Hunting elephant in zimbabwe

More About Zimbabwe Elephant Hunting

Zimbabwe is not positioned as the most exclusive elephant hunting destination in Africa. Instead, it has built its reputation as the most reliable place to conduct a true, traditional elephant hunt under real-world conditions.

That distinction is important.

Zimbabwe offers more opportunity—but also more variation. Not every area produces the same quality bulls, and not every hunt delivers the same experience. Choosing the right area and operator plays a major role in the outcome.

If Botswana represents scarcity and selectivity, Zimbabwe represents access and consistency.

And for most hunters planning their first elephant safari, that makes it the starting point. For a broader overview of available elephant hunts in Africa, including other key destinations, see our guide to elephant hunts in Africa.

Where Elephant Hunting Actually Happens in Zimbabwe

Elephant hunting in Zimbabwe is not uniform. The experience varies significantly depending on the region, and understanding these differences is one of the most important factors in choosing the right hunt. For a full overview of hunting in Zimbabwe, including other species and regions, see our Zimbabwe hunting guide.

This is where many hunters make mistakes.

Zimbabwe offers a wide range of hunting areas, but they do not produce the same results. Elephant density, terrain, hunting pressure, and bull quality can vary dramatically between regions—even within the same season.

Choosing the right area will directly affect:

• How often you see elephants 

• The type of bulls you encounter 

• How physically demanding the hunt will be 

• Your overall chances of success 

Hwange Area

The Hwange National Park region and surrounding concessions are some of the most well-known elephant hunting areas in the country.

• High elephant densities in many blocks 

• Consistent encounter rates, especially in the dry season 

• A mix of herd bulls and occasional mature individuals 

In many areas around Hwange, once fresh tracks are found, it is not unusual to encounter elephants regularly. Water availability plays a major role, and during drier months, movement becomes more predictable around water sources.

Terrain is typically semi-open bushveld with patches of thicker cover. Visibility is generally better than in more dense regions, which can make tracking slightly more manageable—but it still requires long hours on foot and careful approach.

For many hunters, Hwange offers:

• A higher likelihood of consistent encounters 

• A more forgiving introduction to elephant hunting conditions 

• A balance between opportunity and realism 

However, higher density does not automatically mean better bulls. In some areas, you may see more elephants—but spend more time sorting through younger or less desirable animals before finding the right one.

Zambezi Valley

The Zambezi Valley is classic elephant hunting country.

• Lower overall density than Hwange in some areas 

• Strong potential for older, heavier bulls 

• More physically demanding conditions 

Terrain here is often dominated by thick jesse bush, river systems, and uneven ground. In many areas, visibility can drop to under 10–15 yards, which slows tracking significantly and requires a much more cautious approach.

Tracking in these conditions is not fast. It is methodical, often taking hours to follow a single track over relatively short distances.

Conditions are typically hotter and more physically demanding, and the combination of terrain and temperature makes this one of the tougher elephant hunting environments.

Encounters in the Zambezi Valley tend to be:

• Closer 

• More intense 

• Less predictable 

This is where many of the “hard-earned” elephant hunts take place, and where experienced hunters often choose to hunt when they are willing to trade comfort and consistency for the chance at a more traditional bull.

Save Conservancy

The Save Valley Conservancy offers a different type of experience.

• More managed environment 

• Lower elephant density in some areas 

• More structured hunting conditions depending on the concession 

Terrain is generally more open than the Zambezi Valley, with a mix of bushveld, riverine areas, and managed habitat.

This can result in:

• Easier tracking conditions in certain areas 

• More predictable movement patterns in some concessions 

• A different balance between challenge and control 

However, this does not mean easier hunting.

In lower-density areas, hunters may spend multiple days tracking before locating a suitable bull. Movement can still be inconsistent, and success still depends on patience and persistence.

The Save is often better suited to hunters who:

• Prefer a more structured environment 

• Want slightly less physically punishing conditions 

• Understand that fewer encounters can still be part of the experience 

Gonarezhou & South-East Lowveld

The Gonarezhou National Park region and surrounding south-east lowveld concessions are more remote and less commonly discussed.

• Lower hunting pressure in many areas 

• Highly variable elephant movement depending on season 

• Large, remote concessions with minimal development 

This is not a predictable environment.

