Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: Uganda’s Wildlife Ranch

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Imagine being able to see the rhinoceros, one of the most magnificent and endangered animals on the planet, up close. The sounds of nature fill the air there, and there is always the possibility of a unique wildlife encounter around every corner.

 

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: Protecting Uganda’s Endangered Rhinos

A private wildlife ranch in northwest Uganda called Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary was founded in 2005 with the goal of reintroducing Southern White Rhinos to the wild. Imagine a location where you can get up close and personal with rhinoceroses, one of the most magnificent and endangered animals on the planet. Every corner offers the chance for a unique wildlife encounter with one of Africa’s most recognizable creatures, and the air is filled with the sounds of nature. One of the most successful conservation tales in the world is Ziwa Wildlife Ranch.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a sanctuary for the conservation of the white rhino, one of Africa’s most endangered animals, and is situated in the Nakasongola District in northeastern Uganda, just outside of Murchison Falls National Park. The Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch plays a crucial role in international initiatives to save these amazing creatures. Visitors can go on night walks and nature treks, do rhino trekking on foot, and follow several bird species, including the elusive shoebill.

All of the “Big Five“ African safari species can be seen on a Uganda safari to Murchison Falls National Park, which includes an extension to Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch. The big four—the lion, leopard, elephant, and buffalo—can be seen up close on a game drive and boat safari in Murchison Falls. After that, you can see rhinoceroses at Ziwa.

A Brief History of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

The story of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary began in the 1980s, when Uganda’s rhino population became extinct due to poaching. In response to this devastating loss, the Uganda Wildlife Authority and the Rhino Fund Uganda joined forces to establish a sanctuary that would provide a secure and naturalistic environment for rhinos to breed, roam, and thrive. The sanctuary’s primary purpose is to reintroduce rhinos to Uganda and to promote their conservation through education, research, and community engagement.

Rhinos, which have evolved into two separate species—black and white rhinos—have been an essential component of our world for millions of years. These magnificent animals, which stand for power, spirituality, protection, and a balanced coexistence with nature, have long been revered and respected in African culture.

The present ranch is located on a cattle pasture that Captain Roy and his family founded in 1983. For nearly twenty years, it functioned as a cow farm and introduced unusual livestock. But in 2002, after much deliberation with Yvonne Verkakik, Executive Director of the Rhino Fund, the Roy family made the decision to turn the property into a sanctuary for white rhinos. They accomplished this by moving 7,000 cattle heads to make room for the white rhinos. Because of poaching, rhinos had gone extinct in Uganda at the time, so it seemed sense to protect this amazing animal. In order to restore southern white rhinos to their native habitat in Murchison Falls National Park, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary was ultimately created in 2005.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary’s goal is to return these magnificent animals to the wild so they can wander the plains in their native environment, as they did in the past. The Uganda Wildlife Authority, the species’ guardians, and Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch Limited have worked together on the project. They are working together to bring rhinos to other Ugandan national parks so they can wander the grounds alongside other animals.

Animals in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

The main purpose of Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch is to provide rhinoceroses with a safe haven. However, the 27 square mile walled property is home to savannahs, wetlands, and forests, all of which draw a variety of interesting wildlife.
The rhinoceros, the elusive leopard, the huge pangolin, oribi, waterbucks, bushbuck, Ugandan kob, bohor reedbuck, common duiker, warthog, vervet monkey, bushpig, aardvark, and scrub hare are among the mammalian species that can be seen at Ziwa. One can go on a game drive, canoe ride, or nature walk on the ranch to observe these amazing animals in their natural environment.

Where is Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary?

The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is situated near Nakasongola, which is only three hours’ drive northwest of Kampala, the capital of Uganda. It’s only a forty-five-minute drive from Masindi, the closest town south of the Murchison. Because of this, it’s a great place for visitors going to or coming from a wildlife safari in Murchison Falls National Park.
Since you can drive to the sanctuary, follow the rhinos, and head back to Kampala the same day, it’s also a very well-liked same-day safari tour.
Renting a car from companies like Road Trip or planning your safari with a tour operator like Africa Reveal Safaris are two ways to get to Ziwa. Murchison and other parts of your Uganda safari can even be planned with their assistance.

