Where to see Black Rhino in Namibia
The black rhino is the smaller and rarer of Africa’s two rhino species but has the more fearsome reputation. Shy and heavily persecuted, it tends to stick to cover.
Quick facts about Black Rhino
| Scientific name: | Diceros bicornis | Habitat: | Scrub & open woodland |
|---|---|---|---|
| IUCN status: | Critically Endangered | Adult weight: | 800–1,400kg |
Namibia’s population of nearly 2,200 black rhinos (as of 2023) represents over one-third of Africa’s total. Over 70% are in Etosha National Park, with other significant locations being the Waterberg Plateau and the northwest Kunene region – the latter home to Africa’s only black rhinos outside protected areas. Historically, Namibia’s population has been relatively secure. Poaching resurged after the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic, however, with 87 black rhinos killed in 2022 alone – largely in Etosha. The government and NGOs have since stepped up conservation efforts, with many rhinos dehorned and/or translocated to private ranches, under intensive protection. The free-ranging rhinos of the Kunene are today under daily surveillance, with mule patrols now making an innovative contribution.
±5,500
Current population
1.3 m
Record horn length
50 km/h
Max. speed
16 months
Gestation period
The top camps for seeing black rhino in Namibia
Based on 415 reports by our travellers since May 2018, visitors at these camps in Namibia have the best chances of sighting black rhino.
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Best areas to see black rhinos in Namibia
Black rhinos occur in only a handful of protected areas in east and southern Africa. Your best chance of spotting one is at a waterhole or on foot with a tracker.
Namibia: black rhino hot spots
Namibia is the stronghold for the southwestern subspecies of black rhino Diceros bicornis bicornis, and today the country offers arguably the best black rhino viewing in Africa. Sightings are regular at waterholes in Etosha National Park, such as Okaukuejo, where the rhinos’ fascinating interactions can be viewed after dark by floodlight. An exciting alternative is to track the free-ranging black rhinos of the rugged Kunene region, where some camps offer excellent on-foot rhino safaris with expert guides. You can also see black rhinos in Waterberg Plateau National Park, where they have been successfully reintroduced from the Kunene region, while smaller populations exist in Namib-Naukluft, Khaudum and Mangetti national parks, Hardap Game Reserve, and various private reserves and community conservancies.
Our best Namibia holidays for black rhino sightings
Based on our travellers' reports, these ideas for Namibia safaris are likely to give the best black rhino sightings
Hartebeest Self-drive Safari
16 days • 8 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
This self-drive safari focuses on the best cultural experiences in Namibia. Visit a Himba village and enjoy three days living with the San Bushmen interspersed with some excellent wildlife watching.
US$4,420 - US$4,830 per person
Black-faced Impala Guided Safari
13 days • 6 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
A unique mix of luxury and adventure in our original, and perhaps most varied, destination on a privately guided Namibian overland safari. Perfect for families, friends or couples travelling together.
US$13,390 - US$15,610 per person
Cape Fox Guided Safari
13 days • 7 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
A classic clockwise circuit around Namibia’s northern highlights with a private guide and vehicle. We can’t think of a better way to see more in this timeframe.
US$11,450 - US$13,330 per person
Pelican Fly & Drive Safari
10 days • 5 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
A unique itinerary visiting the must-see highlights combining the adventure of a classic Namibian self-drive with the ease and spectacular views of a fly-in safari.
US$7,160 - US$8,580 per person
Ruppell's Korhaan Fly-in Safari
9 days • 4 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
Explore Namibia’s remotest wildernesses while staying at some of the most exclusive luxury camps in the country. This epic fly-in safari will deliver otherworldly landscapes, fascinating wildlife and genuine cultural experiences.
US$10,740 - US$16,370 per person
Namaqua Chameleon Self-drive
12 days • 7 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
A classic 12-night self-drive adventure around the highlights of eastern and northern Namibia taking in Sossusvlei, Swakopmund, Damaraland, Etosha and a final stop at Okonjima. Comfortable lodges and great value.
US$4,030 - US$5,130 per person
Black Wildebeest Self-drive Safari
19 days • 10 locations
CAPE TOWN AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
Journey from South Africa’s cosmopolitan Cape Town to central Namibia’s Okonjima Nature Reserve during this self-driven safari. The route passes through a stunning variety of landscapes, offering access to this beautiful continent’s rich diversity.
US$4,140 - US$4,250 per person
More information about black rhino in our other destinations
Click here for detailed information about black rhino in other countries, including the places for sighting black rhino.
