Explore Bokora & Matheniko Wildlife Reserve

Discover the Wonders of Bokora & Matheniko Wildlife Reserve – A Journey through Kidepo Valley National Park.

Nestled on the expansive savannah plains of the Karamoja sub-region, to the north of the majestic Mount Elgon, unfolds the secluded Matheniko Wildlife Reserve. Ranked as the fifth most endangered Wildlife Conservation Protected Area in Uganda, this exceptional reserve is an integral part of the Karamoja Protected Areas. Stretching seamlessly from the breathtaking Kidepo Valley National Park through the Bokora Wildlife Reserve to the Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve—the second-largest protected area in Uganda after the renowned Murchison Falls National Park. The northeastern boundary of Matheniko Wildlife Reserve gracefully aligns with the Uganda-Kenya border, adding to its allure. Managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and situated within Moroto district, this wildlife haven spans an impressive 1520 square kilometers (590 square miles).

The landscape of Matheniko Wildlife Reserve, falling under the Somalia-Masai eco-region, boasts a semi-arid savannah and shrubland. Dominated by the presence of red acacia, desert date red spike-thorns, bush willows, and Harrisonia abyssinica, the reserve offers a unique and captivating environment for wildlife enthusiasts.

Wildlife Extravaganza in Bukora – Matheniko Wildlife Reserve:

This reserve serves as a sanctuary for a diverse array of wildlife species. Among the notable inhabitants are Bright’s gazelle, lesser kudu, roan antelope, waterbucks, mountain reedbucks, Ugandan kobs, blue duikers, oribis, Bohor reedbucks, topi, common duikers, and common elands. Additionally, primates such as olive baboons, patas monkeys, and vervet monkeys thrive in this wildlife haven. Carnivores make their presence known, featuring jackals, cheetahs, striped hyenas, servals, civets, leopards, wildcats, and spotted hyenas.

Birding in Bukora-Matheniko Wildlife Reserve:

The birdlife in Matheniko Wildlife Reserve adds a melodic touch to the natural symphony. Eastern Bronze-napped Pigeon, Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, Mountain Yellow Warbler, Verreaux’s Eagle, Egyptian Vulture, Thick-billed Honey guide, Hartlaub’s Turaco, Ethiopian swallow, Pygmy Falcon, Black-headed plover, Cattle egret, Red-billed Oxpecker, and Clapperton’s Francolin are among the captivating bird species that call this reserve home.

Getting to Bukora-Matheniko Wildlife Reserve:

For those embarking on the journey from Kampala to Moroto via Mbale-Soroti, the wildlife reserve is accessible by covering a distance of 465 kilometers. This route leads through Jinja, Iganga, Mbale, Soroti, and finally Moroto. Travelers are advised to stay overnight in Moroto before venturing into the reserve.

Alternatively, for those traveling from Kidepo Valley National Park via Kaboong, a distance of 119 kilometers provides the easiest access to Bukora-Matheniko Wildlife Reserve. Ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay, travelers can choose accommodations in Moroto town at Kara-Tunga Safari Camp or in Kotido at Karamoja Arts.

Best Time to Unveil the Charms of Matheniko Wildlife Reserve:

The dry season, spanning from June to September and December to February, stands out as the ideal time to explore Matheniko Wildlife Reserve. During these months, the murram roads remain dry and navigable, ensuring a seamless safari experience. In contrast, the rainy season—April, May, and November—brings muddy and slippery conditions, making it less favorable for exploration. The reserve receives an estimated annual rainfall of 670 millimeters. For an unforgettable encounter with nature’s wonders, Trek Africa Expeditions invites you to traverse the untamed beauty of Bukora and Matheniko Wildlife Reserve.