Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: Uganda’s Heart of Rhino Conservation A visit to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is the only way to complete the “Big Five” checklist in Uganda. Following the tragic extinction of wild rhinos in Uganda by 1983 due to poaching and civil unrest, this 7,000-hectare sanctuary was established in 2005 to bring these majestic giants back to the Pearl of Africa. Today, it stands as a global conservation success story, home to a growing population of over 40 Southern White Rhinos.
Located in the Nakasongola District—roughly 176 kilometers north of Kampala—the sanctuary serves as a vital bridge between the capital and Murchison Falls National Park. In this guide, we explore why Ziwa is a destination in its own right and how to plan your 2026 visit.
What makes the Rhino Trekking experience unique?
Unlike most safari encounters where you remain inside a vehicle, rhino tracking at Ziwa is done on foot. This intimate experience allows you to enter the territory of these 3,000-kilogram giants under the expert guidance of armed rangers. You are typically led to within 7 to 10 meters of the rhinos, providing unparalleled opportunities for photography and observation of their social behaviors. The rangers share deep insights into the individual personalities of the rhinos—such as the famous “Obama,” the first rhino born in Uganda in decades—and the intense security measures required to keep them safe 24/7.
What are the current permit costs for 2026?
The sanctuary operates on a non-profit conservation model, meaning your fees directly fund the veterinary care and 24-hour armed protection of the rhinos. As of 2026, the standard rates for the Rhino Trekking experience (which includes park entry) are
- Foreign Non-Residents: $60 USD
- Foreign Residents: $50 USD
- East African Citizens: 50,000 UGX
For those staying on the ranch or visiting for multiple activities, specific activity-only fees apply. It is important to note that Ziwa has transitioned toward being a cashless business, so ensure you have a credit card or mobile money options prepared for payments at the gate.
Can you see the Shoebill Stork at Ziwa?
While many travelers head to Mabamba for the shoebill, Ziwa offers one of the most serene and high-success-rate shoebill treks in the country. The Lugogo Swamp, located within the sanctuary, is a pristine papyrus habitat. The Shoebill trek usually begins at 6:00 AM, involving a guided canoe ride as the mist rises off the water. Because the swamp is privately managed and sees fewer crowds than other sites, you often get a much longer and quieter encounter with this prehistoric bird. The cost for this specialized trek is approximately $30 USD for international visitors.
What other activities are available at the sanctuary?
Ziwa is far more than just a rhino enclosure; it is a thriving ecosystem with diverse wildlife and over 300 bird species.
- Night Nature Walks: Starting at 8:00 PM, these walks offer a rare chance to see nocturnal species such as leopards, porcupines, aardvarks, and various owl species.
- Birding Tours: The sanctuary features four distinct birding trails through woodlands and savannahs, where you can find the Great Blue Turaco and the African Grey Parrot.
- Guided Nature Hikes: Explore the 27-square-mile ranch on foot to see bushbucks, oribis, hippos, and the recently reintroduced Rothschild giraffes and plains zebras.
Where should you stay at Ziwa?
For those who want to experience the “Night Nature Walk” or the early morning “Shoebill Trek,” staying overnight is highly recommended. The sanctuary offers a range of options:
- Ziwa Guest House: Features comfortable rooms like the “Obama Suite” and “Malaika Room,” ranging from $85 to $140 USD per night.
- Amuka Lodge: A mid-range to luxury option located within the sanctuary, offering high-end chalets and a swimming pool.
- Camping: For the adventurous, pristine campsites are available for approximately $25 USD per person. The campsites are powered by solar and hydroelectric energy, providing warm showers and charging points.
How do you get to Ziwa from Kampala?
The drive from Kampala takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours via the Kampala-Gulu Highway. The road is well-paved, making it an easy trip for self-drive travelers or organized tours. After passing the town of Nakasongola, you branch off at the Nakitoma Trading Centre, following the signs for another 7 kilometers to the main gate. If you are using public transport, you can take a bus heading toward Gulu or Masindi, jump off at Nakitoma, and take a local “boda-boda” (motorcycle taxi) to the sanctuary entrance.