Uganda · Wildlife

1-Day Rhino Tracking Tour to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary from Kampala

1 Day Round trip from Kampala Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda to see wild rhinos
02 Track endangered Southern White Rhinos on foot with an armed ranger guide
03 Learn about rhino conservation efforts led by Rhino Fund Uganda and Uganda Wildlife Authority
04 Capture incredible wildlife moments and photography opportunities up close

Embark on a full-day tour from Kampala to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda where you can see wild rhinos. Enjoy a scenic drive through central Uganda, track endangered Southern White Rhinos on foot with an expert armed ranger, and learn about ongoing conservation efforts. Savor a delicious lunch at the sanctuary's restaurant and take in the tranquil natural surroundings before returning to Kampala in the evening.

Embark on a full-day tour from Kampala to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda where you can see wild rhinos.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 1 Day

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Kampala, Entebbe, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Languages English, French, German

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Ziwa Rhino Tracking Adventure from Kampala

Morning: Departure from Kampala to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Wake up early in the morning to prepare for the adventure.
Meet your professional driver or guide at your hotel in Kampala.
Embark on a scenic 2-hour drive northward, passing through Luweero District en route to Nakasongola.
Arrive at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, located 176 kilometers from Kampala along the Kampala-Gulu highway.

Late Morning: Rhino Tracking Experience

Receive a briefing from sanctuary staff and be introduced to your armed ranger guide.
Begin a walking safari through the sanctuary to track and observe the Southern White Rhinos in their natural habitat.
Learn about rhino behavior, conservation efforts, and the sanctuary's role in reintroducing rhinos to Uganda's national parks.
Enjoy opportunities for photography and close-up encounters while maintaining a safe distance.

Afternoon: Lunch and Relaxation

Proceed to the sanctuary's restaurant for a delicious lunch and cold refreshments.
Relax and take in the tranquil surroundings of the sanctuary.

Late Afternoon: Return to Kampala

Begin your return journey to Kampala with your driver or guide.
Enjoy views of rural Uganda and the passing countryside along the way.
Arrive back at your hotel in the evening and check in for overnight rest.

Where this trip takes you

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Luweero District countryside, Kampala-Gulu highway

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Kampala 3 cities · 1 Day

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

All transportation (unless labeled as optional).
Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section).
All activities (unless labeled as optional).
Park fees (for non-residents).
A professional driver/guide.
Round-trip airport transfer.
All taxes/VAT.

What's Not Included

Additional accommodation before and after the tour
Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government-imposed increases in taxes and/or park fees
Gratuities (tipping guideline: US$10.00 per person per day)
International flights (to and from home)

What to bring

Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers to protect against sun and insects
Lightweight breathable fabrics suitable for warm weather
Neutral-colored clothing to blend into the natural environment
Rain jacket or poncho for unpredictable weather
Wide-brimmed hat or cap for sun protection
Sunglasses to shield eyes from UV rays
Comfortable sturdy walking shoes or boots for uneven terrain
Sunscreen with high SPF to prevent sunburn
Insect repellent with DEET to keep bugs away
Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
Snacks or packed lunch for sustained energy
Personal medications and a basic first-aid kit
Camera or smartphone to capture memorable moments
Extra batteries or power bank to keep devices charged
Binoculars for enhanced wildlife viewing
Photocopy of passport and visa for identification
Travel insurance details for emergency situations
Booking confirmation as proof of reservation

Know before you go

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is located about 164 kilometers north of Kampala in Nakasongola District.
It is the only place in Uganda where wild rhinos can be observed in their natural habitat.
Established in 2005, the sanctuary spans 70 square kilometers and houses over 40 southern white rhinos.
The sanctuary's mission is to reintroduce rhinos into Uganda's national parks.
Rhino tracking is done through a guided walking safari that lasts around 1.5 hours.
Rangers guide visitors to observe rhinos from a safe distance of approximately 7 meters.
The best viewing times are between 8-10 AM and 4-6 PM when rhinos are most active.
Additional activities include birding tours, nature walks, and shoebill canoe treks starting at 6:30 AM.
Rhino tracking costs about $50-$60 USD per person for international visitors, with lower rates for East African residents.
Other activities such as birding and shoebill treks require additional fees.
Booking in advance is recommended through East African Jungle Safaris or directly with the sanctuary.
Visitors are advised to wear long pants, a hat, and closed-toe shoes; mud boots are available if needed.
Essentials to bring include sunscreen, insect repellent, drinking water, and a camera with a zoom lens.
The drive from Kampala to the sanctuary takes about 3 to 4 hours.
Early morning departures are common to allow enough time for activities and return by evening.
Visiting the sanctuary supports vital conservation work, including rhino breeding, habitat protection, and community education.