1 Day Rhino Tracking Safari Uganda | Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Tour

1 Day Rhino Tracking Safari: Experience a 1 day rhino tracking safari at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place to see wild rhinos in Uganda. Includes transport, guide, and permits.

Are you dreaming of an unforgettable wildlife adventure in Uganda but short on time? A 1 Day Rhino Tracking Safari in Uganda at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary offers the perfect solution.

As the only place in Uganda where you can see rhinos in their natural habitat, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary provides a thrilling on-foot tracking experience, ideal for travelers seeking a quick yet immersive safari from Kampala or Entebbe.

With Gorilla Nests Safaris, you’ll embark on a seamless day trip, combining adventure, conservation, and Uganda’s stunning landscapes.

Safari Overview: What’s Included in Your 1 Day Rhino Tracking Safari

A 1 Day Rhino Tracking Safari with Gorilla Nests Safaris is designed for convenience and excitement, catering to both Ugandan residents and international travelers. Here’s what your day entails:

Early Morning Pick-Up: Your adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Kampala or Entebbe at around 6:00 AM in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle.
Drive to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: The scenic drive to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Nakasongola District takes approximately 3–4 hours, covering about 176 km along the Kampala–Gulu Highway.
Guided Rhino Tracking: Upon arrival, you’ll join expert guides for a 1–2-hour on-foot rhino tracking experience, getting up close to these majestic creatures.
Lunch Stop: Enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby spot, such as Kabalega Diner, known for its hearty meals and convenient location.
Optional Activities: Depending on your schedule, you can add birdwatching or a nature walk to spot other wildlife like bushbucks, oribis, and monkeys.
Return to Kampala/Entebbe: After a fulfilling day, you’ll return to your starting point by evening, arriving around 6:00–7:00 PM.

Sample Itinerary

Time	Activity
6:00 AM	Pick-up from Kampala or Entebbe
6:00–9:30 AM	Drive to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
9:30–10:00 AM	Briefing and preparation for rhino tracking
10:00–12:00 PM	Guided rhino tracking experience
12:00–1:00 PM	Lunch at Kabalega Diner or similar
1:00–2:30 PM	Optional birdwatching or nature walk
2:30–6:30 PM	Return drive to Kampala or Entebbe

This itinerary ensures you maximize your time while enjoying a hassle-free experience with Gorilla Nests Safaris.

About Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Located in Nakasongola District along the Kampala–Gulu Highway, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is Uganda’s only home for wild rhinos.

Established in 2005 by the Rhino Fund Uganda, the sanctuary’s mission is to reintroduce rhinos to Uganda’s wilderness after their extinction in the 1980s due to poaching and conflict. Today, Ziwa protects over 30 rhinos, offering a safe haven for these endangered animals.

The sanctuary spans 70 square kilometers of savannah and wetlands, creating an ideal habitat for rhinos and other wildlife. Visitors can engage in conservation-focused activities while learning about efforts to restore Uganda’s rhino population.

By choosing a 1 Day Rhino Tracking Safari with Gorilla Nests Safaris, you’re supporting these vital conservation efforts.

Quick Facts About Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Location: Nakasongola District, 176 km north of Kampala.
Size: 70 square kilometers.
Rhino Population: Over 30 southern white rhinos.
Conservation Goal: Reintroduce rhinos to Uganda’s national parks.

Safari Price and Inclusions

At Gorilla Nests Safaris, we offer competitive pricing for our 1 Day Rhino Tracking Safari in Uganda, tailored to both Ugandan residents and foreign non-residents. While prices may vary based on group size and season, here’s a general overview:

Ugandan Residents: Approximately $1o0–$150 per person.
Foreign Non-Residents: Approximately $200–$250 per person.

Inclusions

Round-trip transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle from Kampala or Entebbe.
Professional English-speaking driver/guide.
Rhino tracking permits.
Lunch and bottled water.
Park entry fees.

Exclusions

Tips for guides and staff.
Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs).
Accommodation (not required for a day trip).

Contact Gorilla Nests Safaris for a personalized quote.

