Black Rhino in Tanzania
One of Africa’s iconic ‘Big 5’ species, black rhinos are on many travellers’ safari wishlists. Small populations hang on in several parts of Tanzania, however sightings are very rare.
Quick facts about Black Rhino
| Scientific name: | Diceros bicornis | Habitat: | Scrub & open woodland |
|---|---|---|---|
| IUCN status: | Critically Endangered | Adult weight: | 800–1,400kg |
Tanzania’s black rhinos belong to the eastern subspecies (Diceros bicornis michaeli). They were once numerous across the country, but numbers plummeted during the poaching onslaught of the 1970s and ‘80s. Intensive protection has since brought a slow recovery – boosted by a reintroduction programme that over the last two decades has seen black rhinos relocated to Tanzania from South Africa, the UK and the Czech Republic. Today numbers are slowly increasing, with a 2023 census (International Rhino Foundation) putting the overall number at 212. This population is divided largely between the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (including Serengeti National Park) in the north, Mkomazi National Park in the northeast and Nyerere National Park in the south.
3
NO. OF SUBSPECIES
1
NO. OF CALVES BORN
$100/g
MAX. VALUE OF HORN
5–8 years
SEXUAL MATURITY
Tanzania's top camps for seeing black rhinos
Based on 78 reports since Jul 2018, the camps below have the best chance of seeing black rhinos. Simply follow the key below.
Best chances to see
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Best areas to see black rhinos in Tanzania
Black rhinos are extremely rare in Tanzania. There are estimated to be around 80 individuals. For the best chance of seeing them, head to northern Tanzania.
Tanzania: black rhino hot spots
Ngorongoro Crater might well be the easiest place in Africa to see black rhinos. Here, the small and heavily guarded population is especially conspicuous on the short grass plains, a cluster of other safari vehicles generally betraying a sighting. Further west, in Serengeti National Park, sightings are becoming more frequent – especially in the central Mori Kopjes region, as well as in the Grumeti Game Reserve to the northwest and in the Mara river area, where they sometimes cross from Kenya’s Masai Mara. The small population in the vast Nyerere National Park, further south, are seldom seen by visitors. However, those in Mkomazi National Park, in the northeast, can be viewed inside a special protection zone. As populations increase, wildlife authorities are increasingly moving animals between locations to guard against inbreeding.
Holiday ideas to see black rhinos in Tanzania
These trip ideas include places that will give you a chance of seeing black rhinos in Tanzania
Secretary Bird Fly-in Safari
8 days • 4 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
Chosen for comfort and relaxation as much as for its range of activities, this safari makes for a leisurely trip featuring stunning accommodation and swift access to many of northern Tanzania’s best wildlife regions.
US$13,730 - US$18,080 per person
Avocet Fly-in Safari
7 days • 3 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
This luxurious safari explores three iconic African reserves from exclusive lodges in unbeatable locations. A very high standard of food, care and guiding ensure that you can focus on this amazing experience.
US$10,520 - US$15,860 per person
Flufftail Guided Safari
10 days • 3 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
Stay in three unique camps as you safari across the Ngorongoro Crater and the iconic Serengeti Plains with your private guide and 4WD vehicle: a trip of comfort and autonomy, with excellent wildlife.
US$12,990 - US$18,900 per person
Lovebird Fly-in Safari
5 days • 2 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
Visit two consistently impressive wildlife destinations during this excellent-value safari in northern Tanzania. Enjoy a range of walks and cultural visits from sister camps at the Ngorongoro Crater and in the heart of the Serengeti.
US$3,520 - US$4,900 per person
Fringe-eared Oryx Fly-in Safari
7 days • 3 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
Stay in three superbly positioned camps during this exploration of Tanzania’s famous northern circuit. Excellent views over the surrounding areas, relatively remote locations and game-rich habitat make for an exciting and varied safari experience.
US$7,300 - US$14,860 per person
Regal Sunbird Fly-in Safari
12 days • 5 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT
Experience the highlights of Tanzania with a safari in the country’s famous northern parks followed by historic Stone Town and the palm-fringed beaches of Zanzibar, staying in high-quality accommodation throughout.
US$10,570 - US$16,370 per person
Dik Dik Safari
12 days • 4 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT
Combine safari with peace and relaxation on Zanzibar’s white-sand shores during this exploration of Tanzania. Stay in three high-quality sister camps within Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Serengeti National Park before concluding with a stay on Michamvi Peninsula.
US$9,920 - US$15,130 per person
Tinkerbird Fly-in Safari
8 days • 4 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
Explore Tanzania’s famous northern circuit in Tarangire National Park, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the Serengeti National Park. Four smart sister camps offer a high level of care, first-class guiding and a wide range of activities.
US$9,830 - US$14,140 per person
Our top destinations for black rhinos
Read tips for spotting black rhinos in these countries and the best camps and lodges for sightings
