Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a cornerstone of Uganda’s conservation success and a vital stop on any northern safari circuit. It is the only place in the entire country where you can see wild rhinos, specifically the Southern White Rhino. After the species was declared extinct in Uganda due to rampant poaching in the 1980s, Ziwa was established as a protected breeding and reintroduction project. The sanctuary’s ultimate goal is to build a sustainable rhino population and re-release them into Uganda’s major national parks like Murchison Falls and Kidepo Valley.
The highlight of a visit is not a typical game drive, but rather an intimate, on-foot tracking rhino tracking experience where you are guided by a ranger to observe these magnificent animals up close in their natural habitat. The sanctuary is also a haven for birdlife, home to over 300 species (including the rare shoebill stork) and other wildlife like bushbuck, oribi, and waterbuck.
Getting There
Getting to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary with a rental car is straightforward and makes for a perfect stopover, especially if you are heading to Murchison Falls National Park. From either Entebbe or Kampala, you will take the main Gulu-Masindi highway (A109), one of Uganda’s well-paved tarmac roads. The journey from Kampala is approximately 170-180 km and typically takes 3 to 4 hours, though this is highly dependent on how long it takes to get through Kampala’s notorious traffic. If leaving from Entebbe, add at least another hour.
The turn-off for the sanctuary is at a town called Nakitoma, and it is clearly marked with a large sign. Once you leave the main highway, you will follow a 7-kilometer murram (dirt) road to the sanctuary’s headquarters. This access road is generally in good condition and is manageable for a 2WD (saloon) car, but a 4×4, which most car rentals in Uganda are, will provide a more comfortable and reliable ride, especially if it has been raining. Its convenient location and unique, interactive experience make Zziwa an essential and easy addition to any self-drive itinerary.
Planning a tour to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and require an affordable rental car for self drive or with a driver- we at Uganda Car Rental Services will be more than delighted to assist you. Simply contact us now by sending an email to info@ugandacarrentalservices.com or call us now on +256-700135510 to speak with the reservations team.
