Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: Where Conservation Comes to Life in Uganda

If you’re planning a trip through Uganda, make sure you carve out time for Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary—the only place in the country where you can see wild rhinos in their natural habitat.

It’s more than just a wildlife stop; it’s one of Africa’s most inspiring conservation success stories.

And I loved here! So much so, I’ll be going back again next summer.

From 6 Rhinos to 48: A Conservation Triumph

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary was established in 2005 with a bold vision: to reintroduce rhinos to Uganda, where they had been completely wiped out due to poaching and conflict.

They started with just six rhinos—a mix of Southern white rhinos donated from Kenya and Disney’s Animal Kingdom in the U.S.

Fast forward to today, and that number has grown to an incredible 48 rhinos. This makes Ziwa the most successful rhino breeding program on the continent—a monumental achievement in wildlife conservation.

But their mission doesn’t stop at breeding. Soon, Ziwa plans to reintroduce rhinos into Uganda’s national parks, returning these giants to the wild landscapes they once roamed freely.

What to Expect on a Visit

At Ziwa, you can track rhinos on foot with expert guides who know the sanctuary inside and out. It’s not just thrilling to be that close to these massive animals—it’s deeply moving.

And while a day trip is absolutely worthwhile, I highly recommend staying overnight if you can. Their luxury chalets are serene, well-appointed, and offer a chance to experience the sanctuary in a more personal way. There’s a pool overlooking the bush, and if you’re lucky, you might wake up to rhinos sleeping just outside your chalet or wandering past in the morning light.

A Few Pro Tips

• Closed-toe shoes are essential for rhino tracking. The sanctuary provides mud boots, which come in handy depending on the terrain and weather.
• Do the night walk. While spotting elusive creatures like leopards is rare, the walk itself—under a sky full of stars, with sleeping rhinos nearby—is pure magic. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, making it one of the most unexpectedly peaceful and memorable parts of our trip.
• Book the luxury chalets. These are the best rooms on the property and worth the overnight stay!! The pool is right out front and your chances for a close rhino encounter are high!

Stay, Eat, Shop, Support

There’s no need to rush out—the food at the lodge is excellent, with a full menu of hearty meals and cool drinks. Everything is made fresh and served with a smile.

Don’t forget to stop by their gift shop, a small but charming spot where you can pick up locally made crafts and souvenirs. Your purchases help support the sanctuary and surrounding communities.

Wearing a custom African dress from Yimba Fashions

Be Part of Something Bigger

Visiting Ziwa isn’t just about seeing rhinos—it’s about helping save them. Every entry fee, every night’s stay, every meal you eat helps fund one of the most important conservation programs in Africa.

So whether you stop in for a half-day or settle in for the night, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary offers a chance to connect with Uganda’s wildlife in a powerful, meaningful way. You’ll leave inspired—and maybe even a little changed.

Want to visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary with me personally? Join my next Uganda group trip!

The post Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: Where Conservation Comes to Life in Uganda appeared first on The Wanderlust Rose.

Discover the Hidden Gem of Uganda: Mwaba Swamp and the Majestic Shoebill

If you’re a nature lover or birdwatching enthusiast, I’ve got an incredible spot for you to add to your travel bucket list: Mwaba Swamp in Uganda.

This lesser-known gem offers a unique safari experience to see one of the world’s most fascinating and rare birds—the prehistoric-looking shoebill.

Why Mwaba Swamp?

Mwaba Swamp is a serene and beautiful wetland that’s part of Uganda’s rich and diverse ecosystem. Unlike the more popular safari destinations, Mwaba Swamp provides an intimate and tranquil setting where you can truly connect with nature.

The lush greenery and calm waters create the perfect backdrop for a peaceful escape.

Meet the Shoebill

The shoebill is the star of the show here. With its massive, shoe-shaped bill and piercing gaze, this bird looks like it stepped straight out of the age of dinosaurs.

It’s a sight you won’t forget! Shoebills are incredibly rare, and Mwaba Swamp is one of the best places in the world to see them in their natural habitat.

