Rhinos were wiped out in Uganda during the conflicts of the 1980s, and the last wild individuals disappeared in the early 1980s. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, in the Nakasongola district about two hours north of Kampala, is where the species is being brought back. Run by Rhino Fund Uganda, the sanctuary began with a small number of southern white rhinos brought in from abroad, and it has bred them successfully ever since. The long-term goal is to release young rhinos back into protected areas such as Murchison Falls National Park. A visit to Ziwa is a walking safari. After a briefing, visitors set out on foot with armed rangers and a tracking team along paths through savanna and woodland until they find a rhino family. You are allowed to approach within a short distance, sometimes only a few metres, and to watch them graze, wallow and rest. Because the animals are habituated to people, the encounter is calm, and the guides explain each rhino's name and family history. The sanctuary covers about seventy square kilometres of private ranch land and is also home to other wildlife, including waterbuck, bushbuck, Uganda kob, monkeys and a large number of birds. Some visitors take the shoebill excursion to a nearby swamp as an add-on, and a basic lodge and campsite on site allow overnight stays.
Getting there
Ziwa lies roughly 170 kilometres north of Kampala on the road to Masindi and Murchison Falls, so it is a natural stop on the way to or from the park. A day trip from Kampala is possible and takes about four hours of driving in total, but many travellers combine it with a Murchison itinerary and see the rhinos on the way.
Which tour to choose
The product linked here is a guided walking safari at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. It is a good fit if you want a focused rhino visit rather than a long safari. Look at what is included, such as transport, entry fees, the ranger guide and any meals, and compare it with itineraries that include Ziwa on the way to Murchison. Entry fees and conservation charges support the sanctuary's anti-poaching work and its breeding programme.
What to bring and rules
Wear neutral clothing, closed shoes or boots and a hat, and bring water, sunscreen and insect repellent. Walks are generally gentle and suitable for most fitness levels, but the sun can be strong. Follow the rangers' directions at all times, keep your voice low, do not run and do not use flash. Rhinos are large and can be unpredictable, so keep the distance your guide sets. Children are welcome in many cases, but ask about minimum age rules when you book.
Conservation context
Rhino Fund Uganda raises money through visits, donations and partnerships, and it uses the income to feed and protect the rhinos, train rangers and run education programmes for local schools. The population is only a few dozen animals, and each one has a name and a recorded history. Ask your guide about the latest births and the plans for returning rhinos to the wild, because the story changes as the programme grows. The sanctuary is a good place to see how tourism supports wildlife recovery.
What to expect
The experience
A ranger-led walk on foot through sanctuary savanna to find and watch a family of southern white rhinos at close range.
Best time
Morning walks are cooler and give the best light; the sanctuary is open year-round.
How long
About two to three hours on site, plus the drive from Kampala.
Tips
Wear neutral colours and closed shoes, bring water and sunscreen, and stop here on the way to Murchison.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants to see rhinos, the only place in Uganda to do so.
- Families
- Children are often welcome; check minimum age and keep close to the guides.
- Couples
- A quiet nature walk that fits neatly into a road trip to Murchison.
- Pair with
- Murchison Falls National Park, the Nile boat cruise and Mabamba swamp.
- Time needed
- Half a day, or a stop on the way to Murchison.
Good questions
Are there rhinos in the wild in Uganda?+
No. Rhinos were extinct in Uganda by the 1980s. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary protects and breeds southern white rhinos brought from abroad.
How close can I get to the rhinos?+
On a guided walk, you can often approach within a few metres, with armed rangers nearby, following their instructions.
How far is Ziwa from Kampala?+
It is about 170 kilometres north of Kampala, roughly two to three hours by road.
Can I stay overnight?+
Yes. There is simple accommodation and a campsite in the sanctuary, as well as lodges nearby.
Does my visit support conservation?+
Yes. Entry fees help fund the sanctuary's rhino breeding programme and security.
