Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Rates 2025/2026
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Uganda is the only place where you can see wild rhinos in their natural habitat. Located about 176 km north of Kampala on the Gulu highway, the sanctuary lies between Kampala and Murchison Falls National Park. It offers a unique opportunity to track rhinos on foot and observe these endangered giants up close.
With updated rates for the 2025/2026 season, Ziwa continues to be one of Uganda’s most rewarding and affordable conservation destinations.
Overview of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
The sanctuary covers over 70 square kilometers of savannah and bushland, providing a safe breeding ground for white rhinos. It is jointly managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and the Rhino Fund Uganda. Visitors not only enjoy rhino tracking but also experience bird watching, nature walks, and guided canoe rides.
Ziwa plays a key role in Uganda’s conservation mission. The ultimate goal is to reintroduce rhinos back into Uganda’s national parks where they once thrived before extinction in the 1980s.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Entrance Fees 2025/2026
The following rates apply to visitors for the 2025/2026 season. Fees are payable at the gate or through authorized tour operators.
| Category | Foreign Non-Residents (USD) | Foreign Residents (USD) | East African Citizens (UGX) |
| Entrance Fee | 20 | 15 | 10,000 |
| Rhino Tracking | 50 | 45 | 30,000 |
| Bird Watching | 25 | 20 | 20,000 |
| Nature Walk | 20 | 15 | 15,000 |
| Canoe Ride | 25 | 20 | 20,000 |
Note: Children below 12 years enjoy a 50% discount on most activities. Rates may vary slightly depending on exchange rates or management adjustments.
Ziwa Rhino Tracking Experience
Rhino tracking is the highlight of any visit to Ziwa. Trained rangers lead small groups through the sanctuary, following rhino footprints and droppings to locate the animals. Once you find them, you can observe and photograph the rhinos from a safe distance of about 7–10 meters.
Tracking usually takes 1 to 2 hours depending on the location of the rhinos. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times when the weather is cool and rhinos are more active.
Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and conservation travelers.
Tip: Wear neutral-colored clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Carry drinking water and insect repellent.
Accommodation at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Ziwa offers a range of accommodations suited for all budgets.
Amuka Safari Lodge
Amuka Lodge is the main accommodation inside the sanctuary. It features comfortable cottages with en-suite bathrooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving both local and international meals.
- Room Rates (2025/2026):
- Standard Room: USD 90 per person (half board)
- Deluxe Room: USD 120 per person (full board)
Camping options are also available for budget travelers at around USD 20 per night including access to shared facilities.
Idea: Spend a night to enjoy night walks or early morning rhino sightings when the sanctuary is peaceful and wildlife active.
Additional Activities and Rates
Besides rhino tracking, Ziwa offers a variety of activities that make your stay even more memorable.
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Bird Watching
Over 300 bird species can be spotted here, including the rare Shoebill stork. Guided birding walks cost USD 25–30 per person.
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Nature Walks
Explore the sanctuary’s ecosystems on guided walks. You’ll encounter antelopes, monkeys, and a variety of flora. The cost is USD 15–20 per person.
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Canoe Rides
Canoe rides through the nearby Lugogo Swamp offer great chances to see the Shoebill, hippos, and aquatic life. Each ride costs USD 25–30 per person.
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Night Walks
For those spending the night, guided night walks reveal nocturnal animals like bush babies, leopards, and owls. Rates range from USD 20–25 per person.
How to Get to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
The sanctuary is easily accessible from Kampala or Murchison Falls National Park.
- By Road: Drive about 3 hours (176 km) from Kampala via the Kampala–Gulu highway.
- By Tour Operator: Many Uganda safari packages include a stop at Ziwa en route to or from Murchison Falls National Park.
Tip: Combine your rhino tracking experience with a full safari through Murchison Falls for a complete Big Five adventure.
Best Time to Visit
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is open year-round. However, the best time to visit is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February, when paths are easier to walk and visibility is clear.
During the wet season, the sanctuary becomes lush and green—ideal for birding and photography, though tracking can be slightly more challenging.
Conservation and Community Support
Every fee paid contributes directly to rhino conservation, ranger salaries, and community development projects. By visiting Ziwa, you help protect Uganda’s rhinos and support local livelihoods.
Visitors are encouraged to respect sanctuary rules, avoid littering, and maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
Conclusion
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary remains one of Uganda’s most exciting and accessible wildlife destinations. The updated rates for 2025/2026 make it easy for every traveler to include rhino tracking in their safari plans. Whether you come for a day trip or stay overnight, Ziwa promises a meaningful wildlife experience and a chance to be part of rhino conservation history.
Ready to visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary?
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