Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary –Location, Accommodation, 2025 Rates, & more

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: Discover Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda where you can see rhinos on foot. Learn about rhino tracking, conservation, fees, and how to visit.

Introduction

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is the only place in Uganda where visitors can see wild rhinos up close on foot. Nestled in the heart of Uganda’s savannah landscape, this sanctuary offers an unparalleled rhino tracking experience that draws safari enthusiasts from around the world.

Located in the Nakasongola District along the Kampala–Gulu highway, Ziwa serves as a crucial stopover for tourists traveling between Kampala and Murchison Falls National Park.

Its importance cannot be overstated: Ziwa plays a pivotal role in rhino conservation efforts, providing a safe haven for breeding and reintroduction programs that aim to restore Uganda’s “Big Five Animals” wildlife heritage.

Whether you’re seeking an intimate walking safari Uganda adventure or insights into rhino reintroduction in Uganda, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Uganda delivers an unforgettable blend of wildlife immersion and educational value.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything from the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary location to the best time to visit, ensuring your trip is seamless and enriching.

History and Background of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

The story of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is one of resilience and revival. Rhinos once roamed freely across Uganda’s national parks, but relentless poaching in the 1970s and 1980s led to their complete extinction in the country by 1983.

What is the history of the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary? It begins with a visionary partnership. In 1997, Rhino Fund Uganda (RFU), a non-governmental organization dedicated to repopulating Uganda with wild rhinos, was formed.

By 2005, in collaboration with the Uganda Wildlife Authority , the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary was established on 7,000 hectares (approximately 70 square kilometers) of private land in Nakasongola District, owned by Captain Joe Roy.

The reintroduction effort kicked off with the translocation of six southern white rhinos: four from Solio Ranch in Kenya and two donated by Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Florida, USA.

These pioneers marked the dawn of a breeding program designed to build a sustainable population for eventual release into protected areas like Murchison Falls and Ajai Wildlife Reserves.

Over the years, the sanctuary has seen remarkable growth. From those initial six, the herd expanded steadily through natural births, reaching 13 by 2013, 22 by 2018, 33 by 2021, and now boasting 48 rhinos as of July 2025.

How many rhinos are in Ziwa? How many rhinos are in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary? The answer is a thriving 48, a testament to dedicated anti-poaching measures and veterinary care. Today, Ziwa stands as a beacon of hope, not just for rhinos but for broader biodiversity restoration in Uganda.

This history underscores Ziwa’s role in global conservation. The sanctuary’s electric fencing, ranger patrols, and community education programs have created a secure environment where rhinos can thrive, free from the threats that once decimated their numbers. For travelers interested in rhino reintroduction in Uganda, a visit here offers a front-row seat to this ongoing success story.

Location and How to Get There: Where is Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Located?

Where is Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary located? Where is the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary District? The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary location is in the Nakasongola District, central Uganda, precisely along the Kampala–Gulu highway.

Spanning 7,000 hectares of diverse habitats including open savannah, woodlands, and wetlands, it’s ideally positioned for accessibility.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Uganda is about 176 km (109 miles) north of Kampala, making it a convenient 3-hour drive from the capital.

Kampala to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is straightforward via the Northern Corridor. Start from Kampala, head north on the Kampala–Gulu highway (A104), passing Luwero and reaching Nakasongola town.

From there, turn left at Nakitoma Trading Centre, and after a few kilometers, you’ll arrive at the sanctuary gates. Private cars, 4×4 safari vehicles, or even shared taxis work well, though a 4×4 is recommended for comfort on minor gravel sections.

For those without transport, buses from Kampala’s Taxi Park to Nakasongola (about 2 hours) followed by a boda-boda (motorcycle taxi) or taxi (30 minutes) is a budget-friendly option, totaling around 2.5 hours.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to Murchison Falls National Park is equally hassle-free, covering approximately 150 km (93 miles) and taking 3 hours via the same highway.

This makes Ziwa the perfect midway halt for multi-day safaris. Embed a Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary location map below for easy navigation:

Below is an Interactive Google Map showing distance of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary from Kampala.

Travel tips: Fuel up in Kampala, carry water and snacks, and book rhino tracking slots in advance during peak season. Road conditions are generally good, but check for updates via UWA or your trusted tour operator.

