Choosing a hunting safari in Africa is something many American hunters plan on doing, and while choosing your desired game might be the main focus, a close second should be the place you’ll call home for the duration of your hunt. Hunting lodges in Africa offer a variety of accommodation options, from bush camps and self-catering chalets to five-star villas and resorts that truly provide that "home away from home" feeling. The modern hunting trip often includes family members or other non-hunters who join in to share the African experience. And while you're out in the bushveld, you should have peace of mind knowing that they are well taken care of and enjoying their own activities in a safe and comfortable environment.
Just like Africa has an animal for every hunter, Africa also has a lodge to suit everyone’s needs, budget, and comfort level.
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Key Takeaways
- Game hunting accommodation in Africa provides various options to suit any hunter's needs
- Hunting lodges in Africa range from basic bush camps to five-star resort-style sites
- American hunters can be assured of comfortable and safe accommodation
- Travelers should consider their specific needs alongside the practicality of their accommodation
- Hunting safari lodges and camps provide various services for both hunters and their companions on the trip
Types of Hunting Lodges in Africa: From the Ritz to the Bushveld
Hunting lodges in Africa differ in appearance and experiences offered, ranging from brick-and-mortar buildings to tented sites that are set up temporarily. Whether you're looking for premium comfort or true first-hand experience in the African bush, there is a lodge or "pozzie" (colloquial slang for someone's home) for everyone and every budget.
Permanent Lodges or “Villas”
These lodges can generally be found within a national park or concession, or very near to its borders. They know how to cater to the game hunting market and can provide private accommodations for American hunters and their companions. Hunting lodges in Africa are larger than other camp options and can offer hotel-style accommodation for big groups or multiple parties at the same time.
Villas are typically individual structures that can be privately rented, providing hunters with a real homely environment in which to stay. A villa typically serves smaller groups (fewer than 10). These options can be self-catering or include room service and private chef services.
Both lodges and villas offer hunters and their groups access to amenities such as private swimming pools, free Wi-Fi, transportation services, children's entertainment, and spa facilities, to name but a few.
Hotels and Guesthouses: On-site or Away
These are permanent accommodation options, either as part of a franchise or privately owned, that offers guests a more hotel-like environment to lodge in while still being within reach of the hunting farm or concession. These options are typically located near airports, shopping malls, and other services that we prefer to have within reach. Large family groups can reserve several rooms, allowing non-hunters to enjoy amenities such as swimming pools, fitness facilities, and entertainment options. Smaller groups and solo travelers can enjoy these facilities while being near their hunting destination. African outfitters will either organize transportation or drive the group directly to and from the accommodation.
Eco-lodges
These hunting safari options typically include permanent accommodation structures that prioritize environmental friendliness. They are often constructed from natural materials, including mud bricks, thatch roofs, and wooden structures meant to blend in with the surrounding environment. African outfitters with these camps ensure that any electricity or water supplied to the site is as sustainable as possible, using solar or wind power as well as rainwater harvesting and water recycling.
These camps are rustic yet comfortable, encouraging guests to relax and embrace a simpler, less intrusive lifestyle. Even if only for a short while.
Seasonal and Temporary Camps
These hunting lodges in Africa are a more "permanent" form of the tented camp. Seasonal camps often use canvas tents that are typically secured to a concrete or permanent base. These tents generally offer more formal amenities, such as plumbed open-air toilets and private showers. They also come equipped with proper beds that include a frame and mattress, along with basic furniture and storage space. Seasonal camps are set up specifically for the hunting season or remain until the rainy season, when the area may become inaccessible to hunters. These options will introduce you to the African concept of the "boma," a central cooking and dining room or tent where meals are prepared and served in a communal setting to encourage interaction and conversation.
These camps can be welcoming to families due to the available amenities and the safety provided by group sizes.
Mobile Camps
Often termed "glamping," these camps are a step up from fly sites while still being "down to Earth" and offering hunters a unique experience. Mobile camps typically stand for a few days at a time before being disassembled and relocated to the next spot, allowing modern-day hunters a chance to experience the golden era of African game hunting. Temporary hunting lodges in Africa are formed by canvas tent quarters, communal cooking and dining areas (often around the central campfire), as well as more "formal" bathroom amenities like portable camping showers and toilets.
