Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Track southern white rhinos on foot with experienced guides.
North of Kampala, on the route to Murchison Falls
Year-round
Rhino walking safari, conservation story, wetland birding
Central Uganda
About this Destination
Uganda lost its wild rhinos in the twentieth century. Ziwa, near Nakasongola, was established as a breeding and protection sanctuary for southern white rhinos, with the first animals brought here in the 2000s. It remains part of an ongoing conservation story, not a fixed population statistic.
Here, you can join a ranger-led walk to look for rhinos in woodland and grassland. Your guide sets the route and viewing distance according to the animals' movements and the conditions on the day. Observing a rhino at walking pace is a different experience from seeing one on a game drive.
Ziwa is a working sanctuary rather than a conventional national park. The visit offers a chance to learn about the monitoring and protection behind rhino conservation. It also fits naturally into a northbound journey toward Murchison Falls.
Key Wildlife
In photographs
A closer look at Ziwa.
Guided encounters and quiet moments with rhinos in the sanctuary's wooded grassland.
What to Do
Experiences in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Rhino Walking Safari
Walk with a sanctuary guide through woodland and grassland to look for rhinos on foot. The route, duration and viewing distance vary with the animals and the day's conditions. Follow your guide's safety instructions throughout.
Canoe Safari for Shoebill
The sanctuary's wetland habitat attracts waterbirds, including shoebills. Ask whether a guided canoe outing is operating for your dates; sightings depend on the birds and conditions and cannot be guaranteed.
Night Rhino Walk
Ask whether a guided night walk is available for your dates. If offered, follow the ranger's directions closely and let the sanctuary team set the route and viewing approach.
Rhino Behind-the-Scenes Tour
For guests interested in the conservation work, ask whether the sanctuary can arrange a briefing or operations visit. Availability and format depend on the team.
Before You Go
Practical information
Arrange guided rhino tracking and confirm current fees, operating hours and walking conditions before travel. Ziwa is north of Kampala on the route toward Murchison Falls, making it a useful stop on a northern Uganda journey. Wear closed shoes and follow your guide's instructions throughout the walk.