Elephant distribution in these areas is heavily influenced by rainfall, water availability, and seasonal movement. In some periods, elephants may be concentrated in specific zones. In others, they may be spread out and more difficult to locate.

Tracking conditions can vary:

• Some areas allow for easier movement and glassing 

• Others require slow, careful tracking through thicker cover 

• Distances covered on foot can be significant 

These hunts require flexibility and patience, and plans often change based on fresh sign and movement patterns.

For the right hunter, these areas offer a more remote, less pressured experience—but with less consistency in daily encounters.

What This Means for Hunters

Choosing Zimbabwe is not just about choosing the country—it is about choosing the right area within it.

Each region offers:

• Different levels of difficulty 

• Different expectations for bull quality 

• Different styles of hunting 

In practical terms:

• Higher-density areas may offer more frequent encounters, but require more selectivity 

• Lower-density areas may offer fewer opportunities, but a different class of bulls 

• More accessible terrain may improve comfort, but not necessarily results 

• More difficult terrain may reduce encounters, but create a more traditional experience 

Most hunters underestimate how much these differences matter. The reality is that two elephant hunts in Zimbabwe can look completely different depending on where they take place.

Understanding these trade-offs upfront is critical to aligning expectations with the reality of the hunt.

Why Elephant Movement Matters (And Why Some Hunts Fail)

One of the most misunderstood aspects of elephant hunting in Zimbabwe is movement.

Elephants are not static. They move constantly in response to water availability, food, pressure, and seasonal changes—and that movement directly affects the outcome of a hunt.

This is especially important in areas like the Save Valley Conservancy and other large conservancies.

A concession may look large on paper—50,000 hectares or more—but in practical terms, that can still be a relatively small piece of land for elephant movement. Elephants may pass through, stay briefly, or move out of the area entirely depending on conditions. This creates a reality that many hunters are not told upfront.

Even in areas with known elephant populations:

• Elephants may not be present at the time of your hunt 

• Movement can shift quickly based on rainfall or water distribution 

• A concession that held elephants one month may be quiet the next 

Timing matters.

Hunts booked at the wrong time of year—especially outside of peak dry-season movement patterns—can result in fewer encounters, even in otherwise productive areas.

This is where experience and honesty from the outfitter become critical. Some operators plan hunts around known movement patterns and seasonal conditions. Others simply sell available dates, regardless of whether conditions are optimal. The result can be the same concession offering two completely different experiences depending on timing.

In some cases, hunters may spend days tracking limited sign or covering large areas without locating elephants—not because they are doing something wrong, but because the animals are simply not in that area at that time.

This is part of the reality of hunting a free-ranging species.

Understanding how elephant movement affects:

• The area you choose 

• The size of the concession 

• The timing of your hunt 

is one of the most important—but least discussed—parts of planning an elephant safari. Ignoring it is one of the fastest ways to turn a good area into a disappointing hunt.

What an Elephant Hunt in Zimbabwe Is Really Like

Elephant hunting in Zimbabwe is built around traditional tracking. This is not a stationary hunt, and it is not a guaranteed opportunity.

A typical day starts early—often before first light.

Tracks are located near water, feeding areas, or known movement routes, and once a fresh track is identified, the hunt begins on foot. From there, everything depends on reading sign correctly, adjusting direction based on wind, and maintaining a steady, controlled pace. This is not fast hunting.

In many cases, tracking a bull can take several hours before even getting within range. In thicker areas—especially in places like the Zambezi Valley—progress can slow to a careful step-by-step approach, with visibility sometimes reduced to under 15 yards.

Some days, you may track for most of the day without ever seeing the animal.

Other days, things happen quickly—and without much warning. Hunters should expect:

• Long hours on foot, often in heat and uneven terrain 

• Close-range encounters, frequently inside 20–30 yards 

• Thick vegetation in many areas, limiting visibility 

• Slow, methodical tracking rather than constant action 

Tracking bulls is very different from tracking herds.

Bulls are often solitary or move in small groups, and finding the right animal can take time. It is not uncommon to follow multiple tracks over several days before committing to a specific bull.

When an opportunity does come, it is usually fast and at close range.