These will also often have some form of electrical supply, allowing campers to charge their phones or other devices using solar-generated power. Unlike fly camps, these camps are typically set up by a dedicated team from the outfitter or lodge, who will dismantle and relocate the camp as necessary.
On-the-fly Sites
These "lodges" are truly temporary, often set up one day and taken down the next once the hunting party moves out. Fly camps are designed to have minimal impact on the environment and do not provide many of the comforts found in other types of accommodation. Shelter can consist of proper canvas tents or may simply be made from mosquito netting secured over a wooden frame or rope supports. Amenities are basic; responding to nature's call requires your own toilet paper and a shovel, and bedding will be minimal. These camps are often erected by the African outfitters and hunters themselves, or by a dedicated crew who will pack up the site to be erected at the next stopover. Food is normally prepared over an open fire or on portable gas cookers, and while still satisfying and no doubt tasty, these meals likely won't be winning any Michelin stars.
These types of camps give game hunting enthusiasts the chance to channel their inner “cowboy” and experience the true reality of the African wild.
How to Choose the Best Accommodation for your Hunting Safari
Choosing the right hunting safari package is one thing, but American hunters have another checklist to consider when looking at their hunting accommodation. While the safari is chosen according to skill level and chosen opportunity, picking the eventual “basecamp” is a bit more of a personal affair.
It’s always wise to contact the African outfitters involved to get a full list of services included in the safari and accommodation package to avoid any unforeseen expenses or inconveniences.
Amenities or accessibility needed
There are those in the world who can’t let go of their creature comforts, like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, fitness facilities, and four-wall rooms. These needs (or desires) will impact the choice of accommodation booked before other factors are considered. Another checkbox to consider is accessibility. Many hunting lodges in Africa are in areas that require 4x4 or "off-road" type travel on gravel roads or tracks; so, unless the outfitter is providing transport, hunters will need to be confident in their abilities traveling to and from their destination.
Another aspect of accessibility is to be considerate of anyone who has handicaps or limitations in their abilities. Booking lodgings on one level can benefit those who battle with stairs or have mobility issues, while having full and proper bathroom facilities can go a long way in ensuring comfort and lessening the risk of injury (not everyone is capable of “going in a hole” or showering in a makeshift cubicle).
Party Members
When travelling solo or with a hunting group, sacrifices can be made in terms of comfort level and luxury, but when family members or non-hunters are part of the excursion, things are somewhat different. Some African outfitters only allow active hunters to participate in the activity, meaning no "watchers" are allowed on the hunt, and may even be excluded from fly sites or temporary camps for reasons of safety and efficiency.
Having non-hunters around often means that other entertainment or activity options need to be made available, as well as a higher or different expectation of comfort.
Destination
The choice of hunting lodges in Africa is also largely dependent on the location of the hunt. Hunting safari in very rural or far-flung farms requires vehicle-based travel, which can include long drives and "wasted time" if the hunter chooses accommodation too far away. Game hunting outfitters often have contacts with accommodation options in the area that can benefit hunters by keeping them close by and immersed in the local environment.
Budget
Probably one of the biggest factors to consider is how much you’re willing to spend (or have available to spend) on your safari shelter. Formal lodges, resorts, and "glamping" offerings are more costly than self-catering or more casual sites. Including hunting accommodation in your overall package is a great advantage. Those who book accommodation separately from the hunt will need to do thorough research or seek recommendations from their outfitter.
Services Included or Available
The best way to ascertain this is to get a full list of services included in the price of your hunting digs. Services such as catering, whether all meals or select ones, laundry services, and transport can either be inclusive in the offering or offered as an extra. By knowing exactly what's available or what you're getting, you can make the best determination on whether a lodge or camp is the best fit for you and your hunting safari.
Things American hunters Need to Consider and Remember
Crucial Items to have On Hand
Some things are easy to forget or overlook when packing, either when at home or rolling out for the day. Be sure to double-check the below, as well as any other preferred items you'd like to have on hand during your game hunting expedition.
