Hunt Cape Buffalo & Dart Rhino Northern Cape SA
Booking Season: 2026
Hunt Difficulty: Difficult
Designed by Hunters, for Hunters
When it comes to dangerous game hunting and hunting Africa’s Big 5, one of the most prestigious of those animals to hunt is most definitely the Rhino. Big game hunters worldwide are keen to hunt the ultimate in big game trophies, and both the White Rhino and Black Rhino are top of this list for dangerous hunting safaris. Rhino hunts can be extremely challenging and exhausting, requiring careful planning and exceptional stalking skills to get within shooting range while navigating rough and rugged terrain and landscapes. These hunts require patience, precision shot placement, and tremendous courage to face these humongous mammals. Rhino hunts in Africa have been taking place for thousands of years, with these immense pachyderms firstly being targeted for meat and skins, and later for their horns, which are used in some Eastern cultures for medicinal purposes. They have been mercilessly poached, with their number diminishing at an alarming rate. Today, Rhino hunts are strictly regulated, with stringent measures in place to ensure sustainable utilization and conservation of the species. Limited Rhino hunting is available only in South Africa and Namibia, requires a CITES permit, as well as adherence to local laws and regulations. In South Africa, in addition to a CITES permit, a TOPS (Threatened or Protected Species) permit is also issued by local authorities. Rhino hunts are extremely costly, especially Black Rhino hunts, and are typically conducted as a 7-14-day dangerous game hunting safari.
Rhino hunts are only legal in two African countries, namely South Africa and Namibia. Rhino hunting is conducted in private game reserves and on game farms in both countries, with the hunting process being strictly managed throughout. Rhino hunting targets older, non-breeding bulls, which not only generate funding but also support the health of the Rhino populations. These hunts are conducted with strict measures to ensure sustainable use and conservation. The revenue from these hunts is invested in advanced Rhino anti-poaching programs and initiatives, as well as in managing local Rhino populations.
Rhino hunts are best conducted early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the White Rhino is grazing and the Black Rhino is browsing. The best time of the year for Rhino hunting is during the dry season, from May to August. Over this time, the vegetation is shorter, allowing for easier visibility for the hunter, and these pachyderms are also more likely to be near a water source, allowing for a higher chance of success for the dangerous game hunter. Namibia allows hunting from February to November, while South Africa’s hunting season is all year round.
The Rhino is one of Africa’s Big 5 and Dangerous 7, and a sought-after trophy for many dangerous game hunters. Many hunters will complete their Big 5 hunts, leaving this legendary animal for last. Not only are Rhino hunts extremely expensive, but they are also seen as a true gem in dangerous game hunting, due to their rarity.
Green hunting, also known as vita-dart or Rhino darting, is a method of Rhino hunting that is becoming increasingly popular. These hunts still test a hunter’s patience, courage, and adrenaline every step of the way, but instead of killing the Rhino, they are darted. This non-invasive approach involves darting the animal, with veterinary check-ups occurring alongside the hunting safari. By participating in a green hunt, you check the Rhino off as being hunted, but it offers a more affordable way to complete your Big 5 safari and leaves the animal unscathed.
A standard dangerous game hunting safari targeting the Rhino will include the basic service offerings such as accommodation, meals, drinks, a professional hunter, camp staff, trackers, on-territory transport, and field preparation of the trophy.
Exclusions and optional extras when booking Rhino Hunting in Africa:
Whether it’s finding rhino hunts, stalking, or walking and stalking at dawn, we’re here to deliver the experience of a lifetime with integrity and precision.
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The White Rhino ( Ceratotherium simum) has two subspecies:
Black Rhino (Diceros bicornis) is listed as critically endangered by the IUCN; a CITES permit is required.
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