Ateker Trail

Ateker trail is a local initiative designed to reconnect roots among the sister tribes in Uganda, Kenya, South Sudan, and Ethiopia for peace, conservation, and prosperity. This is a remarkable East African cross-border wilderness expedition combining authentic cultural experience and African untamed outdoor adventure.

The Ateker trail offers a typical community-based tourism experience. It is designed with aim of preserving cultural heritage, fostering a peaceful co-existence, and conservation of biodiversity by establishing economic opportunities in the region’s neighboring tribes. The trail allows tourists to explore more about the warrior nomads –these consist of different tribes that migrated from Ethiopia and settled in the various parts of East Africa including Uganda, Kenya, South Sudan, and Ethiopia.

They are mainly nomads/semi-nomads –cattle keepers, hunters, and gatherers. A visit to their local community is incredible to explore their distinct traditions. 3 (three) languages spoken by Nomad tribal groups include Karimojong/Ateker, Kuliak, and Kalenjin. Nomads share a lot, being cattle keepers, and attach value to cows or camels which they regard as assets. They believe that they are the sole owners of cattle and it is with no doubt that they continuously fight as a way to expand their cattle population.

During Amin’s last reign, the Karamojong of Uganda and neighboring tribes got many guns which sparked decades of civil unrest in the region. For a long time, the Ugandan government has been and still doing its best to disarm the Karamojong. But remarkably, they have protected their unique cultures and traditions from modern life. This is why they have been referred to be opposed to change.

The Ateker/Warrior Nomad trail plays a significant part in protecting cultural heritage, creating different opportunities for residents, and in the long run, reducing poverty and migration.

Ateker Trail

Important events of the Ateker trail

Ateker Caravan

On this trail, don’t miss the Ateker caravan –the annual cross-border tour among the Ateker tribal groups of Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia, and South Sudan. This is intended to preserve cultural heritage, fostering peace and prosperity through tourism and cross-border events.

Ateker trail biking

Enjoy a cross-border multi-stage biking experience aimed at creating a positive impact in the region, fostering job opportunities in the tourism sector, and connecting for peace on the Ateker trail.

Join the Ateker trail and trace roots and write unique history about the Ateker/Nomads –explore and experience distinct cultures and traditions. The Ateker trail expedition in Uganda can combine a visit to Kidepo Valley National Park for a wildlife tour.