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Namibia, home of the rhinos

“Namibia is considered as the last truly wild population of any rhino species on the planet; the largest to persist outside national parks.” explains the association Save the Rhino. The country hosts in fact 34% of the world’s remaining black rhino population, and 90% of the south-western subspecies. Among the 5 listed species of rhinos recognized worldwide, two of them can are hosted in the Zannier Reserve by Naankuse: white rhinos (listed as Near Threatened as per IUCN Red List Classification) and few black rhinos (which are critically endangered).

White Rhinos

Namibia’s white rhinos embody one of conservation’s great comebacks. Once teetering near extinction, their numbers now pulse with renewed vitality across protected landscapes like the Zannier Reserve by Naankuse, sheltering roughly 1/1000th of remaining wild population. This resurgence stems from fiercely guarded reintroduction programs, where every birth is a victory. In early 2020, the reserve welcomed Hope, a calf symbolizing this fragile triumph, now released into the wild under vigilant protection. Classified as Near Threatened (per IUCN classification), their survival journey, sustained only by anti-poaching patrols, habitat corridors, and the dedication of those who believe deserts should forever echo with their thunderous presence.

Black Rhinos

Where the red sands meet thornscrub, Namibia’s black rhinos – Critically Endangered (IUCN classification) – move like armored shadows. Hosting 34% of the planet’s last wild population, Namibia leads Africa’s fight for their survival alongside South Africa, Kenya, and Zimbabwe. Here, 90% of the rare southwestern subspecies cling to existence, guarded by warriors like the Save the Rhino Trust. Zannier Reserve shelters a precious few, their survival hinging on round-the-clock monitoring and community-led defense. Every guest at Omaanda & Sonop fuels this battle: proceeds from bottled water purchases directly fund the Trust’s rangers, sniffer dogs, and aerial surveillance. To witness a black rhino here isn’t just a safari highlight : it’s a fleeting glimpse into an ancient world we’re fighting to preserve, one sip at a time.

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