Why Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a Must-Visit in Uganda
The Return of Rhinos to Uganda
Uganda was once home to thousands of wild rhinos, roaming freely across its savannas. But by the early 1980s, both black and white rhinos had disappeared due to poaching and civil unrest.
Table of Contents
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Uganda was created as a place of hope and restoration. Established in 2005, it became the only home for wild rhinos in Uganda. Today, thanks to dedicated conservation work, the sanctuary protects over 30 southern white rhinos, with a vision of one day releasing them back into the national parks.
Visiting Ziwa is not just about seeing rhinos—it’s about witnessing conservation history in the making.
Where is Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary?
The sanctuary lies about 176 km north of Kampala, along the main road to Murchison Falls National Park. This makes it a perfect stopover for travelers heading on safari.
The reserve covers 70 square kilometers of savanna and bushland, providing a safe, natural environment for the rhinos and a variety of other wildlife, including:
- Hippos
- Antelope species
- Monkeys
- Over 300 bird species
Unique Experiences at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Uganda
1. Rhino Trekking on Foot
Unlike a typical safari, here you track rhinos on foot. With trained rangers, you’ll walk through the bush until you come face-to-face with these magnificent giants. It’s safe, guided, and unforgettable.
2. Bird Watching Paradise
Ziwa is a haven for birders, with species like the shoebill stork, African fish eagle, and papyrus gonolek.
3. Nature Walks & Night Walks
Guided walks give you a chance to spot monkeys, reptiles, and nocturnal animals under a starry Ugandan sky.
4. Conservation in Action
By visiting, you directly support rhino protection and help ensure future generations can see these incredible animals in the wild.
Why Add Ziwa to Your Itinerary?
- It’s the only place in Uganda where you can see rhinos in the wild.
- It connects beautifully with a Murchison Falls safari.
- Your visit supports local communities and anti-poaching efforts.
- It offers an experience unlike gorilla trekking or game drives—here, you’re walking with wildlife at eye level.
At Amatsiko Tours, we often recommend including Ziwa as a meaningful stopover, so travelers experience Uganda’s full “Big Five”: lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards—and rhinos.
Suggested Itinerary: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary & Beyond
If you’d like to see the best of Uganda in one journey, here’s a route we often recommend:
Day 1: Arrival in Kampala/Entebbe
- Airport pick-up and transfer to your hotel.
- Evening at leisure, with a short city orientation if time allows.
Day 2: Kampala – Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – Murchison Falls
- Early departure for Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Uganda.
- Morning rhino trekking on foot.
- Continue to Murchison Falls National Park.
- Evening game drive or relaxation at your lodge.
Day 3: Murchison Falls Safari
- Sunrise game drive across the savanna—look out for lions, giraffes, elephants, and buffalo.
- Afternoon Nile boat cruise to the base of the falls, spotting hippos and crocodiles.
- Optional hike to the top of Murchison Falls for breathtaking views.
Day 4: Transfer to Kibale Forest
- Scenic drive south through tea plantations and villages.
- Overnight near Kibale National Park.
Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale
- Guided trek into the rainforest to observe chimpanzees.
- Afternoon swamp walk or cultural experience with local communities.
Day 6: Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Morning transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Afternoon boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, home to elephants, hippos, and abundant birdlife.
Day 7: Safari & Transfer to Bwindi
- Early morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth (possible tree-climbing lions in Ishasha).
- Continue to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home of the mountain gorillas.
Day 8: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
- Trek into the misty forest with expert guides.
- Spend one magical hour with a gorilla family.
- Overnight at Lake Bunyonyi for relaxation and reflection.
Day 9: Lake Bunyonyi
- Canoe rides, island visits, or just relaxation on the lakeshore.
- Optional school or community visit with Amatsiko to see how tourism supports education.
Day 10: Return to Kampala/Entebbe & Departure
👉 Why this route works: You’ll experience the Big Five, combine savanna safaris, gorillas, chimpanzees, and cultural immersion, and balance adventure with relaxation.
FAQs about Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Uganda
Q: Is Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Uganda safe to visit?
A: Yes. All treks are guided by trained rangers, ensuring both visitor and rhino safety.
Q: How much time should I spend at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary?
A: Most travelers spend half a day to a full day, but you can also stay overnight in nearby lodges for a deeper experience.
Q: Can I see the Big Five in Uganda without visiting Ziwa?
A: No. Uganda’s lions, elephants, buffalo, and leopards can be found in national parks, but rhinos only exist at Ziwa.
Q: What is the best way to combine Ziwa with other Uganda safaris?
A: It fits perfectly en route to Murchison Falls National Park and can be included in multi-day itineraries with Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi, and Lake Bunyonyi.
A Journey of Hope
At Amatsiko Tours, we believe every journey should create hope. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Uganda is a powerful example of that—where extinction is being reversed, and every visitor plays a role in the rhinos’ comeback story.
If you’ve dreamed of seeing rhinos in the wild while supporting meaningful conservation, Ziwa is the place. Let us help you weave it into your Ugandan adventure by booking your tour.
