Best things to do at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary (Activities to do at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary)

Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch, also known as Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, is a must-visit tourist destination for anyone looking to experience Uganda’s wildlife. The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is the only place in Uganda where you can see rhinos, making it a must-visit for those interested in seeing all the big five animals in Uganda. Besides Rhino tracking, there are several activities to do at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary that will keep you excited during your safari in Uganda. In this article, we will explain about the Best things to do at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary 2024 -2025. Before we delve into the Activities to do at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, brief information about The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

About Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is located in the Nakasongola district and is the only place in the country where visitors can embark on a thrilling foot rhino-tracking expedition. The Sanctuary was established in 2005 with the main purpose of conserving the endangered rhinoceros. This sanctuary is under the Rhino Fund and works with the Uganda Wildlife Authority to conserve the endangered rhinos.

The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary started with a reintroduction of about 6 rhinos however as of now, their population has increased with about 22 rhinos in the sanctuary. The major highlight of Safaris to the sanctuary is Rhino Tracking. Safaris to Ziwa are rewarding and excellent for both nature lovers and wildlife lovers.

For nature lovers, Ziwa is a perfect place to visit if you want to connect with nature up close. The main attraction of the sanctuary is its thriving rhino population, which is a result of the Rhino re-introduction project by Rhino Fund Uganda and the Uganda Wildlife Authority. The project has enabled Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to become the only place in Uganda where rhinos can be found in the wild. Anyone traveling to Uganda and interested in seeing the African Big Five Animals will have to combine their safari with a visit to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for rhino sightings. Visitors to the Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch can also expect to encounter a diverse range of other wildlife, including monkeys, antelopes, and various bird species.

Location of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

The Sanctuary is conveniently located just 176km (100 miles) from Kampala, Uganda’s capital, on the Gulu highway. It can be accessed by road and is situated just off Nakitoma trading center on the same highway towards Murchison Falls National Park. With its stunning natural surroundings and abundant wildlife, Ziwa Rhino sanctuary is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Uganda’s natural beauty.

Activities to do at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – Best things to do at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

The Best things to do at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary are the top-most recommended activities to do in Ziwa Rhino Sactuary. Thes activities guarantee top safari experience and excitement.

Rhino tracking in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

The Sanctuary is currently home to 22 southern white rhinos, making it the only place in Uganda where you can see these magnificent creatures in the wild. Rhino tracking is one of the most popular activities (Best things to do at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary) in the sanctuary, and it offers a relaxing and family-friendly experience that can be enjoyed by individuals of all ages. Tracking Rhinos on foot is an enriching experience as you will get a clear view of other small wildlife species resident in the Sanctuary.

Rhino Tracking Experience in Ziwa

The rhino tracking activity is led by well-trained ranger guides who will take you on a walking tour through the rhino habitat. The tour begins with a briefing on the dos and don’ts of rhino tracking, followed by a drive to the location where the rhinos are. Visitors can then enjoy a leisurely walk through the scenic habitat which spans over 7000 hectares of land.

During your rhino tracking safari, you will also see several other wildlife species that reside in the sanctuary. Besides southern white rhinos, the sanctuary is also home to other wildlife species, including the Uganda kobs, oribis, waterbucks, and bushbucks, among others. Several bird species can also be seen at the sanctuary. You can expect to see a variety of wildlife as you trek through the sanctuary.

The best time to visit the rhinos is either in the morning between 08:00 am to 10:00 am or in the evening between 16:00 pm to 18:00 pm. The duration of the trek may vary, but it usually lasts between 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes, depending on where the rhinos are spending their day. To ensure a comfortable and safe trek, visitors are required to wear closed shoes and long pants, and carry water and insect repellent. Rhino Tracking in Ziwa requires a tracking permit.

Shoebill trek and canoe ride

The shoebill stork, also known as the whale-headed stork, is a prehistoric species of bird that is highly sought-after by bird enthusiasts and wildlife lovers when traveling to Uganda. This unique bird is usually found in places with water, such as swamps, marshes, and wetlands. If you are interested in sighting this majestic bird, one of the best places to visit is Ziwa. At Ziwa, you have a good chance of seeing the shoebill stork, with up to 10 of them being spotted on lucky days. To maximize your chances of seeing this magnificent bird, the early morning shoebill trek and canoe ride are highly recommended.

These activities are best suited for catching a glimpse of the sunrise and spotting the shoebill stork in action. Shoebill tracking is one of the things to do at Ziwa and it is guaranteed that you will spot the elusive shoebill stork on your safari.

Bird watching – Best things to do at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

The Sanctuary is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, particularly those who love bird watching. The sanctuary boasts over 300 bird species, making it a must-visit destination for avid bird watchers. Four bird sighting trails, covering different habitats like woodlands, swamps, and savannah, are available for visitors to explore. The bird-watching safaris usually take approximately 2 hours.

Night walk

If you’re visiting Sanctuary, don’t miss out on the guided night walk which is an exciting and unforgettable experience. You’ll explore the lush bush and encounter various nocturnal animals, some of which you may have never seen before. The knowledgeable guide will lead you through the sanctuary’s ecosystem and share insights on various animals, birds, and reptiles, as well as the different types of botany and vegetation that thrive here.

If you’re looking for a peaceful and meditative experience, the Night walk is a perfect activity for you. You’ll have the chance to unwind in the serene surroundings of the sanctuary, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

For travelers planning a Uganda safari to Murchison Falls National Park, a visit to Ziwa is very possible. This will allow you to see all the big five in one short tour, making it a truly memorable experience. Acacia Safaris has best deals for you, book your adventure with us today.