Rhino Tracking and Murchison Safaris combo | Tracking Rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary on your way to Murchison Falls National Park | Best Time and Tips for Rhino Tracking | Why Combine Rhino Tracking with a Murchison Safari?
Rhino Tracking and Murchison Safaris combo
Imagine stepping into the wild with a heart pounding at the thrill of tracking one of Earth’s most formidable creatures, followed by the awe of witnessing the raw power of nature as the world’s longest river plunges through a narrow gorge. This is the journey that awaits when you combine rhino tracking with a safari at the magnificent Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda. From the unique experience of tracking rhinos on foot at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to the sweeping savanna landscapes, dramatic river landscapes, and abundant wildlife of Murchison Falls, this combo offers an adventurous and deeply memorable African safari.
In the paragraphs that follow, we’ll explore why this itinerary stands out, outline how to plan it, highlight key logistics, and share tips to make the most of your experience.
Tracking the Giants: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, located about 180 kilometers north of Kampala, is the only place in Uganda where visitors can see wild rhinos. The sanctuary was established to reintroduce rhinos after they were wiped out in the country during the 1980s due to poaching and conflict. Today, Ziwa is home to more than 30 southern white rhinos living freely in a protected habitat, and every visitor plays a part in their continued protection.
The Experience of Rhino Tracking
Rhino tracking at Ziwa isn’t a typical game drive; it’s an intimate walking safari. After a short briefing from experienced rangers, you set out on foot through the bush in search of rhinos. Following fresh tracks, broken branches, and droppings, you move quietly until you find them grazing or resting in the shade.
Being just a few meters away from a two-ton animal in its natural habitat is an unforgettable moment, thrilling yet humbling. Along the way, you may also spot other wildlife such as Uganda kobs, waterbucks, and numerous bird species, making the walk a well-rounded nature experience.
Best Time and Tips for Rhino Tracking | Rhino Tracking and Murchison Safaris combo
Rhino tracking is available year-round, usually in the cool hours of early morning or late afternoon. Wear comfortable walking shoes, neutral-colored clothing, and carry water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Above all, listen to your guide; safety and respect for the animals come first.
Murchison Falls National Park
From Savannah Plains to Thundering Falls
After your rhino encounter, the journey continues north to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area. Covering nearly 4,000 square kilometers, Murchison is a landscape of golden savannahs, riverine forests, and sweeping grasslands. At its heart lies the powerful Murchison Falls, where the Nile River squeezes through a seven-meter gorge before plunging 45 meters below, creating a dramatic roar and mist-filled spectacle.
A safari in Murchison Falls National Park offers some of the best game viewing in East Africa. During early morning and evening game drives, visitors can spot elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, giraffes, and an array of antelope species roaming the plains. The park also hosts over 450 bird species, including the rare shoebill stork and vibrant bee-eaters along the riverbanks.
The boat cruise on the Nile is another highlight. As you glide toward the base of the falls, you’ll pass pods of hippos, basking crocodiles, and elephants drinking from the river. For the adventurous, a hike to the top of the falls rewards you with spectacular views of the Nile bursting through the gorge below.
Why Combine Rhino Tracking with a Murchison Safari? | Rhino Tracking and Murchison Safaris combo
Perfect Location and Seamless Journey
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary lies directly on the route from Kampala to Murchison Falls, making it an ideal stopover. Most travelers begin the trip with rhino tracking before continuing north to Murchison, turning the drive into a smooth, adventure-filled journey rather than a long road trip.
A Blend of Conservation and Adventure
This combo uniquely connects two sides of Uganda’s wildlife story: the quiet, personal encounter with endangered rhinos and the wide-open drama of Africa’s big game landscapes. It’s both educational and exhilarating, allowing visitors to see how conservation and tourism work hand in hand to protect the country’s natural heritage.
Variety of Experiences in a Short Trip
In just three to five days, travelers can walk with rhinos, cruise the Nile, photograph elephants and lions, and stand at the top of one of the most powerful waterfalls on Earth. Few safari itineraries pack so much diversity into such a short time.
Sample 3-Day Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Depart Kampala early morning, stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a two-hour rhino tracking experience, have lunch at the sanctuary restaurant, then continue to Murchison Falls National Park. Check into your lodge and enjoy a relaxed evening or sunset game drive.
Day 2: Early morning game drive on the northern bank of the Nile, followed by a midday rest. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise to the base of the falls and hike to the top for incredible photo opportunities.
Day 3: Optional short game drive or community visit before departing for Kampala.
This itinerary can easily be extended to include an extra day for birding, chimp tracking in Budongo Forest, or a relaxed day at the lodge.
Katland Safaris organizes the best gorilla and wildlife safaris in East Africa. When it comes to gorilla trekking, we will book your gorilla trekking permits for Uganda`s Bwindi and Mgahinga gorilla national park and gorilla permits for Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Besides booking your gorilla permit, we will also put all other gorilla safari accessories, like transportation and accommodation, in one package to make your gorilla trekking safari a memorable adventure:
Your gorilla trekking safaris can be customized to meet your safari expectations and needs, and budget. The safari package can range from budget, mid-range, and luxury safaris. Feel free to contact our team of excellent safari consultants to help you organize the best Africa gorilla safari ever.
