The Majestic Rhinos in Tanzania
The Majestic Rhinos in Tanzania
The Majestic Rhinos in Tanzania
Tanzania, Animals, Safari, Wildlife, Rhino
Rhinos are among the most endangered and iconic animals in Africa, representing a battle between the magnificence of wildlife and the persistent threats of poaching and habitat loss. Tanzania, a renowned safari destination, is home to two species of rhinos—the elusive black rhino (Diceros bicornis) and the recently reintroduced white rhino (Ceratotherium simum). While exploring the country’s iconic parks like Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti, visitors have the opportunity to see these magnificent creatures thriving in their natural habitat. For a broader understanding of Tanzania’s wildlife, check out our guides to elephants and lions.
Rhinos are among the most endangered and iconic animals in Africa, representing a battle between the magnificence of wildlife and the persistent threats of poaching and habitat loss. Tanzania, a renowned safari destination, is home to two species of rhinos—the elusive black rhino (Diceros bicornis) and the recently reintroduced white rhino (Ceratotherium simum). While exploring the country’s iconic parks like Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti, visitors have the opportunity to see these magnificent creatures thriving in their natural habitat. For a broader understanding of Tanzania’s wildlife, check out our guides to elephants and lions.
Rhino Species in Tanzania
Tanzania primarily boasts black rhinos, known for their smaller numbers and solitary habits, but conservation efforts have also led to the reintroduction of white rhinos in select areas.
Black Rhinos (Diceros bicornis)
Size and Build: Smaller than white rhinos, they weigh between 800–1,400 kg (1,800–3,100 lbs).
Behavior: Solitary and territorial. Black rhinos are browsers and have a prehensile upper lip adapted for grasping shrubs and bushes.
Habitat in Tanzania: Thrive in dense bushland and savannahs, particularly in Ngorongoro Crater.
White Rhinos (Ceratotherium simum)
Size and Build: Larger, weighing up to 2,300 kg (5,000 lbs).
Behavior: Social animals that live in groups (called crashes). They are grazers, preferring open grasslands.
Presence in Tanzania: Rare but reintroduced in select protected areas like the northern Serengeti National Park.
Best Places to Spot Rhinos in Tanzania
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Known as Tanzania’s most reliable rhino-spotting location, the Ngorongoro Crater is home to a significant population of black rhinos. The crater’s 260 km² caldera acts as a natural enclosure, offering excellent protection and visibility for rhinos. For trip planning tips, explore our Ngorongoro Crater Safari guide.
Serengeti National Park
Through reintroduction programs, black rhinos now roam the Serengeti, particularly in the northern and central regions. While sightings are rare, they remain a conservation success story. For insights on the Serengeti’s diverse wildlife, check out our guide to the Serengeti Safari.
Mkomazi National Park
This park houses the Mkomazi Rhino Sanctuary, offering visitors a chance to see black rhinos up close in a controlled environment, making it a must-visit for rhino enthusiasts.
Eating Habits and Behavior
Eating Habits
Black Rhinos: Browsers, feeding on twigs, leaves, and bushes. They consume around 50–60 kg (110–130 lbs) of vegetation daily.
White Rhinos: Grazers, preferring short grasses, with their wide mouths perfectly adapted for grazing.
Behavior
Social Structure: Black rhinos are solitary, while white rhinos live in groups.
Temperament: Black rhinos are shy yet aggressive when startled, while white rhinos are more docile.
Activity Patterns: Most active during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening.
Best Times to Spot Rhinos
The dry season (June to October) is ideal for spotting rhinos as vegetation is sparse, making wildlife easier to locate. Early morning and late evening game drives offer the best chances of sightings. To elevate your safari experience, consider a walking safari, which allows for a closer, more intimate connection with Tanzania’s wildlife.
Conservation Challenges
Rhino conservation faces challenges like poaching, habitat loss, and slow reproduction rates. Efforts such as dehorning rhinos, habitat protection, and community education play a crucial role in their survival. For an in-depth look at conservation efforts, explore our article on how safari operators contribute to wildlife protection.
Accommodations in Tanzania
Crater's Edge
Small and Intimate, Scenic View Location, Cultural Immersion
Crater's Edge is a small, exclusive lodge located near the rim of Ngorongoro Crater, offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. Known for its intimate setting and high standards of service, this lodge provides a luxurious yet unpretentious experience for guests seeking tranquility and easy access to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Luxury
Ngorongoro Oldeani Mountain Lodge
Outside National Park, Large Lodge, Scenic View Location, Spa and Wellness
The Ngorongoro Oldeani Mountain Lodge is a luxurious colonial lodge situated on a picturesque hill with spectacular views onto the Ngorongoro Crater Rim and Oldeani mountain range. The lodge is elevated with 360-degree views that extend all the way to Lake Eyasi and Lake Manyara. This property is set on 40 acres of pristine lush green gardens and local vegetation with over 130 species of birds.
The brick main house has high half-timbered ceilings. Here you will find the lounge, restaurant, spa, boutique and billiards room. The highlight of the outdoor area is the terrace with an infinity pool and an in-ground seating area with a fireplace. From here you have the best view of Mount Oldeani.
Luxury
Ngorongoro Melia
Inside National Park, Large Lodge, Scenic View Location, Spa and Wellness
Located in the heart of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Melia's Ngorongoro lodge strikes you with its panoramic views of the caldera.
Both its interior and exterior design are in harmony with the environment that surrounds it. Its facilities and services are respectful of the natural environment. It features very spacious rooms, a restaurant, a spa and offers unique experiences.
The hotel, with a sustainable philosophy, has been designed for guests to feel immersed in the Tanzanian culture.
Luxury
Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
Inside National Park, Large Lodge, Scenic View Location, Family-Friendly, Swimming Pool
The Ngorongoro Serena Lodge is a stone-built lodge perched on the jagged rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, offering panoramic views of the crater floor.
The lodge consists of 75 comfortable and spacious rooms, elegantly appointed with leather headboards, brass lamps, and African animal ""cave paintings"" on the walls. The accommodations are heated, and the lodge blends beautifully with its natural surroundings, with massive picture windows in the dining room, bar, and lounge areas offering magnificent views of the crater.
In the evening, open fires create a cozy atmosphere. The lounge has a balcony with a built-in telescope for guests.
The staff is known for being friendly and accommodating, and the lodge provides an excellent location for exploring the Ngorongoro Crater and Olduvai Gorge, known as the cradle of mankind
Luxury
Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp
Inside National Park, Tented Camp, Small and Intimate, Scenic View Location
Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp offers a comfortable and eco-friendly camping experience on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater. Known for its excellent service and stunning views, it is an ideal choice for those seeking a budget-friendly yet high-quality safari experience. Insider Tip: Guests can enjoy guided walks along the crater rim, providing unique perspectives on the landscape and wildlife.
Luxury
Lemala Ngorongoro Camp
Inside National Park, Tented Camp, Small and Intimate, Scenic View Location
Lemala Ngorongoro Camp offers a luxurious and eco-friendly camping experience on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater. Known for its excellent service and prime location, it is a great choice for those seeking a more intimate and immersive safari experience.
Insider Tip: The camp’s proximity to the crater allows for early morning game drives, giving guests a head start before the crowds arrive.
Luxury
Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp
Inside National Park, Tented Camp, Small and Intimate, Prime Wildlife Viewing Location, Scenic View Location
Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp offers a luxurious tented experience on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater. Known for its excellent service and comfortable accommodations, it is perfect for travelers seeking luxury and convenience.
Insider Tip: The camp’s proximity to the crater floor allows for early morning game drives, providing an opportunity to see wildlife at its most active.
Luxury
Accommodations in Tanzania
Crater's Edge
Small and Intimate, Scenic View Location, Cultural Immersion
Crater's Edge is a small, exclusive lodge located near the rim of Ngorongoro Crater, offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. Known for its intimate setting and high standards of service, this lodge provides a luxurious yet unpretentious experience for guests seeking tranquility and easy access to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Luxury
Ngorongoro Oldeani Mountain Lodge
Outside National Park, Large Lodge, Scenic View Location, Spa and Wellness
The Ngorongoro Oldeani Mountain Lodge is a luxurious colonial lodge situated on a picturesque hill with spectacular views onto the Ngorongoro Crater Rim and Oldeani mountain range. The lodge is elevated with 360-degree views that extend all the way to Lake Eyasi and Lake Manyara. This property is set on 40 acres of pristine lush green gardens and local vegetation with over 130 species of birds.
The brick main house has high half-timbered ceilings. Here you will find the lounge, restaurant, spa, boutique and billiards room. The highlight of the outdoor area is the terrace with an infinity pool and an in-ground seating area with a fireplace. From here you have the best view of Mount Oldeani.
Luxury
Ngorongoro Melia
Inside National Park, Large Lodge, Scenic View Location, Spa and Wellness
Located in the heart of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Melia's Ngorongoro lodge strikes you with its panoramic views of the caldera.
