Giraffe Hunting Incl 3 x Spiral Horn, 10 x Days in Zimbabwe
Booking Season: 2026
Hunt Difficulty: Moderate, Difficult
Designed by Hunters, for Hunters
Zimbabwe is a pristine wildlife destination, offering hunters the choice of game hunting species in this diverse hunting location. But one African plains game species that is definitely worth a second glance and adding to that bucket list is the giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis). A revered and iconic African plains game species, the giraffe stands between 16-20 feet tall and weighs up to 4,200 pounds. Africa is home to four species of giraffes (northern giraffe, southern giraffe, Masai giraffe, and reticulated giraffe). The southern giraffe comprises two sub-species, namely the Angolan giraffe and the South African giraffe. When on a hunting safari in Zimbabwe, you will target the South African giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis giraffa). As the world’s tallest mammal, giraffes do tend to stick out like a sore thumb in the bush with their long legs and elongated necks, although their coats do assist in camouflaging them. Giraffes have a light-colored coat that is covered with irregularly shaped brownish-red patches that are scattered across their entire bodies. Both males and females have horns, which are used in both self-defense and fighting, as well as a short mane, and a tufted tail, together with legs that reach over 6 feet! Zimbabwe’s terrain and landscapes provide the perfect habitat for giraffes. The region’s diverse landscapes, including savannas, grasslands, and woodlands provide sufficient food, shelter, and water for this majestic African plains game species. This herbivorous mammal gains most of its moisture intake through the plants they ingest, but still require adequate water supplies in the vicinity.
Prime and popular locations for giraffe hunting in Zimbabwe are in the western and southern regions of the country. Giraffe hunting is a challenging safari, with the animal’s height, combined with its keen eyesight and hearing providing a difficult stalk for hunting enthusiasts. The giraffe is listed by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as being vulnerable.
Shot Placement while Giraffe Hunting in Zimbabwe
Shot placement on this African plains game species, as with any other hunting safari, is paramount. Ensure that you are well-versed in giraffe anatomy before your hunting safari. A hunter should concentrate on a heart or lung shot, with the shot directed at the bottom third of the giraffe, directly above the shoulder.
What Caliber Rifle is Used When Hunting Giraffe in Zimbabwe?
A large caliber rifle such as a .376 H & H Magnum or .426 Rigby is recommended, as the giraffe is not only very large but also has a very thick skin to penetrate. Bow hunting is legal in Zimbabwe, speak to your African outfitter to confirm the specific requirements and regulations.
Giraffe hunting is not your everyday plains game safari. It’s a unique experience, massive in scale, physically demanding, and deeply rewarding for seasoned hunters who respect the game and the environment. Zimbabwe offers one of the most professional and ethical giraffe hunting experiences in Africa, with vast, free-range concessions, expert PHs, and a strong conservation framework backing every hunt.
If you’re looking to add a truly iconic trophy to your collection, giraffe hunting in Zimbabwe is where scale meets substance.
Zimbabwe is home to healthy giraffe populations across well-managed hunting blocks, particularly in the lowveld and southern regions. Hunting is conducted under national quotas with tight permit control, ensuring conservation-first safari ethics.
Here’s why Zimbabwe is a prime destination for giraffe hunting:
This is a high-value, low-pressure hunt that adds dimension and distinction to your African safari.
Despite their calm appearance, giraffe are not easy prey. They are alert, intelligent, and can cover ground quickly when pressured. The hunt requires careful stalking, shot discipline, and respect for the animal’s sheer size.
Hunting Method:
You’ll typically spend time glassing from a distance, identifying a mature bull, and planning your approach based on terrain and wind.
Giraffe hunting requires serious caliber and correct shot placement.
Given the giraffe’s height, elevation matters, most shots are taken at an upward angle. Ethical, clean kills are essential due to the animal’s size and weight.
Top giraffe hunting regions include:
These areas offer wild conditions, experienced trackers, and access to full-service safari camps.
The giraffe hunting season in Zimbabwe runs from April to October, with May through August offering the best conditions, dry weather, improved visibility, and higher game movement.
The heat is manageable, and with less vegetation cover, it’s easier to track giraffe herds and identify trophy bulls.
Game Hunting Safaris packages include everything needed for a smooth, professional experience:
Giraffe hunts are typically booked as 7- to 10-day safaris, often paired with other plains game for maximum value and adventure.
Ethical giraffe hunting plays a critical conservation role in Zimbabwe. By issuing regulated permits to responsible operators, the government is able to:
Every hunt contributes to long-term wildlife preservation, land protection, and rural job creation.
Giraffe hunting is an experience you’ll never forget:
Whether you’re expanding your plains game collection or planning a return trip to Africa, giraffe hunting in Zimbabwe offers an unforgettable chapter in your hunting legacy. With expert PHs, remote wildlands, and a species unlike any other, this is Africa at its most iconic.
Reach out today. Let’s build a giraffe safari that goes the distance, just like the animal itself.
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