In Uganda’s land, where nature is so rich, there lives a creature of majestic grace. The rhino, with its horn and sturdy hitch, Is one of the rarest in this place but poachers, driven by their greed have hunted them to near extinction. They kill them for their horns and leave their dust, and care not for the life they take. All hope is not yet lost, for there are those who strive to save these animals from doom. They guard them day and night, and ward off their foes to give them space to breed, grow and bloom. The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is their name and they deserve our praise.
Rhinos are among the most endangered animals in the world, facing threats from poaching, habitat loss and climate change. However, in Uganda, a dedicated team of conservationists is working hard to protect and restore the population of these majestic creatures. The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, located in Nakasongola district, is home to 33 southern white rhinos, the only ones in the wild in Uganda. The sanctuary was established in 2005 by the Rhino Fund Uganda, a non-governmental organization that partners with the Uganda Wildlife Authority and the local community to conserve rhinos and their habitat.
The sanctuary covers an area of 70 square kilometers, surrounded by a 2-meter high electric fence and patrolled by 80 rangers. The rangers monitor the rhinos 24/7, using radio collars, GPS trackers and drones to track their movements and ensure their safety. The rangers also conduct anti-poaching operations, community outreach and environmental education programs. The rhinos at the sanctuary are part of a breeding program that aims to increase their numbers and eventually reintroduce them to their natural habitats in Uganda’s national parks. The sanctuary has successfully bred 28 rhinos since its inception, with the latest calf born in December 2020. The rhinos have a gestation period of 16 months and can live up to 40 years.
The sanctuary also hosts other wildlife species, such as antelopes, monkeys, crocodiles, hippos and over 300 bird species. It offers various activities for visitors, such as rhino tracking, bird watching, nature walks and canoe rides. The sanctuary generates income from tourism, donations and grants, which helps to fund its operations and support its staff and community.The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a shining example of how conservation efforts can make a difference for endangered species. By working together with various stakeholders, the Rhino Fund Uganda has managed to bring back rhinos to Uganda and raise awareness about their plight. The sanctuary hopes to continue its mission and inspire others to join the cause of saving rhinos from extinction.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is open to visitors all year round, here are some tips to help you decide when to visit:
- If you want to avoid the crowds, the best time to visit is during the low season, which is from March to May and from October to November. These are the rainy months, so you may encounter some muddy roads and wet weather, but you will also enjoy lower prices and more privacy.
- If you want to see the rhinos more active and playful, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which is from December to February and from June to September. These are the hottest months, so you may need to bring some sunscreen and water, but you will also have better chances of spotting the rhinos as they come out to drink and cool off at the waterholes.
- If you want to see more wildlife diversity, the best time to visit is during the transitional months, which are April, May, October and November. These are the months when the rains start or end, so you may witness some dramatic changes in the landscape and vegetation. You will also see more migratory birds and butterflies, as well as more flowers and fruits.
No matter when you decide to visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, you will have an unforgettable experience of seeing these magnificent creatures re-introduces to their natural habitat. You will also be supporting a noble cause of rhino conservation and community development. To book your trip, visit our website or contact us today.
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