There is rarely time to overthink the shot. Decisions are made quickly, often under pressure, and shot placement is critical. Even with a well-placed first shot, follow-up shots are common and expected as part of the process. This is not a high-volume shooting experience.

It is a hunt defined by:

• Patience 

• Physical effort 

• Close-range decision-making 

• The ability to stay composed when the moment comes 

Some hunts build slowly over days of tracking. Others come together in a single, intense encounter. That unpredictability is part of what defines elephant hunting in Zimbabwe.

Elephant Hunting Success Rates & Expectations

Success in Zimbabwe is often higher than in more restrictive countries—but it is not guaranteed, and it should not be treated that way.

Most hunts are structured over 10 to 14 days to allow enough time to locate and pursue a suitable bull. Even with that timeframe, outcomes can vary.

Success depends on several factors:

• The area being hunted 

• Elephant movement during the season 

• The experience of the professional hunter and trackers 

• The hunter’s expectations and willingness to pass on younger bulls 

In higher-density areas, encounters may be frequent—but that does not mean immediate success. Hunters may see multiple elephants before identifying a bull that meets their expectations.

In lower-density areas, encounters may be less frequent, and days may pass without seeing elephants at all—but those areas can sometimes produce older, more mature bulls.

It is important to understand that:

• Not every hunt results in a shot opportunity 

• Not every opportunity results in a harvest 

• Trophy size expectations directly influence success rates 

Many hunters underestimate how much patience is required. Passing on younger bulls, waiting for the right opportunity, and trusting the process are all part of the hunt. Rushing decisions or lowering standards too early often leads to disappointment later.

A successful hunt in Zimbabwe is not defined by how many elephants you see. It is defined by making the right decision—on the right animal—when the opportunity finally presents itself.

Zimbabwe Elephant Hunting Prices — What You Actually Pay For

Zimbabwe is generally more affordable than Botswana, but that does not mean all hunts are equal—or directly comparable.

Most elephant hunts are structured as 10 to 14-day safaris, with total costs typically ranging from:

$35,000 to $70,000+

Pricing depends on:

• The area being hunted 

• The reputation and track record of the outfitter 

• The availability and demand for quota 

• The overall structure of the hunt 

How Elephant Hunt Pricing Actually Works

Elephant hunts are typically divided into two main components:

• Daily rates (professional hunter, staff, camp, vehicles, logistics) 

• Trophy fee for a bull elephant 

These are separate.

Daily rates are paid regardless of the outcome of the hunt, while the trophy fee is only payable if an elephant is successfully taken.

This is an important distinction.

Hunters should always confirm upfront that:

• The trophy fee is only charged on a successful hunt 

• No hidden or partial trophy charges apply if no elephant is taken 

Understanding this structure is essential when comparing quotes.

What Is Usually Included (And What Is Not)

Typical cost structure includes:

• Daily rates (professional hunter, staff, camp, vehicles) 

• Trophy fee for a bull elephant 

• Government levies and permit fees 

However, not all quotes are structured the same way.

Hunters should carefully review whether the following are included or excluded:

• VAT (Value Added Tax) 

• Government levies and conservation fees 

• Game scout fees (often mandatory in Zimbabwe) 

• Park fees or concession fees 

• Dip & pack, taxidermy, and shipping 

• Charter flights and internal transfers 

In some cases, these costs are listed separately or added later, which can significantly increase the total price of the hunt.

The Real Total Cost

For many international hunters—particularly those traveling from the United States—the final cost of the hunt is often higher than the initial package price once all logistics are included.

This is not unusual, but it does need to be understood upfront.

A lower advertised price may not include:

• Mandatory government costs 

• Required scout fees 

• Internal travel 

• Export and shipping expenses 

Comparing hunts based only on the headline price can be misleading if the underlying structure is different.

Why Prices Vary

Zimbabwe offers more pricing flexibility than Botswana, but that flexibility comes with variation.

Lower-cost hunts may:

• Take place in higher-density areas 

• Offer more frequent encounters 

• Involve less selectivity in bull quality 

Higher-cost hunts are often tied to:

• Better-managed or more remote concessions 

• More experienced operators 

• Different expectations around bull selection and hunt conditions 

Price alone does not determine the quality of a hunt—but it often reflects the type of experience being offered.