- Passport, visa, and any hunting permits, letters, or licenses – these can be requested at any time by law enforcement or game management.
- Gun license and permit/proof of ownership – these can also be checked on by wildlife management officials at their discretion.
- Phone charger and plug point adaptor – while these items could be replaced or purchased in bigger metropolitan areas, the more rural side of Africa is likely not to carry these items. Bring your own, and be sure to pack a spare if needed.
- Power bank – while most accommodation options will have some form of electrical supply, packing a backup could come in handy for those days where things just go sideways.
- Extra clothing – laundry serviced can be readily available depending on your accommodation option, but an extra set or a couple of spare items won't hurt.
Access to Electricity Supplies and the Internet
Formal lodges, resorts, and other "permanent" forms of lodgings generally have reliable and freely available electrical supply and Wi-Fi. Most other hunting lodges in Africa have or supplement their supply with solar /wind power, which could cause minor outages or spotty supply. Internet and cellphone coverage in the bush can be virtually non-existent, so be prepared for no bars and zero social media.
Always check with your American network provider for available international travel options, which could include a separate prepaid SIM card or an international travel plan with Internet and credits for calling or texting.
Medical Needs
To the American hunters who use glasses or contact lenses, BRING A SPARE PAIR OR TWO. To be stuck in the bush while partially sighted or with limited vision will not be good, both for the hunt and your overall experience. For chronic medications, bring an extra copy of your prescription and a doctor's letter. Most urban pharmacies or drugstores should provide an emergency refill if needed.
For those who require insulin or Epi-Pens for allergies, always ensure you have a supply with you and have someone around who can administer a dose if needed. Always advise your outfitter or accommodation facility of any allergies or dietary needs.
A Final Word
Hunting lodges in Africa have come a long way from the days of Selous and Roosevelt. Luxury resorts are commonplace, and those looking to tough it out in the wild can pick from a variety of camping options. Choosing the correct game hunting accommodation for your needs will go a long way to making you feel comfortable and confident in your safari. And if you're feeling a bit overwhelmed or unsure about what would suit your needs, contact your outfitter or broker for advice; it's something they're there for.
Happy hunting!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are laundry services available? How much clothing do I need to pack?
"Formal" accommodation options, such as permanent lodges and resorts, offer laundry services, sometimes daily. Others may offer a service to collect from your bush camp, return to the lodge, and deliver the clean laundry back to the camp. In these instances, a normal amount of packing is sufficient.
When travelling far off the beaten track, laundry amenities may not be available until you arrive at the next nearby village or town. In these times, packing a couple of extra items will come in handy.
Can I pay using my bank card? Do I need to carry cash?
Many hunting lodges in Africa will have card facilities available, especially resorts or lodges where restaurants and bars are part of the package. In many African countries, tipping culture is encouraged among the "service staff" like porters, guides, accommodation assistants, waiters/servers, etc. In these instances, carrying cash denominations would be necessary, unless the tip can be added to the overall bill and shared with the relevant person afterwards.
African countries like Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Botswana, and Zambia make use of the US dollar, and this currency can be preferred amongst workers. So while carrying a small amount of local currency will be needed, American hunters can also make use of their dollars when tipping or paying for services at particular points.
Please note that additional bank charges may apply for international card payments or withdrawals.
Can non-hunters stay in the same accommodation facility?
In many instances, family or friends along for the trip are welcome at the same lodge or site where you will be staying. More often than not, these facilities will have activities available to non-hunters such as local tourism options, game drives/walks, and even spa, pool, or fitness amenities, depending on the type of accommodation.
Some outfitters allow non-hunters or observers to participate in the hunt itself, but it is advisable to check with your hunting safari outfitter, as some prefer to work only with hunters. Especially when dangerous game hunting is involved, or when smaller numbers benefit the hunt.
Will there be access to medical facilities/services?
Naturally, as one ventures deeper into the bushveld or rural regions, access to top-rated modern medical services becomes scarce. However, many main lodges, resorts, or camps will have contact details for local medical offices or centers should they be needed. Should you be injured in the wild, many regions require PHs to have a form of first-aid training, so in the heat of the moment, they should be able to assist until further help arrives (if needed).