Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Uganda: Rhino Tracking, Costs & Travel Guide

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a special place in Uganda where you can walk alongside one of Africa’s most endangered animals — the white rhino. Located along the Kampala – Gulu highway, this 70-square-kilometre protected area is the only place in Uganda where you can see wild rhinos up close on foot. It also makes a great stopover for travellers heading to Murchison Falls National Park, one of the country’s top safari destinations.

But Ziwa is not just about rhinos. The sanctuary is also a hidden paradise for bird lovers, nature walkers, and wildlife enthusiasts, home to over 300 species of birds, several antelope species, hippos, and monkeys. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about visiting this incredible sanctuary.

A Second Chance for Uganda’s Rhinos

Once upon a time, rhinos roamed Uganda freely, playing an important role in the ecosystem and cultural heritage of the region. However, during the 1970s and 1980s, civil unrest and uncontrolled poaching led to the complete extinction of rhinos in the wild in Uganda.

In 2005, a dream to restore rhinos to Uganda came to life. A small number of Southern White Rhinos were brought into the country from abroad and placed under protection at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Since then, the rhino population has grown steadily, thanks to conservation efforts. As of today, there are over 30 Southern White Rhinos living freely in the sanctuary, with several being born right here in Uganda.

Ziwa is not a zoo — it's a conservation breeding ground, preparing these majestic creatures for a future return to Uganda’s national parks. The sanctuary plays a critical role in rhino restoration through anti-poaching patrols, habitat protection, ranger support, and your visit helps fund all of this important work.

How to Get to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Ziwa is located in Nakitoma, about 170 kilometers (approximately 3–4 hours) north of Kampala or Entebbe by road. It’s easy to reach and ideal for a half-day or overnight visit.

Travel Options:

Self-Drive: Roads to Ziwa are generally in good condition. You can use either a sedan or a 4x4, although a 4x4 is recommended especially during the rainy season.
Guided Tours: Several local tour operators offer all-inclusive packages with transportation, meals, and guided rhino tracking. This is a great option if you want a hassle-free experience.
Public Transport: For budget travelers, you can take a bus heading north and stop at Nakitoma Trading Centre, then hire a boda-boda (motorcycle taxi) for the short ride to the sanctuary gate.

Rhino Tracking Experience – The Highlight of Ziwa

The most popular and thrilling activity at Ziwa is on-foot rhino tracking. This guided experience allows you to walk within just 10 meters of these massive animals in the wild — no fences, no cages. Just you, your guide, and these prehistoric-looking creatures in their natural habitat.

You’ll be led by a trained and armed ranger who will guide you safely through the savannah. Along the way, you'll learn how to identify rhino tracks, understand their behavior, and appreciate their role in nature. It's an unforgettable opportunity to hear the deep breathing of a rhino, watch them swat flies with their tails, and feel the thrill of being near such powerful animals.

Pro Tip: Bring a good camera — you’ll want to capture every moment.

Shoebill Canoe Ride – A Bird Lover’s Dream

Another unique adventure at Ziwa is the early morning canoe expedition in Lugogo Swamp in search of the Shoebill Stork. This rare and fascinating bird looks like something straight out of the Jurassic era, with a large shoe-shaped bill and dinosaur-like appearance.

The canoe ride offers a peaceful, scenic way to explore the wetlands as the sun rises. Besides the Shoebill, you’ll also see herons, cormorants, kingfishers, and dozens of other bird species.

With over 300 bird species, Ziwa is a top destination for bird watchers from around the world.

Nature Walks and Wildlife Viewing

Ziwa is also a fantastic place for peaceful nature walks. Even when you’re not tracking rhinos, you’ll have the chance to spot other animals like:

Bushbucks
Warthogs
Waterbucks
Uganda Kobs
Colobus and vervet monkeys

These walks are perfect for photography, casual strolling, and taking in the beauty of Uganda’s wilderness.

Bird Watching Activities

For dedicated birders, Ziwa offers special bird-watching tours led by expert guides. Whether you’re a beginner or a serious ornithologist, the sanctuary offers a chance to see rare and colorful species in their natural habitat — from storks and hornbills to sunbirds and weavers.

Don’t forget your binoculars!

Why You Should Visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

✅ It’s the only place in Uganda to see rhinos in the wild
✅ Activities are safe, guided, and done entirely on foot
✅ Perfect stopover en route to Murchison Falls National Park
✅ Excellent for photography, birdwatching, and family adventures
✅ Your visit helps fund conservation and community employment

What to Pack for Your Trip

To enjoy your time at Ziwa, make sure you pack the following essentials:

Closed comfortable shoes – You’ll be walking through rough grass and sometimes muddy trails
Insect repellent – Keep bugs away, especially during early morning walks
Water bottle – Stay hydrated during rhino tracking or birdwatching
Camera or smartphone – To capture incredible moments
Binoculars – Especially useful for the Shoebill canoe ride and bird watching

Entry Fees and Permit Prices

Here are the updated costs for tracking and other activities at Ziwa:

Rhino Tracking:

Foreign Non-Residents: $60 (adults) | $30 (children)
Foreign Residents: $50 (adults) | $25 (children)
East African Citizens (Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania): UGX 50,000 (adults) | UGX 20,000 (children)

Shoebill Canoe Ride:

Foreign Non-Residents: $30 | $15 (children)
Foreign Residents: $25 | $15 (children)
East African Citizens: UGX 30,000 | UGX 10,000 (children)

Bird Watching:

Foreign Non-Residents: $30 | $15 (children)
Foreign Residents: $25 | $10 (children)
East African Citizens: UGX 30,000 | UGX 10,000 (children)

Nature Walks:

Foreign Non-Residents: $25 | $10 (children)
Foreign Residents: $25 | $10 (children)
East African Citizens: UGX 30,000 | UGX 10,000 (children)

Other Fees:

Late Entry (after 6 PM): $10 per person
Access Fee for Amuka Lodge guests: $30 per person (regardless of activity)

Travel Tips for an Unforgettable Experience

Book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons
Visit early morning or late afternoon for better rhino sightings
Combine Ziwa with a visit to Murchison Falls National Park or Budongo Forest for chimpanzee trekking
Move slowly and enjoy — Ziwa is best experienced at a relaxed pace