Rhino Tracking in Uganda (Rhino Tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary)
The Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch also known as the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is Uganda’s only place where you can witness the endangered rhinoceros. Rhino Tracking in Uganda is an immersive adventure activity that is usually done on foot, travelers follow the lead of a ranger guide into the wilderness to search for these ancient majestic creatures for an opportunity to witness them up close. The Rhinos are members of the African Big Five animals and witnessing them is a thrilling experience that is sought after by most safari travelers to Africa. In Uganda, these majestic creatures were once extinct however, due to several conservation efforts, they were reintroduced and a thriving population of these majestic creatures is thriving in the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. The rhinos at Ziwa are thriving as part of the Rhino re-introduction project by Rhino Fund Uganda and the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is conveniently located 176km (100 miles) from Kampala, Uganda’s capital on the Gulu highway. Situated just off Nakitoma trading center this wildlife ranch is situated on the same highway towards Murchison Falls National Park.
Rhinos at Ziwa: Facts, Population & Conservation – Rhino Tracking in Uganda
Rhinos are an endangered species in the world and only a few numbers are left – thanks to the increased conservation efforts by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and Rhino Fund Uganda – Uganda is one of the few countries where you can spot these majestic creatures. The Rhinos got extinct in Uganda’s National Parks as a result of poaching however, the Rhino Re-introduction Project – a joint project between Rhino Fund Uganda and the Roy family has seen the restoration of this species in Uganda’s Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
Ziwa rhino Sanctuary was established in 2005 with the sole objective of reintroduction of rhinos in Uganda and in 2016, six southern white rhinos were introduced to the sanctuary. Since then the rhino population has been steadily increasing and as of today, the rhino population at Ziwa is 32 individuals. The rhino population in Ziwa is even expected to increase over the years.
Rhino Tracking Experience at Ziwa Rhino & Wildlife Ranch – Rhino Tracking in Uganda
Rhino tracking in Uganda is such a relaxing and family-friendly activity where a group of travelers follow the lead of an experienced and armed ranger guide to the Rhino habitat in ziwa. You’ll enjoy witnessing various plants, wildlife, and birdlife during the trek before finally encountering the majestic rhinos. The experience is done on foot and can be done along with children above 6 years of age. Before the activity starts, travelers are taken through a briefing session providing valuable insight into what awaits in the bushes and how to have a successful trekking experience.
The Ziwa rhinos move freely through the 7000 hectares of land that this sanctuary covers and with the help of experienced ranger guides, you’ll be able to locate these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. From the reception, you’ll be driven in a safari vehicle to areas where the rhinos are anticipated to be. You’ll then embark on a trek on foot, exploring this sanctuary while searching for the rhinos. During the trek, expect to encounter various other wildlife including Uganda kobs, oribis, waterbucks, and bushbucks, among others. There are also various bird species that call this area home.
The trek usually lasts for about 1 h 30 min or 2 h 30 min depending on where the rhinos are spending their day. After the trek, you’ll return to where your safari vehicle is parked and drive back to the headquarters.
Other Experience to do at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Shoebill trek and canoe ride
For those interested in more fun activities in Ziwa, the shoebill trek and a canoe ride are another highlight of adventures here. Immerse yourself in the stunning wetlands of the Sanctuaries and track the elusive prehistoric Shoebill stork. The Shoebill stork trek and canoe rides are among the major highlights of birding safaris in Uganda, particularly at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. This elusive bird is highly sought after by bird enthusiasts visiting Uganda, and Ziwa is one of the best places to spot it. Sightings during a canoe ride in Ziwa are almost guaranteed, and if you’re lucky, you may see as many as ten of these remarkable birds along the wetland area. Observing these prehistoric-looking birds nesting within the swamps is a rare and special experience.
The shoebill and canoe trip begins with a briefing led by a team of experienced ranger guides, who will prepare you for this adventure. After the briefing, you will embark on a trek to the wetland areas, where you can enjoy a peaceful canoe ride through the swamps as the sun rises. This early morning experience offers some of the best photographic opportunities.
The trek starts around 6 AM, allowing you to see the shoebill stork as it arrives in the swamps to begin its day. In addition to the shoebill stork, you’ll also encounter a variety of water birds. Canoeing is one of the best ways to explore the diverse birdlife in the sanctuary, making it a must-do for all bird lovers visiting the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
We recommend spending a night at Ziwa since the activity starts very early in the morning, and the sanctuary gates open at approximately 7:30 AM. Plan your ultimate birding safari in Uganda with us and experience unparalleled safari adventures.
Night Guided Safari walks
The guided night walk will introduce you to night sounds and sensations you may not have known existed! This experience is a must during your activities in the sanctuary, where you may encounter various nocturnal animals.
Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of nature! If you love being close to the outdoors, guided nature walks at Ziwa are perfect for you. Spanning 27 square miles of woodlands, swamps, and savannah, you can fully engage with the natural wilderness while enjoying an up-close look at nature.
The experience is led by well-trained guides who will take you on a journey through the lush bush. During the guided nature walk in Ziwa, you can expect to see a diverse range of wildlife, as the sanctuary is home to various animals, birds, and reptiles. Your guide will share their knowledge about not only the animals but also the botany and vegetation within the sanctuary. There’s no better way to get close to nature than by embarking on a guided nature walk during your visit to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
If you’re wondering whether it’s safe to go on nature walks in Ziwa, you can rest assured that the experience is completely safe. You will be escorted by a well-trained and experienced armed ranger guide, who has extensive knowledge of how to handle potential threats during the walk. Your guide will also help you identify all the species of animals you encounter. Enjoy remarkable nature walking adventures at Ziwa during your visit and experience the beauty of nature up close!