Native to Africa and about as ingrained in its folklore and mental picture, the Rhino is a symbol of quiet strength and resilience. Over the years, this peaceful behemoth of the Bushveld has been glorified, profiteered, and even poached to the brink of extinction. Yet years of intensive conservation efforts have brought these horned mega-mammals back to numbers considered healthy and sustainable, and Namibia hunting safaris have played a role in the local revival.
So what is it about Rhino hunting in Namibia that keeps hunters dreaming of their own chance, and what makes this hunting safari so sought-after?
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Key Takeaways
- Hunting Rhino in Africa is one of the rarest game hunting opportunities
- The Rhino hunting safari has played a crucial role in supporting rhino conservation
- Hunting in Namibia gives hunters the chance to take on both Big Game and plains specials alike
- Hunting Rhino in Africa requires a very “boots on the ground” approach
- Both species of the African rhino are available to hunt
Rhino Hunting in Namibia: A Debate of Contraversy & Conservation
The biggest threat to both the Black and White Rhinos across Africa is poaching. This destructive and inhumane practice has been largely responsible for the near decimation of the species. Yet the act of poaching is the polar opposite of Namibia’s formalized and highly regulated game hunting industry.
Rhino hunting in Namibia is a significant contributor to the country’s Rhino conservation efforts. And despite what the naysayers may cry, there are other benefits from the practice, both for the rhino and the human communities tied to the area and industry. One benefit is that is removes older and “unbreedable” males from the population, which could pose a threat to younger Rhinos, especially young males. This in turn improves the quality of the breeding pool and ensures newer males have an opportunity to lead and breed.
Namibia hunting safaris fund much of the country's conservation costs, including security, research, veterinary services, salaries, and monitoring via drones, GPS, or trackers. While hunting Rhino in Africa may seem counterintuitive, the resulting funds significantly help protect the broader population.
Namibia’s poaching scourge peaked in the late 70s and early 80s, with fewer than 10 Black Rhinos being recorded in Kaokoland during the time, while the latest available data shows a Black Rhino population of just under 3,000 and a White Rhino population of around 1,500 members. The late 1980s brought about an intensive anti-poaching approach that roped private farmers and custodians to act as guardians of newly established herd populations. This practice, coupled with the introduction of dehorning in the early 1990s, led to a decline in poaching activity.
When Namibia legalized the Rhino hunting safari in 2004, the funding and involvement created an environment that led to both local communities and Rhino populations growing and (possibly even) thriving. As the hunting of Black Rhinos is controlled by Namibia’s Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism, the practice is strictly controlled. The Ministry issues a quota of 5 tags a year, and only for males who reach the above-mentioned criteria. This strict control, coupled with qualifying factors, helps the population to maintain peak potential for breeding and future success.
Namibia is the only country apart from South Africa where Rhinos can be legally hunted.
Rhino Hunting in Africa: What makes Hunters Chase the Horn
Hunters choose targets for various reasons; Rhino hunts are no different. Many are drawn by the hunt’s exclusivity and rarity. High cost also limits access, adding to the species’ value and “limited edition” appeal.
Hunt funds support Rhino protection and conservation, adding a feel-good aspect to the experience.
Alternatively, and at its most basic, bragging rights. Being able to say that you took on and successfully took down one of Africa’s biggest animals is sure to boost the credit and maybe even status of the hunter within their circles.
In Black & White: Which is Which and Why it Matters
The Southern African region is home to 2 distinct species of rhino, the Southern White Rhino (Ceratotherium) and the Southern Black Rhino (Diceros). And while from the same family, there are some distinct differences in both body and character/behavior when it comes to these two megafauna.
When it comes to Rhino hunting in Namibia, the biggest difference is that the White Rhino hunting safari typically takes place on private farms or concessions, while Black Rhino hunting is controlled solely by the Namibian government. Some Black Rhinos are placed on private lands at the discretion of Namibia’s MEFT.
Quota
While no concrete data is available on White Rhino quota in Namibia, only 5 tags were granted for Black Rhino hunts in the 2025 season, and this number appears standard when looking at previous seasons.
Where Your Rhino Safari could play out
Given the strictly controlled nature of the Namibia hunting safaris, the concessions or farms are chosen by the country’s MEFT department. Hunting can take place on concessions surrounding game farms or national parks, but not within the parks themselves. Other Rhino hunting in Namibia can take place on select private farms where the MEFT has designated populations of Rhino that meet the hunting criteria.
Examples of Rhino hunting concessions in Namibia include:
- Palmwag Concession
Found in Namibia’s Kunene region, the Palmwag concession is renowned for its conservation and eco-tourism, but opportunities for Rhino hunting exist in specially controlled areas within the concession.
- Khaudum Park Region
While the Khaudum National Park doesn’t allow Rhino hunting, there are communal lands surrounding the park where the activity can be found.
- Private Farms
Namibia’s private game hunting farms are home to a significant number of the country’s Rhino population, and the outfitter chosen will impact which farm the hunt takes place on. These farms are home to both Black and White Rhino hunting packages. The use of private land helps the country expand the footprint of rhino populations.
Rhino Hunting in Namibia 101: Things to Remember
In some ways, Rhino hunting in Africa doesn’t differentiate too much from the general game hunting packages on offer – apart from the exclusiveness and stricter controls. The standard practices employed are simply variations suited to the challenges and considerations of the Rhino and related hunting safari.
