Hunting in Ethiopia is certainly not for every Tom, Dick, and Harry, but rather a unique and distinctly customized game hunting destination. Ethiopian hunting safaris are designed for hunters seeking a unique experience with rare species, in a destination renowned for its memorable landscapes, experiences, and challenges. Are you keen?

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Key Takeaways

• Hunting in Ethiopia is an extremely exclusive African hunting safari, with only around 50 hunters having the privilege each year
• Hunting in this African gem is available from 1 August to 31 July the following year
• The best time to go hunting in Ethiopia is from October to June
• July to September is the rainy season in Ethiopia, making hunting in the region very challenging
• Ethiopia is home to a wide array of species, including certain rare and endemic species such as the Soemmerring’s Gazelle and Menelik’s Bushbuck.

Why Consider Hunting in Ethiopia?

While an African hunting safari needs to tick all the boxes to meet a hunter’s objectives, hunting in Ethiopia is an experience not enjoyed by large crowds, but rather a more intimate and tailored experience for those in search of a more select hunting safari. Let’s be honest here, an Ethiopian hunting safari is not cheap, but it is aimed at a select group of hunting collectors wanting to enjoy an exclusive experience, hunting unique and somewhat rare species, in challenging terrain, to test their skillset against a variety of prey.

Let’s take a look at what makes this destination so sought-after, and why it is seen as one of Africa’s premier game hunting locations.

Easy Access

Ethiopia is easily accessible with many international flights landing daily in the country’s capital, Addis Ababa. Direct flights from the US, Europe, and African destinations into Ethiopia are the norm, with airlines including Ethiopian Airlines, South African Airways, and numerous other European airlines. The airport is currently expanding to handle the large amounts of traffic through the region.

Few Hunts Undertaken

On average, Ethiopia welcomes around 50 hunters per annum. The government has instituted a stringent quota system, minimizing the number of hunts allowed, and therefore putting a hefty price tag on the available hunting safaris. Hunting in Ethiopia is exclusive, and certainly not cheap; you pay for the privilege of enjoying an Ethiopian safari. Yet, safaris in this African destination are often booked years in advance.

Rare and Unique Species

Hunting in Ethiopia is not simply the pleasure of an authentic African hunt, although it most definitely ticks that box. Rather, this exclusive experience allows hunters to hunt both rare and unique species such as the Mountain Nyala, Gerenuk, Lesser Kudu, Soemmerring’s Gazelle, Beisa Oryx, and Abyssinian Bushbuck. Hunting these species in challenging conditions, testing a hunter’s skills, patience, and perseverance, is what it’s all about!

Big Game & Tiny Game…and Everything in Between!

Ethiopian hunting safaris include both big, dangerous game options and tiny game. From members of the Big 5, such as the Lion and Leopard, to tiny antelopes, such as the Klipspringer and Salt’s Dik-dik, Ethiopia’s array of species is diverse.

The region is also renowned for its African plains game, including the Giant Forest Hog, Warthog, Bushpig, Defassa Waterbuck, Mountain Reedbuck, Guenter’s Dik-dik, and Grant’s Gazelle. Specialty animals such as some species of Old-World Monkeys, Ostriches, and Jackals (black-backed and side-striped), Civets, and Genets are also available on Ethiopian safaris.

Conservation Efforts

Ethiopia has implemented numerous conservation efforts to protect endangered species and habitats that are under threat. Your hunting safari contributes to initiatives and programs to assist in conservation efforts.

Unusual Trophies

Ethiopia is home to a wide and unusual array of species. From the long-necked Gerenuk, rare Abyssinian Bushbuck, and Beisa Oryx, to the distinctive array of Old-World monkeys and Salt’s Dik-Dik, hunting in Ethiopia is certainly diverse. Not only that, but it caters to many hunters’ choice trophies, ready to join game hunting trophy rooms across the world.

Diverse Ecosystems

Ethiopia is home to an amazing array of landscapes. From forests and rivers, savannas and wetlands, to mountains and deserts, Ethiopia’s landscapes support diverse ecosystems, game, and hunting experiences.  

Unfenced & Authentic

Unlike many other African countries, game hunting in Ethiopia takes place in unfenced areas. Hunting areas are large, wild, open, and unfenced, allowing hunters to experience authentic African hunts of old.

Hunting Throughout the Year

With a hunting season that runs from August 1 to July 31, the following year, hunting occurs year-round in Ethiopia. The peak hunting season is from October to June, which in turn is the dry season and allows for less challenging hunting experiences.

