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About Ziwa Sanctuary
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a unique conservation area located in Nakasongola District, Uganda, about 176 kilometers north of Kampala along the route to Murchison Falls National Park. It is the only place in Uganda where visitors can track and observe wild rhinoceroses in their natural habitat. The sanctuary covers 70 square kilometers of savannah and woodlands, protected by a 2-meter electric fence to ensure the safety of both rhinos and visitors.
Established in 2005 by the Rhino Fund Uganda and the Uganda Wildlife Authority, the sanctuary was created to reintroduce rhinos into Uganda after they were declared extinct in the wild due to poaching and civil unrest in the 1970s and 1980s. Today, Ziwa is home to over 30 southern white rhinos, and conservation efforts continue with hopes of releasing them back into the national parks in the future.
Visiting Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary offers travelers an opportunity to support conservation tourism while enjoying unique wildlife experiences such as rhino trekking, bird watching, guided nature walks, and canoe rides.
What Activities To Do
- Rhino Tracking – The main activity where visitors trek on foot, accompanied by rangers, to observe rhinos at close range while learning about their behavior and conservation.
- Bird Watching – With over 350 species recorded, birding safaris at Ziwa are rewarding. The shoebill stork is a major highlight for birders.
- Guided Nature Walks – Walks through the sanctuary reveal smaller mammals, primates, reptiles, and rich flora.
- Night Walks – A guided evening activity that offers chances to spot nocturnal animals such as bushbabies, porcupines, and owls.
- Wildlife Photography – The sanctuary’s landscapes and diverse wildlife provide excellent opportunities for nature photography.
What To See
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is Uganda’s only place to see southern white rhinos on foot with armed rangers. It also hosts 40+ mammal species, over 350 bird species including the rare shoebill, and stunning wetlands, woodlands, and savannah, offering rich wildlife diversity and beautiful canoe safari scenery.
Best Time To Visit
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is open year-round, but the dry season (December–February, June–September) is best for rhino trekking and birdwatching, with easier trails and predictable wildlife near water. Wet seasons (March–May, October–November) bring lush landscapes and migratory birds, though trails may be slippery. Overall, dry months offer the best experience.
How To Get
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary lies about 176 km (3 hours) north of Kampala on the Kampala–Gulu highway, conveniently en route to Murchison Falls National Park. Travelers can also fly to Pakuba or Bugungu Airstrips, with charter options available. Many itineraries include Ziwa as a safari stopover.
Related Uganda Destinations
Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa,” captivates with its stunning natural beauty, from lush rainforests to vast savannahs. Experience up-close encounters with mountain gorillas, thrilling safaris, and the adventure-filled waters of the River Nile.
Where to Stay
Amuka Safari Lodge, inside Ziwa Sanctuary, offers comfortable cottages, a pool, and easy access to rhino trekking. Nearby Nakasongola and Masindi provide budget and mid-range guesthouses. Travelers continuing to Murchison Falls National Park can choose lodges around the park, making Ziwa a convenient stopover with varied accommodation options.
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