Rhino Trekking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Uganda: Rhino trekking safari in Uganda is a one-of-a-kind activity that can only be done at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in the Nakasongola area. The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is an excellent place to halt on your trip to or from Murchison Falls National Park. This is the only spot in Uganda where tourists may observe rhinos in their natural environment.
The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in northern Uganda is operated by Ziwa Ranchers, a private, non-profit organization that collaborates with the Rhino Fund Uganda and the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
The rhino sanctuary was founded in 2005 with the goal of reintroducing the rhinoceros’ species to Uganda and increasing its population. The organization’s goal is to “build a sustainable rhinoceros population and relocate rhinos back to their original habitat in Uganda’s protected arrears.”
Uganda was originally home to the black rhinoceros and the northern white rhinoceros, both of which were native to the nation. However, the species was declared extinct in 1982 as a result of a continual succession of poaching operations, as well as extended civil conflicts and encroachment on its natural habitat.
Since its inception, the rhino sanctuary has worked relentlessly to guarantee that the rhino species is reintroduced into Uganda and that the country’s rhinoceros population grow.
The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is now home to 32 southern white rhinos. It is situated on a 70 square km plot of land that has been surrounded by a 2 metres electrified fence to protect the rhinos from predators and poachers.
The refuge has about 78 park rangers and security guards on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In addition, the sanctuary is home to over 40 species of animals and reptiles, including monkeys, crocodiles, hippos, antelopes, and approximately 300 bird species.
What to expect during Rhino Trekking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Uganda?
Since 2010, visitors to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary have been able to follow rhinos. There is nothing more thrilling than seeing rhinos in their natural environment. The sanctuary’s conservation mission began with only six rhinos, four of which were transported from Solio Ranch in Kenya and two from Disney Animal Kingdom in Florida, USA.
Visitors undertaking rhino tracking in Uganda may observe the rhinos up close grazing and relaxing in the sanctuary’s savannah grasslands at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. In Uganda, rhino tracking can be paired with a wildlife drive or boat ride through Murchison Falls National Park.
The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Uganda charges $50 USD per person for rhino tracking. Other activities available to visitors at the refuge include bird watching, Shoebill trekking, canoe riding, and nature hikes, among others. Visitors can trek rhinoceros in the sanctuary for 1–2½ hours, depending on where the rhinos are located.
What to pack for Rhino Trekking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Uganda?
Visitors should wear closed shoes (ideally hiking boots), long trousers and insect repellent lotion to keep the creepy bugs and flies away from them. Don’t forget to bring a bottle of mineral water with you to stay hydrated on your journey.
When is the best time to go Rhino Trekking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Uganda?
Rhino trekking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is can be done throughout the year. However, the best times for guests to experience rhino trekking in Uganda are between 8 and 10 a.m. and 4-6 p.m. The activity is best done during the dry seasons which is from June to September and December to February.
The rhino sanctuary provides guests with calm and decent lodging alternatives ranging from cheap, mid-range, and camping. It also provides luxurious lodging in Amuka Lodge for tourists. The lodge was erected in the middle of the sanctuary, among the beautiful savannah forests.
The lodge provides its visitors with luxury facilities such as free WIFI, a swimming pool, an elegant dining room, and cuisines, among other things. For tourists who choose affordable or mid-range accommodation, the sanctuary also includes bandas and camping areas.
How to get to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Uganda?
Visitors travelling to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in northern Uganda can access the sanctuary by road from Kampala. The refuge is 176 km from Kampala on the Gulu-Kampala Highway. Visitors coming to the refuge must deviate from the Nakitoma trade Centre, which is approximately 7.3 km distant.
To reach the rhino refuge in Ziwa, visitors must take a 14-minute journey from the commercial Centre. The refuge is also conveniently accessible from Murchison Falls National Park, where you may enjoy a game drive or a boat excursion. The refuge is roughly 125 km (2½ hours) from the national park.
