Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

2025 Guide to Ziwa

Located in Nakasongola District, northwestern Uganda, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a 7,000-hectare private wildlife ranch established in 2005 to reintroduce southern white rhinos to the country after their extinction in the 1980s due to poaching and civil unrest. Managed by Rhino Fund Uganda in partnership with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), Ziwa is the only place in Uganda to see rhinos in the wild, currently home to 35 southern white rhinos as of 2025. Situated 170km (3 hours’ drive) from Kampala along the Kampala-Gulu Highway, the sanctuary’s savanna grasslands, wetlands, and woodlands also host 40+ mammal species and over 300 bird species, including the rare shoebill stork. Offering rhino trekking, birdwatching, and canoe rides, Ziwa is a key stop on safaris to Murchison Falls National Park (1.5 hours away). This guide covers everything you need to plan your visit, from activities and accommodations to dining and conservation efforts.

ziwa rhino sanctuary

2025 Guide to Ziwa

Nestled in the heart of Uganda’s Western Rift Valley, Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP) is a biodiversity hotspot and one of the country’s most visited safari destinations. Spanning 1,978 square kilometers across the districts of Kasese, Kamwenge, Rubirizi, and Rukungiri, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is famed for its tree-climbing lions, abundant wildlife, and stunning landscapes. Stretching between Lake Edward and Lake George, connected by the 40km Kazinga Channel, QENP boasts diverse ecosystems—savanna grasslands, tropical forests, wetlands, and volcanic crater lakes. Home to 95 mammal species, over 600 bird species, and unique attractions like the Ishasha sector’s lions and Kyambura Gorge’s chimpanzees, the park offers an unforgettable adventure. This guide covers everything you need to plan your visit, from game drives and boat safaris to dining and conservation efforts, ensuring a seamless journey into Uganda’s wild heart.

ziwa's Attractions and Activities

Rhino Trekking

Ziwa’s signature activity is rhino trekking ($50-$60 for non-residents), a 1-2 hour guided walk to track 35 southern white rhinos, including calves like Rhoda, born in 2020. Accompanied by UWA rangers, treks start at 7:00 AM, 9:00 AM, or 2:00 PM from the sanctuary’s visitor center, offering a 95%+ sighting rate. Visitors observe rhinos grazing or resting from a safe 10-20m distance, learning about their behavior and conservation. Treks are suitable for ages 6+, with moderate fitness required. Book through Rhino Fund Uganda or operators like Prime Uganda Safaris.

Shoebill Trekking

Ziwa’s Lugogo Swamp is a prime spot for spotting the elusive shoebill stork, a prehistoric-looking bird. Guided shoebill treks ($30-$50, 2-3 hours) combine walking and canoeing through wetlands, with a 70% sighting chance, especially during wet seasons (March-May, September-November). Other wetland birds, like the African jacana and saddle-billed stork, are common. Early morning treks maximize sightings. Book via the sanctuary or Deks Tours Ltd.

Bird Watching

With over 300 bird species, Ziwa is a birder’s delight, featuring savanna and wetland habitats. Notable species include the Abyssinian ground hornbill, white-crested turaco, and grey-crowned crane. Guided birding tours ($20-$50) explore trails near Lugogo Swamp or the sanctuary’s woodlands, best during wet seasons for migratory birds. The sanctuary’s open terrain suits beginners and experts. Binoculars are recommended, available for rent at the visitor center.

Canoe Rides

Canoe rides ($20-$40, 1-2 hours) on the Lugogo Swamp and surrounding waterways offer a serene way to spot wildlife like shoebills, hippos, and waterbucks. Guided by local boatmen and UWA rangers, these trips navigate papyrus-lined channels, ideal for photography and birdwatching. Morning or late afternoon rides provide the best light and wildlife activity. Book on-site or through operators like African Pearl Safaris.

Nature Walks

Guided nature walks ($20-$40, 2-3 hours) explore Ziwa’s savanna, woodlands, and wetlands, revealing 40+ mammals like Uganda kobs, oribis, bushbucks, and warthogs. Night walks ($30-$50) showcase nocturnal species such as bushbabies and civets. Trails like the Savanna Loop and Wetland Trail are led by rangers, offering insights into rhino conservation and local flora. Walks are family-friendly, with options for shorter routes.

Cultural & Community Visits

Engage with the Nakasongola community through cultural tours ($10-$30), arranged by Rhino Fund Uganda or local guides. Visit villages to learn about Bagungu and Banyoro traditions, including farming, drumming, and storytelling. Women’s groups offer craft workshops (e.g., basket weaving), with proceeds supporting local schools. Cultural tours complement rhino trekking, adding a human dimension to your visit.

How to Get to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Ziwa is one of Uganda’s most accessible wildlife destinations.

By Road: From Kampala, the 170km drive (3 hours) via the Kampala-Gulu Highway (A109) is tarmacked until the sanctuary’s turn-off at Nakitoma, followed by a 7km murram road. From Masindi (near Budongo Forest), it’s 80km (1.5 hours); from Gulu, 150km (2.5 hours). A 4x4 is advised for wet seasons. Guided transfers cost $80-$200.
By Air: Charter flights from Entebbe to Pakuba or Bugungu Airstrips (Murchison Falls, 1 hour, $200-$400) via Aerolink Uganda, followed by a 2-hour drive. No airstrip exists at Ziwa itself.
Public Transport: Buses from Kampala to Nakasongola (UGX 10,000-15,000, $3-$4) take 2-3 hours. Taxis or boda-bodas from Nakasongola to Ziwa cost UGX 10,000-20,000 ($3-$5). Operators like Habari Uganda Tours offer group shuttles ($20-$50).
Visa Requirements: Uganda visas ($50) are available online or on arrival. The $100 East African Tourist Visa covers Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya. Carry a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
Access Points: The visitor center at Nakitoma (7km off the Gulu Highway) is the main entry, with UWA and Rhino Fund Uganda offices for fees and guides.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Ziwa is open year-round, with seasons affecting wildlife viewing and trail conditions.

