• Conservation & Wildlife

South Africa Reports 16% Drop in Rhino Poaching in 2025 Amid Conservation Gains South Africa Reports 16% Drop in Rhino Poaching in 2025 Amid Conservation Gains

South Africa has achieved a significant milestone in its fight against wildlife crime, reporting a 16% decline in rhino poaching in 2025 compared to the previous year. This progress reflects the impact of intensified anti-poaching operations, stronger collaboration between authorities and private reserves, and the increased use of advanced technology to combat criminal activity. However, the figures also highlight ongoing challenges, particularly in key areas such as Kruger National Park.

According to the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, a total of 352 rhinos were poached across South Africa in 2025, down from 420 in 2024. Of these, 266 rhinos were killed on state-owned properties, while 86 were lost on privately owned parks, reserves, or farms. This improvement underscores the effectiveness of coordinated efforts between government agencies, conservation groups, and private sector partners.

Kruger National Park: A Concerning Trend

While the national decline in poaching is encouraging, Kruger National Park, one of South Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations, experienced a worrying increase in rhino losses. In 2025, 175 rhinos were poached in Kruger, a sharp rise from 88 in 2024. This makes Mpumalanga, home to Kruger, the hardest-hit region in the country. The surge highlights the persistent threat posed by organised wildlife crime syndicates, which exploit porous borders and uneven enforcement capacity in the area.

For safari travellers, this trend serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges facing conservation efforts in some of South Africa’s most renowned parks. Despite the setbacks, Kruger remains a critical focus for anti-poaching initiatives, with authorities committed to addressing the vulnerabilities that have led to this increase.

Major Success in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

In contrast to Kruger, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park in KwaZulu-Natal recorded remarkable progress in reducing poaching. The park saw a dramatic drop in rhino losses, with 63 rhinos poached in 2025, down from 198 in 2024. This success is attributed to several key measures, including:

  • Expanded dehorning programmes to deter poachers.
  • Deployment of advanced camera and sensor technology for real-time monitoring.
  • Strong collaboration between park authorities, private rhino owners, and conservation NGOs.

These efforts demonstrate the potential for targeted interventions to yield significant results, offering a model for other regions grappling with poaching challenges.

Strengthened Law Enforcement and Convictions

South Africa’s anti-poaching strategy has also been bolstered by increased intelligence-led operations and stronger cooperation between police, prosecutors, and environmental agencies. In 2025, authorities achieved a major victory with the successful prosecution of a wildlife trafficking syndicate, resulting in a 20-year prison sentence for a key figure involved in rhino poaching. Such convictions send a strong message to criminal networks and reinforce the country’s commitment to combating wildlife crime.

Additionally, South Africa’s efforts have gained international recognition, with the country receiving the Asia Environmental Enforcement Recognition of Excellence Award for its work in combating transboundary environmental crimes. This accolade highlights the importance of global collaboration in addressing the complex challenges of wildlife trafficking.

What This Means for Safari Travellers

For visitors to South Africa’s iconic parks, the latest figures reflect both positive conservation momentum and the ongoing need for vigilance. While the national decline in poaching is a step in the right direction, the challenges in Kruger National Park underscore the importance of continued support for anti-poaching initiatives.

Travellers can contribute to conservation efforts by choosing responsible safari operators that actively support anti-poaching programmes and community-based conservation projects. Visiting parks like Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, which have demonstrated success in reducing poaching, also helps sustain these critical efforts.

Looking Ahead

South Africa’s progress in reducing rhino poaching is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and determination. However, as authorities and conservationists acknowledge, sustained success requires constant adaptation and the continued involvement of all stakeholders. For the African travel industry, these developments highlight the importance of promoting conservation-focused tourism that not only showcases the continent’s incredible wildlife but also supports the long-term protection of its natural heritage.