Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary attraction and activities to do.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary offers a rare opportunity to see Uganda’s only wild rhinos, alongside a diverse range of wildlife and landscapes.

Located en route to Murchison Falls National Park, the sanctuary provides a variety of experiences, including rhino trekking, bird watching, nature walks, and the chance to spot the elusive shoebill stork.

A breakdown of the sanctuary’s top attractions and activities in detail, ensuring an unforgettable visit for wildlife enthusiasts and conservation supporters alike.

Location and History.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is located in Nakasongola District, approximately 170 km north of Kampala, Uganda, en route to Murchison Falls National Park.

It was established in 2005 as a collaborative conservation effort between the Rhino Fund Uganda and the Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch.

The sanctuary aimed to re-introduce rhinoceroses to Uganda after they had been declared extinct due to heavy poaching during the Idi Amin regime.

Initially, six southern white rhinos were introduced to the sanctuary, and over time, this population has grown significantly, with numbers now exceeding 30.

The goal is to eventually release them into Uganda’s national parks to roam freely alongside other wildlife​.

Attractions at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is not just a home for rhinos but also a thriving ecosystem with diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.

Rhinos.

The main attraction of Ziwa is the growing population of southern white rhinos.

These majestic animals roam freely in the sanctuary’s protected space, making Ziwa the only place in Uganda where you can observe rhinos in their natural habitat.

The sanctuary’s breeding program has helped increase the rhino population significantly since its inception in 2005. Currently, over 30 rhinos live in the sanctuary.

Other Wildlife.

Besides rhinos, Ziwa is home to a variety of wildlife including antelopes, warthogs and several species of monkeys.

The sanctuary’s rich vegetation also supports reptiles and small mammals, offering a complete wildlife experience.

Birdlife.

Ziwa is a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting over 350 species of birds.

One of the sanctuary’s most iconic residents is the shoebill stork, a rare and prehistoric-looking bird that attracts birders from across the globe.

The sanctuary’s woodlands, savannahs and wetlands create an ideal environment for both resident and migratory birds.

Scenic Landscapes.

The sanctuary’s diverse habitats, including savannah grasslands, swamps and woodlands, provide beautiful landscapes for photography, nature walks and peaceful exploration.

Activities to Do at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

The sanctuary offers a wide range of activities to immerse visitors in the beauty and biodiversity of Uganda’s wilderness.

Rhino Trekking.

Rhino trekking is Ziwa’s signature activity. Accompanied by expert rangers, visitors trek on foot through the sanctuary to observe the rhinos up close in their natural environment.

Rangers ensure your safety and share knowledge about the rhinos’ behavior, conservation efforts, and the history of the sanctuary.

The experience is a unique blend of adventure and education, with the rangers’ insights adding great value to the trek.

Bird-watching tours.

With over 350 bird species, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a birdwatcher’s dream.

Birding tours are led by knowledgeable guides who take visitors through various ecosystems, wetlands, savannahs and forests giving birders a chance to spot resident and migratory species, including the rare shoebill stork.

These tours offer the perfect opportunity for avid birders and photographers to capture stunning species in their natural surroundings.

Shoebill Stork trekking.

One of the sanctuary’s standout activities is shoebill stork trekking.

This prehistoric-looking bird is one of the most sought-after species for birders and Ziwa is one of the best places in Uganda to see it.

Treks to spot the shoebill often start early in the morning when bird activity is highest.

This adventure is particularly thrilling for bird enthusiasts who want to catch a glimpse of one of the world’s rarest birds.

Nature Walks.

Ziwa’s nature walks are ideal for those looking to explore the sanctuary at a slower pace.

Guided walks offer the chance to encounter a variety of wildlife, such as warthogs, monkeys and antelopes as well as diverse plant life.

The walks traverse different habitats, from dense woodlands to open savannahs, allowing visitors to experience the full range of ecosystems within the sanctuary.

Night Walks.

For a more adventurous experience, visitors can take part in night walks, where they have the chance to see nocturnal animals and listen to the sounds of the wild after dark.

This activity provides a different perspective of the sanctuary and the behaviors of animals that come out at night.

When to Visit.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the dry seasons, from June to August and December to February.

During these months, the weather is ideal for outdoor activities and the chances of spotting wildlife especially rhinos.

The dry conditions make trekking easier and wildlife more visible near water sources.

Where to Stay.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary offers various accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences:

• Luxury Chalets: These offer modern comforts in the heart of the sanctuary, perfect for visitors seeking a more luxurious experience.
• Mid-range Guest Rooms:
• For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, the sanctuary offers comfortable guest rooms that provide easy access to the sanctuary’s main attractions.
• Camping: For a more adventurous and immersive experience, the sanctuary also provides well-maintained camping facilities for visitors who prefer to be closer to nature​.

How to Access Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is located about 170 km north of Kampala along the Kampala-Gulu Highway.

Making it easily accessible by road. The drive from Kampala takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.

Visitors often combine a trip to Ziwa with a visit to Murchison Falls National Park, which is about 2 hours away by road.

The sanctuary’s location makes it a convenient stop for tourists heading to northern Uganda’s popular parks and reserves​.