Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Encounter Uganda’s last remaining wild rhinos in their natural habitat and be a part of a groundbreaking conservation success story.
Encounter Uganda’s last remaining wild rhinos in their natural habitat and be a part of a groundbreaking conservation success story.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is Uganda’s only habitat for the country’s reintroduced wild rhinos, located about 180 km north of Kampala in the Nakasongola District. Established to revive Uganda’s rhino population, the sanctuary has become a crucial conservation site and a major draw for visitors who want an up-close rhino-tracking experience. Beyond rhinos, Ziwa’s wetlands and savannah harbor a variety of bird and mammal species, making it an excellent stopover en route to Murchison Falls National Park or as a standalone destination. Whether it’s guided walking safaris, birding excursions, or night walks, every activity here underscores the importance of wildlife protection while offering an intimate look at one of Africa’s most majestic animals.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary spans a mosaic of savannah grasslands, acacia woodlands, and marshy wetlands. Gentle, rolling terrain is interspersed with thickets that provide cover for wildlife. The lush vegetation near the swamps is particularly rich, making it prime habitat for both the rhinos and various bird species. This mix of open plains and dense thickets creates a tranquil environment perfect for intimate wildlife encounters and photography.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary sits in the central region of Uganda, where the climate is warm and tropical year-round. Temperatures typically range between 20°C (68°F) and 30°C (86°F), with higher chances of rain during two main rainy seasons: March to May and September to November. The dry seasons, from December to February and June to August, see lower rainfall and slightly hotter temperatures, although humidity remains relatively high throughout the year.
Visitors to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary can enjoy a range of activities that showcase the sanctuary’s wildlife, landscapes, and conservation efforts. From guided walking safaris and birdwatching to community visits and cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this unique destination.
The dry seasons (December to February and June to early September) are generally considered the best times to visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. During these periods, the roads within and around the sanctuary are more accessible, and the grass is less dense, making it easier to track and observe the rhinos. While the rainy seasons can present challenges like muddy trails, the sanctuary remains open year-round, and the verdant landscape can offer excellent birding opportunities.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife species, offering visitors the opportunity to encounter a diverse array of animals in their natural habitat. While the sanctuary’s primary focus is on the conservation of the white rhinoceros, other wildlife can also be observed, including: