Rhino Tracking in Uganda
Walk alongside the giants. Experience the thrill of tracking endangered Southern White Rhinos on foot at the renowned Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, a beacon of hope for Uganda's wildlife.
Protected
Bringing the Rhino Back to Uganda
In the 1980s, rampant poaching drove the rhino population in Uganda to complete extinction in the wild. For decades, the iconic creature was absent from the Pearl of Africa's landscapes.
However, a remarkable conservation story began in 2005 with the establishment of the Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch. Located in the Nakasongola district along the Kampala-Gulu highway, this 70-square-kilometer sanctuary was created with a singular, ambitious goal: to reintroduce rhinos to Uganda and eventually release them into protected national parks.
"Today, thanks to the tireless efforts of Rhino Fund Uganda, Ziwa is home to over 30 Southern White Rhinos, making it the only place in the country where you can track these magnificent giants on foot."
The Tracking Experience
Rhino tracking at Ziwa is a unique, intimate, and highly regulated experience designed for both your safety and the well-being of the animals.
On-Foot Adventure
Unlike traditional vehicle-based game drives, rhino tracking is done entirely on foot. Accompanied by an experienced, armed ranger, you will quietly navigate the savannah and woodland trails to locate the rhinos.
Duration & Timing
Treks typically last 1 to 2 hours, depending on the rhinos' location. The best times to track are early morning (7:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00 PM) when the animals are most active and the light is perfect for photography.
Small Groups
To minimize disturbance to the wildlife, tracking groups are strictly limited to a maximum of 6 people per ranger. This ensures an intimate, personalized, and low-impact encounter with the rhinos.
Ziwa Rhino & Wildlife Ranch
Spanning 70 square kilometers of diverse habitat, Ziwa is more than just a rhino sanctuary. It is a thriving ecosystem that supports a wide variety of birdlife, antelopes, baboons, and reptiles.
The sanctuary operates as a non-profit initiative under the guidance of Rhino Fund Uganda. Every tracking fee paid by visitors goes directly toward anti-poaching patrols, veterinary care, habitat management, and community development programs in the surrounding areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before booking your rhino tracking adventure.
Is rhino tracking safe?
Can children participate in rhino tracking?
What should I wear and bring?
How much does rhino tracking cost?
Can I combine this with other activities?
What Our Travelers Say
Hear from adventurers who have experienced the magic of rhino tracking with Gari Trips Uganda.
"Tracking the rhinos on foot was the highlight of our Uganda trip. Our ranger was incredibly knowledgeable, and getting to see a mother and her calf up close was a deeply moving experience. Highly recommend!"
"As a photographer, the lighting at 7 AM was perfect. The guides knew exactly how to position us for the best shots without stressing the animals. It's a brilliantly managed conservation project."
"We added the Ziwa rhino tracking as a stopover on our way to Murchison Falls. It broke up the drive perfectly, and the kids absolutely loved it. Gari Trips organized the timing flawlessly."
Ready to Track the Giants?
Add a rhino tracking experience to your Uganda itinerary. Whether as a standalone day trip or a stopover on your way to Murchison Falls, it's an adventure you won't forget.
