Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Once again we’re on the move, this time trekking rhinoceroses with our trusty guide, Mumica. Now, in case you’re unaware, rhinoceroses and hippos are basically the most dangerous animals in Africa. Humans can sometimes piss them off, and when rhinos feel threatened, they like to use their horn. So why on earth am I in hot pursuit of them? Good question. But for now, we are following the dung piles (on foot!) in hopes of finding a few. 

After a kilometer or so, Mumica starts calling other trekkers that are already stationed in the bush. These trekkers monitor the herds day and night, recording their every movement. He uses bird calls to communicate with them.

We come through a clearing and there they are: big, beautiful, dangerous rhinos. I’m nervous but excited. It feels strange being so close to these enormous animals in their natural habitat.

Our guide lets us move in a little closer. The rhinos pay us little heed, content to eat their grass and move slowly through the area. 

(Those are rhinos!)

Here’s the bull. He keeps to himself, bigger and extremely imposing. We give him a wide berth. 

After awhile they all lay down for a nice family nap, then Mumica leads us back to camp. Another successful trek in Africa!