Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary has a compelling history rooted in Uganda’s early 20th-century abundance of wildlife, which fueled a thriving tourism industry. Rhinos were a significant draw, with large populations freely roaming Kidepo and Murchison Falls National Parks. Both the Colonial government and Uganda’s initial post-independence government enforced strict anti-poaching policies to protect the white rhino population. However, the security issues of the late 1970s and early 1980s led to a surge in poaching, which ultimately decimated the wild white rhino populations in Uganda’s national parks. This crisis paved the way for the establishment of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to aid in conservation efforts.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a vital conservation project in Uganda and a top destination for visitors on a Ugandan safari. It is the only location in Uganda where guests can track the endangered white rhinos on foot and observe them up close. The sanctuary’s efforts have played a crucial role in the resurgence of the white rhino population. Thanks to its conservation work, Uganda is now one of the few countries in the world where travelers can spot all of the Big Five: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffaloes. This makes Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.

Prices at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Things To Do In Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

While many tourists visit Uganda to see mountain gorillas in Bwindi/Mgahinga or go on safari in major national parks, some adventurous travelers have discovered the hidden gem of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Visiting Ziwa has become a must for those seeking a complete African safari experience in Uganda. Besides tracking rhinos, the sanctuary offers a variety of other attractions for tourists, such as:

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary offers a range of engaging activities that appeal to wildlife enthusiasts and those seeking a comprehensive African safari experience in Uganda.

Rhino Tracking

Rhino tracking is the sanctuary’s highlight, offering visitors a chance to get close to the endangered white rhinos. The activity includes a guided walk or drive lasting 1-2 hours within the sanctuary. Visitors can get within seven meters of the rhinos on foot, observing them feeding on fresh vegetation in their natural habitat. The cost for rhino tracking is $45 for international visitors.

Birding

Bird watching is another popular activity at Ziwa, featuring guided walks, drives, and a boat cruise along the sanctuary’s four birding trails. Explore swamps, woodlands, and savanna plains to spot around 350 bird species, including residents and migrants from nearby Murchison Falls National Park. Look out for the rare Shoebill Stork, African Fish Eagle, African Crowned Eagle, and many more.

Nature Walks

Nature walks through Ziwa’s lush greenery and diverse ecosystems provide visitors with an immersive experience in the sanctuary’s rich biodiversity. Apart from rhinos, the sanctuary is home to various butterflies, reptiles, primates, and mammals, including bushbucks, waterbucks, and colobus monkeys. Keep an eye out for lizards, pythons, and numerous butterfly species.

Night Walks

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary’s adventure doesn’t end with daylight. Guided night walks allow visitors to experience the sanctuary’s nocturnal wonders under the moonlit sky. Explore the sanctuary’s nighttime sounds and sights, encountering nocturnal animals, bats, and birds as you venture through the wilderness with expert guides.

Roles And Regulations At Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Like any respected wildlife conservation site, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary has established rules to ensure the safety of visitors and animals alike. Failure to comply may result in a fine of $100 or immediate termination of your visit by the guides. Here are the guidelines all visitors must follow:

1. Follow Instructions: Adhere to all instructions provided by sanctuary guides and feel free to ask questions about the rules or animals.

2. Report Wildlife Kills: Notify the Rhino Fund Reception if you encounter any illegal wildlife kills along the road.

3. Guided Activities Only: All tours must be guided and authorized. Unauthorized activities, especially after 5:30 pm, are prohibited.

4. Do Not Feed or Touch Animals: For safety, refrain from feeding or touching any animals.

5. No Littering: Properly dispose of all trash in the designated bins within the park.

6. Restricted Cycling and Jogging: These activities are not permitted throughout the sanctuary.

7. Declare Suspicious Items: At the entrance, declare any firearms, GPS devices, pets, drones, or items that could raise suspicion.

8. Limit Noise: Maintain a quiet atmosphere and switch off or silence your cell phone when near the animals.

What To Pack On A Safari To Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary