Hunting in the US shows steady growth, with more young hunters joining the ranks. This increase is due to a rise in outdoor recreational activities, conservation efforts, and an emphasis on sustainable hunting. However, hunting isn't limited to the US; hunters are constantly seeking new and exciting locations, and Africa often tops their list. Discover what draws game hunting enthusiasts to Africa and why it remains a popular hunting destination.
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Key Takeaways
- Hunting in the US is steadily growing as more young people start hunting
- This can be attributed to various factors, including conservation, sustainable hunting practices, and an increase in outdoor recreational activities
- American hunters travel to various destinations to enjoy game hunting safaris, with Africa, New Zealand, Europe, and Canada being popular options
- Hunters are drawn to Africa for many reasons, including game species, hunting experience, and the challenge of the hunt, amongst others
- Popular African hunting destinations include South Africa, Namibia, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique
Popular International Hunting Destinations
American hunters are spoilt for choice, with various destinations worldwide appealing to their unique hunting wants and needs.
Canada
Just a hop, skip, and jump away for hunters not keen on traveling much to an international hunting destination is Canada. The country offers vast areas of untamed wilderness, with popular species such as Grizzly bears, Black Bears, Moose, and Waterfowl being popular trophies. Expect high-quality trophies to add to your trophy collection!
New Zealand
New Zealand is renowned for its high-country hunting safaris, with targeted species including the Red Stag, Tahr, and Chamois. The destination offers majestic scenery, with physically demanding hunts being the order of the day, testing the hunter’s skillset and perseverance.
Europe
Spain, Poland, and Hungary remain top hunting destinations for American hunters, with big game such as Red Deer, Roe Deer, and Fallow Deer being popular species, along with Wild Boar, Mouflon, as well as the Spanish Ibex in Spain and Hungary.
Africa
There is something about the continent that just draws a hunter’s attention and desire to head off to deepest darkest Africa! Whether it be the whole mystical element of Africa often referred to as “The Dark Continent,” the thrill of the unknown, the opportunity to hunt the Big 5, or the chance to experience a totally unique African hunting safari, Africa remains a bucket list destination for many.
Top African Destinations for American Hunters
Hunting in Africa allows hunters a kaleidoscope of experiences, species, and destinations. Want to go hunting in dense forests and thick terrain? Check, Africa has that. Looking to harvest some semi-aquatic species during an unforgettable African hunting trip? Check…head to Zimbabwe and Lake Kariba to hunt Hippo and Nile Crocodile. Looking for a hunt that’s off the beaten track, hunting rate, and endemic plains game? Head to Ethiopia and hunt the rare and elusive Mountain Nyala.
Africa’s diversity remains one of the many reasons hunters head to the Dark Continent. Let’s check out some popular African hunting destinations:
South Africa
For many game hunting enthusiasts, South Africa combines the best of what Africa has to offer in one destination. Easily accessible, with professional outfitters, varying terrain, and differing experiences, hunting is possible in each of the country’s nine provinces. The world-famous Limpopo province is seen as the hunting mecca of SA, renowned for both African plains game and dangerous game safaris. South Africa is one of the two countries worldwide where all members of the Big 5 (Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Cape Buffalo, and Rhino) can be hunted.
Namibia
Namibia ticks all the boxes, being a safe, easily accessible destination offering a great array of African hunting trip experiences in one location. Namibia's excellently run hunting industry holds land owners, outfitters, guides, and PHs to very high standards when it comes to permits, training, and licenses. Hunting in Namibia also hands hunters a selection of game from the Dangerous 7, all the way down to members of the Tiny 10; ensuring there's something for every hunter, whether they're a novice or seasoned hunting enthusiast. Add to this a variety of landscapes and terrain, and you’ve got a hunt made in heaven!
Zimbabwe
If you’re looking for an authentic hunting safari in the great untamed wilderness that is Africa, this is the destination for you. Big game and dangerous game hunting are the name of the game and extremely popular in Zimbabwe, with Lake Kariba offering some exceptional semi-aquatic trophies, namely the Nile Crocodile and Hippo. Zimbabwe is also known to produce quality trophies.
Tanzania
Tanzania’s hunting industry is well-regulated, offering a wide range of game hunting options. Popular areas like the Selous and Maasailand produce high-quality trophies, often featuring rare species, making for an unforgettable African hunting experience. Although more expensive than other African destinations, you can expect a top-tier, authentic safari, often venturing into true untamed Africa for spectacular trophies.
Mozambique
A prime hunting location with diverse game, including dangerous and plains game, this destination’s varied landscapes and terrain challenge hunters to bring their A-game to successfully harvest a wide array of species. After the Civil War, Mozambique has achieved significant growth in its wildlife populations, offering hunters a large diversity of game.
Why Hunters Choose to Hunt in Africa
Species: Africa is home to species that many dream of hunting, and not available to hunt in the United States. From the mighty African Lion to the majestic Greater Kudu, the wildlife species and abundant populations provide a great drawcard for American hunters. And let’s not forget the Big 5…and that hunting Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Elephant, and Cape Buffalo, is possible in two African destinations – South Africa and Namibia.
The Challenge: Hunting on an entirely different continent brings with it some challenges: From new species and terrain to cultural and historical experiences, hunters are out of their comfort zone, which both challenges and excites them. New terrain, new species, new experiences – Africa offers them all!
African Safari Experience: Where else but Africa can you sleep under the stars, listen to the roar of the mighty Lion echoing across the plains, and enjoy a braai, all while planning the next day on a truly unique hunt? African hunting trips allow hunters to experience the best the continent has to offer on a true hunting safari, featuring game species found only on the Dark Continent.
Affordable International Hunting Options: Hunting in Africa can be cost-effective when compared to other destinations worldwide, offering a range of plains game hunts to beat the budget, and still allow a great safari with some great competitive pricing and package deals.
Luxury Experience:With more bang for their buck, hunters can enjoy a more luxurious experience, with upscale accommodation, experiences, safaris, and cuisine, all culminating in an unforgettable trip.
Varied Hunting Experience: African hunting trips can include hunters of all levels, from novice to seasoned hunters. Many African destinations also allow bow hunting, allowing these hunters to actively test their skillset on a hunting safari.
Trophy Quality: Hunting in Africa allows American hunters to harvest quality big game trophies that are internationally recognized. Think Africa’s Big 5, large antelope such as the Eland, Greater Kudu, and even iconic trophies like the Springbok, Impala, and Wildebeest.
Skillset Enrichment: Africa offers a variety of terrain, landscapes, and game to challenge hunters with different trophies, habitats, and destinations to experience.
Preparing for an African Hunting Trip
Once the destination and package have been confirmed, the only thing left to do is adequately prepare for an African hunt. Check out our tips below:
- Choose a reputable outfitter and learn about hunting regulations and permit requirements for your chosen destination
- Practice shooting from sticks, as this is a common occurrence in Africa, especially on a plains game safari
- Select the correct rifle for your hunt, with a .375 being the minimum requirement for dangerous game hunting in Africa
- Confirm luggage and firearm transport requirements for your hunting destination(s) (including stopovers along the way), with gun cases (hard and soft), locks, and permits for bringing guns across borders
- Adequately prepare for your safari by conducting research on your trophies, reading up on their behavior, best shot placement positions, movements, etc.
- The African sun can be harsh; ensure that you have adequate sunblock and a hat
- Africa is teeming with critters; be sure to pack mosquito repellent. Some destinations require anti-malaria medication to be taken before arrival.
- Pack all your medication and personal items, such as glasses, spare medical items, and so forth.
- When it comes to clothing, less is more. Check with your Outfitter if daily laundry is included in the package, as it often is.
- While you can go lightly on the clothing items, be sure to pack at least two pairs of waterproof, well-worn boots
Conclusion
Hunting in Africa continues to captivate American hunters due to the unique combination of extraordinary species, hunting adventures, and conservation. The Dark Continent offers not just a challenge for seasoned hunters but a chance to pursue iconic big game and rare species unavailable in the United States.
The appeal of an African hunt lies in the unrivaled excitement of tracking wildlife in wild, well-managed concessions, where success rates are high, and every hunt becomes a lasting memory. With proper planning and a reputable outfitter, an African safari becomes an unforgettable experience that combines challenges, adventures, and rewards, making it a true bucket list destination for hunters worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hunting in the US growing in popularity?
As more young people begin hunting in the US, the number of hunters continues to rise steadily. States like Texas, Wisconsin, Alaska, and Colorado remain major hunting centers due to their vast hunting grounds, diverse game, and varied terrains that challenge hunters and improve their skills.
Can you hunt the Big 5 anywhere in Africa?
While there are numerous African destinations where certain members of the Big 5 can be hunted, only two countries offer hunting safaris including all members of the Big 5. The Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Cape Buffalo, and Elephant can all only be hunted in Namibia and South Africa.
Which African country is best for hunting?
The best African country depends on your game interests and experience. South Africa is ideal for variety and accessibility, Namibia excels in ethical hunting and plains game, and Zimbabwe is renowned for its dangerous game safaris.
What is the most difficult animal to hunt in Africa?
While each hunt is challenging in its own way, dangerous game hunting is seen as the most difficult and challenging safari. This specifically refers to Africa’s Big 5 and Dangerous 7; these animals are viewed as being the hardest animals to hunt in Africa. Cape buffalo are known for their cunning and aggressive nature. Hippos are extremely territorial, while Elephant trophies are renowned for hiding in dense vegetation and then charging hunters. Each species has its own challenges.