1 Day Rhino Tracking Uganda at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

1 Day Rhino Tracking Uganda: The idea of Rhino tracking in Uganda always creates imagination of something extraordinary and our 1 Day Rhino Tracking Uganda tour is guaranteed to leave you breathless.

Set in the Nakasongola district along the Kampala-Gulu highway, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is the only place to track rhinos in Uganda. Here visitors are provided with the golden chance of getting personal and up-close with the endangered gentle giants- Rhinoceros (one of the big five animals) in their natural habitats.

The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is collaboratively managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch, with about 33 individual rhinos calling the Sanctuary home.

It would interest you to know that Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary isn’t about Rhinos only but also a Bird sanctuary with over 300 bird species including the elusive shoebill stork making it one of the ideal spots for birding in Uganda. It is also a wildlife haven with over 40 mammal species occupying its savannah, woodlands, and wetland ecosystems.

1 Day Rhino Tracking Uganda Tour Highlights

• Track wild southern white Rhinoceros through woodlands and savannah grasslands.
• Watch lots of bird species.
• Come across wild animals, especially Uganda Kobs, warthogs, and Defassa waterbucks among others.
• Scenic road trip.

Detailed Itinerary for the 1 Day Rhino Tracking Uganda

After your hearty breakfast, you will leave your Kampala Hotel for Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. While it’s only a three hours drive from the Capital, the route which you will be using is spectacular to get bored or disappointed. Start the journey at about 7:00 am and arrive at Nakasongola District by 10:00 am for the unforgettable search for Rhinos in the wild.

It is amazing to learn that Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is one of the biologically diverse areas in the country with about 40 mammal species that include southern white Rhinos (of course), Banded mongoose, Defassa waterbucks, Oribis, surprisingly the Leopards, warthogs, Ground squirrels, Grey duikers, bushbucks, vervet monkeys, Reedbucks, Uganda Kobs, Hartebeests, Hippos and others. Reptiles like Monitor lizards and different snake species are also present in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

On getting to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, you will be received by the team of Rangers who are more than willing to take you through the exciting 2-3 hours’ adventure.

They will offer you a simple briefing about what to expect and the code of conduct then lead you to the natural habitat of these incredible giant mammals.

Along the way, they will help you spot other wildlife thriving in the park making this 1 day Uganda safari an immersive and enjoyable adventure.

A Rhino tracking in Ziwa Rhino tracking takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on the rhinos’ location within the sanctuary.

This 1 day Uganda tour package is designed for adventurers and nature enthusiasts who are short on time but would wish to encounter the magnificent rhinos

in Uganda in their natural habitat.

After this leisurely adventure, you will have lunch at Amuka Lodge or Kabalega Diners before hopping into the vehicle and driving back to Kampala City. You arrive in the evening.

End of 1 Day Rhino Tracking Uganda Tour

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Answers to your Frequently Asked Questions

1. Location and Accessibility

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is located in Nakasongola District, along the Kampala–Gulu highway. It is approximately 3 hours’ drive from Kampala, making it accessible for a 1-day safari.

The roads are generally well-maintained, so a standard vehicle is suitable, though a 4×4 may offer extra comfort on rainy days. The scenic drive includes savannah landscapes, farmland, and small local communities, enhancing the travel experience.

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2. What is the best time of day for rhino tracking, and How long does the trek usually take?

The best time for rhino tracking is early morning (7:30–10:30 AM) when rhinos are most active and wildlife sightings are higher. The trek typically lasts 1.5–2.5 hours depending on rhino movements.

With the drive to and from Kampala, the tour is comfortably completed in a single day, allowing time for lunch and optional birdwatching or nature walks without rushing.

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3. Will I see rhinos for sure? Are there other animals I might encounter? How close can I get to the rhinos safely?

While sightings of rhinos are highly likely, it is not guaranteed as they roam freely within the sanctuary. Visitors may also encounter Uganda kobs, warthogs, Defassa waterbucks, oribis, bushbucks, vervet monkeys, hippos, monitor lizards, and even leopards (rare).

Guides ensure you get as close as safely possible to rhinos, typically maintaining a distance of 10–15 meters, allowing amazing observation and photography opportunities without disturbing the animals.

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4. Are the guides trained and licensed? Is the trek safe for children, elderly, or beginners? What precautions are taken around wild rhinos?

All rhino tracking tours are led by trained and licensed rangers who prioritize visitor safety and animal welfare. The trek is suitable for children, elderly, and beginners, provided they can walk moderate distances on uneven savannah and woodland terrain.

Precautions include maintaining safe distances from rhinos, following ranger instructions, avoiding loud noises, and staying in marked paths to prevent accidents or disturbances to the wildlife.

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5. How much does a 1-day rhino tracking cost? Are park entry fees included? Are meals, transport, or gear provided?

A 1-day rhino tracking tour includes park entry fees, ranger services, and guided tracking, typically with optional lunch at nearby lodges like Amuka Lodge or Kabalega Diners.

Private transport from Kampala is usually included. Guests are advised to bring water, hats, and cameras. Some tours may provide walking sticks and binoculars. Costs vary by provider, but the package covers the essential safari experience for one full day.

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6. Can I take photos safely and Are there viewing platforms or hides?

Photography is encouraged, with opportunities to capture rhinos, other wildlife, birds, and savannah landscapes. Flash photography is generally discouraged near rhinos to avoid startling them.

Guides often point out the best viewing angles and safe spots. While there are no hides, the sanctuary’s terrain allows for safe observation distances, ensuring visitors can take memorable photos while maintaining both their safety and the comfort of the rhinos.

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7. Do I need to book in advance and How many people are allowed per group?

Advance booking is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons (June–September, December–February). Group sizes are usually limited to small parties per ranger to ensure safety and a high-quality experience.

Booking can be done through tour operators like Hail Tours Uganda, online platforms, or directly through the sanctuary. Early reservations secure preferred tracking times and ensure access to guided tours for both rhino observation and optional birdwatching activities.

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8. Can I combine rhino tracking with bird watching, nature walks, or other activities?

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary offers more than rhino tracking. Visitors can combine the trek with birdwatching, as the sanctuary hosts over 300 bird species, including the elusive shoebill stork.

Nature walks through woodland and savannah trails allow encounters with other mammals and reptiles. Some tours also include photography sessions, cultural stops, or picnics, creating a full-day adventure for families, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts who want more than just rhino encounters.

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Inclusions of the Rhino Tracking Package Cost;

• The Rhino tracking permit that costs only $50 per person.
• Relevant Government taxes and levies.
• Smooth ride by a 4WD safari vehicle.
• Bottled water.
• An English-speaking driver.
• Lunch in Amuka Lodge or Kabalega Diners.
• Entry fees.

Exclusions on the 1 Day Rhino Tracking Uganda package;

• Accommodation in Kampala.
• Domestic or International flights.
• Ugandan Visa where applicable
• Other personal expenses such as laundry fees, telephone calls, souvenirs and gratuities.

What to wear or carry for 1 Day Rhino Tracking Uganda Adventure

• Long-sleeved shirt.
• Safari pants.
• Hiking boots.
• Insect repellant.
• Waterproof backpack.
• Energy giving snacks.
• Pair of binoculars.
• Good camera.
• Toiletries-lotion, deodorant, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, lip gloss, and sanitary towels for female travelers, to mention but a few.

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