Rhino Tracking Experience at Ziwa

The Ziwa Rhino tracking experience is the sanctuary’s crown jewel—a thrilling, on-foot encounter that’s rare in East Africa. Guided by armed rangers, this walking safari Uganda activity begins with a safety briefing at the headquarters, covering dos and don’ts like maintaining a 6-7 meter distance from the rhinos. Groups are small (up to 8 people), ensuring an intimate vibe.

From there, you’ll trek through golden savannah and bushland for 30-90 minutes, following rhino signs like footprints and dung. Spotting a family—perhaps a mother with her calf grazing peacefully—feels magical.

Photography opportunities abound, with rhinos habituated enough to allow close views without disturbance. Safety is paramount: rangers carry rifles, and the sanctuary’s fencing minimizes risks. It’s one of the safest rhino tracking Uganda experiences, blending adrenaline with awe.

Other Activities at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: Things to Do at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Beyond rhinos, things to do at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary cater to diverse interests. Bird watching shines with over 300 species, including the elusive Shoebill stork Uganda icon—opt for guided Ziwa bird watching trails at dawn. Nature walks explore flora and smaller wildlife like monkeys and antelopes, while night walks reveal nocturnal creatures under starry skies.

For water lovers, Shoebill canoe rides glide through papyrus swamps, offering serene Uganda nature walks with a twist. Relaxation spots include picnic areas overlooking the savannah, perfect for unwinding.

These activities enhance long-tail searches like Shoebill stork Uganda and Ziwa bird watching, making Ziwa a full-day or multi-day haven.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary accommodation

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary accommodation ensures you can extend your stay without venturing far. Where to stay near Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary?

The on-site Amuka Safari Lodge offers cozy bandas (traditional huts) with en-suite bathrooms, verandas facing the bush, and meals featuring local cuisine—rates start at $80 per night for doubles. Budget guesthouses like the Rhino Fund Guesthouse provide simple rooms from $30, ideal for backpackers.

Overnighting unlocks exclusives like early-morning Shoebill sightings or dusk rhino visits near the restaurant. Camping sites ($10 per person) appeal to adventurers.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary lodge options blend comfort with immersion, so book ahead for peak seasons.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Entrance Fees 2025/6

Planning your budget? Here’s the breakdown for Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary entrance fee in 2025, including rhino tracking. Note: These are combined fees (entrance + tracking); pay at the gate via cash, card, or mobile money.

Category	Fee (USD)	Fee (UGX)
Foreign Non-Residents	50	–
Foreign Residents	45	–
East African Citizens	–	30,000
Rhino Tracking Only (add-on)	25	–
Canoeing/Shoebill Ride	20	–
Birding Guide	15	–

Conservation Efforts at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Ziwa’s conservation efforts are multifaceted. As a breeding ground, it’s preparing for translocations: in 2025, 20 rhinos will move to Ajai Reserve to ease space constraints.

Partnerships with UWA and Rhino Fund Uganda drive anti-poaching patrols, dehorning to deter hunters, and community programs educating locals on rhino value.

Environmental education includes school visits and visitor briefings. These initiatives not only safeguard the 48 rhinos but foster sustainable tourism.

Best Time to Visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

The best time to visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is year-round, but dry seasons (June–September and December–February) shine for optimal tracking—less mud, clearer views.

Avoid wet months (March–May, October–November) for slippery trails. Pack light clothing, hiking shoes, hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Early mornings beat the heat.

Combine Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary with Other Destinations

Elevate your safari: Kampala → Ziwa (3 hours) → Murchison Falls (3 hours) for rhinos then Big Five game drives. Extend to Kibale (chimps), Queen Elizabeth (lions), and Bwindi (gorillas) in a 7-10 day itinerary.

Most of our Uganda safari packages include a stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary before heading north to Murchison Falls National Park. Some of the itineraries to consider include 3 Days Murchison Falls Safari and 8 Days Uganda Wildlife Safari.

FAQ

Where is Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary located? In Nakasongola District, 176 km north of Kampala along the Kampala–Gulu highway.

How much does it cost to visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary? $50 USD for foreign non-residents (includes entrance and tracking).

Can you see rhinos in Uganda? Yes, exclusively at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

What animals are at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary? 48 white rhinos, plus birds (300+ species), monkeys, antelopes, hippos, and crocodiles.

How many rhinos are in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary? 48 as of 2025

Book your Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary adventure today with All Uganda Safaris! Choose from our different Uganda safari packages including the 2-Day Ziwa Rhino Tracking Tour designed for those seeking an immersive experience.