Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a remarkable wildlife conservation area in Uganda, established in 2005 to reintroduce Southern White Rhinos to the country. It is currently the only place in Uganda where travelers can encounter rhinos in the wild, making it an important stop on Uganda wildlife and Big Five safaris.

The sanctuary represents one of Uganda’s most inspiring conservation success stories. Rhinos were declared extinct in Uganda by 1982 following years of poaching and political instability. Through dedicated conservation efforts, Ziwa has played a vital role in restoring these magnificent animals to Uganda. For travelers hoping to experience Africa’s Big Five lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo a visit to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to get close to rhinos while learning about Uganda’s ongoing wildlife conservation efforts.

At Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch, visitors have the unique opportunity to encounter majestic Southern White Rhinos up close in their natural environment. Unlike traditional safari game drives, where wildlife is viewed from a safari vehicle, rhino tracking at Ziwa is conducted on foot, offering a more immersive and adventurous experience.

Accompanied by experienced armed ranger guides, visitors walk through the bush in search of the rhinos while learning about their behavior, conservation, and protection. The experience provides an unforgettable opportunity to observe these incredible animals at close range while gaining a deeper appreciation for the efforts being made to conserve them.

Beyond rhinos, the ranch is home to a variety of other wildlife species and abundant birdlife, making a visit to Ziwa a rewarding addition to any Uganda safari.

The sanctuary is located in Nakasongola District, along the same route to the renowned Murchison Falls National Park. Its convenient location makes it an excellent addition to Uganda wildlife safaris, allowing travelers to combine a memorable rhino-tracking experience with the spectacular wildlife of Murchison Falls National Park.

At Murchison Falls National Park, visitors can encounter four of the African Big Five—lion, leopard, buffalo, and elephant—along with many other wildlife species. The park also offers exciting activities, including game drives across the savannah plains and a boat cruise along the Victoria Nile to the base of the magnificent Murchison Falls, where visitors can enjoy breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife along the riverbanks.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Location

The Ziwa Rhino & Wildlife Ranch is conveniently located approximately 176 km (110 miles) from Kampala, Uganda’s capital city, along the Kampala–Gulu Highway. Situated just off the main highway near Nakitoma Trading Centre, the ranch is ideally positioned along the route to Murchison Falls National Park, making it a convenient stopover for travelers heading to one of Uganda’s most famous wildlife destinations.

History of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and Rhino Conservation

Uganda’s rhino reintroduction program began in 1997, marking the start of efforts to restore these iconic animals to the country’s protected areas. In 2001, two Southern White Rhinos were imported from Kenya and initially housed at the former Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC).

In 2002, Captain Joseph Charles Roy partnered with the Rhino Fund Uganda (RFU) to advance the rhino reintroduction initiative. Captain Roy offered his Nakitooma Ranch in Nakasongola as a suitable site for the project. The ranch, which is now known as the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, had been established and operated by Captain Roy and his family as a cattle farm for nearly two decades.

Following an agreement between Captain Roy and Yvonne Verkakik, the Executive Director of Rhino Fund Uganda, the decision was made to transform the cattle ranch into a wildlife sanctuary. This partnership laid the foundation for the establishment of the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, which has since played a vital role in the conservation and reintroduction of rhinos in Uganda.

The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary was established in 2005, marking an important milestone in Uganda’s rhino conservation efforts. Following its establishment, the first rhino reintroduction program began with six Southern White Rhinos—four translocated from Solio Ranch in Kenya and two donated by Disney’s Animal Kingdom in the United States.

These six rhinos formed the founder population for the sanctuary’s successful rhino breeding program, which has since grown to 49 individuals. In December 2025, a further eight Southern White Rhinos were introduced to the sanctuary, strengthening Uganda’s ongoing efforts to conserve and increase the population of these magnificent animals.

Ziwa Rhino Population

Rhinos are among the world’s most endangered wildlife species, with their populations severely threatened by poaching and habitat loss. In Uganda, rhinos once roamed freely in several national parks but became extinct in the wild as a result of rampant poaching.

A remarkable conservation effort, the Rhino Re-introduction Project, brought hope for the return of these magnificent animals. This joint initiative between the Rhino Fund Uganda and the Roy family led to the establishment of the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in 2005, with the primary objective of reintroducing rhinos to Uganda and providing them with a safe environment in which to breed and thrive.

In 2005, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary was established as a secure haven for rhino conservation, and in 2016, six Southern White Rhinos were introduced to the sanctuary. Since then, the population has continued to grow through successful breeding.

Between 2005 and 2024, Ziwa recorded approximately 26 successful rhino births, bringing the population to about 32 rhinos. This remarkable progress demonstrates the importance of dedicated conservation, protection, and breeding programs.

With the continued commitment of conservationists, local communities, and other responsible stakeholders, the rhino population at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is expected to increase steadily. Today, Ziwa stands as an inspiring example of successful wildlife conservation and offers visitors to Uganda a unique opportunity to see Southern White Rhinos up close while learning about the ongoing efforts to restore this iconic species to Uganda.

Activities in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Rhino tracking in the Sanctuary.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is currently home to 22 Southern White Rhinos and is the only place in Uganda where visitors can see rhinos in their natural habitat. As one of Africa’s iconic Big Five, rhino tracking offers a unique opportunity to experience these magnificent and endangered animals up close.

Rhino tracking at Ziwa is a peaceful, exciting, and family-friendly activity that allows visitors to explore the rhinos’ natural environment on foot. The experience is suitable for families, with children aged 6 years and above welcome to participate.

The activity is led by well-trained and experienced ranger guides who provide a safety briefing before taking visitors into the rhino habitat. As you walk through the sanctuary, the guides share fascinating information about the rhinos, their behavior, conservation, and the sanctuary’s efforts to protect these remarkable animals.

Once inside the habitat, visitors have the opportunity to observe the rhinos in their natural surroundings, making rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary an unforgettable highlight of a Uganda wildlife safari.

The rhinos roam freely across the sanctuary’s vast 7,000-hectare habitat. From the reception area, visitors are usually driven by vehicle to the location where the rhinos are spending their day before beginning the guided bush trek on foot.

The rhino habitat is also home to a variety of other wildlife, making the experience even more rewarding. During the trek, visitors may encounter Uganda kobs, oribis, waterbucks, bushbucks, and other wildlife species. The sanctuary is also an excellent birdwatching destination, with several bird species commonly spotted along the way.

Rhino tracking typically takes about 1½ to 2½ hours, depending on where the rhinos are located and how far visitors need to walk to reach them. Because the activity takes only a few hours, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is an ideal destination for a one-day rhino tracking safari in Uganda, especially for travelers looking for a memorable wildlife experience within a short timeframe.

The recommended times to visit the rhinos are 08:00–10:00 in the morning or 16:00–18:00 in the evening, when conditions are ideal for wildlife viewing. Visitors should have a valid rhino trekking permit and come prepared with closed-toe shoes, long trousers, drinking water, and insect repellent.

Shoebill trek and canoe ride

Uganda Safari Experience

Immerse yourself in the tranquil wetlands of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and embark on an unforgettable search for Uganda’s elusive prehistoric-looking Shoebill Stork. Shoebill trekking and canoe rides are among the major highlights of Uganda birding safaris, offering bird enthusiasts an exceptional opportunity to encounter one of Africa’s most fascinating and sought-after birds in its natural habitat.

The Shoebill is a rare and iconic wetland bird, renowned for its enormous bill, distinctive appearance, and almost prehistoric look. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is one of the remarkable places in Uganda where you can search for this magnificent species. Gliding quietly through the wetlands by canoe gives you an excellent chance to spot Shoebills as they stand motionless among the reeds and papyrus.

With favorable conditions, you may encounter several Shoebills during your canoe safari, sometimes spotting up to 10 individuals along the wetland channels. If you are especially fortunate, you may even witness these remarkable birds nesting within the swamp—a truly memorable experience for any bird lover and an outstanding highlight of a Uganda birding safari.

The Shoebill and canoe experience begins with a briefing from a team of experienced ranger guides, who will introduce you to the sanctuary and explain what to expect during this exciting adventure. After the briefing, you will set off toward the wetland areas, where you will peacefully glide through the swamps by canoe as the sun rises over the wetlands. The beautiful early-morning scenery provides excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife observation.

The activity starts early, with departure at around 6:00 AM. Exploring the swamp by canoe at this time gives you an excellent chance of spotting the Shoebill Stork, as the birds become active and move into the wetlands to begin their day.

In addition to the magnificent Shoebill, you will have the opportunity to see a variety of other waterbirds and wetland species. A canoe ride is one of the best and most peaceful ways to explore the rich birdlife of the sanctuary, making this experience a must-do for birdwatchers, photographers, and nature lovers visiting Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

Because the activity starts very early in the morning, we recommend spending a night at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. This allows you to wake up early and enjoy the experience without a long morning transfer, especially since the sanctuary gates officially open at around 7:30 AM. Plan your ultimate birding safari in Uganda with Amakula African Safaris and discover the beauty of Uganda’s wetlands while searching for the remarkable Shoebill Stork. Experience unforgettable wildlife encounters, peaceful canoe rides, and exceptional opportunities for photography in the heart of Uganda’s wilderness.

Bird watching in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Bird watching safaris

If you are a bird lover, a visit to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is an experience you should not miss. While the sanctuary is best known for its successful conservation and reintroduction of endangered Southern White Rhinos, it is also home to an incredible diversity of birdlife. More than 300 bird species can be spotted within the sanctuary, including the rare and highly sought-after Shoebill Stork.

Ziwa’s diverse habitats, including wetlands, swamps, woodlands, and open savannah, provide ideal feeding, nesting, and breeding grounds for a wide variety of bird species. This makes the sanctuary an excellent destination for birdwatching safaris in Uganda.

Birding experiences at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary are led by professional and knowledgeable birding guides who have extensive experience identifying the different species found in the area. Your guide will help you spot and identify birds while sharing fascinating information about their behavior, habitats, and conservation. The experience is conducted at a relaxed pace, giving you plenty of time to observe the birds and capture memorable photographs.

Early Morning Shoebill Experience

For the best chance of spotting the elusive Shoebill Stork, the birding experience begins early in the morning, at around 6:00 AM. A canoe ride through the sanctuary’s wetlands at this time offers an excellent opportunity to encounter Shoebills as they move into the swamp to begin their day. Besides the Shoebill, you can expect to encounter a variety of waterbirds and other wetland species during the canoe excursion. Exploring the swamp by canoe provides a peaceful and unique way to experience Ziwa’s rich birdlife while enjoying the surrounding wilderness.

Because the birding activity starts very early, we recommend spending a night at or near Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary before your birding experience. This allows you to wake up early and begin the activity without the inconvenience of traveling from a distant location. Please note that the sanctuary gates normally open later in the morning, making an overnight stay particularly convenient for visitors interested in the early-morning Shoebill experience. Whether you are an experienced birder, a wildlife photographer, or simply a nature enthusiast, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary offers an unforgettable birding experience in Uganda. Plan your birding safari with Amakula African Safaris and discover Uganda’s remarkable birdlife while combining your experience with rhino tracking and other exciting wildlife adventures.

Why Book With Amakula African Safaris?

At Amakula African Safaris, we create carefully planned Uganda safaris that combine wildlife, birding, culture, and adventure. Our experienced guides, personalized itineraries, reliable safari vehicles, and attention to detail ensure that every journey is comfortable, safe, and memorable. Let us help you discover the Shoebill Stork, Southern White Rhinos, and Uganda’s incredible birdlife on an unforgettable safari to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

The Sanctuary has 4 different birding trails that will allow you to spot various bird species. Some of the birdlife that you are likely to see during your Ziwa Birding safaris include the shoebill, Grey Crowner Crane, African Fish eagle, African jacana, pied Kingfisher, African Grey hornbill, African Pygmy Kingfisher, Marabou stork, White Egret, Red-billed Oxpecker among others. To better experience the birdlife in Ziwa, we recommend for at least two days of tours at Ziwa. Enjoy unmatched birding experience in Uganda, plan with Acacia Safaris Limited.

Night Walk at Sanctuary

Discover a completely different side of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary on an exciting guided night walk. As darkness falls, the sanctuary comes alive with fascinating nocturnal sounds, sights, and sensations that you may never experience during the day. Accompanied by an experienced guide, you will explore the wilderness after sunset and look out for nocturnal animals, reptiles, birds, and other creatures that become active at night. You never know what you might encounter along the trail, making this a thrilling and unforgettable addition to your Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary experience.

Guided Nature Walk at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of the African wilderness on a guided nature walk through Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Covering approximately 27 square miles of woodland, wetlands, and savannah, the sanctuary offers a wonderful opportunity to get close to nature while exploring its diverse landscapes.

Led by well-trained and knowledgeable guides, the walk takes you through the lush bush as you discover the sanctuary’s rich biodiversity. Along the way, you may encounter a variety of animals, birds, reptiles, plants, and other fascinating forms of wildlife. Your guide will share insights into the animals, vegetation, trees, and unique ecosystems that make Ziwa special.

A guided nature walk is one of the best ways to slow down, connect with Uganda’s natural environment, and experience the wilderness from a closer and more personal perspective during your Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary visit.

If you are wondering ‘‘is it safe to go on nature walks in Ziwa’’ the answer to this is that the experience is absolutely safe. You will be escorted by a well-trained and experienced armed rangers guide – with a wide knowledge of how to deal with threats during the nature walk. Your guide will also help you identify all the species of animals that you’ll see. Enjoy remarkable Nature walking adventures in Ziwa during your Visit and experience nature up close.

Rates at the sanctuary

The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary rates vary depending on the type of visitor and the age of the traveler. Below is a guide to the applicable visitor rates for 2024–2025. Travelers are encouraged to confirm the latest rates when planning their Uganda safari, as fees may change.

Nature Walk

Experience the beauty of Uganda’s wilderness on a guided nature walk at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. If you enjoy being close to nature, this is an excellent way to explore the sanctuary while discovering its diverse wildlife, vegetation, and natural landscapes.

Covering 27 square miles of woodland, savannah, and wetland, Ziwa offers an immersive African wilderness experience. Guided walks along designated trails are led by experienced sanctuary guides who share fascinating insights about the ecosystem.

During the nature walk, you may encounter a variety of birds, mammals, reptiles, plants, and other wildlife that call the sanctuary home. Your guide will also introduce you to the different types of vegetation and explain their importance to the sanctuary’s ecosystem.

A guided nature walk offers a chance to slow down, enjoy Uganda’s natural beauty, and experience the wilderness up close. It is a perfect addition to a Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary visit for nature lovers, photographers, birdwatchers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Why you should travel with Amakula African Safaris Ltd?

5% of the profits go to Create Hope Uganda. Amakula African Safaris Ltd gives back to the community through its 5% share of profits. This profit goes to Create Hope Uganda, a project of Amakula African Safaris Ltd aimed at providing free health services to Venerable communities in Uganda.</p>

Reliability and trustworthy. Amakula African Safaris Ltd is credited with trustworthy and reliable employees who are determined to work together with you to deliver quality services.</p>

Comfortable safe mileage. Amakula aims at providing the most comfortable safe mileage to its clients so as to meet their satisfaction.

Hospitable employees/ guides with a broader knowledge about Uganda. Meet our hospitable employees/ guides all determined to make it to your travel destination. The employees are fluent English speakers.

Affordable quality services. Amakula exists to offer pocket friendly services which are of a good quality to suite your taste and preference.

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