Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a protected ranch north of Kampala where southern white rhino are being bred to restore a species that was wiped out in Uganda by the early 1980s. It has been the country's main place to see rhino for many years.
The experience is on foot. Rangers lead small groups to where the rhino are grazing and let you watch from a safe distance - a very different feeling from seeing them through a vehicle window.
Ziwa sits on the road to Murchison Falls National Park, so most visitors stop for a tracking walk on the way north or south.
Flat savannah, woodland and swamp, fenced to protect the rhino.
Rhino are the focus, and the walk usually brings you within sight of a group. Birders may also look for the shoebill on a separate swamp walk.
Rhino tracking on foot with a ranger (about 1-2 hours)
Birdwatching, including a swamp walk
Overnight stay to track early or late in the day
Tracking walks are calm and controlled. Rangers explain the reintroduction programme and keep the group at a safe distance.
Year-round. Wet-season walks can be muddy.
Read our full guide: Gorilla Trekking in Uganda: How It Works and How to Prepare »
About 3-3.5 hours north of Kampala, on the main road to Murchison Falls.
A lodge and campsite at the sanctuary, usually used for one night.
Tracking is on foot with armed rangers
Wear closed shoes and neutral clothing
Follow rangers' instructions at all times
Official park info: Rhino Fund Uganda
Poaching and conflict wiped them out by the early 1980s. Ziwa is breeding rhino with the long-term goal of returning them to the national parks.
Yes, when you follow your rangers. They keep groups at a safe, managed distance.
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