Hunting in Zimbabwe opens the hunter to some of the best African hunts environments and various trophy hunting species. The history of hunting in Zimbabwe is a long one, a story that has endured decades of political and social unrest, and come out of it as one of southern Africa’s prime hunting destinations; perfect for those wanting the traditional hunting safaris Zimbabwe proves to be an intriguing destination to experience, while having access to prime hunting targets and a memorable Africa plains game experience without having to break the bank.
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Key Takeaways
- There is no fixed hunting season in Zimbabwe and hunts can take place throughout the year.
- Hunting in Zimbabwe is affordable when compared to other African game hunting destinations.
- While the country is renowned for dangerous game hunting, it is also home to many species of African plains game, and it is this abundance, together with the variety of species, that draws hunters to this diverse hunting destination.
- Zimbabwe’s variety of landscapes including acacia and mopane woodland, rocky outcrops, vlei land, and traditional African savannah make it the perfect habitat for African plains game species.
- Hunting in Zimbabwe takes place on three types of land, namely government-owned, privately-owned or communal and tribal land.
- Most hunting in Zimbabwe takes place as a safari style hunt.
- Rifles are the weapons of choice when hunting in Zimbabwe, although bow hunting is also allowed on privately-owned land, together with the correct permits and permissions. The commonly accepted form is the compound bow; while longbows, crossbows, and recurve bows require additional special licenses.
- Popular African plains game targeted in Zimbabwe include the sable, gemsbok, eland, kudu, impala, wildebeest, bushpig, and giraffe.
Zimbabwe as an African hunt destination
One of the main perks of the hunting safaris Zimbabwe offers is that there is no fixed season to govern them, regardless of whether one is hunting on state or private land. Hunting in Zimbabwe is also a way to have the full-on traditional African hunts experience without breaking the bank, as when compared to other destinations, Zimbabwe doesn’t put too much strain on the purse strings.
Apart from the above, Zimbabwe is also home to one of the most diverse animal populations on the planet. With a variety of environments catering to both big game and Africa plains game, Zimbabwe hunting safaris offer some of the best hunting opportunities contained within one state.
Zimbabwe hunting safaris beyond the Dangerous Game – why African plains game prospers
When one thinks of hunting in Zimbabwe, big game are usually the first thought that springs to mind. But the famed Zambezi and surrounding hunting grounds are home to one of the widest selections of Africa plains game, including both antelope and alternative animals of the plains.
One of the contributing factors to the population size and popularity of plains game hunting in Zimbabwe is its variety of landscapes. Zimbabwe is home to many environments including acacia and mopane woodland, rocky outcrops, vlei land, and traditional African savannah. These environments cater to the many species that call the plains home, providing them with the food supply and water availability they need to survive and thrive.
Another contributor is the bolstering of conservation efforts and the security provided by well administered conservation areas and programs. The hunting safaris Zimbabwe offers are also regulated and supervised to ensure no unfair or unjust actions occur.
Why choose African plains hunting in Zimbabwe
Africa may be famously known for the big game; especially areas like Zimbabwe that are home to 4 of the 5, but the plains species also offer some brilliant trophy opportunities and hunting experiences. Zimbabwe hunting safaris for Africa plains game can take one back to the golden days of the African hunts safari, tracking (and trekking) through the savannah or woodland, hot on the trails of a trophy bull and its prize horns.
Plains hunting in Zimbabwe also caters to hunters of all levels and competencies, whether you’re on your first big African adventure or a frequent visitor, plains hunting is a great way to either begin your hunting story or add to the collection of a memorable adventure.
Things to know when on plains hunting safaris Zimbabwe
Types of hunting grounds
Zimbabwe hunting safaris can take place on 3 types of land, each with its ruling party or individual, as well as its own rules. The area used for the African hunts in Zimbabwe will depend on the outfitter and the type of game the hunter chooses to go after.
