1 Day Rhino tracking Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
1 Day Rhino tracking in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Since its establishment, the rhino sanctuary has diligently endeavored to ensure the reintroduction of the rhinoceros species into Uganda and to augment the nation’s rhinoceros population. The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary currently houses 32 southern white rhinos. It occupies a 70 square kilometer area enclosed by a 2-meter electrified fence to safeguard the rhinos from predators and poachers. The refuge employs approximately 78 park rangers and security personnel who are on duty 24/7. The sanctuary houses more than 40 species of animals and reptiles, including monkeys, crocodiles, hippos, antelopes, and almost 300 species of birds.
What can one do during 1 Day Rhino tracking in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Rhino trekking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Uganda is a unique activity exclusively available in the Nakasongola region. The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is an ideal stopover while on your journey to or from Murchison Falls National Park. This is the one location in Uganda where travelers can witness rhinos in their natural habitat. Ziwa Rangers, a private, nonprofit group that works with the Uganda Wildlife Authority and the Rhino Fund Uganda, is in charge of running the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in northern Uganda.
With the intention of restoring the rhinoceros species to Uganda and boosting its population, the rhino sanctuary was established in 2005. The organization’s objective is to establish a sustainable rhinoceros population and reintroduce rhinos to their native habitat in Uganda’s protected areas. Uganda was previously inhabited by the black rhinoceros and the northern white rhinoceros, both indigenous to the country. A series of poaching operations, long-lasting civil strife, and human interference with its natural environment led to the species’ official extinction in 1982.
Since 2010, guests at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary have had the opportunity to observe rhinos. There is nothing more exhilarating than observing rhinos in their natural habitat. The sanctuary’s conservation initiative commenced with a mere six rhinos, four of which were relocated from Solio Ranch in Kenya and two from Disney Animal Kingdom in Florida, USA.
Visitors engaged in rhino tracking in Uganda may witness the rhinos closely as they graze and repose on the sanctuary’s savannah grasslands at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. at Uganda, rhino tracking can be combined with a wildlife drive or a boat excursion at Murchison Falls National Park.The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Uganda imposes a fee of $50 USD per individual for rhino tracking. Additional activities offered to guests at the refuge encompass bird watching, Shoebill trekking, canoeing, and nature excursions, among others. Visitors may journey to observe rhinoceroses in the sanctuary for a duration of 1 to 2½ hours, contingent upon the rhinos’ location
Detailed itinerery of 1 Day Rhino tracking Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
This 1 Day Rhino tracking Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary tour transports you to Uganda’s sole habitat for wild rhinos, the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, for an unforgettable experience. You will have the opportunity to observe these endangered gorgeous creatures in their native habitat.
The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary occupies an area of 7,000 hectares and is located around 176 km (100 miles) north of Uganda’s Kampala, the capital of Uganda, along the Gulu highway leading to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest national conservation area.
In the early morning, following your breakfast, our business driver-guide will get you at 7:00 AM from the designated pickup location or your hotel in Kampala or Entebbe. The driver guide will initially provide an overview of your qday rhino trekking excursion, followed by a three-hour journey to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for the rest of the day.
We will traverse the districts of Kampala and Luweero till we arrive at Nakasongola district, home of the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary located along the Kampala-Gulu route. Upon arrival at the rhino sanctuary, you will receive a warm greeting and a briefing from the highly experienced rangers, who will also lead you during the rhino tracking activity. The rangers will provide an overview of the tracking protocols and the historical context of the conservation area.
Throughout the tracking activity, you will observe several white rhinos at a remarkably close range. You will also have the opportunity to observe many animal species, including bushbucks, reedbucks, monkeys, oribis, as well as birds such as the shoebill stork and reptiles. You will also have the opportunity to photograph and inquire about rhinos and wildlife in general.
The tracking duration will range from 2 to 3 hours, contingent upon the rhinos’ position, as the tracking is conducted on foot.
Upon concluding your rhino tracking expedition in the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, reconvene with your driver. Travel to Kabalega for lunch, enjoy a brief period of relaxation, and subsequently commence the journey back to Kampala, Entebbe, or your designated drop-off location.
What is the packing list for Rhino Trekking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Uganda?
Visitors are advised to wear closed-toed shoes (preferably hiking boots), long trousers, and insect repellent lotion to deter insects and flies. Remember to pack a bottle of mineral water to maintain hydration during your journey.
What is the best time for Rhino Trekking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Uganda?
Rhino trekking in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is available year-round. The optimal times for travelers to engage in rhino trekking in Uganda are from 8 to 10 a.m. and 4 to 6 p.m. The activity is optimally performed during the dry seasons, specifically from June to September and December to February.
The rhino sanctuary offers travelers tranquil and respectable accommodation options, including budget, mid-range, and camping facilities. It also offers opulent accommodations at Amuka Lodge for visitors. The lodge was constructed in the center of the sanctuary, amidst the picturesque savannah woodlands. The lodge offers its guests opulent amenities, like complimentary WIFI, a swimming pool, a sophisticated dining area, and several culinary options, among others. The refuge offers bandas and camping grounds for guests seeking economical or mid-range lodging options.
What is the route to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Uganda?
Visitors can reach Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in northern Uganda by car from Kampala. The refuge is located 176 kilometers from Kampala along the Gulu-Kampala Highway. Visitors visiting the refuge must divert from the Nakitoma Trade Centre, located around 7.3 km away.
Visitors must undertake a 14-minute trek from the commercial center to arrive at the rhino habitat in Ziwa. The refuge is easily accessible from Murchison Falls National Park, where one can partake in a wildlife drive or a boat tour. The refuge is around 125 kilometers (2.5 hours) from the national park.
What does your 1 Day Rhino tracking tour encompass?
- Transportation to and from the sanctuary
- Packaged water
- Midday meal
- Permits for tracking rhinoceroses
- English-speaking driving guide