Uganda’s Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Deep in the heart of central Uganda, surrounded by rolling savannahs and acacia woodlands, lies one of East Africa’s most remarkable conservation success stories — Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. It is a place of hope, restoration, and quiet triumph; a living symbol of Uganda’s commitment to bringing back one of Africa’s most iconic animals: the rhinoceros.

For decades, Uganda’s rhinos were a memory — a ghost from the country’s wild past. But today, thanks to visionary conservation efforts and passionate local stewardship, the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary has become a beacon of renewal, a place where travelers can witness the rebirth of a species and walk among these magnificent giants in their natural habitat.

If you dream of standing a few meters away from a wild rhino — no fences, no cars, just nature — Ziwa is where that dream becomes reality.

The Return of the Rhino

To truly appreciate Ziwa’s magic, one must understand its history. Uganda was once home to two species of rhinoceros — the black rhino (Diceros bicornis) and the northern white rhino (Ceratotherium simum cottoni). These majestic animals roamed freely across the savannahs and riverine forests, particularly in Murchison Falls and Kidepo Valley National Parks.

However, by the early 1980s, poaching and civil unrest had taken a devastating toll. Both species were completely wiped out in Uganda, victims of the illegal horn trade and habitat loss. For over two decades, the country that once boasted thriving rhino populations had none left in the wild.

That changed in 2005, when a bold initiative by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and the Rhino Fund Uganda (RFU) set out to reintroduce rhinos to their ancestral homeland. They chose a 7,000-hectare tract of land near Nakitoma Village in Nakasongola District, about 170 kilometers north of Kampala. This land would become Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, a protected refuge where rhinos could breed safely under constant protection.

Six rhinos — four from Kenya’s Solio Ranch and two donated by Disney’s Animal Kingdom in the United States — became the founders of Uganda’s new rhino population. What began as an experiment has since grown into one of Africa’s most successful reintroduction programs.

Today, Ziwa is home to more than 30 southern white rhinos, and counting — a symbol of hope not only for Uganda but for rhino conservation across the continent.

A Sanctuary Like No Other

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary isn’t a zoo or a fenced safari park — it’s a living, breathing wilderness. Spread across 70 square kilometers of savannah and wetland, it offers the perfect environment for rhinos to thrive.

The sanctuary is fully enclosed by a 62-kilometer electric fence, ensuring the safety of the animals from poachers and predators. Yet within those boundaries, the landscape remains wild and open, allowing visitors to experience nature as it was meant to be: raw, authentic, and alive.

Beyond rhinos, Ziwa is also home to a thriving ecosystem. The land supports over 300 bird species, antelope, warthogs, baboons, reptiles, and even the elusive shoebill stork — a prehistoric-looking bird that attracts birders from all over the world.

But it’s the rhinos that steal the show. Watching these gentle giants graze, bathe in mud, or interact with their calves is a humbling reminder of how fragile yet resilient nature can be.

Walking with Giants – The Rhino Tracking Experience

One of the most unique aspects of visiting Ziwa is the chance to track rhinos on foot — an experience you won’t find in many parts of Africa. There are no vehicles separating you from the wild; instead, you walk through the grasslands with trained rangers, quietly approaching the rhinos until you’re within about 10–15 meters of them.

The feeling is extraordinary — a mix of awe, respect, and adrenaline.

The rangers are highly trained professionals who understand every behavior and movement of these animals. Before the walk, they brief visitors on safety and teach you how to approach rhinos calmly and responsibly. Despite their size, rhinos are peaceful creatures when undisturbed, and watching them in silence is a deeply grounding experience.

Each tracking session lasts about 1–2 hours, depending on the rhinos’ location. Early morning and late afternoon are ideal, as the temperatures are cooler and the animals are more active. Along the way, you’ll learn about rhino behavior, conservation efforts, and the individual stories of the sanctuary’s residents — each rhino has a name, a history, and a personality.

If you’re lucky, you might spot mothers with calves, young bulls sparring playfully, or older males resting under the shade of acacia trees. Every encounter feels personal — a direct connection between human and nature that few places still offer.

Birding and Beyond

While rhino tracking is the highlight of Ziwa, the sanctuary has much more to offer. Its varied habitats — wetlands, grasslands, and woodland — make it a paradise for birdwatchers.

Over 300 species have been recorded here, including some of Uganda’s rarest and most sought-after birds. The crown jewel is the shoebill stork, a prehistoric-looking bird with a massive bill and a calm, statuesque presence. Early morning boat rides through the Lugogo Swamp offer the best chance to spot it, along with African fish eagles, kingfishers, cormorants, and egrets.

For those interested in walking safaris, guided nature walks through the sanctuary reveal smaller animals like bushbucks, warthogs, waterbucks, and monkeys, as well as countless butterflies and reptiles. The area’s peaceful atmosphere and open terrain make it an ideal destination for photographers and travelers seeking a quiet, immersive experience in the wild.

A Conservation Story of Hope

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary’s success is not just measured in the number of rhinos but in the lessons it offers about community, cooperation, and resilience.

The sanctuary’s management works closely with surrounding villages to ensure that conservation benefits everyone. Locals are employed as rangers, guides, and hospitality staff, providing sustainable livelihoods that reduce dependence on poaching and habitat destruction.

Additionally, education programs teach local children the importance of wildlife conservation, planting seeds for a future generation of environmental stewards.

Every visitor who comes to Ziwa contributes directly to this mission. Entrance fees and guided tours fund anti-poaching patrols, veterinary care, and habitat maintenance — ensuring that Uganda’s rhinos continue to thrive.

Ziwa also plays a vital role in Uganda’s long-term conservation plan. The ultimate goal is to reintroduce rhinos into national parks like Murchison Falls and Kidepo Valley, restoring them to the wild where they once belonged. With continued growth and protection, that dream may soon become reality.

Where to Stay

Ziwa offers comfortable on-site accommodation for travelers who wish to stay overnight and soak in the tranquility of the sanctuary.

• Amuka Lodge – A charming lodge nestled within the sanctuary, offering thatched cottages, a swimming pool, and delicious local and international cuisine. Staying here allows guests to enjoy early morning rhino tracking and nighttime stargazing in the heart of nature.

• Ziwa Guesthouse and Campsite – Ideal for budget travelers, with clean rooms, shaded camping areas, and a restaurant serving hearty Ugandan meals.

Both options provide easy access to activities and guided tours, making them perfect bases for exploring the sanctuary.

Best Time to Visit

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry seasons — December to February and June to September — when trails are easier to navigate and wildlife is more visible.

However, even during the rainy months, the sanctuary remains beautiful, with lush green vegetation and excellent birdwatching. Because the sanctuary is located near the equator, temperatures remain relatively warm throughout the year.

Getting There

Ziwa is located about 170 kilometers north of Kampala, along the Kampala–Gulu highway, roughly halfway between Kampala and Murchison Falls National Park.

The drive takes about 3.5 to 4 hours, passing through scenic landscapes and rural communities. Many travelers stop at Ziwa on their way to or from Murchison Falls, making it a convenient and enriching addition to any northern Uganda safari itinerary.

For those preferring organized transport, Moreen Tours & Travel offers comfortable transfers and guided experiences that ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Why Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Should Be on Your Safari List

In a world where wildlife faces increasing threats, Ziwa stands as a rare and hopeful story — a reminder that conservation works when passion meets purpose. Here, you don’t just see animals; you connect with a living symbol of renewal.

Walking beside a rhino, hearing it breathe, watching its slow and graceful movements — it changes the way you see nature. It’s not just about ticking a box on a safari checklist; it’s about understanding what it takes to bring a species back from the brink.

Ziwa’s beauty lies in its simplicity. There are no luxury lodges, no large crowds, just a raw, peaceful wilderness where life continues quietly and steadily. For travelers seeking authenticity, conservation, and meaning, Ziwa is a place that lingers in your heart long after you leave.

Travel with Moreen Tours & Travel

To experience the awe and inspiration of Uganda’s Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, journey with Moreen Tours & Travel — your trusted safari expert across East Africa.

Why choose Moreen Tours & Travel:

• Tailor-made itineraries: Combine Ziwa with destinations like Murchison Falls, Kidepo Valley, or Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

• Expert guides: Knowledgeable professionals who share fascinating insights into Uganda’s wildlife and conservation efforts.

• Sustainable travel: Committed to eco-friendly practices and supporting local conservation projects.

• Seamless service: From transport to accommodation and permits, every detail handled for a stress-free safari experience.

With Moreen Tours & Travel, your visit to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary becomes more than just a journey — it becomes part of a legacy of hope, protection, and rebirth.