DISCOVER ZIWA RHINO SANCTUARY
UGANDA’S CONSERVATION JEWEL
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a wildlife conservation area located in Nakasongola District, Uganda, about 176 km (3–4 hours’ drive) north of Kampala along the Kampala–Gulu highway. It is the only place in Uganda where visitors can see wild rhinos, making it a unique and important stopover on the way to Murchison Falls National Park.
Recognizing the importance of reintroducing rhinos to Uganda’s ecosystem, the Rhino Fund Uganda (RFU) in partnership with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) established Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in 2005.
Covering about 7,000 hectares of savannah and woodlands, the sanctuary began with just a few rhinos brought in from Kenya and the USA. Today, it boasts a steadily growing population, with conservationists working tirelessly to prepare them for eventual release into Uganda’s national parks, such as Murchison Falls and Kidepo Valley. While the sanctuary is most famous for its southern white rhinos, it also protects a wide variety of wildlife.
OTHER WILDLIFE INCLUDES:
BIRDS:
Over 300 species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
MAMMALS:
Bushbucks, Uganda cobs, hippos, oribis, and monkeys.
REPTILES:
Crocodiles and monitor lizards.
The sanctuary plays a key role in breeding rhinos for eventual release into Uganda’s national parks.
TOURIST ACTIVITIES:
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as:
RHINO TRACKING:
Guided walks to see rhinos up close in their natural habitat.
Tracking usually takes 1–2 hours.
BIRD WATCHING:
Spot rare birds like the shoebill stork, especially in the swamp areas.
NATURE WALKS:
Explore savannah, woodland, and swamp ecosystems.
CANOE RIDES:
Paddle through Lugogo swamp for bird and aquatic wildlife viewing.
NIGHT WALKS:
Spot nocturnal animals and enjoy the African night sounds.
ACCOMMODATION AT ZIWA RHINO SANCTUARY:
The sanctuary provides a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets:
AMUKA LODGE:
A comfortable mid-range lodge located inside the sanctuary with chalets, a swimming pool, and a restaurant.
GUESTHOUSES AND BANDAS:
Budget-friendly options for backpackers and groups
CAMPSITES:
For adventurous travelers who want a night under the African sky.
All accommodation facilities are run in line with eco-tourism principles, ensuring sustainability and supporting conservation work.
TRAVEL TIPS:
Best visited as a stopover and route to Murchison Falls National Park.
Open year-round, but the dry season (Dec–Feb, Jun–Sep) is most favorable for tracking.
Carry comfortable shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat.
Guided tours are a must for safety and conservation purposes.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a conservation success story—reviving rhinos in Uganda while offering travelers the rare chance to walk alongside these magnificent animals.
CONCLUSION:
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is more than just a wildlife destination – it is a symbol of hope and restoration. By visiting, travelers not only enjoy the rare thrill of walking alongside rhinos, but also directly contribute to Uganda’s conservation success story.
Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, birdwatcher, or eco-tourist, a stop at Ziwa will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for nature’s resilience.