The impala (Aepyceros melampus) is a common species often targeted during African plains game hunting in Botswana. Impalas are known to inhabit east and southern Africa, and they are often included as a target on an African hunt, especially for less experienced hunters. Nothing compares to a great impala hunting trophy, and with their exceptional sense of smell and keen eyesight, they remain a challenging hunt regardless of your hunting experience. The southern impala (Aepyceros melampus melampus) is available for impala hunts, with the best locations to enjoy an impala hunting safari being the forested areas of the Okavango Delta and the eastern section of the country. The area’s woodlands and the edge of the savannas provide a good and diverse habitat for this herbivorous antelope to thrive in. It is a medium-sized antelope, with a reddish-brown coat and a white underbelly, weighing 110-160 pounds. A black stripe runs down the bottom of its tail, with a black vertical stripe running down the back of each of the animal’s thighs. Only the males of the species have horns, that reach between 16-35 inches and are lyre-shaped. The IUCN status for the impala is that of “least concern.” Botswana’s hunting season runs from April to September. The impala are water-dependent animals and are most active during the cooler times of the day, in the early morning and late afternoon. This is also the best time to target them when they are grazing with the herd or heading to drink. Hunting methods for this antelope include targeting them from a blind overlooking water, or stalking the herd until you are within range. This is a more challenging option, as impala are very wary and alert. They tend to stay in their herd, with multiple animals on the lookout for danger, making the importance of a good stalk even more key.