Where to see Rhinos in Africa - Hwange Rhino Sanctuary

Somewhere in Zimbabwe…

The Hwange Rhino Sanctuary is an important step in the right direction for the local economy. Years of illegal poaching have decimated the rhino numbers, and this sanctuary only supports a small number of them.

We arrived in the area by jeep and had to trot the rest of the way on foot, so as to not disturb the animals. There is a tiny chance that the Rhinos can charge, so it is important not to agitate them. If you are calm throughout, it is really completely safe.

You can see something in a sling over the park ranger's shoulder - an AK47. We asked him why he needed it and he said something to the effect of "If poachers have Ak47s, WE have AK47s". The park rangers were friendly and they guided us throughout the walk.

(Baby rhino's butt!)

There was just a small group of them but they were incredible to see. It seemed to be a family and there was a cute young rhino following. We took a bunch of photos and then we were on our way, very satisfied with seeing these animals up close.

Years of illegal poaching has decimated rhino numbers in the area. Many of the rhinos are found dead with only their horns sawed off. The horns are then sold to manufacturers of Chinese medicine, who tout rhino horn dust as healing powder. It is a sad sad world we live in. I think this sanctuary highlights the importance of conservation and the dangers of pseudoscience.

Address

Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe