Often referred to as the “Land of Sand” Namibia remains a largely undiscovered African gem in the world of game hunting safaris. The San, however, refer to Namibia as the “land that God made in anger,” with long periods between rainfall and the heat of the desert reaching unbearable temperatures. Unhospitable? Most definitely, but worth visiting and experiencing firsthand? Again, most definitely. It is this diverse destination that seeks to offer hunters the ultimate experience of African hunts to challenge them in their game hunting achievements. Hunters considering Hunting in Namibia can expect very different terrain, species and safari options depending on where in the country they hunt.
This is the land of opposites, where the cold Atlantic Ocean forms the western border of the country that houses the world’s oldest desert. This is the country where animals adapt to desert regions, while others make their habitats in the lush areas of the Zambezi, formerly known as the Caprivi Strip. And it is this land of contrasts that brings hunters returning time and again to experience its charm.
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Key Takeaways
- Namibia remains a largely undiscovered gem in terms of hunting opportunities available within this African country.
- Namibia is seen as a safe, politically stable country to travel to within Africa.
- The country offers a range of hunting terrains to challenge game hunting enthusiasts.
- Namibia offers a wide variety of animal species to hunt and is the only country worldwide where it is legal to hunt cheetahs.
- Namibia is also the only country worldwide, where all members of Africa’s Big 5 can be legally hunted.
- Numerous animal species are included on a Namibian hunt, including African plains game, specialty game, African cats, as well as dangerous game options.
- It remains a value-for-money destination.
What Makes Namibia Different as a Hunting Destination?
Hunting in Africa is an enthralling and exciting experience, with many different destinations on offer to meet each hunter’s objectives, budgets, and travel requirements. Hunters comparing Namibia's value with other destinations can review our African Hunting Safari Prices when considering the overall cost of a safari.
Safety
When hunters venture into “deepest, darkest Africa,” it is always good to know that your destination is seen as safe. Namibia is seen as one of the safe and politically stable destinations in Africa, with Hunting in Namibia well-regulated.
The country’s capital, Windhoek, is seen as one of Africa’s cleanest and safest cities, thereby reiterating the country’s high level of safety.
Variety of Species
From species pursued on Plains Game Hunts to predators and dangerous game, Namibia offers hunters an unusually broad selection of game.Popular African plains game species include the Greater kudu, Blue Wildebeest, Black Wildebeest, Red Hartebeest, Oryx, Cape Eland, and Springbok.
Namibia offers opportunities for species associated with Big Five Hunting in Africa, as well as several species pursued on Dangerous Game Hunts in Africa. In addition to this, it is also the only country where the cheetah can be legally hunted. Game hunting trophies are of good quality and, dependent on the species, are available throughout the country.
Namibia’s Hunting Areas
This African gem truly provides hunters with a unique hunting experience, with terrain ranging from humungous semi-desert plains to mountains and thorny savanna, challenging the hunter throughout the Namibia hunt.
- Safari hunting in Namibia is conducted within privately owned properties or government hunting concessions.
- Private game hunting safaris in Namibia take place on ranches ranging in size from a few thousand acres to millions of acres, offering hunters access to a variety of antelope as well as opportunities for Big Game Hunting in Namibia.
- These hunting ranches are spread all over Namibia, showcasing the best of what Namibia has to offer.
- Government concessions for safari hunting take place mainly in the North of the country.
Top-class Hunting Industry
Namibia’s hunting industry can almost be described as the country’s bread and butter. As such, it is a well-controlled, and well-regulated industry where conservation and preservation for the future are of high importance. It is this well-regulated industry that keeps tourists and hunting enthusiasts returning time and again to experience and enjoy the expertise of a government that fully backs hunting and conversation and the difference that these two when successfully run hand-in-hand, can make.
Top-class outfitters provide hunters with exceptional hunting experiences, with the knowledge that a positive experience, combined with excellent hunting safaris and quality species can result in hunters returning, thereby fuelling this thriving and well-governed hunting industry.
The country’s well-managed hunting industry also allows for exceptional conservation efforts, which are fully supported and enforced by the Ministry of Environment and Tourism.
Diverse Tourist Attractions for Pre- and Post-Tours
A great drawcard to a Namibian hunt is the wonderful array of pre and post-safari tourism attractions on offer for singletons, couples, and families. From traditional heritage and cultural tours to adventure activities in the middle of the desert, Namibia provides great tourism attractions for young and old.
Some of Namibia’s Top Tourism Attractions include:
- Swakopmund: From camel rides and desert tours to quad biking in the world’s oldest desert, Swakopmund is the playground of adventure-seeking tourists.
- Sossusvlei: Home to the world’s oldest desert, you have the chance to climb some of the world’s highest sand dunes, including Big Daddy.
- Fish River Canyon: Visit the largest canyon in Africa! With breathtaking views, and reaching depths of 1,950 feet, this canyon remains one of Namibia’s most popular tourist attractions.
- Zambezi Region: Formerly known as the Caprivi Strip, the Zambezi region is situated in northeast Namibia and is renowned for its lush vegetation and greenery. It is the perfect habitat for numerous species of mammals, reptiles, and many varieties of birdlife, ensuring that it is the perfect stop on any tourist’s itinerary.
- Windhoek: As Namibia’s capital city, Windhoek is the heart of the region, offering tourists a variety of heritage and cultural tours. Be sure to enjoy some traditional cuisine in a variety of restaurants in the city.
- Etosha: No visit to Namibia is complete without a visit to Etosha, where the sheer open landscapes and diverse wildlife will leave you mesmerized at the sheer amount and array of species to see on game drives in the area.
- Walvis Bay: The cold Atlantic Ocean provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable boat tour, with the friendly seals in the area often hopping on and off of the boats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hunting in Namibia Legal?
Yes, hunting is legal in Namibia, with the hunting season for this popular game hunting destination running annually from 01 February to 30 November.
Is Namibia good for hunting?
Namibia is a trophy hunter’s paradise, offering hunting opportunities for novice to seasoned game hunting enthusiasts. From African plains game species to predators, and members of the Big 5, the destination has something for everyone to target on a Namibian hunt.
Which animal is Namibia known for?
While Namibia is home to many varied animal species, the majestic gemsbok (oryx) is a remarkable African plains game species renowned in Namibia and abroad for its long, sword-like horns and black and white markings. It appears on the country’s Coat of Arms.
What is trophy hunting in Namibia?
Trophy hunting is when animals are targeted and killed by hunters. These animals can be older, or perhaps some that are causing issues within a herd or a specific area. The Namibian government’s Ministry of Environment and Tourism sets annual quotas and issues permits for trophy hunting.
Conclusion
This fascinating destination allows for a variety of Namibian hunts, from the spectacular array of African plains game species to the notorious Big 5 and Dangerous 7, the destination provides quality trophies at a great price.
A hunting safari in Namibia can almost be seen as a one-stop shop type of experience as there is a hunting adventure for every hunter’s taste. Namibia allows game hunting of both the predators and the African plains together in this stunning hunting destination.
Hunters comparing Namibia with other destinations can explore our African Hunting Trips when deciding which country, species and safari best suits their plans.