Large trucks or 4x4s are not necessary to visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary because the road from Kampala to Masindi is in excellent shape. Driving through Uganda’s countryside is a dreamlike experience thanks to the road trip’s stunning scenery.

Accommodations at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Ziwa Rhino Ranch: For those who intend to remain for a long time, Ziwa Wildlife Ranch offers cosy accommodations such rooms and camping tents at reasonable rates of $20 to $50 per person per night. Additionally, there is a restaurant and bar on the ranch that provide delectable home-cooked meals.
Amuka Lodge: Amuka Lodge is yet another great place to stay when visiting the ranch. Nestled in the little woodland of the reserve, the lodge provides guests with a luxurious stay that includes private unfenced cottages, a great restaurant that serves safari food, a swimming pool, and stunning views. In the middle of the African Savannah, a stay at Amuka Lodge ensures a calm and tranquil experience.

Activities & Adventures at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

1. Rhino Tracking

Your nerves and love for the outdoors will be roused by the exhilarating experience of tracking rhinos on foot. Few people have the opportunity to stroll through the savannah, approach a huge rhino in silence, and take in its elegance.
Ziwa Rhino & Wildlife Ranch’s savannahs, acacia woodlands, and cold, muddy wetlands are home to Uganda’s sole rhinoceros, which are allowed to wander freely. They either relax beneath the shade of big trees or graze on dense shrubs during the day. An expert ranger will guide you on a walk into the untamed ranch where you can witness Ziwa rhinos while teaching you about their customs and behaviours. When you locate them, the ranger will place you between six and seven meters away, which will allow you to take lots of Instagram pictures.

However, you might have to drive a certain distance and walk on foot to get to the rhinos, depending on their location in the park. While you can go on a rhino trek in Ziwa at any time of year, the optimum times to go are from 8 am to 10 am or from 4 pm to 6 pm. Wearing long trousers and comfortable closed shoes is advised, as is bringing lots of water to stay hydrated.

Rhino Tracking Costs

The cost of a Rhino Tracking permit is UGX 40,000 per adult and UGX 10,000 per child for East African citizens, $50 per adult and $30 per child for foreigners, and $45 per adult and $20 per child for foreign residents. An English-speaking guide and park admission costs are included in the permit.

2. Nature Walks at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

You should really think about taking one of the guided nature walks that Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary offers if you enjoy being in nature. This 27-square-mile ranch features an incredible mix of natural ecosystems, including woodland, wetlands, and savannah, where you may immerse yourself in the wonders of the nature. More than 40 mammal and reptilian species, including antelopes, monkeys, hippopotamuses, crocodiles, and several bird species, can be found in the sanctuary.
The sanctuary offers nighttime nature walks from 8 to 11 p.m., which is the ideal time to see the nocturnal creatures that live there, in addition to its daytime activities.

One to three hours can be spent on a nature walk. Wear appropriate walking shoes, long pants, insect repellant, a torch and drinking water to stay hydrated because they can be very physically taxing. As you experience the distinctive and spectacular Ugandan wilderness, you will take in the clean, fresh air and be in awe of the breathtaking surroundings.

Costs

The fee of the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary’s Day and night nature walks is $20 for adults and $10 for children from outside the country. East Africans pay UGX 10,000 for children and UGX 20,000 for adults.

3. Birding Tours at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

With more than 300 different species of birds, including rare and migratory ones, Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch is a must-see location for bird lovers. The ranch has a variety of habitats, including savannahs, marshes, and forests, which draw a wide diversity of bird species.
There is an abundance of intriguing bird life to explore here, ranging from the magnificent African fish eagle to the uncommon and elusive shoebill stork. The African grey parrot, African pied wagtail, black-headed gonolek, brown-throated wattle-eye, common bulbul, crested crane, gigantic kingfisher, green pigeons, and woodland kingfisher are among the other bird species you may see while there.

