Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

How to reach Ziwa Sanctuary

The sanctuary is only reachable by road transport and it’s a three(3) hour’s drive from Kampala. It’s also located on your way to Murchison falls, National Park.

You will branch off at Nakitoma trading centre and take a murram 1.5 km off the highway.

If you are using public transportation, it’s rangers from 15,000-25,000/= from Kampala.

The private vehicle will cost you between $100 to $200 in a car that seats 4 people from Kampala.

Best Time to Visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

The time of visit varies depending on the season that’s wet or dry, however, Ziwa Sanctuary is open all year round.

The best time is always the dry season when you get to see more wildlife in any park. This is because they are more active and you get to learn more about the species.

Dry seasons are always June to October and December to February and you can rest assured that your activities won’t be distorted.

Wet seasons are always September to November and March to May and the best time for bird watching and the sanctuary is greener.

Where to stay or accommodation facilities?

Ziwa Rhino Reserve

This is a budget kind of accommodation situated inside the sanctuary headquarters. They create a serene environment for their guests as they unwind on the jetlag.

Accommodation ranges from smaller bandas, family size bandas and just staying in a tent. The restaurant offers both local and international cuisine to choose from on alcarte basis.

Amuka Safari Lodge

This a midrange type of lodge found in the reserve woodland offering you that remarkable experience.

The chalets are named after the rhinos in the park and a fantastic restaurant. You will enjoy beautiful views and be served exquisite cuisine. Enjoy cooling down in the swimming pool and feel the tranquillity of the African savannah.

What to or Things to do at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Rhino trekking

The Rhino trekking activity is one of the must-dos in Ziwa and your ranger will allow you experience these animals up close.

The distance is always 6-7 meters away and is considered a safe distance. You will go on foot with your guide tracking these animals until you spot them.

The best times have always been 8 am and 10 am to watch them wake up or rise. And also in the evening hours from 4 pm to 6 pm as they plan to go to bed/retire for the day.

 Shoebill tracking

You shall head out on a canoe ride in search of the shoebill stork tracking in the Kafu river basin. The bird has a goofy charm and with a Dutch clog foot-long bill stalk.

This stalk helps it in hunting for young crocodiles, fish (Tilapia) and Nile monitor lizards. The shoebill bird is an endangered species and is rest assured that at Ziwa sanctuary you will see it.

 Other Wildlife

The sanctuary has 40 mammal species like Oribis, Bushbucks, Crocodiles, Hippos, Leopards and 300 bird species. As a tourist, you will enjoy these on a game drive, night walk and canoe ride.

Bird watching

For bird lovers, Ziwa sanctuary is the place to watch the rare birds in this savannah woodland vegetation.

The swamp habitat in habitats different bird species ranging from; African Eagle, Abdim’s Stork, Palm-nut vultures, Speckled breasted woodpecker, Barbets, Blue-spotted dove and Ross’s Turaco

The best time for birdwatching is early morning 6 am to 8 am and evening 4 pm to 6 pm.

Night or Nocturnal walks

The night walks have become popular at Ziwa sanctuary and you can choose to go for one.

These start at 8 pm to 11 pm in the night under a guided walk by a ranger to protect you.

The guide will provide you with information about the different fauna and flora found in the forest.

The walk will take approximately three (3) to four (4) hours and is physically challenging. Ensure you are wearing comfortable shoes, insect repellent and long trousers, a torch and a bottle of water.