What This Means for Hunters

Understanding pricing in Zimbabwe is not just about the total cost—it is about understanding how that cost is structured.

Before booking, hunters should be clear on:

• What is included vs excluded 

• How trophy fees are applied 

• What additional costs may arise during or after the hunt 

The goal is not to find the cheapest hunt—but to understand exactly what you are paying for, and how that aligns with your expectations.

Elephant Hunting Quota in Zimbabwe — Why Availability Is Higher

Zimbabwe operates under a different system than more restrictive elephant hunting countries, and this is one of the main reasons it remains the most accessible destination in Africa.

At the center of this system is the CAMPFIRE Programme.

Through this model, wildlife is managed at a local level, with rural communities directly benefiting from hunting revenue. Instead of quota being concentrated in a small number of concessions, it is distributed across multiple areas and operators.

In practical terms, this creates a very different reality for hunters.

• More outfitters have access to elephant permits 

• Quota is spread across a wider range of concessions 

• Hunts are available more consistently from year to year 

This does not mean quota is unlimited—but it does mean it is more accessible.

Unlike tightly controlled systems where availability is restricted to a handful of operators and specific areas, Zimbabwe offers a broader, more flexible structure. Hunts can be booked with shorter lead times, and there are more options when it comes to choosing area, operator, and timing.

That flexibility is a major advantage—but it also places more responsibility on the hunter.

Because there are more options, there is also more variation in quality between areas and operators. Understanding where quota is located—and what type of hunt that quota represents—is critical before making a decision.

Alternative Elephant Hunting Options in Zimbabwe (Tuskless & Non-Exportable Bulls)

Elephant hunting in Zimbabwe is not limited to large, exportable trophy bulls.

There are alternative hunting options that are often overlooked—but can be highly relevant depending on a hunter’s goals, budget, and import considerations.

These include:

• Tuskless cow hunts 

• Non-exportable bulls (including younger or broken-tusk animals) 

• Community quota animals allocated through local management systems 

These hunts exist for specific management and conservation reasons, but they also offer a very different type of hunting experience.

Tuskless Cow Hunts

Tuskless elephant hunts are a well-established part of Zimbabwe’s wildlife management system.

In some regions, a higher percentage of cows are naturally tuskless due to long-term genetic and environmental factors. These animals are included in quota to help manage population structure and reduce localized pressure on habitat.

From a hunting perspective, tuskless hunts are often misunderstood. They are not “easier” hunts. In many cases, they are more challenging—and in some situations, more dangerous—than hunting bulls.

Cows are typically encountered in breeding herds, not alone. This means:

• Multiple animals are present 

• Movement is less predictable 

• Pressure and awareness within the group is higher 

When a herd becomes alert or unsettled, reactions can be fast and collective. This creates situations where:

• Close-range encounters escalate quickly 

• Positioning becomes critical 

• Decision-making needs to be immediate and precise 

Unlike solitary bulls, which can often be approached more methodically, herd situations can change in seconds. For this reason, many professional hunters consider tuskless elephant hunts to be:

• Highly engaging 

• Technically demanding 

• In certain situations, more dangerous than bull hunts 

From a practical standpoint, tuskless hunts typically:

• Cost less than trophy bull hunts 

• Offer the same tracking-based experience 

• Do not involve ivory export 

They are often chosen by hunters who:

• Want the full elephant hunting experience 

• Are less focused on trophy ivory 

• Are working within a specific budget 

• Or are completing dangerous game species 

Non-Exportable Bulls

In addition to tuskless cows, some hunts focus on bulls that are not suitable for export.

This may include:

• Younger bulls 

• Bulls with broken or uneven tusks 

• Animals that fall outside export criteria 

These hunts are typically structured differently from traditional trophy hunts, but the core hunting experience remains the same.

Hunters can expect:

• Tracking on foot over long distances 

• Close-range encounters 

• High-pressure shot placement situations 

The key difference is that the hunt is not driven by ivory size, but by opportunity and experience. For many hunters, this creates a more flexible approach to elephant hunting—particularly when combined with other species on the same safari.

Community Quota Hunts

Zimbabwe’s quota system, including programs like the CAMPFIRE Programme, allows certain animals to be allocated through community-managed areas.

