Hunting Safaris in Africa: what’s included and what it really costs

Thinking about hunting safaris in Africa and want the truth—no vague pricing, no guesswork? You’re in good hands. Game Hunting Safaris connects U.S. hunters with vetted outfitters across South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Zambia, Mozambique, and Botswana. We show real packages, real dates, and a clear picture of what’s included versus what sits in the add-ons column. No myths. Just the hunt.

If you’re ready to compare packages by country, species, weapon, and dates, head to our live African Hunts hub. If you’d like a refresher on hunt styles first—plains game vs dangerous game—browse Plains Game and Dangerous Game for current listings.

What’s actually included (and what isn’t)

Most African hunting safari packages follow a simple rule: your daily rates cover the experience; trophy fees cover the animals you take. All-inclusive packages roll more into one price, but the parts remain the same. Here’s the clean breakdown.

Common inclusions (daily rates or package base)

• Lodging at safari hunting lodges (private room/chalet, daily housekeeping)
• All meals (hearty breakfasts, field lunches, full dinners) and non-alcoholic drinks
• Licensed Professional Hunter (PH), tracker(s), skinner(s), and hunting vehicle
• Field prep of trophies (skinning, salting, tagging for dip & ship)
• Daily laundry at most lodges
• Airport pickup and drop-off from the nearest regional hub
• Wi-Fi where available (varies by remoteness)

Typical add-ons (booked or paid separately)

• Trophy fees per species (see “trophy fees explained” below)
• Taxidermy or dip & ship, U.S. import brokerage, and domestic delivery
• Ammo (if using an outfitter rifle), range time, or special equipment
• Premium drinks and special wine/spirits
• Extra days, private vehicle upgrades, or premium chalet
• Gratuities for PH, trackers/skinners, and lodge staff
• Special permits/government fees where applicable

All inclusive hunting safari Africa options roll daily rates, a set list of species (or credits), and ground transfers into one price. They’re great for first-timers who want a crisp number. We’ll show both styles so you can compare apples to apples.

Trophy fees explained (the short version you actually need)

A trophy fee is paid only when you successfully take that animal. Fees reflect species availability, area quality, and management goals. You’ll agree a target list before the hunt; if conditions change (weather, movement), your PH may recommend a sensible swap. You’re always in control.

• Plains game fees: usually $250–$2,900 per species, depending on rarity/size class
• Dangerous game fees: vary widely—buffalo often in the low-to-mid five figures; leopard/elephant depend on quota and permit status

We’ll present package examples with transparent trophy fees and realistic shot opportunities for your dates and area.

What it really costs (USD ranges you can plan around)

Plains game (South Africa or Namibia)

• 5–7 day classic package (3–5 species): $3,900–$6,900 ground cost
• Family or all-inclusive 7–10 days: $6,500–$9,800 ground cost
• Observer (non-hunter) rates: typically $150–$300/night

Dangerous game (area-dependent)

• 7–10 day buffalo hunt: $12,000–$22,000 (excluding flights/taxidermy/tips)
• Leopard, elephant, hippo/croc: priced per block and quota; enquire for current status

Flights, tips, and taxidermy/export sit on top. We’ll send a neat line-item estimate once you shortlist a lodge and species mix.

A day-by-day sample schedule (so you can picture it)

Every area has its rhythm, but safari hunting itinerary days share a familiar cadence. Here’s a 7-day plains game example. Adjust times for season and your pace.

Arrival Day (D0)

• Land at the regional hub; meet your PH at arrivals.
• Road transfer to the lodge (1–4 hours typical in SA/Namibia).
• Check rifles at the range; confirm zero. Dinner, safety brief, early bed.

Day 1

• Coffee at first light. Out before sunrise.
• Spot-and-stalk or slow roll, glassing springbok/impala/wildebeest.
• Midday rest; afternoon stalk for kudu or zebra.
• Dinner, plan for wind and water for Day 2.

Day 2

• Early move to new sector. Track into cover; careful shot angles.
• Midday skinning shed visit to see field prep.
• Optional hide sit near water if temperatures rise.

Day 3

• Target the priority species you haven’t taken yet.
• If bowhunting, time in a proven blind in dry months.
• Optional observer day trip arranged from the lodge (see below).

Day 4

• Flex day—switch to a neighboring property (with permission) for a specific animal.
• Evening sundowner; bush dinner if weather plays along.

Day 5

• Mop-up day for remaining species; extra stalks for upgraded quality.
• Quick trophy photos with proper care and handling.

Day 6

• Free morning or additional stalk.
• Pack, settle gratuities, confirm trophy tags and paperwork.

Departure Day (D7)

• Breakfast; transfer to airport; PH assistance at rifle check-in if traveling with firearms.

Dangerous game weeks add more tracking time, earlier starts, and tighter safety protocols, but the flow remains clear and calm.

Non-hunter options (keep everyone smiling)

Bringing family or a friend who doesn’t hunt? Good call. Non hunter rates Africa make it practical, and the experience is richer when you share it.

Typical choices for observers

• Game drives and photo sessions on or near the property
• Local craft markets, heritage sites, or conservation centers
• Spa treatments (select lodges)
• Day trips to national parks or nearby attractions
• Kids’ activities around camp (pool, short bush walks with a guide)

Observers can ride along on the vehicle or relax at the lodge—your call. We’ll shortlist safari hunting lodges that genuinely welcome families and have proper non-hunter activities.

Photo-safari add-ons (easy wins, huge memories)

• Kruger or Pilanesberg (South Africa): fits perfectly after a Limpopo/North West hunt
• Etosha (Namibia): iconic landscapes, elephants at waterholes
• Chobe/Okavango (Botswana): river cruises and big herds (availability varies)
• Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe/Zambia): a must if you’re nearby

Tell us your wish list—big cats on camera, elephants at water, river boat scenes—and we’ll align the route.

Best month for safari hunting (honest timing)

• South Africa & Namibia: April–September are prime (cool, dry).
• Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique: May–October sings for both plains and DG.
• Tanzania: many classic blocks peak July–October.

If you’re tied to U.S. school holidays, say the dates; we’ll match blocks where that window performs and look for shoulder-season value.

Daily rates vs packages (how to choose fast)

• Daily rates + trophy fees: more control, pay only for what you take; ideal if you like flexibility or want one marquee animal plus a few add-ons.
• Packages (all-inclusive or semi-inclusive): cleaner budget, faster decision; perfect for hunting safari in Africa first-timers.

Either way, ask us for a clear safari hunting daily rates sheet and a parallel package quote for the same lodge. Ten minutes later, you’ll know which path suits you.

1x1 vs 2x1 guided African hunts (what’s right for you)

• 1x1 (one hunter, one PH): maximum focus and flexibility. Great for specific goals or mixed weapon setups.
• 2x1 (two hunters, one PH): shared vehicle, excellent value, social vibe. Plan species so both hunters get quality stalks.

Firearms, bows, and gear (just the essentials)

• Rifle calibers that work: .308, .30-06, 7mm class for plains game; .375 H&H+ for buffalo.
• Bowhunting: focus on proven blinds in dry months or close-range stalks; bring broadheads your PH approves.
• Gear: neutral clothing, broken-in boots, binoculars, rangefinder, headlamp, soft rifle sleeve for vehicle rides.

Prefer to travel light? Many lodges have reliable rental rifles and quality optics. We’ll confirm inventory and ammo before you decide.

Gratuities (budget without awkwardness)

Tipping is customary. Scale for length of stay, service, and species taken. As a ballpark for a 5–7 day plains game hunt:

• PH: $70–$120 per hunting day (or $500–$900 per week)
• Trackers/Skinners (team): $150–$300 per week
• Lodge Staff (shared): $150–$300 per week
• Driver/Transfers: $20–$50 depending on distance

Dangerous game weeks usually sit higher for the PH and track team.

Quick FAQ (straight answers)

Are there true all-inclusive options?
Yes. Several lodges offer all inclusive hunting safari Africa packages with daily rates, species credits, and transfers bundled. We’ll show both inclusive and a-la-carte versions.

What about legalities and import/export?
We keep you squared away with temporary firearm permits (where needed), dip & ship partners, and U.S. brokers. You’ll see each step, before you book.

How do I bring a non-hunter?
Easy—add an observer at $150–$300/night. We’ll stack your week with short trips and downtime so everyone enjoys it.

Can I mix plains game with a buffalo add-on?
In some areas, yes. We’ll confirm quota, realistic shot chances, and whether a combo makes sense for your dates.

Ready to plan? Here’s the next right step

Compare real, current listings on the African Hunts hub.

If you’re leaning South Africa or Namibia (smart for value and variety), browse South Africa and Namibia for packages and dates.

After dangerous game? Start with Dangerous Game and we’ll talk quotas and blocks.

Talk to a Hunt Advisor

Send us your top three species, travel month, and a budget window. We’ll reply with two to three African hunting safari packages that match your dates, species, and style—no endless browsing, no stale pricing.

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