About
On the rugged hillside just outside the perimeter of the People's Liberation Army's Stanley Barracks, stands a giant rock that closely resembles a rhinoceros.
The hike to Rhino Rock begins next to the army base's entrance gate. A sharp but brief ascent up a set of dilapidated steps transports hikers from the luxury houses on the west side of Stanley's Wong Ma Kok cape, over to the rugged and undeveloped eastern side.
From the eastern face of the cape, hikers can enjoy stunning views northwards back towards Stanley village, and east across Tai Tam Bay towards Cape d'Aguilar and the famed Dragon's Back ridge. Equally spectacular are the giant rock formations encountered while bushwhacking and scrambling en route to Rhino Rock.
Once at Rhino Rock, hikers can climb onto the giant rock to further admire the sweeping coastal views, and keep an eye out for local wildlife. Black kites and eagles are regularly witnessed circling above the azure waters of Tai Tam Bay, making the locale popular with bird watchers.
For those with an adventurous spirit, the route to Rhino Rock requires navigation, bushwhacking and clambering in a location that feels truly secluded. The craggy hillside and dramatic coastlines easily negating the occasional views of nearby settlements and the presence of the neighbouring army base.
Know Before You Go
To reach Stanley Fort, the 14 circular bus route from Sai Wan Ho runs from early morning until just before midnight. The 6A from Central to Stanley Fort only operates in the morning, departing in 20 minute intervals from 7am till 8:20am.
The trailhead starts from the stairs next to the Stanley Fort army base entrance. The hike from Wong Ma Kok Road to Rhino Rock can take as little as 30 minutes, but it is advisable to account for it to take 1 hour each way.
Follow the weathered stairs/path upwards, until you reach the black and white cylindrical trigonometrical post. From the post, look for the ribbons going through the bamboo that mark the trail. The way to Rhino Rock can be slightly confusing as there are various coloured ribbons marking different routes.
The easiest route is to stay higher on the hillside while heading roughly south towards the giant podium inside the army base. Eventually moat of the ribbons will become predominantly blue in color, follow them until the path begins to descend, passing next to a giant rock formation to reach a flat expanse of rock next to Rhino Rock.
Shoes with excellent grip are essential as it is slippery and treacherous at parts. It is also advisable to wear sun protection, as there is very little cover on the hillside. For those planning a night time trek, bring a headlamp and be wary of wild boars that are more active in the area around sunset and night.
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Published
January 4, 2026
