Ziwa sanctuary is the only place in Uganda where the rhinos can be seen in the wild and it along the Kampala- Gulu road as you approach Murchison falls national park. It was established to protect and ensure reproduction among these animals which had been killed to extinction in the 1980s and reintroducing them meant that they had to import them from other country where they still exist. The re-introduction project is supported by the Uganda wildlife authority and Rhino Fund Uganda.
The news is that the number of rhinos is increasing steadily increasing considering the fact that in the 7 years, there is been 11 new born rhinos with the most recent birth being in February this year. The increase in the numbers has made the sanctuary more popular to the tourists because at least they don’t have to trek for long before seeing a rhino wondering around in the jungle. Rhino trekking is done in company a well trained ranger who will guide you around the jungle and also keep you safe from the rhinos just in case they go crazy on you. Trekking rhinos is the only opportunity you have to get close to these amazing animals although you need to keep a safe distance as told by the ranger.
The existence of these rhinos has opened up opportunities for other activities to be explored and meet other attractions. Besides rhino trekking, you can also go for the nature walk in wilderness. These are also guided nature walks just so they can enlighten you on different animals, plants and other attractions you may not know. Expect to see wildlife species like lots of Uganda kobs, the reed bucks, among so many others and also have an experience in this beautiful flora and fauna.
You can also do some bird watching in Zziwa sanctuary. There are over 250 different bird species living in the forest and if you are interested in watching the rare African birds. Your guide will have to help you identify as many as possible. There are birds like the African Black crake, Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, the booted eagle, broad billed Roller, bronze Manikini, African Black-headed Oriole, there are the African Blue Flycatcher and many more others.
A trip to the sanctuary is very much possible if you are heading to Murchison, to Kidepo valley national park or driving to anywhere along the Kampala- Gulu highway. Be certain that you will have a lot of fun and learn a lot while you are in the sanctuary.