These hunts:

• Contribute directly to local communities 

• Are often priced differently from private concession hunts 

• May involve simpler infrastructure and more remote conditions 

They have become increasingly popular among hunters who:

• Want to complete the Dangerous 7 

• Prefer a more budget-conscious option 

• Are not dependent on trophy import 

In many cases, these hunts are less about trophy measurement and more about the overall hunting experience.

Why This Matters for Hunters

These alternative hunt types change how elephant hunting in Zimbabwe can be approached.

Instead of focusing only on large, exportable bulls, hunters have the option to:

• Prioritize experience over ivory 

• Hunt under different conditions and challenges 

• Structure a safari that includes multiple species, such as buffalo 

For some hunters, this results in a more balanced and rewarding overall safari.

A Note on Tuskless Genetics and Population Dynamics

In certain areas of Zimbabwe, higher numbers of tuskless cows are observed. This is linked to long-term genetic and environmental factors, including historical selective pressure in some populations.

From a hunting perspective, the key takeaway is not the biology—it is the implication. Not all elephant populations produce large ivory, and not all hunts are built around it.

Understanding this upfront allows hunters to:

• Set realistic expectations 

• Choose the right type of hunt 

• Avoid focusing on outcomes that may not match the area

Zimbabwe vs Botswana: Which Should You Choose?

For most hunters, this is the real decision. Zimbabwe and Botswana are often compared, but they operate very differently—and they are not interchangeable.

Zimbabwe

• More available hunts across multiple regions 

• Lower overall cost and broader pricing range 

• Greater flexibility in booking and timing 

• Wider range of operators and hunting areas 

Botswana

• Limited quota tied to specific concessions 

• Higher overall cost 

• Restricted access and longer booking timelines 

• More controlled, less flexible system 

In practical terms, the difference comes down to access versus exclusivity.

Zimbabwe offers:

• More realistic opportunities to secure a hunt 

• More flexibility in how and when you hunt 

• A wider range of experiences depending on area 

Botswana offers:

• Fewer permits 

• More controlled access 

• A more selective and limited hunting environment 

Neither is universally better—but they serve different types of hunters.

Zimbabwe is often the better choice for:

• First-time elephant hunters 

• Hunters working within a defined budget 

• Those who want a realistic chance of booking within a set timeframe 

• Hunters who value flexibility in choosing area and operator 

Botswana hunting is better suited to:

• Hunters specifically targeting that country 

• Those willing to wait for limited quota 

• Those prioritizing exclusivity over availability 

For most hunters, Zimbabwe is the starting point—not because it is easier, but because it is more achievable. In practice, many hunters structure their safari around more than just elephant.

In Zimbabwe, it is common to combine an elephant hunt with additional species, particularly plains game, which are widely available across many concessions at relatively accessible trophy fees.

For hunters who are not focused solely on ivory—or who choose options such as tuskless or non-exportable elephant hunts—this creates an opportunity to build a more balanced safari. Adding species such as plains game can significantly enhance the overall experience without dramatically increasing the total cost.

For a full breakdown of available species and options, see our guide to plains game hunting in Africa.

Who Zimbabwe Is Right For (And Who It Is Not)

Zimbabwe is one of the most reliable elephant hunting destinations in Africa—but it is not the right fit for every hunter.

Elephant hunting in Zimbabwe is well suited for:

• First-time elephant hunters looking for a realistic entry point 

• Hunters who want consistent availability and flexible booking options 

• Those comfortable with physically demanding, tracking-based hunts 

• Hunters who value experience and opportunity over exclusivity 

Hunting elephant in Zimbabwe is not ideal for:

• Hunters focused only on exceptional ivory size or record-class bulls 

• Those looking for highly exclusive, low-access hunting environments 

• Hunters expecting easy or guaranteed outcomes 

• Those unwilling to commit to long days on foot in demanding conditions 

This is where expectations matter most.

Zimbabwe offers real opportunity—but it does not remove the difficulty or unpredictability of elephant hunting. Success still depends on effort, patience, and decision-making in the field. Being clear about what you want from the hunt—and what you are willing to commit to—is one of the most important parts of planning it properly.