The Safari Experience

A safari at Mwaba Swamp is a bit different from the traditional open-vehicle safaris you might be used to. Here, you’ll glide silently through the waters on a canoe or small boat, giving you an up-close and personal view of the swamp’s inhabitants.

Your guide will help you spot not only the elusive shoebill but also other amazing wildlife, such as kingfishers, herons, and perhaps even a few shy crocodiles.

Tips for Your Visit

1. Best Time to Go: The dry season (June to August and December to February) is ideal for visiting as the water levels are lower, making it easier to spot the shoebills.
2. What to Bring: Binoculars, a camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable clothing.
3. Local Guides: Hiring a knowledgeable local guide is a must. They know the best spots and can enhance your experience with fascinating facts about the wildlife and the swamp.
4. Devine African Safaris: This is the company I would personally recommend booking with, I’ve done two shoebill safaris with them and it was fantastic!

Fascinating Facts About the Shoebill

1. Ancient Lineage: Shoebills are often referred to as “living fossils” because their lineage dates back over 50 million years.
2. Massive Bill: The shoebill’s bill is not only enormous but also incredibly powerful. It helps them catch and eat large prey, including lungfish, eels, and even small crocodiles.
3. Stealthy Hunters: Shoebills are known for their remarkable hunting technique called “stand and wait.” They stand still for long periods, waiting patiently for their prey to come within striking distance.
4. Unique Sounds: Despite their imposing appearance, shoebills are known for their low, guttural “moo” sound and bill-clattering display during breeding season, which sounds like machine gunfire.
5. Height and Wingspan: Shoebills are quite tall, standing up to 5 feet (1.5 meters) high, with a wingspan that can reach up to 8 feet (2.4 meters).
6. Solitary Birds: They are solitary and territorial birds, often found alone or in pairs, which makes sightings even more special.
7. Patient Parents: Shoebill parents are known for their dedication. They usually lay two eggs, but often only one chick survives. The parents focus their attention and care on the stronger chick to ensure its survival.
8. Muddy Nests: Shoebills build their nests out of thick vegetation and mud, often in secluded, swampy areas to keep predators at bay.

Visiting Mwaba Swamp to see the shoebill is a magical experience that combines adventure, tranquility, and a touch of the prehistoric.

It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the hidden corners of Uganda and witness one of nature’s most extraordinary birds.

So, pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover the enchanting Mwaba Swamp!

Happy birdwatching!

If this excursion sounds fun, stay tuned for future group trips to Uganda with my company, Wanderlust Group Trips!

The post Add this unique wildlife experience to your Uganda bucket list: Shoebill Safari appeared first on The Wanderlust Rose.

Exploring Lake Mburo National Park: Walking Safaris in Uganda

If you’re looking for a unique safari experience in Uganda, Lake Mburo National Park should be at the top of your list.

Nestled in the western part of the country, this park offers an incredible blend of wildlife, stunning landscapes, and one of the most exciting ways to explore it all—walking safaris, also known as “bushwalks.”

You can watch a recap of my most recent walking safari here:

Why Lake Mburo National Park?

Lake Mburo is a compact yet diverse national park, covering 260 square kilometers of rolling hills, savannah, acacia woodlands, and wetlands.

It’s the perfect destination for those who want to experience Uganda’s natural beauty without the crowds found in more famous parks like Murchison Falls or Queen Elizabeth.

The Unique Appeal of Walking Safaris

Most safaris involve driving through the wilderness in a 4×4 vehicle, but Lake Mburo offers something a bit different.

