Hunting Impala in South Africa

South Africa is renowned for its exceptional and diverse range of wildlife species, including its African plains game trophies. Amongst them, is the medium-sized impala (Aepyceros melampus). The impala, also known as the “rooibok” (red buck) is found in eastern and southern Africa, inhabiting areas such as woodlands and savannas that not only give it plenty of cover against predators but also provide sufficient grazing areas. Africa is home to three subspecies of impala, with the southern impala (Aepyceros melampus melampus) available to hunt in South Africa. In South Africa, they are also referred to as the “McDonalds of the bush” because of the sheer number of impala in the area, as well as them being prime targets for hungry predators. The IUCN status for the impala is that of “least concern.” This graceful antelope is a much-adored game hunting trophy that is often targeted by hunters on their first African hunt. Although there is no restriction on impala hunting in South Africa, the best time to target them is during the drier season, from May to August. The Limpopo and Eastern Cape provinces are prime grounds for an impala hunt. They are most active during the cooler parts of the day, early morning and late afternoon when they are grazing. Hunting methods for this antelope include targeting them from a blind overlooking water, or the more difficult option due to the number of eyes and ears on alert, is to stalk the herd until you are within range.