Both its interior and exterior design are in harmony with the environment that surrounds it. Its facilities and services are respectful of the natural environment. It features very spacious rooms, a restaurant, a spa and offers unique experiences.
The hotel, with a sustainable philosophy, has been designed for guests to feel immersed in the Tanzanian culture.
Luxury
Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
Inside National Park, Large Lodge, Scenic View Location, Family-Friendly, Swimming Pool
The Ngorongoro Serena Lodge is a stone-built lodge perched on the jagged rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, offering panoramic views of the crater floor.
The lodge consists of 75 comfortable and spacious rooms, elegantly appointed with leather headboards, brass lamps, and African animal ""cave paintings"" on the walls. The accommodations are heated, and the lodge blends beautifully with its natural surroundings, with massive picture windows in the dining room, bar, and lounge areas offering magnificent views of the crater.
In the evening, open fires create a cozy atmosphere. The lounge has a balcony with a built-in telescope for guests.
The staff is known for being friendly and accommodating, and the lodge provides an excellent location for exploring the Ngorongoro Crater and Olduvai Gorge, known as the cradle of mankind
Luxury
Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp
Inside National Park, Tented Camp, Small and Intimate, Scenic View Location
Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp offers a comfortable and eco-friendly camping experience on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater. Known for its excellent service and stunning views, it is an ideal choice for those seeking a budget-friendly yet high-quality safari experience. Insider Tip: Guests can enjoy guided walks along the crater rim, providing unique perspectives on the landscape and wildlife.
Luxury
Lemala Ngorongoro Camp
Inside National Park, Tented Camp, Small and Intimate, Scenic View Location
Lemala Ngorongoro Camp offers a luxurious and eco-friendly camping experience on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater. Known for its excellent service and prime location, it is a great choice for those seeking a more intimate and immersive safari experience.
Insider Tip: The camp’s proximity to the crater allows for early morning game drives, giving guests a head start before the crowds arrive.
Luxury
Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp
Inside National Park, Tented Camp, Small and Intimate, Prime Wildlife Viewing Location, Scenic View Location
Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp offers a luxurious tented experience on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater. Known for its excellent service and comfortable accommodations, it is perfect for travelers seeking luxury and convenience.
Insider Tip: The camp’s proximity to the crater floor allows for early morning game drives, providing an opportunity to see wildlife at its most active.
Luxury
Accommodations in Tanzania
Crater's Edge
Small and Intimate, Scenic View Location, Cultural Immersion
Crater's Edge is a small, exclusive lodge located near the rim of Ngorongoro Crater, offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. Known for its intimate setting and high standards of service, this lodge provides a luxurious yet unpretentious experience for guests seeking tranquility and easy access to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Luxury
Ngorongoro Oldeani Mountain Lodge
Outside National Park, Large Lodge, Scenic View Location, Spa and Wellness
The Ngorongoro Oldeani Mountain Lodge is a luxurious colonial lodge situated on a picturesque hill with spectacular views onto the Ngorongoro Crater Rim and Oldeani mountain range. The lodge is elevated with 360-degree views that extend all the way to Lake Eyasi and Lake Manyara. This property is set on 40 acres of pristine lush green gardens and local vegetation with over 130 species of birds.
The brick main house has high half-timbered ceilings. Here you will find the lounge, restaurant, spa, boutique and billiards room. The highlight of the outdoor area is the terrace with an infinity pool and an in-ground seating area with a fireplace. From here you have the best view of Mount Oldeani.
Luxury
Ngorongoro Melia
Inside National Park, Large Lodge, Scenic View Location, Spa and Wellness
Located in the heart of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Melia's Ngorongoro lodge strikes you with its panoramic views of the caldera.
Both its interior and exterior design are in harmony with the environment that surrounds it. Its facilities and services are respectful of the natural environment. It features very spacious rooms, a restaurant, a spa and offers unique experiences.
The hotel, with a sustainable philosophy, has been designed for guests to feel immersed in the Tanzanian culture.
Luxury
Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
Inside National Park, Large Lodge, Scenic View Location, Family-Friendly, Swimming Pool
The Ngorongoro Serena Lodge is a stone-built lodge perched on the jagged rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, offering panoramic views of the crater floor.
The lodge consists of 75 comfortable and spacious rooms, elegantly appointed with leather headboards, brass lamps, and African animal ""cave paintings"" on the walls. The accommodations are heated, and the lodge blends beautifully with its natural surroundings, with massive picture windows in the dining room, bar, and lounge areas offering magnificent views of the crater.
In the evening, open fires create a cozy atmosphere. The lounge has a balcony with a built-in telescope for guests.
