Tourists left unharmed following black rhino attack on car in Etosha

Posted on 21 September 2026 By Lee-Ann Steyn

Tourists visiting Namibia’s Etosha National Park escaped unharmed after a black rhino attacked their vehicle on Saturday, 19 September.

Image used for illustrative purposes/Yathin S Krishnappa/Wikimedia Commons

The vehicle sustained damage in the incident, but no injuries were reported, according to Namibia’s Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism. The incident was reported by The Namibian on Sunday.

The ministry has since urged visitors to exercise caution when travelling through the park and to familiarise themselves with wildlife behaviour.

Ministry spokesperson Vilho Hangula advised visitors to seek guidance from registered and experienced tour operators, particularly when encountering wildlife in protected areas.

“Wild animals act on instincts and their behaviour can be very unpredictable,” Hangula said, according to The Namibian.

The incident also prompted a warning from tourism operator Etosha Salt Pan Adventure, which encouraged visitors to book guided tours and learn more about animal behaviour while exploring the park.

Etosha is home to a range of large wildlife, including black and white rhinos, elephants, lions and other potentially dangerous animals. Visitors are reminded to follow park regulations and keep a safe distance from wildlife rather than approaching or provoking animals.

The incident reminds visitors that even when wildlife encounters happen from inside a vehicle, animals can behave unpredictably and should always be given space.

Source: The Namibian, 20 September 2026. Read the original report in The Namibian

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