Import Considerations for U.S. Hunters

Import regulations are an important part of planning an elephant hunt in Zimbabwe, particularly for hunters traveling from the United States.

Key considerations include:

• CITES export permits issued by Zimbabwe 

• U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service import approval 

• Shipping, handling, and transit logistics 

While elephant hunting is legal and regulated in Zimbabwe, import approval into the United States is a separate process—and it is not always guaranteed. Regulations can change, and approval may depend on current policy at the time of export, not just at the time of the hunt.

Because of this, many experienced hunters:

• Confirm current import eligibility before booking 

• Work with outfitters and agents familiar with export procedures 

• Plan for potential delays in receiving trophies 

This is not something to address after the hunt—it should be part of the decision-making process from the beginning.

Common Mistakes When Booking Elephant Hunts in Zimbabwe

Mistakes in booking can significantly affect the outcome of an elephant hunt in Zimbabwe—and in many cases, those mistakes are not obvious until you are already in the field.

Most problems don’t come from the hunt itself. They come from decisions made before the hunt begins.

Choosing an area without understanding its characteristics

Not all regions offer the same experience. Elephant density, terrain, hunting pressure, and bull quality vary significantly between areas.

A hunter booking in a high-density area may expect large bulls but encounter mostly younger animals. In lower-density areas, the opposite can happen—fewer encounters, but potentially older bulls.

Understanding how each area actually hunts—not just how it is marketed—is critical.

Focusing only on price

Lower cost does not always mean better value. In Zimbabwe, pricing often reflects:

• The type of area being hunted 

• The level of management and pressure 

• The experience of the outfitter 

A lower-priced hunt may offer more frequent encounters but less selectivity. A higher-priced hunt may involve more difficult conditions with different expectations around bull quality.

Choosing based on price alone, without understanding what is included and what type of hunt it represents, is one of the most common mistakes.

Unrealistic expectations about trophy size

Large ivory exists—but it is not common, and it should not be assumed. Many hunters arrive expecting exceptional tusk size based on photos or marketing, without understanding how rare those bulls actually are.

In reality:

• Most bulls taken are representative of the area 

• Exceptional ivory is the exception, not the standard 

• Passing animals in search of larger tusks can significantly reduce overall success 

Clear expectations upfront are essential.

Not verifying quota availability properly

Even in Zimbabwe, where availability is higher, hunts are still tied to specific quota in specific areas. Not all operators have elephant quota every season, and not all quota offers the same opportunity.

Before booking, it is important to confirm:

• That quota is secured and allocated 

• The area where the hunt will take place 

• The type of bulls typically taken in that area 

Assuming availability without confirming details can lead to disappointment.

Overlooking import regulations

Import regulations are often treated as an afterthought—but they directly affect the long-term value of the hunt.

For international hunters, especially those from the United States:

• Import approval is not guaranteed 

• Regulations can change 

• Delays are possible 

Failing to understand this process before booking can lead to unexpected complications after the hunt is completed. Avoiding these mistakes comes down to one thing: understanding the details before committing—not after.

Final Verdict: Is Zimbabwe the Right Place to Hunt Elephant?

For most hunters, the question is not whether to hunt elephant in Africa—but where.

Zimbabwe is not the most exclusive destination, and it does not offer the controlled, limited-access model found in some other countries.

What it does offer is something different. It offers:

• Consistent, real-world availability 

• A wide range of hunting areas and conditions 

• A system where hunts are achievable, not just theoretical 

That comes with trade-offs. Not every area produces the same quality bulls. Not every hunt delivers the same experience. And success is never guaranteed.

But that is also what makes Zimbabwe what it is.

This is not a destination built around scarcity or exclusivity. It is built around opportunity, access, and the reality of hunting a free-ranging species under natural conditions. For international hunters—especially those traveling from the United States—Zimbabwe remains the most practical and reliable place to plan an elephant hunt that can actually happen.

It is not the easiest option. It is not the most selective option. But it is the option where most elephant hunts in Africa are still being conducted. For hunters who understand the variables, choose the right area, and approach the hunt with realistic expectations, Zimbabwe continues to deliver exactly what elephant hunting is supposed to be:

A demanding, unpredictable, and hard-earned experience—where success is not assumed, but achieved.