Rhino tracking in Uganda is one of the most unique and unforgettable wildlife experiences you can enjoy in the Pearl of Africa. For years, Uganda’s rhinos had vanished from the wild due to intense poaching during the 1970s and 1980s. However, through successful conservation efforts, these majestic creatures are slowly reclaiming their place in Uganda’s wilderness.
Today, the only place in Uganda where travelers can see and track wild rhinos on foot is Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, a privately managed conservation area located about 180 kilometers north of Kampala. Rhino tracking here is not only thrilling but also deeply educational — offering visitors a close encounter with these endangered giants while supporting one of Africa’s most inspiring conservation stories.
The Story Behind Uganda’s Rhino Conservation
Before the 1980s, Uganda was home to both black rhinos and northern white rhinos, roaming freely in national parks like Murchison Falls and Kidepo Valley. Unfortunately, widespread poaching and years of political instability led to their extinction in the wild by 1983.
Determined to bring rhinos back, conservationists established the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in 2005, under the joint management of the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and Rhino Fund Uganda (RFU). The sanctuary began with just six rhinos — two from Kenya and four donated from Disney’s Animal Kingdom in the USA.
Thanks to dedicated protection, community involvement, and visitor support, the sanctuary’s rhino population has steadily grown. As of today, Ziwa is home to over 30 southern white rhinos, a true success story for Uganda’s wildlife conservation.
Where to Go Rhino Tracking in Uganda
The heart of rhino tracking in Uganda is Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, located in Nakasongola District, along the Kampala–Gulu highway. The sanctuary covers 70 square kilometers of savannah, wetlands, and woodlands, providing a safe, fenced environment where rhinos thrive under 24-hour ranger protection.
Its convenient location makes it an ideal stopover on the way to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and most visited park. Many travelers combine a visit to Ziwa with a wildlife safari to Murchison, creating a complete “Big Five” experience — since rhinos are not yet reintroduced to other parks.
The Rhino Tracking Experience
Rhino tracking at Ziwa is one of the few wildlife activities in Uganda that allows visitors to walk on foot to see these massive animals up close. The experience typically begins with a short briefing by your guide, who explains safety guidelines, rhino behavior, and the sanctuary’s conservation efforts.
After the briefing, armed rangers lead you on foot through the bush to locate the rhinos. The walk can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the rhinos’ movements.
Once you spot them, you’ll get to observe them grazing, resting, or socializing from a safe distance — usually about 20–30 meters away. Watching these peaceful giants in their natural environment is breathtaking, and your guide provides fascinating insights about their habits, diet, and breeding behavior.
Children over 6 years old can join the tracking, making it a family-friendly adventure that is both fun and educational.
What Makes Rhino Tracking Special
Unlike a typical safari game drive, rhino tracking allows you to connect directly with nature. The silence of walking through the bush, the thrill of spotting footprints, and the excitement of finally seeing a rhino face-to-face create a sense of adventure that vehicles can’t offer.
The activity also gives you the rare chance to contribute directly to rhino conservation. Every visitor’s entrance fee helps fund anti-poaching patrols, veterinary care, and habitat maintenance — ensuring these animals have a safe future in Uganda.
Moreover, Ziwa Sanctuary is not just about rhinos. The reserve is home to over 40 mammal species, including bushbucks, oribis, warthogs, hippos, and even the elusive leopard. Bird enthusiasts will also love it here — with over 300 bird species, including the iconic shoebill stork, Ziwa is a fantastic spot for birdwatching.
Additional Activities at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
While rhino tracking is the main attraction, there are several other activities families and adventurers can enjoy at the sanctuary:
- Bird Watching: Join guided birding walks to spot colorful species like the shoebill, Abyssinian ground hornbill, and white-crested turaco.
- Nature Walks: Explore the sanctuary’s diverse ecosystems on foot while learning about local plants, insects, and small mammals.
- Shoebill Canoe Ride: Take a relaxing canoe trip in the nearby Lugogo Wetland, one of the best places in Uganda to see the rare shoebill.
- Night Walks: For the adventurous, guided night walks reveal nocturnal creatures like bush babies, genets, and owls.
These activities make Ziwa a well-rounded destination for nature lovers and families seeking more than just a quick stopover.
Best Time to Go Rhino Tracking in Uganda
Rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary can be done year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry seasons — from December to February and June to September. During these months, the trails are dry and easier to navigate, and visibility is excellent.
The rainy seasons (March–May and October–November) can still offer great experiences, with lush vegetation and fewer crowds, but be prepared for muddy trails and the possibility of rain showers.
What to Bring for Rhino Tracking
To make the most of your experience, pack the following essentials:
- Comfortable walking shoes or boots
- Light clothing in neutral colors
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
- A hat and sunglasses for sun protection
- Water bottle to stay hydrated
- Camera or binoculars for photos and bird watching
Remember, the activity involves walking under the sun, so carrying enough water and wearing breathable clothing will make the experience more comfortable.
How to Get There
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is located about 3 hours’ drive (180 km) from Kampala along the Kampala–Gulu highway. The route is well-paved, and the sanctuary entrance is clearly marked near Nakitoma Village in Nakasongola District.
Most visitors access Ziwa as part of a guided safari on their way to or from Murchison Falls National Park. Afrigaze Uganda Safariz offers comfortable transfers and combined itineraries that include rhino tracking, Murchison Falls safaris, and other attractions across Uganda.
Accommodation at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
If you wish to stay overnight, the sanctuary offers comfortable lodging options such as Amuka Lodge, which provides cozy chalets, a swimming pool, and a restaurant surrounded by nature. Camping facilities are also available for budget travelers or those seeking an authentic bush experience.
Staying within the sanctuary allows visitors to enjoy sunrise walks, evening birding tours, and night experiences with wildlife sounds in the background.
Book Your Rhino Tracking Adventure with Afrigaze Uganda Safariz
Experience the thrill of walking among Uganda’s last rhinos with Afrigaze Uganda Safariz, your trusted local expert in wildlife and adventure tours. We organize guided rhino tracking trips to Ziwa Sanctuary and tailor-made safaris combining Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Kibale, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Our professional guides ensure a safe, informative, and memorable encounter with Uganda’s wildlife while promoting sustainable tourism that supports local communities and conservation.
📧 Email: info@afrigazeugandasafariz.com
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +256 755 664 719