Why not stay a few days and take use of the ranch’s four different bird trails to get the most out of your trip? Our knowledgeable birding rangers know just where to look for the most fascinating species, and because our birding excursions move slowly, you’ll have plenty of time to snap as many pictures as you like.

The best time for bird watching in Ziwa

We advise visiting between June and September, which is the dry season, if you’re planning a trip for birdwatching. Because of the comparatively moderate weather and sparser foliage during this time, it is simpler to identify and watch a wide range of bird species. The birdwatching experience is further enhanced by the large number of migrating bird species that are present in Uganda during this season.

 Cost:

For foreigners, birding tours in Ziwa cost $10 per child and $20 per adult. Adults from East Africa pay UGX 20,000, while children pay UGX 10,000.

4. Shoebill Treks & Canoe Rides 

One of Uganda’s rarest and most recognisable birds is the shoebill, often called the whale-head stork. It is plainly observable at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and is one of the most sought-after birds in the nation. Eleven shoebills were sighted in the wetlands on the ranch during a record sighting expedition.
You must embark on the shoebill journey with an experienced guide at 6 am for the best chance of viewing the shoebill. This is the ideal time of year for birdwatchers to see the shoebill and take in the breathtaking sunrise over the Lugogo Swamp while canoeing across the swamp.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a great place for environment enthusiasts and bird watchers because it is home to a variety of aquatic birds. Visitors must have spent the night at Ziwa and arrived at the ranch before the gates open to the public at 7:30 am since shoebill tracking begins early in the morning.
Costs of shoebill tracking:
Foreigners: $13 for children and $25 for adults
Foreign residents: $20 per adult and $10 per child
East African Citizens: 20,000 and 5,000 UGX

Rhino Conservation Efforts

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is home to a growing population of southern white rhinoceroses. The sanctuary’s conservation efforts focus on several key areas, including:

Rhino breeding program: The sanctuary has a successful breeding program, with several rhino calves born since its inception. The breeding program is designed to increase the population of rhinos in Uganda and to promote genetic diversity.

Rhino monitoring and tracking: The sanctuary’s team of rangers and conservationists closely monitor and track the rhino population to ensure their safety and well-being. This includes monitoring their habitat, behavior, and health.

Community engagement and education: The sanctuary works closely with local communities to promote rhino conservation and provide education on the importance of protecting these magnificent creatures. This includes providing training and support for local guides and conservationists.

Research and collaboration: The sanctuary collaborates with other conservation organizations and research institutions to advance the understanding of rhino biology, ecology, and behavior. This research informs conservation efforts and helps to develop effective strategies for protecting rhinos.

Best Time to Visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

The dry season (December to February and late June to October) is the ideal time of year to visit Ziwa Rhino Reserve. Visitors can take part in a variety of outdoor activities, including game drives and guided walks, during this season. The rhinos and other animals are attracted to watering holes, which makes them simpler to locate. The dry season is also the best time to see general wildlife in Ziwa and the neighbouring Murchison Falls National Park and Budongo Forest, as there is less possibility of rain ruining your plans.

You can still have a wonderful time, though, if you choose to go between March and May and September to November, when it rains a lot. During this time, the reserve is lushly green, making it a beautiful place to see birds. Bring rain clothing and waterproof shoes to make the most of your trip during the wet season. If bad weather strikes, think about scheduling inside activities.
All things considered, Ziwa Rhino Reserve provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with a distinct set of difficulties and attractions for every season.

Conservation Impact

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary has made significant contributions to rhino conservation in Uganda. The sanctuary has:

Reintroduced rhinos to Uganda: The sanctuary has successfully reintroduced rhinos to Uganda, providing a safe haven for these incredible animals.

Promoted rhino conservation: The sanctuary has promoted rhino conservation through education, research, and community engagement.

Supported local communities: The sanctuary has supported local communities through employment, training, and community development projects.

Therefore, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a vital conservation effort that provides a safe haven for rhinos in Uganda. By supporting the sanctuary through tourism, visitors can contribute to the conservation of these incredible animals and help ensure their survival for generations to come.

Additional Resources:

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Official Website

World Wildlife Fund Rhino Conservation

Uganda Safaris and Packages

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