Updated
Ajai Wildlife Reserve lies in the West Nile region of north-western Uganda, on the west bank of the Nile in Arua district. It is a mix of grassland, woodland and swamp, and is best known historically as a stronghold of the northern white rhinoceros, which was wiped out there by poaching by the early 1980s. Today it is quiet and little visited.
Wildlife
Uganda kob, sitatunga in the swamps, hartebeest, warthogs, hippos and crocodiles along the Nile, and a range of birds, including wetland species, can be seen. Larger mammals are scarce after decades of hunting and insecurity.
Rhinos and the future
Ajai’s link with the northern white rhino, now functionally extinct with only two females left in Kenya, is a reminder of how quickly a species can vanish. Uganda reintroduced southern white rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, and moving rhinos back into protected areas such as Ajai has been discussed for the future.
Visiting
Ajai is reached via Arua and has very basic facilities, so it suits adventurous travellers exploring West Nile. The gorilla permit costs US$800, or US$600 in April, May and November. See our guides to Ziwa rhinos, the sitatunga, Murchison Falls animals and Uganda’s protected areas.
Frequently asked questions
In Arua district, West Nile, on the west bank of the Nile.
It was once a stronghold of the northern white rhino.
No. Uganda’s rhinos are at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
Uganda kob, sitatunga, hartebeest, hippos and crocodiles.