The staff is known for being friendly and accommodating, and the lodge provides an excellent location for exploring the Ngorongoro Crater and Olduvai Gorge, known as the cradle of mankind
Luxury
Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp
Inside National Park, Tented Camp, Small and Intimate, Scenic View Location
Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp offers a comfortable and eco-friendly camping experience on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater. Known for its excellent service and stunning views, it is an ideal choice for those seeking a budget-friendly yet high-quality safari experience. Insider Tip: Guests can enjoy guided walks along the crater rim, providing unique perspectives on the landscape and wildlife.
Luxury
Lemala Ngorongoro Camp
Inside National Park, Tented Camp, Small and Intimate, Scenic View Location
Lemala Ngorongoro Camp offers a luxurious and eco-friendly camping experience on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater. Known for its excellent service and prime location, it is a great choice for those seeking a more intimate and immersive safari experience.
Insider Tip: The camp’s proximity to the crater allows for early morning game drives, giving guests a head start before the crowds arrive.
Luxury
Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp
Inside National Park, Tented Camp, Small and Intimate, Prime Wildlife Viewing Location, Scenic View Location
Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp offers a luxurious tented experience on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater. Known for its excellent service and comfortable accommodations, it is perfect for travelers seeking luxury and convenience.
Insider Tip: The camp’s proximity to the crater floor allows for early morning game drives, providing an opportunity to see wildlife at its most active.
Luxury
Add-on Activities in Tanzania
Arusha National Park
Canoeing at Arusha National Park
Central Serengeti , Tarangire
Hot air balloon safari
Tarangire , Lake Manyara , Central Serengeti , Ndutu (Serengeti) , North Serengeti , Western Serengeti , Grumeti Game Reserve (Serengeti) , Ngorongoro Conservation Area , Ngorongoro Crater
Hot bush lunch
Ngorongoro Conservation Area , Ngorongoro Crater
Maasai Boma visit
Moshi
Machame day hike
Moshi
Marangu day hike
Arusha , Moshi
Materuni waterfalls and coffee tour
Tarangire , Lake Manyara
Night Game Drives in Tanzania
Add-on Activities in Tanzania
Arusha National Park
Canoeing at Arusha National Park
Central Serengeti , Tarangire
Hot air balloon safari
Tarangire , Lake Manyara , Central Serengeti , Ndutu (Serengeti) , North Serengeti , Western Serengeti , Grumeti Game Reserve (Serengeti) , Ngorongoro Conservation Area , Ngorongoro Crater
Hot bush lunch
Ngorongoro Conservation Area , Ngorongoro Crater
Maasai Boma visit
Moshi
Machame day hike
Moshi
Marangu day hike
Arusha , Moshi
Materuni waterfalls and coffee tour
Tarangire , Lake Manyara
Night Game Drives in Tanzania
Add-on Activities in Tanzania
Arusha National Park
Canoeing at Arusha National Park
Central Serengeti , Tarangire
Hot air balloon safari
Tarangire , Lake Manyara , Central Serengeti , Ndutu (Serengeti) , North Serengeti , Western Serengeti , Grumeti Game Reserve (Serengeti) , Ngorongoro Conservation Area , Ngorongoro Crater
Hot bush lunch
Ngorongoro Conservation Area , Ngorongoro Crater
Maasai Boma visit
Moshi
Machame day hike
Moshi
Marangu day hike
Arusha , Moshi
Materuni waterfalls and coffee tour
Tarangire , Lake Manyara
Night Game Drives in Tanzania
Tours Itineraries in Tanzania
Machame Route Trek - 7 Days
Tanzania
8 Days
Trek
Marangu Route Trek - 6 Days
Tanzania
7 Days
Trek
Marangu Route Trek - 5 Days
Tanzania
6 Days
Trek
Machame Route Trek - 6 Days
Tanzania
7 Days
Trek
Lemosho Route Trek - 8 Days
Tanzania
9 Days
Trek
Lemosho Route Trek - 7 Days
Tanzania
8 Days
Trek
Rongai Route - 7 Days
Tanzania
8 Days
Rongai Route - 6 Days
Tanzania
7 Days
Northern Circuit Trek - 9 Days
