Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
"Rhino Trekking At Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Uganda"
Rhino Trekking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Uganda.
Rhino Trekking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
A Conservation Success Story and a Unique Wildlife Experience
Rhino trekking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary has become one of Uganda’s most memorable and meaningful wildlife activities, offering visitors the rare opportunity to observe endangered southern white rhinos on foot, in their natural environment. This experience is not only thrilling for nature lovers but also plays an important role in wildlife conservation and education.
The Return of Rhinos to Uganda
Uganda was once home to both black and white rhinos, which roamed freely in protected areas such as Murchison Falls National Park. Unfortunately, due to extensive poaching and civil conflict, the country’s rhino population was completely wiped out by 1982. For more than two decades, Uganda had no wild rhinos, marking the loss of one of Africa’s most iconic species within its borders.
In 2005, the Rhino Fund Uganda, in partnership with the Uganda Wildlife Authority and international conservation organizations, launched a national reintroduction program. The goal was to restore rhinos to Uganda’s protected areas through breeding, research, and long-term habitat protection. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, located in Nakasongola District, was chosen as the ideal site for this ambitious program.
About Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary covers approximately 70 square kilometers of savannah and woodland, fully protected by trained rangers and a 24-hour security team. The sanctuary began with just six rhinos—donated from Kenya and the United States—and has since grown into a thriving, well-managed breeding ground.
Once the rhino population reaches a sustainable level, the long-term plan is to reintroduce them into Uganda’s national parks, particularly Murchison Falls National Park, where they originally lived.
Today, the sanctuary is the only place in Uganda where tourists can see rhinos in the wild, making it an essential stop on any Ugandan safari itinerary.
The Rhino Trekking Experience
Rhino trekking at Ziwa is a guided experience led by trained wildlife rangers who accompany all visitors on foot. Unlike traditional safari game drives, trekking allows guests to walk through the bush and observe the rhinos at a safe but remarkably close distance—often within just a few meters.
During the trek, rangers share fascinating information about rhino behavior, breeding, habitat protection, and the challenges of wildlife conservation in Africa. Visitors may also spot other wildlife such as oribi, bushbuck, monkeys, and over 300 species of birds.
This activity is suitable for travelers of all ages, including families, photographers, solo travelers, and conservation enthusiasts.
Why You Should Not Miss It
✅ Rare Wildlife Encounter – Uganda is the only country in East Africa where tourists can track rhinos on foot.
✅ Supports Conservation – Trek fees directly fund rhino protection, ranger salaries, and sanctuary operations.
✅ Easy Stopover En Route to Murchison Falls – Ziwa lies conveniently along the Kampala–Gulu highway, making it a perfect addition to a northern Uganda safari.
✅ Safe, Educational, and Well Organized – The sanctuary maintains strict security and professional guiding standards.
Whether you are planning a full safari across Uganda or visiting Murchison Falls National Park, adding a rhino trekking experience at Ziwa transforms your trip into something truly unforgettable.
Plan Your Visit
Rhino trekking can be done year-round and typically lasts 1–2 hours. Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak travel months. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes, neutral-colored clothing, and bring bottled water, a hat, and a camera.
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Fees for rhino tracking at ziwa rhino tracking
Ziwa rhino sanctuary is a not for profit project. All incomes from visitors helps to keep the project running so the rhino sanctuary allows visitors to do rhino tracking at the sanctuary and a small fee is charged.
Here are the rates for ziwa rhino sanctuary 2024/2025/6
Adult children
Adult (non-resident) $50 child(non-resident) $25
Adult (east African resident)$40 child ( east African resident)$20
Adult (Ugandan citizen) 30000shs child (Ugandan citizen) 10000shs
Activities at ziwa rhino sanctuary
- Rhino tracking
- Game viewing
- Guided nature walks.
- Bird watching
- Night walks.
