Got Taya, known to many as Fort Patiko, lies about 32 kilometers north of Gulu City in Northern Uganda, atop a rocky hill. Surrounded by six gentle hills, the site stands as a powerful reminder of one of the most difficult chapters in Uganda’s history, the East African slave trade.

Before the 19th century, this hill was called Got Ajulu, “the nurturing hill,” by the Acholi people. It served as a refuge where elders, children, and the sick were hidden during times of insecurity. That peace, however, was disrupted when Arab traders established a slave and ivory trading post nearby.

By the mid-1800s, the area had become a major hub for the slave trade. Captured individuals from Northern Uganda and Southern Sudan were detained here. Those considered strong enough were forced to walk north to markets in Egypt and Sudan. The weak were executed on a flat rock whose scars remain visible to this day. That rock came to be known as the execution slab.

In 1872, British explorer Sir Samuel Baker arrived in Patiko with support from the Egyptian Khedive. He expelled the traders and turned the site into a military base aimed at suppressing slavery in the region. He named it “Fatiko,” a mispronunciation that persisted in colonial records. The fort remained in use until 1888 and was later occupied by other anti-slavery campaigners such as Charles Gordon and Emin Pasha.What makes Got Taya remarkable today is not only its history but also its setting. The site rests on a striking granite outcrop with expansive views across the northern plains. The six surrounding hills, Ajulu, Ladwong, Akara, Abaka, Labworomor, and Kiju form a natural enclosure, adding both strategic significance and scenic beauty.
Visiting Got Taya offers more than a glimpse into the past. It invites reflection and brings history to life. The rock engravings, the deep trench carved by enslaved hands, and the quiet winds that pass over the execution slab remind every visitor that the land still carries the memory of what happened here.

The Slave Trade Trail is ideal for travelers interested in culture, history, and authentic, off-the-beaten-path exploration. Whether you are visiting Northern Uganda for the first time or returning to uncover more, we offer well-curated itineraries to help you experience the trail in full. Browse our catalogue of Acholi experiences and request a quote to begin your journey.