Permits and papers
Rhino hunting in Africa, especially in Namibia, is strictly controlled and regulated. These Namibia hunting safaris require the standard hunting permit granted by the Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism (MEFT), as well as certified copies of the hunter’s passport. Should there be exporting of a trophy, a CITES Category 1 permit must be sought for exports to the US.
As always, these requirements can be changed with little to no warning, so be sure to check the latest regulations with your outfitter or hunting broker.
Hunting Methods: Finding and Following on your Rhino hunting safari
These Namibia hunting safaris aren’t vastly different compared to other game hunting methods. The Rhino hunting safari takes place on foot, following fresh spoor or tracks until the target is located. What can pose a challenge is the rhino’s strong and highly attuned sense of smell and hearing. While their eyesight is shockingly poor (for a large animal), their other senses more than compensate, and hunters should stay as quiet and careful as possible with their steps and communication. Staying downwind of the Rhino is also a good recommendation, but not always possible.
Shot Placement
When it comes to Rhino hunting in Namibia, the only real afforded option is to strike side on, targeting the animal's vital organs through the largest surface area available. Other options can be presented, but they don’t offer the same likelihood of success.
- Broadside shot
This is the most recommended shot to take as it gives hunters ample surface area to strike the heart or lungs. The size of these organs makes them the top shot choice. Measure around 10 inches up from the leg’s skin fold and 5-6 inches back; this is the ideal strike point.
Should you be presented with an ideal broadside shot opportunity – take it. Trying to get a 2nd shot at a wounded and running Rhino is not ideal or encouraged.
- Frontal shot
These are only encouraged if the Rhino is charging directly towards you; if aiming for the brain, the target area is small and can easily be missed, especially if the animal is in motion. Do not attempt unless absolutely necessary or as a last resort. Similarly, a frontal shot to the heart can be complicated by the fact that a Rhino typically tucks its head lower when running or charging. This also limits the target area and the success of this placement.
- Rear shot
A shot to the spot where tail and body meet is only recommended if the animal has already been shot unsuccessfully and is fleeing. The area is small and requires accuracy, so only activate this option if needed.
The White Rhino
Firearm Minimums and Requirements
As part of the pachyderm family, rhinos have very thick and tough skin. As a result, Rhino hunting in Namibia requires a higher caliber than the .375 minimum for large game. Anything from a solid including .458 and .500 rifle caliber is strongly recommended to ensure the shot is as clean, humane, and effective as possible. As always, game hunting participants need to be comfortable and confident in their shooting abilities, so make sure your capabilities are up to standard.
The “Green Rhino” hunting safari: The non-lethal Option for hunting Rhino in Africa
To reduce the need to kill a Rhino when all the hunter wanted was a photo op, the “Green Hunt” was born. However, this game hunting practice came under fire for the concerns about the rate at which Rhinos were being darted with tranquilizers. Despite hunting parties having to be accompanied by a veterinarian who could adequately assess and monitor the operation, the concern grew too large, and the practice has been outlawed in both Namibia and South Africa.
A variant of the “Green Hunt,” vita-darting seems to have taken its place and involves the hunter shooting a less potent tranquilizer/vitamin cocktail combination into their target animal. Purported to be a “healthier” alternative, the available data is shaky at best and appears to be promoted on farms in certain South African provinces. Speak with your outfitter about this option and its availability, should it be more in your style.
The SCI record book accepts Rhino entries through the Vita Darting method.
Conclusion
Rhino hunting in Namibia has taken off since the practice’s legalization over 20 years ago, and the growth of both the industry and Rhino population have shown continued upward peaks. The Rhino hunting safari has also been a huge boost to the local communities, who benefit directly and indirectly from the hunts themselves, or the auxiliary support services provided, such as accommodation, taxidermy, transport, and guiding.
By choosing one of these select Namibia hunting safaris, hunters can not only look forward to the potential trophy, but also having the knowledge that their hunt goes towards the protection and upliftment of both animal and person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rhino hunting in Namibia legal? What makes it different from poaching?
The hunting of both Black and White Rhinos has been legal in Namibia for over 20 years and is a highly controlled industry. Legal hunting is subject to the country’s wildlife regulations and aims to be a benefit to both the Rhino population and communities; it’s meant to be carried out in a respectful and humane way. Poaching, on the other hand, is brutal and barbaric, serving only to make as much money as possible off only the horn with no regard for the bigger picture.
Can a Rhino be hunted with a bow?
In short, no. Big game hunting targets, including Lion, Elephant, and, of course, Rhino, cannot be hunted through any means of bow hunting. Regardless of a hunter's skill and advancement in bowhunting technology, Namibia simply does not allow this practice on certain big game species.
Can other animals be added to these game hunting packages?
If your chosen Namibia hunting safari package allows, other animals from dangerous game to plains species can be added at an additional cost. However, given the prestige and exclusivity of Rhino hunting in Namibia, it’s often recommended that hunters treat this as a one-animal “tailor-made” hunt to get the full experience.
Is horn size a reliable way to determine the age and sex of a Rhino?
This can be a tricky one, as both Black and White Rhino females tend to have slimmer and longer horns compared to the males. However, horns are damaged and worn down through fighting, defense against predators, and other daily activities.
While not the most reliable, looking at the horns could assist in a basic determination of species and gender. To be sure, rather watch the behavior involved in “bathroom activities”: after urinating or defecating, male rhinos tend to kick their hind feet backwards, much like dogs. Females, it seems, don’t share the same habit. Trying to get a glance at the sex organs won’t help much either, as one has to be very up close and personal to view these.