Walking safaris, or bushwalks, allow you to step right into the heart of nature, giving you a more intimate and immersive experience. Here’s why you should try it:

1. Close Encounters with Wildlife: On a bushwalk, you can get much closer to the animals than you would in a vehicle. Imagine watching a herd of zebras graze just a few meters away or spotting a shy bushbuck hiding in the tall grass.
2. Sense of Adventure: There’s something thrilling about exploring the wild on foot. Every rustle in the bushes and distant call of a bird adds to the excitement.
3. Connect with Nature: Walking through the park lets you appreciate the smaller details that you might miss from a car. You’ll see the intricate patterns of insects, the variety of plant life, and the tracks and signs left by animals.
4. Expert Guides: These walks are led by experienced rangers who know the park inside out. They’ll not only keep you safe but also share fascinating insights about the ecosystem, animal behavior, and local flora and fauna.

What to Expect on a Bushwalk

Walking safaris in Lake Mburo typically start early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the temperatures are cooler, and the wildlife is more active. Here’s what a typical bushwalk might look like:

• Meet Your Guide: You’ll start by meeting your guide, who will brief you on safety and what to expect during the walk.
• Start Walking: As you set off, the pace is leisurely, allowing you to fully soak in the surroundings. Keep your eyes and ears open—you never know what you might encounter!
• Wildlife Spotting: Your guide will help you spot various animals, from impalas and warthogs to the elusive leopard. They’ll also point out interesting plants and tell you about their uses.
• Return to Camp: After a few hours, you’ll head back to camp, feeling invigorated and enriched by your close encounter with nature.

Tips for a Great Walking Safari

1. Dress Comfortably: Wear lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors. Good walking shoes are a must.
2. Bring Essentials: Don’t forget your hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent. A small backpack for water and snacks is also handy.
3. Stay Quiet: Animals are more likely to stay nearby if you’re quiet. Move slowly and avoid sudden movements.
4. Listen to Your Guide: Always follow your guide’s instructions—they’re there to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Where To Stay

If you plan to do a walking safari in Lake Mburo Natioal Park, you’ve got to stay at one of my favorite lodges in Uganda, Kigambira Safari Lodge.

“Kigambira Safari Lodge is a luxury eco – lodge built in the southern part of lake Mburo National Park which is Uganda’s closest national park from Entebbe international Airport. The name Kigambira is derived from lake kigambira which is right next to the property. Its a 36km drive into the park off the main Kampala-Mbarara highway nestled between lake kigambira and the Rubaga forest. So for tourist en-route to or from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kigambira safari lodge is a must stop over destination to relax and unwind.

The location provides an ideal base for the adventurous traveler with a range of activities from game drives, boat trips on lake Mburo, bush breakfast, nature walk expeditions and exhilarating hikes through the low canopied forest or the looping trail around Lake Kigambira in lake Mburo National Park.”

How To Book

Devine African Safaris is my go-to tour operator for everything in Uganda!

They really are experts and have such a speedy response time whenever I have questions about anything I’m booking. They are locally owned and the entire team at Devine is just amazing!

You can reach out to them on Whatsapp or email to arrange any tour in Uganda and they will do an excellent job.

Overall, Lake Mburo National Park is a fantastic destination for anyone looking to experience Uganda’s wildlife in a unique and personal way. Walking safaris offer a chance to truly connect with nature, making your safari adventure unforgettable.

So, lace up your walking shoes, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the wild on foot at Lake Mburo!

Happy bushwalking!

If this sounds like fun, this is an activity we offer on my Wanderlust Group Trips in Uganda! Stay tuned for more dates and departures.

The post Exploring Lake Mburo National Park: Walking Safaris in Uganda appeared first on The Wanderlust Rose.

After the success of my annual Tanzania safari trips, I had a lot of requests to create a Wanderlust Group Trip to Uganda for wild gorilla trekking.

Gorilla trekking had been on the top of my bucket list for years so I set to work building the perfect custom luxury trip in collaboration with an incredible locally owned company, Devine African Safaris.

The trip was so popular I added two additional weeks to the original plus I will be bringing back next year.

For my first very Uganda trip, I couldn’t have asked for a better group. The dynamic among everyone was off the charts! It was 9 days of non-stop laughs and memories. And huge thanks to both our local Uganda guides Emma and Emma.

Here’s everything we got up to for my first epic trip around Uganda!

Day 1

Everyone flew in Entebbe for the start of our trip!

Those of us who arrived early decided to go on a day trip to Mwaba Swamp for a shoebill safari to try and see this rare prehistoric bird!

Our safari was successful and it was a super way to begin the trip. Check out the photos I capture of this scary looking dinosaur bird!

That evening we had a fantastic welcome dinner at our stunning hotel, Latitude 0 in Kampala.

Day 2

Next morning we set off for a drive to Kibale National Park!

We stopped at cute little roadside fruit stands along the way and photo spots before checking into the stunning Chimpundu Lodge.

Day 3

Our day began with a delicious breakfast at our lodge before driving to the nearby Kibale Forest!

The briefing began at 8am where we learned all the do’s and don’ts of wild chimpanzee trekking.

We then were divided into two groups (with a ranger and armed guards) and set off into the forest. The hike was relatively easy and flat!

After about an hour, we arrived at the chimpanzee family we would be spending time with. It was thrilling! They were swinging over our heads, mating above us, calling out to one another and the chaos was incredible.

After about 30 minutes of them hooting and hollering in the treetops, they began to descend RIGHT next to us!! What a rush!! There were chimpanzees everywhere on the ground walking right past us.

We continued our drive that evening to Queen Elizabeth National Park. The drive itself was so scenic!

Day 4

The next morning, we departed early and headed off for a game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park before visiting a beautiful salt lake full of flamingos.

In the afternoon, we went for a scenic boat cruise on the stunning Kazinga Channel to see hippos and other wildlife.

That evening we had free time at the lodge and enjoyed taking pictures with the resident warthogs!

Day 5

We had a long and super scenic drive to arrive at the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Our jaw-drops when we arrived at Haven Lodge and had an incredible view overlooking the forest we would be hiking into the following day.

Once we settled into our beautiful individual lodges, we went on a walk through the community near the entrance gate to sector one of Bwindi.

We walked through town, visited some shops and took photos with the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest sign.

Day 6

We started the day with a breakfast at the stunning Haven Lodge before heading over to our briefing for wild gorilla trekking.

We were so jittery, nervous and excited!! This was the day many of us had been waiting for!

Our group was divided into two groups as the maximum with any gorilla family is 8 at a time.

One group had a shorter, more flat hike to reach their family. While my group had a steep uphill 90 minute hike. But the hike itself was gorgeous!!

I hired a porter for $20 who carried my bag and assisted me throughout the hike. This is a great way to support the local community!

After 90 minutes of intense hiking, we reached two gorilla trackers in the forest who had been with our family.

They took our their machetes and carved out a path through the thick brush.

Once we arrived with the family, we had an entire glorious hour to observe, photograph and marvel at these beautiful, rare and endangered creatures.

Following our trek, we drove to the beautiful Birdnest Resort through the mountains!

Day 7

Today we did a safari en route to our next lodge! We got up close with so many animals: zebra, giraffe, antelope and more.

We checked into our most luxurious lodge yet then went for a swim in the pool!

It was a spectacular sunset and that night, the lodge prepared for us a private dinner outside under the stars. The vibes were off the charts!! It was such an unforgettable night.

Day 8

We woke up early for a sunrise breakfast. The lighting was perfect so I captured photos of everyone in front of the lodges!

We then said goodbye to our beautiful lodge and went to meet Damien our armed bush walking safari guide.

For the next hour and half, we got to safari by foot! It was so exciting to be up so close with the wildlife in Lake Mburo National Park.

It was then time to drive back to Kampala. We stopped and had lunch at the Equator line along the way!

We said goodbye to Emma and Emma before our goodbye dinner. And in the evening, some of us went out dancing for a final night together in Kamapal!

Day 9

One last breakfast together before everyone started departing for the airport!

Huge thanks to each and every person on this trip who made my first Uganda group trip such an incredible and memorable experience.

The post Uganda Wanderlust Group Trip Highlights 2024 – Week 1 appeared first on The Wanderlust Rose.