Dry Seasons (December-February, June-July): Ideal for rhino trekking and nature walks, with dry trails and animals gathering near waterholes. June-July is peak season; book 3-6 months ahead. Temperatures range from 20-30°C (68-86°F).
Wet Seasons (March-May, September-November): Lush landscapes and excellent birdwatching, especially for shoebills in Lugogo Swamp. Trails may be muddy, but rhino sightings remain consistent. April is wettest (120mm rain). May and December offer balanced conditions.

Park Fees and Permits

Fees, managed by Rhino Fund Uganda and UWA, support conservation. Rates are effective July 1, 2025, per recent updates.

Park Entrance: $40/day (non-residents), $30 (residents), UGX 20,000 (~$5) (East Africans).
Rhino Trekking: $50-$60 (non-residents), UGX 100,000 (~$27) (East Africans).
Shoebill Trekking/Canoe Rides: $20-$50 per person.
Nature Walks/Birding: $20-$50 per person.
Camping: $10-$15 per person at UWA sites.

WHERE TO STAY

Ziwa offers on-site accommodations, with additional options in Nakasongola or Masindi.

Mid-Range: Amuka Safari Lodge, within the sanctuary, provides en-suite cottages with savanna views ($80-$150/night). Ziwa Guest House offers comfortable rooms ($50-$100).
Budget: UWA Campsites at the visitor center ($10-$15/person) include toilets, showers, and campfire areas. Budget bandas ($20-$40) provide basic lodging.
Nearby Masindi (80km): Masindi Hotel (colonial-era, $40-$80) and New Court View Hotel ($30-$60) offer urban amenities, 1.5 hours from Ziwa.
Community-Based: Homestays in Nakasongola villages, arranged by Rhino Fund Uganda, offer Bagungu cultural immersion ($10-$20).

Book early for dry seasons. Most include meals; Wi-Fi is available at lodges but limited at campsites.

DINING AT ziwa rhino sanctuary

Dining at Ziwa is hearty and authentic, reflecting its rural setting. Amuka Safari Lodge serves Ugandan staples like matoke (steamed bananas), luwombo (stew in banana leaves), and grilled tilapia from nearby lakes (not Lake Bunyonyi, 8 hours away in Kabale), priced at $5-$15. Budget campsites offer rolex (egg-chapati roll) and posho (maize porridge) for $1-$3. Nakasongola’s markets sell fresh mangoes and roasted maize. Cultural tours include Bagungu meals, such as smoked fish or sorghum bread, cooked traditionally. Fort Portal tea, sourced regionally, is a highlight. Most venues accommodate vegetarian or gluten-free diets with advance notice, ensuring a taste of Uganda’s northwestern cuisine.

Packing List & Preparation

Prepare for savanna and wetland adventures.

Clothing: Lightweight long-sleeved shirts, trousers, sturdy shoes, rain jacket, hat, sunglasses. Neutral colors (khaki, green) for trekking.
Gear: Binoculars, camera, insect repellent (high DEET for wetlands), sunscreen, reusable water bottle, daypack.
Health: Yellow fever vaccination (required), malaria prophylaxis, personal medications, first aid kit. Light fitness for trekking and walks.
Other: Cash (USD/UGX) for tips ($5-$15 for guides), souvenirs (e.g., Bagungu crafts), fees (Airtel Pay setup), passport, booking confirmations.

Safety & Conservation

Ziwa is safe with robust measures.

Safety: UWA rangers escort all treks and walks, ensuring security. The sanctuary is stable, with Nakasongola offering basic medical facilities (30 minutes). Follow guides to maintain safe distances from rhinos (10-20m).
Wildlife Health: Keep 10m from rhinos, avoid sudden movements, and follow ranger instructions to protect animals and visitors.
Conservation: Fees fund rhino breeding, anti-poaching patrols, and community projects. Ziwa’s 35 rhinos (up from 15 in 2015) reflect successful reintroduction, despite losses like Empress Nandi in 2024 to illness. The sanctuary’s fenced 7,000 hectares protect rhinos, Uganda kobs, and wetlands, with plans for reintroduction to parks like Murchison Falls. Ecotourism supports local schools and women’s groups. Choose operators like African Pearl Safaris to promote sustainability.

FAQ

What is the best time to visit Ziwa?

Dry seasons (December-February, June-July) for rhino trekking; wet seasons (March-May, September-November) for shoebill sightings.

How much is rhino trekking?

$50-$60 for non-residents, UGX 100,000 for East Africans (effective July 1, 2025).

Is Ziwa safe?

Yes, with UWA rangers and stable conditions.

Can I see rhinos?

Yes, treks offer a 95%+ sighting chance, with 35 rhinos as of 2025.

Is Lake Bunyonyi near Ziwa?

No, Lake Bunyonyi is 8 hours away in Kabale. Ziwa’s water feature is Lugogo Swamp for canoeing and shoebill treks.