Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Once, Uganda’s savannahs and woodlands were alive with the thunderous footsteps of rhinos. But by the mid-1980s, poaching had driven them to extinction in the wild. Enter the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: a beacon of hope and conservation located in Nakitoma, just 176 kilometers from Kampala. Today, this 70-square-kilometer (27-square-mile) sanctuary is the only place in Uganda where you can see white rhinos in their natural habitat. It’s not just a sanctuary—it’s a comeback story worth experiencing.

Meet the Rhinos

Fast-forward to the 2000s, and the rhinos are back! Thanks to conservation efforts, eight Southern white rhinos were reintroduced to Uganda between 2001 and 2006. Today, that number has grown to 34 (including two adorable calves born in April 2023).

Here’s some rhino trivia for when you want to show off your knowledge:

The rhinos at Ziwa are Southern white rhinos, known for their wide mouths and grazing habits.
Uganda was once home to Northern white rhinos, which are now critically endangered and likely extinct in the wild.
Black rhinos, unlike their white counterparts, have a pointed upper lip for browsing on shrubs and trees.

Fun fact? White rhinos are the chill ones of the rhino world—calm, majestic, and perfect for close encounters on a trek.

Most Common Animals at Ziwa

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including:

Southern White Rhinos
Shoebills
African Leopards
Ugandan Kobs
Warthogs
Waterbucks
Golden Crested Cranes
Bushbucks
Black-and-White Colobus Monkeys
Crested Porcupines
Genets
Aardvarks
Common Duikers
Over 300 Bird Species

Fascinating Facts About Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Covers 70 square kilometers (27 square miles) of woodland, savannah, and swamp.
Established in 2005 to reintroduce rhinos to Uganda.
Only place in Uganda to see white rhinos in the wild.
Located near Murchison Falls National Park, making it a convenient stop for safari-goers.
Home to the 30-million-year-old shoebill, a must-see for bird enthusiasts.

More Than Rhinos

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary isn’t just a home for rhinos—it’s a thriving wildlife haven. While exploring the sanctuary, you might spot:

African Leopards stealthily prowling.
Ugandan Kobs grazing in the savannah.
Over 300 bird species, including the stunning golden crested crane and the prehistoric-looking shoebill (yes, it’s been around for 30 million years!).

Activities in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Ziwa offers a variety of activities to fill your day with adventure and awe:

Rhino Treks: Walk with experienced rangers to track rhinos and get close to these incredible creatures.
Shoebill Treks & Canoe Rides: Early morning adventures to spot this ancient bird at sunrise.
Birding Tours: Perfect for bird lovers and photographers eager to capture rare species.
Nature Walks: Discover the sanctuary’s flora and fauna, from bushbucks to aardvarks.
Night Walks: Explore the sanctuary’s nocturnal side and spot creatures like crested porcupines and genets.

How to Get There

Getting to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is easy:

By Road: It’s just a 3-hour drive (176 kilometers) from Kampala, conveniently located along the Gulu highway.
From Murchison Falls National Park: Stop by Ziwa on your way to or from the park to complete your Big Five checklist—Ziwa is the only place in Uganda to see rhinos.

Climate

Ziwa enjoys a tropical climate, with daytime temperatures averaging 31°C (88°F) and cooler nights at around 18°C (64°F).

Dry Season (December–February, June–October): Ideal for spotting wildlife as animals gather around water sources.
Rainy Season (March–May, September–November): Perfect for birdwatchers, as migratory birds flock to the sanctuary, and the landscape turns a vibrant green.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit depends on your interests:

Wildlife Spotting: Dry season (June–August, December–February) when animals are easier to see near waterholes.
Bird Watching: Rainy season (March–May, September–November) when the sanctuary comes alive with bird activity.