Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is home to Uganda’s only white rhinos. Located in Nakasongola district, this sanctuary houses these magnificent animals and provides refuge to many bird species and other wildlife. Ziwa has become a popular tourist destination and a must-visit for anyone exploring Uganda. Visitors can enjoy rhino-tracking walks, bird-watching excursions, nature hikes, and even nighttime canoe adventures to spot the mythical shoebill.

History of Ziwa

In the 1980s, rhinos completely disappeared from Uganda due to poaching, despite having roamed freely around Murchison Falls. Twenty years later, between 2001 and 2006, thanks to the tireless efforts of organizations and individuals, eight rhinos were reintroduced to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Since then, their population has been steadily increasing, and it now approaches forty individuals, leading prosperous lives and successfully reproducing.

The rhinos at Ziwa belong to the Southern White Rhinoceros species. The Northern White Rhinos, which formerly roamed Ugandan territory, are thought to be critically endangered and extinct in the wild. It’s important to note the distinction between the white and black rhinos: the latter has a pointed upper lip as it feeds from trees and bushes, while the white rhino has a wide mouth for grazing like cows.

Other Animals at Ziwa

Aside from rhinos, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is home to other wildlife species. During a visit to Ziwa, visitors can spot numerous animals, such as the African leopard and the Ugandan kob, and over 300 bird species, including the majestic golden crested crane. Alongside the rhinos, one of the main attractions is the shoebill, an ancient bird species that has existed for at least 30 million years.