Where to see White Rhino in Zambia
The white rhino is the largest and most numerous of the world’s five rhinoceros species. More visible and approachable than the black rhino, it survives today thanks to over a century of intensive conservation.
Quick facts about White Rhino
| Scientific name: | Ceratotherium simum | Habitat: | Woodland savannah |
|---|---|---|---|
| IUCN status: | Near Threatened | Adult weight: | 1,800–2,700kg |
The Zambezi marks the northern limit of the white rhino’s natural range in southern Africa. Thus, the species did not occur historically in Zambia, which lies north of the river. In 1964, four white rhinos were translocated from South Africa’s KwaZulu–Natal to Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, a small reserve just upstream from Victoria Falls. A tiny population has remained here ever since, their numbers depleted by poaching several times but restored by further introductions, with the latest in 2008. Today the park has ten. In 2011, a pair of white rhinos were also introduced to Lusaka National Park – a small reserve, just outside Zambia’s capital.
±18,000
Population (IUCN, 2018)
50km/h
Max. speed
±50 years
Life expectancy
205cm
Record horn length
The top camps for seeing white rhino in Zambia
Based on 25 reports by our travellers since Jul 2018, visitors at these camps in Zambia have the best chances of sighting white rhino .
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Best areas to see white rhinos in Zambia
Although the vast majority of white rhinos are in southern Africa – notably South Africa - they can still be seen in other countries. Reasonably approachable by vehicle, they may also be tracked on foot.
Zambia: white rhino hot spots
The place to see white rhinos in Zambia is Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, which lies along the Zambezi River upstream from Victoria Falls, and is where they were introduced in the 1960s. Today there are just ten individuals, but sightings are virtually guaranteed. Guided walks with armed rangers offer an excellent introduction to white rhino terrain and behaviour, revealing spoor, wallows and rubbing posts, as well as the animals themselves. Other wildlife you might encounter here include elephants, buffalo, hippo and various antelope. If staying in Zambia’s capital Lusaka, you could also take a trip 30km out of town to Lusaka National Park, where a pair of introduced white rhinos is among a variety of wildlife protected in this small, fenced reserve.
Our best Zambia holidays for white rhino sightings
Based on our travellers' reports, these ideas for Zambia safaris are likely to give the best white rhino sightings
Hippo Safari
10 days • 4 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LIVINGSTONE AIRPORT
Combining excellent game with aspects of remoter safari in South Luangwa, as well as the cultural delights of Livingstone, this trip also makes use of long-stay discounts, making it an excellent-value and well-rounded adventure.
US$7,360 - US$8,780 per person
Puku Safari
11 days • 3 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LIVINGSTONE AIRPORT
Discover South Luangwa’s prolific wildlife before exploring the wildly remote pans of Liuwa Plain National Park and relaxing in one of the Livingstone area’s most romantic and exclusive hideaways. A safari of luxury, style and impressive diversity.
US$14,970 - US$19,920 per person
Hyena Safari
11 days • 4 locations
VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT TO LILONGWE AIRPORT
Mix relaxation and adventure on a safari combining the South Luangwa with Victoria Falls and the beaches of Lake Malawi. These three locations are among the most iconic in southern Africa.
US$9,490 - US$11,910 per person
More information about white rhino in our other destinations
Click here for detailed information about white rhino in other countries, including the places for sighting white rhino .