What to Expect During Rhino Tracking

The highlight of your 1 Day Rhino Tracking Safari is the guided on-foot tracking experience at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Here’s what to expect:

Duration: The tracking session lasts 1–2 hours, depending on how quickly rhinos are located.
Experience: Accompanied by experienced rangers, you’ll walk through the sanctuary’s savannah, tracking rhinos by their footprints, dung, and other signs. You’ll observe these gentle giants from a safe distance (typically 10–20 meters).
Safety: Rangers provide a thorough briefing on safety protocols, including how to behave around rhinos. The animals are accustomed to human presence, and guides ensure a secure experience.
Wildlife: Beyond rhinos, you may spot bushbucks, oribis, vervet monkeys, and a variety of bird species, making it a delight for nature lovers.
Best Times: Morning (8:00–11:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:00–5:00 PM) sessions offer cooler temperatures and active rhinos.

This intimate encounter with rhinos is a rare opportunity to connect with Uganda’s wildlife and learn about conservation firsthand.

What to Pack for Your Safari

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable 1 Day Rhino Tracking Safari, pack these essentials:

Comfortable Walking Shoes: Sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
Hat and Sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun during the tracking session.
Insect Repellent: Ward off mosquitoes, especially in wetland areas.
Light Clothing: Breathable, neutral-colored clothing to stay cool and blend into the environment.
Camera or Binoculars: Capture stunning photos or get a closer look at wildlife.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated (bottled water is provided, but bringing your own is eco-friendly).

Packing light yet smart ensures you’re prepared for a day of adventure.

Best Time to Visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is open year-round, making it accessible for a 1 Day Rhino Tracking Safari at any time. However, the dry seasons (June–August and December–February) are ideal for tracking due to:

Easier navigation on dry trails.
Better visibility of rhinos in sparse vegetation.
Comfortable weather for walking.

The wet seasons (March–May and September–November) offer lush scenery and vibrant birdlife, but trails may be muddy, so prepare accordingly.

Getting to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is approximately 176 km from Kampala, with a travel time of 3–4 hours by road. The route along the Kampala–Gulu Highway is scenic, passing through rural villages and rolling landscapes.

For those heading to Murchison Falls National Park, Ziwa is a convenient stopover, making it easy to combine with a multi-day safari.

Gorilla Nests Safaris provides comfortable safari vehicles with experienced driver guides, ensuring a smooth journey to and from the sanctuary.

Combine with Other Tours

Extend your adventure by combining your 1 Day Rhino Tracking Safari with other exciting tours offered by Gorilla Nests Safaris:

1 Day Rhino Tracking & Murchison Falls Safari: Pair your rhino experience with a visit to the iconic Murchison Falls.
2 Days Rhino Tracking and Game Drive: Add a game drive in Murchison Falls National Park to see elephants, lions, and more.
3 Days Murchison Falls & Ziwa Rhino Safari: A comprehensive trip covering rhinos, waterfalls, and classic safari game drives. View Itinerary

These combinations enhance your wildlife experience and allow you to explore more of Uganda’s natural wonders.

Optional Accommodation

While the 1 Day Rhino Tracking Safari is designed as a day trip, you may choose to stay overnight for a more relaxed experience. Recommended accommodations include:

Amuka Lodge: Located within Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, offering cozy rooms and proximity to wildlife.
Kabalega Resort Hotel: A comfortable option in Masindi, ideal for those combining Ziwa with Murchison Falls.

Gorilla Nests Safaris can arrange overnight stays upon request.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can I see rhinos in Uganda?

The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Nakasongola District is the only place in Uganda where you can see rhinos in the wild.

How long does rhino tracking take?

The tracking experience typically lasts 1–2 hours, depending on the rhinos’ location.

Is rhino tracking safe?

Yes, tracking is safe with trained rangers who enforce strict safety protocols.

Can children join rhino tracking?

Children above 12 years can participate, provided they follow the guide’s instructions.

What’s the cost of rhino tracking at Ziwa Sanctuary?

Costs vary: ~$100–$150 for Ugandan residents and ~$150–$250 for foreign non-residents. Contact Gorilla Nests Safaris for exact pricing.

Why Choose Gorilla Nests Safaris?

With Gorilla Nests Safaris, your 1 Day Rhino Tracking Safari in Uganda is more than just a tour—it’s a chance to support conservation, immerse yourself in nature, and create lifelong memories.

Our expert guides, comfortable vehicles, and tailored itineraries ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience. Book your safari today and discover the magic of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary!

For more details or to customize your trip, visit our website or explore related tours like Murchison Falls National Park Safari and Uganda Day Tours and Short Safaris.