1-day Ziwa Rhino Tracking tour is a thrilling Uganda wildlife safari that brings you face-to-face with one of Africa’s iconic Big Five animals. More so these are southern white rhinoceros. This exciting journey begins just 180 kilometers north of Kampala. Meanwhile you’ll travel through rolling terraced hillsides and into the grassy plains of Nakitoma Village. Again, this is located in Nakasongola District within the Kafu River Basin, off the Kampala–Gulu Highway.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary offers a secure and secluded habitat for the southern white rhinos. These magnificent creatures are protected from both human threats and natural predators. The sanctuary serves a dual purpose: it provides a safe environment for rhino conservation and offers travelers the opportunity to track rhinos on foot during their Uganda tour.
The sanctuary is the result of a partnership between the Uganda Wildlife Authority, Rhino Fund Uganda (a conservation NGO). More so it is under Ziwa Ranchers Limited, a private land management company. Together, they work tirelessly to reintroduce rhinos into Uganda’s national parks.
Historically, Uganda was home to both black and northern white rhinos. However, due to rampant poaching and habitat mismanagement in the 1970s and 1980s, these species were completely wiped out. Thankfully, dedicated conservation efforts and the support of eco-conscious travelers have led to a steady increase in rhino numbers at the sanctuary.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary now protects 21 southern white rhinos. Spanning over 7,000 hectares of savannah woodland, the sanctuary is rich in grasses and water sources, making it an ideal breeding ground. In addition to rhino tracking, the area is popular for birdwatching, with over 350 species recorded, including the rare shoebill stork.
The sanctuary also supports a variety of other wildlife such as Uganda kobs, oribis, reedbucks, hippos, crocodiles, and even hyenas. This makes it an excellent stop for nature lovers on a 1-day Uganda wildlife experience.
Located along the Kampala–Gulu highway in Nakasongola District, Ziwa is the only place in Uganda where rhinos are observed in their natural habitat. The sanctuary is enclosed by a two-meter electric fence to ensure the safety of both animals and visitors.
The first six rhinos were introduced between 2005 and 2006—four from Kenya and two from Disney’s Animal Kingdom in the USA. By 2014, the sanctuary had grown its population to 15 rhinos through successful breeding. Today, visitors can enjoy several activities including rhino tracking, birding, nature walks, and canoe rides.
Your adventure begins early in the morning. A professional tour guide will pick you up from your hotel or residence in Kampala by 7:00 AM. Early departure ensures smooth travel without traffic delays and allows ample time at the sanctuary.
Your journey will take you through the historical Luwero Triangle. Here, you may stop briefly to buy some local fruits. This area is known for its role in Uganda’s liberation struggle. Continuing northward through Nakasongola, you’ll spot grazing cattle and pass through Rwanyanya Swamp. Expect a bit of a bumpy ride with humps and potholes as you enter the sanctuary’s wild terrain.
Upon arrival, an experienced ranger will lead your rhino tracking experience on foot. As you walk through the savannah, the guide will provide valuable insights about the rhinos, their behavior, and the ecosystem that supports them.
You will spend about 1 to 2 hours observing the rhinos from a safe distance. Watching these gentle giants feed and roam freely is a truly unforgettable experience. Southern white rhinos are the largest of all rhino species and the second largest land mammals after elephants.
Aside from rhinos, you may also see other sanctuary residents such as crocodiles, antelopes, hippos, and various reptiles. Bird lovers are in for a treat—keep an eye out for the African blue flycatcher, African broadbill, brown parrot, and the majestic African fish eagle.
You might also encounter black-and-white colobus monkeys, and if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of the famous shoebill stork. Canoeing on the swamp and nature walks add to the excitement of the day.
After your trek, enjoy a delicious lunch at Kabalega Diner. Then, you’ll embark on your return journey to Kampala, arriving before 6:00 PM. For those interested in an overnight stay, nearby accommodations include Amuka Safari Lodge and budget guesthouses within the sanctuary.
On-foot rhino trekking
Nature walks through the sanctuary
Birdwatching across four rich birding trails
Canoe ride through Lugogo Swamp
Craft shop visit and community interaction
Visit to the Akuna Matata community school
Thank you for choosing Umarella Voyage Safaris for your unforgettable 1-day Ziwa Rhino Tracking tour. We look forward to guiding you through this unique conservation experience in Uganda!
What included on 1 day Ziwa rhino tracking
Park fees (for non-residents)
All activities (unless labeled as optional)
A professional driver/guide
All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
All taxes/VAT
Round-trip airport transfer
Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
Drinking Bottled water
Whats excluded, 1 day Ziwa rhino tracking
International flights (from/to home)
Additional accommodation before and at end of the tour, if needed
Tips/ Tipping locals or guide
Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