Exceptional Outfitters

Ethiopian Outfitters are seen as some of the best worldwide. Many outfitters have multi-generational family-owned businesses that offer exceptional client service and customized hunting experiences. You can be assured of only the best treatment during an Ethiopian hunting safari. Some of the Ethiopian outfitters have also received international accolades, such as Professional Hunter of the Year, an award from SCI International. This is just one way that their reputation of being world-class is reinforced.

Tasting Traditional Cuisine

While on your African hunt, you can expect to taste some local delicacies. From wat (traditional meat stew) to tibs (sauteed meat served with onions, garlic, peppers, and traditional Ethiopian butter), and traditional injera (sourdough flatbread), hunters are in for a tantalizing feast. Outfitters ensure that fresh ingredients are used. Traditional meals are usually eaten by hand in a large communal setting. A traditional meal is a culinary delight, allowing hunters to delve into the heritage and culture of this African nation.

Accommodation

From safari-type bungalow or chalet accommodation to fly camps in remote areas, hunters can expect rustic but comfortable accommodation options during a safari.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal to hunt in Ethiopia?

Yes, hunting in Ethiopia is legal. The game hunting season in the country runs from 1 August to 31 July the following year, with some restrictions in place for certain types of game.

Do I need a license to hunt in Ethiopia?

A license is required for an Ethiopian hunting safari. This is arranged before you hunt, and the application is handled by the African outfitter. It is issued by the Ethiopian Wildlife Department, and the cost varies by the species that will be hunted. A prerequisite to obtaining the hunting license is your firearm permit, which will be issued by the Ministry of Internal Security. This will also be arranged by your African outfitter.

When does Ethiopia’s hunting season run?

Hunting in Ethiopia is available throughout the year, except for certain species that have restrictions, such as the Nile crocodile, which has seasonal restrictions.

Is night hunting allowed in Ethiopia?

Yes, night hunting in Ethiopia is legal for certain species. Night hunting with artificial lights is only allowed for nocturnal species such as Lions, Leopards, Jackals, Hyenas, and smaller cat species such as the Serval and Genet. Hunting non-nocturnal species at night is strictly prohibited.

When is the best time to enjoy an Ethiopian safari hunt?

While hunting in Ethiopia varies according to region and species targeted, hunting is available throughout the year. The terrain of the region differs greatly, and hunts are best undertaken during the optimal times for that particular region. For example, Highland species, such as the Mountain Nyala, are best hunted during the dry season when tracking is easier. This sees October through to February being the optimal time to hunt in the Highlands. In contrast, the desert and savanna regions are best suited for hunting during the cooler months and are home to species such as the Nile Buffalo, Lesser Kudu, and Abyssinian Bushbuck.

Can I enjoy night hunting in Ethiopia?

No, Ethiopia doesn’t permit night hunting; all hunting needs to be undertaken during daylight hours.

Can I take my firearm with me for my Ethiopian hunting safari?

• Yes, you may import your firearm into Ethiopia. Your African outfitter will assist you with this, and it needs to be arranged 1-2 months before your hunting trip.
• Your Outfitter requires all relevant information relating to the firearm, including the model, make, and serial number, as well as the caliber/gauge. A copy of your passport and a passport photograph are also needed. A fee is charged for this service. Speak to your Outfitter directly to confirm the amount.
• Up to three firearms per hunter can be imported for trophy hunting safaris.
• There are no caliber restrictions, but automatic and semi-automatic firearms are prohibited.
• While you can bring in an unlimited amount of ammunition, airlines do have restrictions, so check with your airline carrier.
• Airlines usually allow 120 rounds per rifle and 200 shells per shotgun, but check with your specific carrier.

Is bow hunting legal in Ethiopia?

Yes, you are allowed to enjoy bow hunting in this African destination, while most available species can be hunted using a bow.

Can you hunt dangerous game in Ethiopia?

Dangerous game hunting in Ethiopia is possible. Members of Africa’s Big 5 and Dangerous 7, such as the Lion, Leopard, Crocodile, and Buffalo, can be hunted in the region.

Conclusion

Ethiopian hunting safaris allow hunters to test their skills in new environments, offer challenging conditions, exquisite landscapes with unfenced hunting areas, as well as rare and unusual species. From their arrival in Addis Ababa, a wild, untamed, and authentic African hunting safari awaits. Will you be one of the 50 hunters annually who get to experience this adrenaline-filled safari?