Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is home to the only Rhino in the wild in Uganda; it is also home to various other wildlife like kobs and over 340 species of birds.

May 31, 2022 - 13:32
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Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Ziwa can be found in Nakasongola, in northern Uganda. The home of southern white Rhinos is situated 170km north of Kampala en route to Murchison Falls and Kidepo Valley.

The white rhinos

White rhinos are gray in color, not white, and their name presumably comes from a mispronunciation of words. Something about how a Dutchman attempting to characterize rhinos by their WIDE square mouths didn't quite register with the Afrikaans, who mistook the Dutch pronunciation for WHITE. That's how they acquired their names, which is a little strange, but I'll go with it.

Quick Facts about Rhinos

  • The rhino’s life span is about 40-45 years, longer if conditions are conducive.
  • A rhino’s gestation period is 16 months! Imagine that!
  • Also, newborns weigh about 50kgs which is  essentially an average adult human! Nature is amazing isn’t she!?

History of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Uganda is home to both the Black Rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis michaeli) and the Northern White Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum cottoni). However, by 1982, both species had been wiped out in the country due to a number of circumstances, including continuous armed human strife, poaching, and mismanagement of their natural habitat. In 2005, the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary was founded with the goal of reintroducing the southern white rhinoceros to Uganda. The sanctuary's long-term goal is to "create a viable rhinoceros population and reintroduce rhinos to their natural habitat in Uganda's protected regions." The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary was the only place in Uganda where rhinos could be seen in their native habitat as of January 2010.

About Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

The sanctuary provides a safe haven for rhino populations to grow, be safeguarded from human and non-human predators, and be progressively reintroduced into Uganda's national parks, all while allowing the general public to enjoy these magnificent animals as the initiative progresses.

A team of park rangers and security guards keep watch on the rhinos 24 hours daily, seven days a week, to ensure their safety.

Activities at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

1. Rhino trekking

On foot, explore the region of the southern white rhinos. On the day of your visit, well-trained rangers will lead you through the bush to where the rhinos are.

2. Shoebill Trek and Canoe Ride

Encounter one of the world’s rarest and biggest birds while gliding along the rivers.

The shoebill stork is one of Uganda's most sought-after birds to view. This is one of the few spots in the world where you may virtually always see storks.

3. Birding Walk

The sanctuary is home to approximately 300 different bird species! Within the sanctuary, there are four bird routes that traverse woodlands, swamps, and savannah. The bird guides are fantastic, and this is an experience that no bird enthusiast should miss!

4. Nature Walks

Breathe in the pristine fresh air and soak in the wonderful wildlife and scenery during the day or night.

Entry & Activity Fees

Entry fees $20 USD Per Guest
Rhino Tracking $30 USD Per Guest
Bird Canoe Safari $25 USD Per Guest
Nature Walk $20 USD Per Guest
Entry into Amuka Lodge $30 USD Per Guest

The best time to visit

The best time to visit is during the dry season which takes place from December to February, and then late June to October.

This is the best time for general wildlife viewing, as the animals will be drawn to watering holes, making them easier to find.

Accommodation at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

A safari lodge, guest house, budget lodging, and camp sites are among the sanctuary's tourist amenities. The two establishments are independent enterprises, although both include restaurants that serve tourists.

How to get to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

From Kampala, the Ziwa Rhino Reserve is a 3-hour drive (176 km/100mi).

It's conveniently placed in Nakitoma on the Gulu highway leading to Murchison Falls, and it's a great place to stop on your journey to or from the park.

For further Enquiries & Support

Call:

Saleem: Sanctuary Manager Call (+256) 785477721

or message (+256) 774676702 (whatsapp only)

or Oscar:(+256) 782199743

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