Tanzania
10 Days
Trek
Northern Circuit Trek - 8 Days
Tanzania
9 Days
Trek
3 Day Tanzania Safari
Tanzania
3 Days
3 Day Fly-in Safari from Arusha or Zanzibar
Tanzania
3 Days
4 Day Express Tanzania Safari
Tanzania
4 Days
6 Day Classic Tanzania Safari
Tanzania
6 Days
7 Day Classic Tanzania Safari
Tanzania
7 Days
6 Day Fly-in Mara River Migration, Serengeti and Ngorongoro Safari
Tanzania
6 Days
6 day Ndutu Serengeti Calving Safari
Tanzania
6 Days
6 day Serengeti Grumeti River Migration Safari
Tanzania
6 Days
6 day South/West Serengeti Migration Safari
Tanzania
6 Days
7 day Fly-in Migration Safari in Grumeti and Mara regions
Tanzania
7 Days
Tours Itineraries in Tanzania
Machame Route Trek - 7 Days
Tanzania
8 Days
Trek
Marangu Route Trek - 6 Days
Tanzania
7 Days
Trek
Marangu Route Trek - 5 Days
Tanzania
6 Days
Trek
Machame Route Trek - 6 Days
Tanzania
7 Days
Trek
Lemosho Route Trek - 8 Days
Tanzania
9 Days
Trek
Lemosho Route Trek - 7 Days
Tanzania
8 Days
Trek
Rongai Route - 7 Days
Tanzania
8 Days
Rongai Route - 6 Days
Tanzania
7 Days
Northern Circuit Trek - 9 Days
Tanzania
10 Days
Trek
Northern Circuit Trek - 8 Days
Tanzania
9 Days
Trek
3 Day Tanzania Safari
Tanzania
3 Days
3 Day Fly-in Safari from Arusha or Zanzibar
Tanzania
3 Days
4 Day Express Tanzania Safari
Tanzania
4 Days
6 Day Classic Tanzania Safari
Tanzania
6 Days
7 Day Classic Tanzania Safari
Tanzania
7 Days
6 Day Fly-in Mara River Migration, Serengeti and Ngorongoro Safari
Tanzania
6 Days
6 day Ndutu Serengeti Calving Safari
Tanzania
6 Days
6 day Serengeti Grumeti River Migration Safari
Tanzania
6 Days
6 day South/West Serengeti Migration Safari
Tanzania
6 Days
7 day Fly-in Migration Safari in Grumeti and Mara regions
Tanzania
7 Days
Tour Itineraries in Tanzania
Machame Route Trek - 7 Days
Tanzania
8 Days
Trek
Marangu Route Trek - 6 Days
Tanzania
7 Days
Trek
Marangu Route Trek - 5 Days
Tanzania
6 Days
Trek
Machame Route Trek - 6 Days
Tanzania
7 Days
Trek
Lemosho Route Trek - 8 Days
Tanzania
9 Days
Trek
Lemosho Route Trek - 7 Days
Tanzania
8 Days
Trek
Rongai Route - 7 Days
Tanzania
8 Days
Rongai Route - 6 Days
Tanzania
7 Days
Northern Circuit Trek - 9 Days
Tanzania
10 Days
Trek
Northern Circuit Trek - 8 Days
Tanzania
9 Days
Trek
3 Day Tanzania Safari
Tanzania
3 Days
3 Day Fly-in Safari from Arusha or Zanzibar
Tanzania
3 Days
4 Day Express Tanzania Safari
Tanzania
4 Days
6 Day Classic Tanzania Safari
Tanzania
6 Days
7 Day Classic Tanzania Safari
Tanzania
7 Days
6 Day Fly-in Mara River Migration, Serengeti and Ngorongoro Safari
Tanzania
6 Days
6 day Ndutu Serengeti Calving Safari
Tanzania
6 Days
6 day Serengeti Grumeti River Migration Safari
Tanzania
6 Days
6 day South/West Serengeti Migration Safari
Tanzania
6 Days
7 day Fly-in Migration Safari in Grumeti and Mara regions
Tanzania
7 Days
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Why Use Our Free Quote Service?
Our free quote service is designed to connect you directly with the most suitable local tour operators without any middlemen.
Personalized
Matching
Tour Operators selected to suit your unique preferences.
No Middlemen
Your inquiry is forwarded to 2-3 handpicked operators who contact you directly.
Most Reputable Operators
Trusted operators with experienced guides and quality equipment and vehicles.
100% Free
Our service costs you nothing—You work directly with operators for fair pricing and impartial guidance.
Loading form...
Why Use Our Free Quote Service?
Our free quote service is designed to connect you directly with the most suitable local tour operators without any middlemen.
Personalized
Matching
Tour Operators selected to suit your unique preferences.
No Middlemen
Your inquiry is forwarded to 2-3 handpicked operators who contact you directly.
Most Reputable Operators
Trusted operators with experienced guides and quality equipment and vehicles.
100% Free
Our service costs you nothing—You work directly with operators for fair pricing and impartial guidance.
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