto. During the tour, you’ll learn to prepare traditional meals, sing and dance to folklore, make Karimojong bead accessories, experience ancient foreseer traditions, listen to elders’ stories, and play traditional Karimojong games.
Day 4 – Hiking Mt. Moroto
Hike up Mount Moroto to its spring pool, where you can enjoy the epic views of the plains below and perhaps cool off with a refreshing dip. Take your time exploring the mountain, soaking in the natural beauty and tranquility. Enjoy a restful lunch surrounded by the serene landscape before heading back down to Moroto town.
Day 5 – Deeper into Karamoja
After a hearty breakfast, continue your journey into Karamojaland. Today’s drive takes you north through the Matheniko Wildlife Reserve and across stunning landscapes. You’ll see Karimojong herdsboys with their large cattle herds, small villages where people relax in the shade, and, depending on the season, expansive fields of bright yellow sunflowers. Upon checking into your eco camp in Timu Forest, stretch your legs with a guided walk along the Timu Escarpment, enjoying breathtaking views of the East African Rift Valley.
Day 6 – Manyatta Visit
Start your day with a unique insight into one of Uganda’s last traditional communities, the Dodoth Tribe, guided by experienced indigenous guides. Visit a traditional manyatta homestead, where you’ll need to stoop low to pass through the many doors and gates in the reed fence that protects people and animals from intruders. After this enriching cultural experience, head to Kidepo Valley National Park, renowned as one of the most beautiful parks on the continent!
Day 7 – Safari in Kidepo
At sunrise, explore the savannah and its rich wildlife. Kidepo is renowned for its large herds of buffalo and is also home to a thriving population of elephants, zebras, giraffes, various antelopes, primates, and nearly 500 bird species. Last but not least, the park is home to lions, leopards, cheetahs and hyenas, and you may both see and hear them! In the afternoon, embark on another game drive, seeking out the animals you most wish to see.
Day 8 – Walking Safari and Night Game Drive
Savor another day in Kidepo, beginning with a guided nature walk and culminating in an exhilarating night game drive. During the night game drive, venture into the park aboard an open safari vehicle, equipped with powerful torches to witness the nocturnal activities of the park’s wildlife—an experience like no other!
Day 9 – Welcome to Alakara!
The journey continues through the rocky landscapes of Karenga and Abim, leading you to the quaint village of Kobulin. Upon arrival, check into the Alakara Guest House and experience a warm traditional welcome from the Iteso community residing in Kobulin. Take some time to unwind and relax at the guesthouse, and later, gather around the campfire for a delightful dinner.
Day 10 – Exploring Village Life
Begin your day with a nutritious breakfast sourced from local ingredients, setting the tone for an enriching day ahead. Join the guesthouse cooks for a traditional cooking workshop, where you’ll learn about age-old methods of food preservation and preparation, tailored to the season. Together, prepare a typical local meal, which you’ll relish at lunchtime. In the afternoon, embark on a village walk led by a local guide, offering insights into daily life in the area. Despite its modest size and remote setting, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the diverse array of goods and services available at the village market!
Day 11 – Heading Back to Entebbe
It’s time to head back to Entebbe. The journey spans about 8 hours, punctuated by a stop at Nyero Rock Paintings, one of Africa’s most well-preserved prehistoric rock art sites. Along the way, you’ll traverse vast swamps, pass through bustling urban centers, and perhaps indulge in a taste of the famous “roadside chicken” in Mabira Forest.
