Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is one of Uganda’s top conservation success stories, located in the Nakasongola District - about 176 kilometers (109 miles) north of Kampala.
It’s famous for being the only place in Uganda where you can see rhinos in the wild. The sanctuary was established in 2005 to reintroduce rhinos into Uganda after they were wiped out in the early 1980s due to poaching and political unrest.
Today, Ziwa is home to over 30 southern white rhinos, making it a key stop for wildlife enthusiasts and tourists interested in conservation.
Set in a peaceful and remote environment, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary spans around 70 square kilometers of savannah and woodlands. The rhino sanctuary a favourite for eco-tourists and travellers visiting the nearby Murchison Falls National Park, as it offers a unique chance to see rhinos up close in their natural habitat.
Besides the rhinos, the sanctuary is also home to other wildlife, including antelope species, monkeys, and over 300 species of birds.
Things to Do in Ziwa
1. Rhino Tracking
The main highlight at Ziwa is, of course, rhino tracking. Visitors can walk alongside trained guides who take you close to these magnificent animals.
The tracking experience is done on foot, making it an intimate and unforgettable way to observe rhinos in the wild.
Rhino tracking lasts around 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on the rhinos' movement, and you’ll get to see them graze and interact in their natural environment. This activity is very safe, thanks to expert rangers who ensure that visitors maintain a respectful distance from the animals.
2. Bird Watching
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a special location for bird watching - with more than 350 bird species recorded.
Some of the notable species include the shoebill stork, African fish eagle, and various kingfishers. The sanctuary has various habitats like swamps, woodlands, and savannah, making it a diverse bird-watching spot.
3. Nature Walks
For those interested in experiencing the sanctuary beyond rhino tracking, Ziwa offers guided nature walks through its expansive landscapes.
During these walks, you’ll encounter Uganda’s diverse plant species, small mammals like bushbucks and warthogs, and a variety of insects and reptiles. The walks provide a peaceful and relaxing way to experience the sanctuary and all the nature there.
Seasons & Best Time to Visit
Uganda experiences a tropical climate that is characterised by mild temperatures year-round, typically ranging from 21°C to 28°C (70°F to 82°F).
The area around Ziwa experiences two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.
Dry Season (June - Sept, Dec - Feb)
The dry season is the most popular time to visit Ziwa.
During this time, the paths are less muddy, and the animals tend to stay closer to the water sources, making it easier to spot rhinos and other wildlife. The weather is more pleasant for outdoor activities like rhino tracking and bird watching.
The dry season also coincides with peak tourism, meaning more visitors but also better overall conditions for touring the rest of Uganda.
Rainy Season (March - May, Oct & Nov)
While the rainy season sees fewer tourists, it offers its own benefits. The landscape becomes lush and green, making it particularly scenic for photography.
Bird watching can be excellent during this period as migratory species arrive, and the sanctuary is quieter, giving you a more intimate experience. However, heavy rains can make some trails muddy and slippery.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season (June to September and December to February) is generally considered the best time to visit Ziwa, especially for rhino tracking. However, those who prefer fewer crowds or are more interested in birding might choose the rainy season for a quieter, more personalized experience.
How to Get There
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is easily accessible from Kampala, Uganda's capital. Here are the options for getting there:
By Road
The most common way to reach Ziwa is by road. The drive from Kampala to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary takes about 3 to 3.5 hours via the Kampala - Gulu Highway.
The road is in good condition, making it a straightforward journey for self-drivers or those using guided tours. Many visitors stop at Ziwa on their way to or from Murchison Falls National Park, as it’s conveniently located along the route.
By Air
There are no direct flights to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary but visitors can choose use the Bugungu or Pakuba Airstrips which serve Murchison Falls National Park. These are ideal if you are visiting Murchison Falls as part of your visit.
From Nearby Attractions
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is often visited in combination with Murchison Falls National Park, which is about 2 hours away by road (130 kilometers). Many travellers stop at Ziwa either before or after exploring Murchison Falls as part of their Uganda wildlife trip.
Where to Stay
There are a few accommodation options both within and around the sanctuary to suit various preferences and budgets.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Guesthouse
This is a budget option right within the sanctuary itself. It’s ideal for those who want to be close to the action, with comfortable rooms and the opportunity to start your activities early. The Sanctuary also has a beautiful campground for those who want to sleep under the night sky.
Amuka Safari Lodge
This mid-range lodge is located within the sanctuary, offering a more luxurious stay with en-suite cottages, a swimming pool, and great views. It’s a popular choice for those looking for more comfort during their visit.
Kabalega Resort
Located about 30 minutes away from Ziwa, Kabalega Resort is a good alternative for those who want to stay outside the sanctuary but still be close by. It offers spacious rooms, a restaurant, and beautiful grounds, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration.
Nearby Attractions
1. Murchison Falls National Park
Located about 2 hours from Ziwa, Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest and oldest national park. The park's standout feature is the dramatic waterfall where the Nile River explodes through a 7-meter gorge, creating one of the world’s most powerful water surges.
Besides the waterfall, the park offers a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and hippos. A boat cruise along the Nile is also a must-do activity.
Many tourists combine Murchison Falls and Ziwa for big-5 (lion, rhino, elephant, buffalo, leopard) safari experience.
2. Budongo Forest
Approximately 1.5 hours away from Ziwa, Budongo Forest is one of Uganda’s prime destinations for chimpanzee tourism and conservation.
The forest is known for its rich biodiversity, including over 360 bird species. A trip here can be paired with a visit to Ziwa for a varied wildlife experience that includes both rhino tracking and primate encounters.
Closing Thoughts
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary offers a rare opportunity to see rhinos in Uganda while contributing to important conservation efforts.
Whether you're tracking rhinos on foot, bird-watching in the wetlands, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk in nature, Ziwa provides a unique and enriching wildlife experience that complements any safari itinerary.
Its convenient location along the route to Murchison Falls National Park makes it an ideal stop for travellers seeking to explore Uganda’s wildlife.
So, if you’re a wildlife enthusiast looking for something special, pack your bags and head to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to experience these magnificent animals and their journey to once again roaming in all of Uganda's wild places.