Where to See Rhinos in Africa: Best Safari Destinations & Tips

There is nothing in the world like a wildlife encounter that matches the experience of watching a rhinoceros silently go across the African bush. One of the most recognisable safari animals in Africa is the rhino, yet they are one of the most endangered wildlife species on the earth. 

There are two species of Rhinos in Africa, i.e. white and black rhinos. 

Seeing a wild rhino is an amazing experience and due to this fact, globally safeguarded safari destinations have a great importance.

Safari Destinations to See Rhinos in Africa

Not all safari sites have trustworthy rhino sightings. Due to the threat of poaching and conservation measures, rhinos can only be found in conserved reserves where their presence is well monitored and habitat is well managed.

South Africa

It is still considered as one of the most favorable places to see rhinos. Large populations of Southern White Rhinos can be found in Kruger National Park and other adjacent privately owned reserves. These regions have good road systems and guides who are well trained thus making sightings common.

Namibia 

It is an experience that is equally unique. One of the most unusual wildlife experiences in Africa is the desert adapted black rhinos of Damaraland. Hiking them through the forest with professional rangers enhances connection to conservation.

Kenya

The Ol Pejeta Conservatory does not only conserve black and white rhinos, but also the only two remaining Northern White Rhinos. Lake Nakuru National Park is renowned for the availability of rhinos that can be seen by the beautiful lake environment with ease.

Tanzania

One of the few locations where one can still find black rhinos in a relatively open environment is the Ngorongoro Crater.

Uganda 

It is emerging as an important rhino conservation center. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is the most ideal place to view the rhinos. The southern white rhinos’ breeding ground is located here and it offers guided walking safaris in order to allow the visitors to follow the rhinos on foot within a safe and controlled habitat.

Zimbabwe 

Matobo National Park is also popularizing the guided walking safari where the traveler can walk and track the white rhinos and have a wonderful and eco-friendly safari experience.

The Two Species: Key Differences

White Rhino

Appearance

White rhinos are big-bodied, covered with thick grey skin and a wide square-shaped mouth that is used to graze. They are long-headed, and normally keep their heads low to the ground when feeding, they possess two horns but the front horn is usually long.

Weight

Adult white rhinos are very massive and females weigh about 1,700 kg and males about 2,300 kg. The weight of some adult males may be 1,800-2,500 kg.

Height

White rhinos are tall, measuring approximately 1.8 meters at the shoulder and are the taller of the two African species.

Habitat

They are often located in open grasslands and savannas in which they are able to graze on short grasses. These regions typically have waterholes, shade trees, as well as broad plains.

Behaviour

White rhinos are more social and not so aggressive. They usually reside in small groups, particularly females with calves, and males may be territorial. They mostly waste their time on grazing and rolling on mud to cool and as well as shield their skin.

Black Rhino

Appearance

Black rhinos are smaller with a more compact body and unique hooked upper lip. This sharp lip enables them to catch leaves and branches. Their skin is grey, too, but can be darker or brownish.

Weight

The black rhinos are small in size and range in weight between 800 kg and 1400 kg which is much less compared to white rhinos.

Height

They are approximately 1.6 meters in height which is a little bit shorter than white rhinos.

Habitat

Black rhinos like thick bush, woodland and scrub places where they feed on shrubs, leaves and small trees. They are also difficult to see in the safari because of their thicker habitats.

Behaviour

Black rhinos are more individual, shy and even violent. They typically live in solitude except those with calves, and are said to be more curious and volatile than white rhinos.

Best Time to Spot Rhinos on Safari

Time is important in increasing your chances of seeing rhinos. It is basically during the dry season which most areas fall in between June and October. The vegetation will be low, wildlife will be much more visible and the animals will be near most of the scarce water points.

The best are early morning and late afternoon game drives. Rhinos are rather active in cooler weather and can take a rest in the shade during hot days. Guides usually follow new tracks or patterns of movement with the aim of enhancing the odds.

It is also important that there are regional differences. Winter months in Southern Africa provide the best visibility, whereas the dry seasons of East Africa (January- March and June- October) tend to be the most predictable seasons to see the rhinos.

Expert Tips for a Successful Rhino Safari

A well-thought-out itinerary/plan can significantly boost your probability of seeing  rhinos as well as contribute to conservation.

Select the Right Destination

Research parks that have been identified as having rhinos. More locked away environments and better tracking are usually found in conservancies and private reserves.

Go with Experienced Guides

Local guides are aware of rhino behavior, territories and recent sightings. Their ability to track can make an ordinary drive an amazing experience.

Remain in Private Conservancies

The existence of private reserves restricts the number of visitors and gives them an opportunity to get more sightings and off-road tracking in several places. This could be a big difference in the field of searching black rhinos which are elusive.

Be Patient and Quiet

Rhinos are not always deaf to sound and motion. Remaining still and quiet enhances chances of observation and retention of animals in their natural state.

Bring Cameras and Binoculars

Rhinos can be spotted at a distance and so, the use of binoculars assists in early detection. A zoom lens enables you to take up details without going too much near.

Conservation and Threats Facing Rhinos

Rhinos have a number of severe threats that have been affecting their survival in the wild. 

• The greatest threat is poaching, which is fuelled by the unlawful rhino horn demand. Although the rhino horn is illegally traded as traditional medicine and luxury goods despite being composed of the same substance as human hair and nails, the rhino horn makes it the best target.
• Another critical issue is habitat loss. Increased farming, settlement and infrastructure means that fewer areas are left to the rhinos as they are pushed into smaller and isolated sections. Such disintegration complicates the increase in population and healthy genetic diversity in the populations.
• Political instability and conflict: Wars and insecurity in various countries have crippled conservation efforts and made it easier for poachers to operate. 
• Human-wildlife conflict is another source of pressure as rhinos and communities fight over space.

Conclusion

There is nothing more exhilarating or emotional than coming face to face with a wild rhino. These are animals that have been around for millions of years but from the looks of things, conservation is becoming more and more significant for their survival.

When thinking about the future of the Rhinos, responsible tourism, conservation land and involved communities are needed. If travelers choose to go on an ethical safari tour and a responsible tourism destination then they can be fairly sure the Rhinos in Africa will be roaming freely around for many more years to come.

FAQs 

Where can we find rhinos in Africa?

Some of the most reliable sightings are found in South Africa, Kenya, Namibia and Zimbabwe because of good conservation programs.

Are rhinos dangerous on safari?

Rhinos are unpredictable yet with guided safaris, there is a safe distance. Sightings are safe and responsible with professional guides.

Are they easy to see on safari?

Due to their habitat, white rhinos are easier to spot with their open land habitat. Black rhinos are harder as they prefer thick bush and are more shy.