Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Overview

The sanctuary currently houses over 32 white rhinos and is managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). It plays a crucial role in the country’s conservation efforts and contributes significantly to Uganda’s tourism industry by providing a unique wildlife experience.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary was created with the objective of protecting the endangered rhino population and contributing to Uganda’s biodiversity conservation. The sanctuary was established after the successful relocation of rhinos from other parts of Africa, including 4 from Solio Ranch in Kenya and 2 from Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Florida, USA. Today, the sanctuary is home to over 32 rhinos and other wildlife species. The sanctuary is fully enclosed by a 2-meter electric fence, which helps protect the rhinos from poaching. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary not only plays a vital role in rhino conservation but also supports sustainable tourism, offering an educational experience for visitors.

Location

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is located in Nakasongola District in central Uganda, approximately 170 kilometers north of Kampala, Uganda’s capital. The sanctuary lies near the edge of Murchison Falls National Park, making it a convenient stop for visitors traveling to the park or other nearby attractions.

How to Get There

The sanctuary is accessible by road from Kampala, approximately a 3-4 hour drive. Visitors can take the Gulu Highway from Kampala and then follow signs to the sanctuary. It’s recommended to travel by a 4×4 vehicle, especially during the rainy season, as the roads can be challenging. Many tour operators offer transport services to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, and it’s advisable to book in advance for convenience. Once in Nakasongola, the sanctuary is well-signposted and easy to find.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is during the dry season, which runs from December to February and from June to September. During these months, the weather is more conducive for outdoor activities such as rhino tracking, birdwatching, and nature walks. The dry season also offers better visibility for wildlife, and the trails within the sanctuary are more accessible. However, the sanctuary can be visited year-round, and the wet season (March to May and October to November) offers a lush and green landscape, though the roads may be muddy.

Activities to Do

Rhino Tracking

The main attraction at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is rhino tracking. A guided walk or drive allows visitors to get within 7 meters of the rhinos, providing an intimate and unique experience with these endangered animals. The tracking experience lasts 1-2 hours, and it is a fantastic warm-up for those heading to Murchison Falls National Park.

Bird Watching

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a prime birdwatching destination, home to over 350 bird species. Guided walks, driving, and boat cruises through the sanctuary’s different habitats—such as woodlands, swamps, and savannah plains—offer a chance to spot rare species, including the Shoebill Stork. Other notable bird species include the African Fish Eagle, African Crowned Eagle, and the Broad-Billed Roller.

Nature Walks

Take a peaceful walk through the sanctuary to experience the lush, green landscapes and diverse wildlife, including primates like vervet monkeys and Colobus monkeys, as well as other mammals such as bush duikers, waterbucks, and reedbucks. Nature walks also offer the chance to see a variety of reptiles, butterflies, and insects.

Night Walks

For a different experience, enjoy a guided night walk through the sanctuary to discover nocturnal animals, birds, and bats. Under the moonlight, you’ll hear the sounds of the African wilderness and observe how the sanctuary’s nocturnal creatures come to life.

Canoeing (Seasonal)

Canoeing is another fun activity at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where visitors can paddle through the sanctuary’s waters, exploring its unique wetland ecosystem. It’s an ideal way to observe birds and other wildlife from a different perspective.

Rules and Guidelines While Tracking Rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

For the safety of both visitors and the rhinos, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary has several rules in place:

• Follow Guide Instructions: Always listen to and follow the instructions of your guide. They are knowledgeable and ensure your safety during the activities.
• No Feeding or Touching the Rhinos: Visitors are not allowed to feed or touch the rhinos for safety reasons.
• No Unauthorized Tours: Unauthorized tours or activities, especially after 17:30, are prohibited. All tours must be guided by authorized personnel.
• Keep Noise Levels Low: Loud noises can disturb the animals, so silence your mobile phone and avoid unnecessary noise during the tour.
• No Littering: Littering within the sanctuary is prohibited. All trash should be disposed of properly in the designated bins.
• Declare Restricted Items: At the entrance, declare any firearms, GPS devices, pets, drones, or other items that might cause suspicion.
• Cycling and Jogging: Cycling and jogging are not allowed within the sanctuary.
• Report Illegal Wildlife Activity: Any suspicious or illegal wildlife activity, including poaching, should be reported immediately to the Rhino Fund Reception.
• Stay With the Group: Always remain with your group and guide during the activities.
• Non-compliance with these rules may result in a fine of $100, and the guide has the authority to halt the activity if necessary.