Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: Walking with White Rhinos
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is the only place in Uganda where you can see rhinos in the wild, and you see them on foot. Rhinos were wiped out in Uganda by the early 1980s. In 2005, a small group of southern white rhinos was brought to Ziwa to start again, and the herd has since grown to more than 50 animals.
The sanctuary lies in Nakasongola, about two and a half to three hours north of Kampala. Because it sits right on the road to Murchison Falls National Park, it is an easy and rewarding stop on the way.
Rhino Tracking at Ziwa
After a briefing, you walk with a ranger who knows each rhino by name. Rangers monitor the animals around the clock, so they lead you quietly to within a safe distance of a mother and calf or a resting bull. Most tracks take one to two hours. Seeing these huge animals on foot, with no vehicle between you, is an unforgettable experience.
Other Activities at Ziwa
Early-morning canoe trips on the Lugogo swamp offer a good chance of seeing the rare shoebill stork. Nature walks and birding are also rewarding, with more than 300 bird species recorded in the sanctuary.
Why Ziwa Matters
Ziwa is the heart of Uganda’s plan to return rhinos to its national parks. Every visit helps pay for rangers and protection. You can read the latest news in our post on Ziwa’s growing rhino population.
Plan Your Visit
Most travellers visit Ziwa on the first day of a Murchison Falls safari, arriving for a morning or midday track and continuing north in the afternoon. Contact us to include Ziwa in your trip.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary FAQs
Is rhino tracking at Ziwa safe?
Yes. Experienced rangers guide every walk and keep a safe distance from the rhinos at all times.
In addition to white rhinos, Ziwa is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including buffaloes, giraffes, and several antelope species, contributing to the sanctuary’s ecological richness. As a significant component of Uganda’s national parks and conservation efforts, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary offers unique opportunities for visitors to engage in rhino tracking experiences and learn about ongoing conservation efforts. Traford Safaris Ltd provides guided tours that allow guests to observe these impressive creatures up close while gaining insights into the challenges and successes of rhino reintroduction.
The sanctuary’s focus on sustainable tourism ensures that all activities are conducted with minimal impact on the environment, supporting both the conservation of rhinos and the local communities surrounding the sanctuary. By participating in these eco-friendly experiences, visitors contribute to the broader goals of wildlife preservation and the enhancement of Uganda’s natural heritage, reinforcing the sanctuary’s role in the country’s conservation strategy.
Where to Stay at Ziwa
Every Traford safari comes in three styles: Signature (luxury), Classic (mid-range) and Adventurer (budget). These are the options we recommend most often; final choices depend on your dates and availability.
- Classic: Amuka Safari Lodge, inside the sanctuary, where rhinos sometimes wander close to the rooms.
- Adventurer: the sanctuary guesthouse and campsite.
