We move silently in single file across the savannah, guided by ranger Ian Harmer. Suddenly, his arm shoots up, signaling us to stop. Everyone freezes, holding their breath. Moments later, he waves us forward. We are deep in Zimbabwe’s Matobo National Park, tracking rhinos on foot.
Walking through the habitat of massive wild animals is exhilarating. Accompanied by two armed rangers for safety, we follow Harmer as he scans the ground. “A white rhinoceros,” he whispers, pointing to palm-sized footprints in the reddish sand.
Rhinos have roamed the Earth for over 50 million years, making them one of the oldest mammal species. Matobo National Park, covering around 400 square kilometers, is home to only 60 individuals. Despite its proximity to Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s second-largest city, this protected area remains a sanctuary for these endangered giants.
The tracks belong to a southern white rhino, once thought extinct in 1895 until a small population was discovered in South Africa. Today, their numbers have stabilized in Botswana, Kenya, Namibia, South Africa, eSwatini, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) reported an increase in Africa’s rhino population in 2023, the first rise in a decade. Currently, about 20,000 southern white rhinos exist, but their northern relatives are nearly extinct, with only two females left.
Matobo’s ancient San rock paintings, dating back thousands of years, depict rhinos alongside elephants, giraffes, and antelopes. These artworks inspired conservationists to reintroduce white rhinos in the 1960s, even incorporating individuals born in European zoos to enhance genetic diversity.
Despite conservation success, poaching remains a serious threat. Rhino horn, falsely believed to have aphrodisiac properties, fetches high prices in illegal markets, particularly in Asia. Harmer explains that safari tourism plays a crucial role in funding anti-poaching units, ranger training, and breeding programs.
As we trek through the bush, we spot zebras grazing in the distance. Suddenly, Harmer signals for us to crouch. Just 10 meters ahead, a female rhino and her calf nibble at thorny bushes. Moments later, a young bull approaches. Harmer whispers that he weighs around 2.5 tons. The female snorts, warning him to back off.
The bull senses our presence, turning toward us. With rhinos capable of reaching 50 km/h, we stay completely still. After a tense moment, he changes course and trots away.
Back in the jeep, Harmer offers one final piece of advice: disable GPS tagging when posting rhino photos online. This simple action helps prevent poachers from tracking these magnificent creatures.
As the sun sets over the Matobo Hills, casting a golden glow across the park, it is clear why this place deserves protection. It is not just a sanctuary for rhinos, but a reminder of the delicate balance between wildlife conservation and human responsibility.
READ MORE: