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Namibia: Land of Contrasts

Namibia, nestled in the heart of southern Africa, is a paradise for African big game hunters seeking thrilling hunting adventures within its diverse landscapes. 

From the rugged deserts to the lush savannah, each offers a diverse backdrop for all varieties of game hunting, including big game hunting that’s deeply embedded in Africa’s hunting safari heritage.

Namibia’s charm lies in its vast expanses and diverse ecosystems, providing homes for various wildlife. Picture the Namib Desert, with its imposing dunes and endless horizons, home to breathtaking species like gemsbok and springbok, all found in the stunning hunting farms in Namibia that offer hunters a jaw-dropping experience any huntsmen can only dream of.

Namibia presents challenges and rewards for those seeking game hunting trophies of all shapes and sizes. From the horns of a gemsbok, or the tusks of an elephant, to a large Nile crocodile or hippo, a hunter almost guaranteed to find something that tickles their fancy!

Moving northwards, Namibia’s savannas reveal a different side teeming with abundant wildlife. These areas are home to a large variety of valuable species. It is a perfect hunting ground with a hugely diverse range of wildlife such as kudu, impala, and wildebeest. Our focus for this blog is, however, the elephant.

You will instantly fall in love with these majestic creatures, but more than that, you’ll love Namibia itself. It will soon remind you why it’s one of the best big game hunting grounds worldwide – and you’ll never want to leave! Imagine being part of a hunting safari in Namibia, not just to hunt but to explore the country’s rich geography and learn from its vast wildlife and endless adventures.

What Size Trophy can I expect when Elephant Hunting in Namibia?

• The average African elephant trophy size varies between individuals and among elephant populations across the continent.
• African elephants consist of the savanna and forest variety, with the savanna variation producing a much larger tusk than their forest counterparts.
• Among savanna elephants, the most common type in Namibia, the average bull tusk size can extend to 6 feet (1.8 meters), with some rare exceptions being even larger.
• The circumference and weight add to this trophy’s substantial size, with tusks weighing over 220 pounds.
• Despite size variations between specimens, it certainly does not detract from these eye-catching wonders of the world and will be a conversation starter.

For as beautiful as these tusks are, regulations behind these trophies are vast and they do require some paperwork to ensure that you are hunting ethnically. This is not just something that you hunted while on a hunting adventure in Namibia, it’s a whole book of stories, with each mark and imperfection on the tusk adding to the tale. It’s more than a piece of ivory it’s an heirloom that can pass through the generations. 

Caliber And Rifle Requirements When Elephant Hunting in Namibia

Targeting elephants on an African big game hunting adventure requires powerful firearms with massive power and caliber to ensure a quick and effective kill while prioritizing safety. The perfect firearm for elephant hunting is typically a large high-grain caliber rifle, specifically designed for taking down such massive and tough animals as elephants.

A caliber for elephant hunting is a .375 H&H Magnum, known for its stopping power, delivering sufficient force to stop an animal as large as this. However, many experienced elephant hunters prefer even larger calibers, such as the .416 Rigby, .458 Lott, .470 Nitro Express, or even larger calibers like the .500 Nitro Express or .577 Nitro Express.

These larger calibers provide increased stopping power and penetration, essential when dealing with the thick skin and hardy physiology of elephants.

The choice of rifle is crucial, with bolt-action rifles being the preferred type due to their reliability and ease of use, accuracy, and ease of maintenance in harsh hunting environments. The rifle should be sturdy and well-built and should have a comfortable butt that is comfortable to shoulder to help withstand the recoil generated by these powerful cartridges. Additionally, the rifle should have a good reliable, and high-quality scope that does not have a high magnification, allowing for quick target acquisition and accuracy in close-range encounters, which are common in elephant hunting in Namibia.

Ammunition selection is equally important, focusing on solid bullets designed to go deep within the thick hide of an elephant and deliver maximum impact to ensure a quick kill. Soft-point or expanding bullets are not suitable for elephant hunting due to their lack of penetration against the thick hide and dense bone of these animals a poor shot or incorrect ammunition could be fatal if that once calm elephant charges.

In addition to the caliber of rifle, your shot placement when elephant hunting in Namibia is also crucial.

Hunting Methods When Elephant Hunting in Namibia

The process of elephant hunting is a meticulously planned and regulated endeavour that involves multiple stages, each requiring skill, preparation, and adherence to ethical and conservation standards.

Planning an elephant hunting safari begins with acquiring the necessary permits and following regulations set by the country’s wildlife authorities. Hunters collaborate with experienced outfitters or professional guides who have the necessary knowledge about the hunting areas, local wildlife behavior, and ethical practices.

Once in the hunting area, the process first starts with tracking and locating elephants, which will be done by a PH (professional hunter) and tracker. This involves reading signs such as footprints, dung, broken vegetation, and other clues. Professional hunters and guides play a massive role in leading the game hunting safari, utilizing their skills to follow the elephant herds while keeping a safe distance so as not to spook the herd.

When the perfect elephant is located, careful consideration is given to shot placement to ensure a quick and humane kill. Hunters typically aim for vital areas like the brain or the heart-lung region behind the front leg to dispatch the animal, minimizing suffering, and ensuring an ethical, quick kill.

After successfully taking down the elephant, the next step is known as field dressing and preparation of the trophy. This includes skinning, removing the tusks, and preparing the hide for being moved or taxidermy.

Transporting the elephant’s trophy involves following the necessary legal requirements and regulations set by the Namibian government and will involve requiring permits and making sure compliance with international laws is met, this is to help regulate the transport of elephant trophies.

The entire elephant hunting process is under strict guidelines, quotas, and ethical considerations that must be met. Responsible hunters ensure that they are following ethical practices, have respect for the environment, and contribute to conservation efforts through fees and support for wildlife management programs. These are to protect the natural environment and all the creatures that fall within Namibia.

Shot Placement on an African Elephant

• Shot placement when targeting elephants on a game hunting adventure is critical for ensuring a quick, clean kill while maximizing the effectiveness of the shot.
• Due to an elephant’s massive size and powerful anatomy, precise shot placement is essential to deliver a lethal shot that quickly down the animal. Hunters typically aim for vital areas that offer the highest chance of swift and efficient kill.
• The preferred target for elephant hunting is the brain or the vital areas located behind the front leg, slightly below and behind the shoulder, aiming for the heart and lung region. Hunters often refer to this area as the “heart-lung” or “boiler room.”
• A well-placed shot to the brain or this region can quickly put a stop to an elephant, causing rapid incapacitation and ensuring a clean kill.
• It’s crucial to ensure the shot penetrates deep enough to reach these vital organs, especially considering an elephant’s thick hide and strong bones.
• It is incredibly important hunters go into the hunting safari with proper knowledge of shot placement otherwise the animal could flee or suffer. Not only does this ensure a humane kill, but also means less damage to the hide. Although the goal is the hunt, we always want to ensure an ethical kill.

When is the Best Time To Enjoy Elephant Hunting in Namibia?

The optimal time of year for hunting elephants is different depending on several factors, including local regulations, climate, and the specific region or country. In this case, in Namibia, the game hunting season takes place from March 1 up until November 30, giving you plenty of time to get all your needed permits in place.

Dry seasons, typically occurring during the winter months in African regions, are commonly preferred for elephant hunting safaris. It is when elephants are most likely to venture out in search of water and food. This period, characterized by little to no vegetation and limited water sources, prompts wildlife, including elephants, to gather around remaining waterholes and rivers. The reduced foliage allows for far more angles and a better line of sight, and this therefore allows trackers a much easier time.

Namibia has beautiful and warm weather conditions throughout the year, meaning the odds are in your favor to have great warm weather. It does, however, get quite chilly during the evenings, especially in the desert, even during the summer months, so be sure to pack warm clothes for your African big game hunting safari.

What is the Average Cost of Elephant Hunting in Namibia?

In Namibia, the cost of hunting elephants can vary significantly based on multiple factors, including the outfitter, specific hunting area, hunt duration, and the size of the trophy. Elephant hunting in Namibia is subject to incredibly strict laws and regulations to make sure the population of elephants stays within a healthy level, all these factors influencing the pricing surrounding these hunts.

The cost of hunting in Namibia typically includes various components such as daily rates for the hunt, accommodations, meals, professional guides, trackers, hunting licenses, permits, and transportation within the hunting area, making the price not just for the animal but the amazing experience that comes with it. Daily rates alone can range from several hundred to thousands of dollars per day, depending on the outfitter the services offered, and the time in the hunting season you decide to go.

Trophy fees for elephants in Namibia are large, often making up a sizeable chunk of the expenses. These fees vary based on the size, quality, and characteristics of the tusks, with larger and more impressive trophies commanding higher prices. You can expect to pay a few thousand dollars for a big bull.

Additionally, logistical expenses such as taxidermy, trophy preparation, transportation, and other associated costs also contribute to the overall cost of elephant hunting adventures in Namibia.

Some fees go towards the conservation efforts of these stunning creatures. The average cost for an elephant hunting safari in Namibia will be between US $45,000 and US$75,000 for a fully exportable trophy.   

Rules & Regulations Regarding the Import of Elephant Trophies

Several countries have placed bans or restrictions on the import of elephant trophies to address concerns about the conservation and implications of hunting these massive animals. The United States, the European Union member states, and a multitude of other countries have taken steps to regulate or prohibit the importation of these game hunting safari trophies.

In 2017, the United States faced significant public outcry and criticism over the importation of elephant trophies from Zimbabwe and Zambia. This prompted the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to impose a temporary suspension on the import of elephant trophies from these countries. Although the ban was later lifted, subsequent legal battles and public pressure have led to ongoing debates and changes in policy regarding the importation of elephant trophies into the United States.

The European Union has also implemented strict regulations regarding the importation of elephant trophies. Various member states have either banned or restricted the import of elephant trophies, emphasizing conservation concerns and ethical considerations surrounding trophy hunting.

To add to this, some individual countries, including Australia and certain South American nations, have put in place measures to either restrict or outright ban the importation of elephant trophies.

Several countries do allow the importation of elephant trophies, such as the United States if it matches specific guidelines that have been put in place. South Africa also allows the importation of ivory products with the necessary paperwork being an import and export permit. Many bans put in place are only to conserve and protect any unlawful trade in these countries.

Elephant Hunting in Namibia – Are You Game?

Elephant hunting in Namibia is an experience all good hunters should have especially when hunting the biggest and one of the most dangerous game members of the Big 5 and Dangerous 7. It promises breathtaking views and a hunt you’ll want to share with your friends. Although it’s a big cost, it’s an even bigger animal and an awesome African big game hunting trophy. You won’t just go for the trophy but for the African big game hunting experience, and you will be able to experience majestic Africa at its best.

Elephant hunting adventures offer you a larger-than-life experience filled with danger, excitement, and unforgettable memories. Namibia awaits with open arms, ready for her new guests to arrive. Will it be you?

Author:  Daniel Smith