Government-owned land
These types of land belong to and are managed by the Zimbabwe National Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZPWMA), and they decide on the quotas and availability for the species on its land. On these properties, vehicles may be used when traveling or tracking, but hunters may not shoot from the vehicle itself. Hunting with dogs and bowhunting is illegal on government land, and hunting is limited to daylight hours only.
Tribal or communal land
Tribal grounds are managed under the CAMPFIRE program, allowing for communities to form conservancy areas at a communal level. Tribal lands are controlled by the tribal council and are “leased” to outfitters for hunting use. Within these areas, night hunting, artificial light, and bowhunting are allowed provided they are used ethically and within the laws of the land.
Privately-owned land
These areas are few in number due to the land grab. While still available for use, hunters should exercise caution as some of these areas are owned by hostile individuals or groups. The lay of the land is up to the owner, and in many cases, bowhunting, night hunting, and the use of a handgun is allowed.
Transport and Methods
Hunting in Zimbabwe is done safari style, meaning a vehicle will be used to reach the desired area, but the tracking and hunting will be done on foot. Given the nature of these Africa plains game, the hunter must be prepared for and fit enough to cover miles of ground under the southern African sun or cooler winter temperatures.
Almost all of the hunting safaris Zimbabwe is home to are carried out through tracking and stalking. These hunts often include local guides who are well-versed in the climate and environment to ensure the best possible success of the hunt. Hunters need to be able to carry their equipment and supplies as well as be able to do the best job possible at concealing their approach. Many plains game species have excellent hearing or sense of smell, and can easily pick up a potential threat and flee, often while alerting the herd and other animals in the vicinity.
Weapons requirements
Like many African hunts destinations, Zimbabwe also has regulations regarding the type of weapon and caliber of ammunition that can be used.
Rifles
Zimbabwe has 3 classes of ammunition/species regulation, and the type of animal targeted will determine the regulation caliber needed.
Plains game falls into Classes B and C. Class B includes the bigger plains species of Zimbabwe hunting safaris, like giraffe and eland, which requires a .270 caliber minimum. Class C includes general Africa plains game antelope as well as zebra, and calls for the same ammunition requirements as Class B; unless the small game is targeted, then lower calibers may be used in the case of duiker, etc.
Bowhunting
This particular method of hunting in Zimbabwe has been legal since 1999, and these hunting safaris Zimbabwe allows can only be carried out on private or tribal land, with the correct permit and permission. The commonly accepted form is the compound bow; while longbows, crossbows, and recurve bows require additional special licenses. Bow requirements fall into 4 categories and plains game is under 3 of these.
- Class B (giraffe, eland, etc.)
695 grain and 77 ft. /lb. energy rating
- Class C (Tsessebe, wildebeest, waterbuck, nyala, kudu, sable etc.)
618 grain and 70ft. /lb. energy rating
- Class D (duiker, jackal, impala, reedbuck, etc.)
463 grain and 55 ft. /lb. energy rating
The pick of the Africa plains game: Species to target
Antelope hunting in Zimbabwe
Livingston eland
The Livingston Eland is one of three varieties found across Africa, with this generally found in the Eastern regions. The Livingston eland is one of the bigger eland subspecies and boasts a stocky, well-muscled body and a slightly lighter coat with more distinct stripes. Both males and females grow the signature spiral horns and mature males are known for their large dewlaps and hair tuft between the horns.
Sharpe’s grysbok
One of two grysbok subspecies, the Sharpe’s grysbok is slightly smaller and lighter than its Cape cousin. Commonly, these small antelope are hunted as a secondary species to a bigger hunting target or when the opportunity arises. These antelope are shy and elusive by nature and males can be distinguished by their 1–1 ½ inch high horns.
Impala
Impalas are a great beginner-friendly introduction to plains hunting in Zimbabwe. These antelope are very athletic and highly alert, so proceed with care. Impala can be found across most of Zimbabwe’s grassland areas, except for the highland regions that can get too cool for their comfort. A good marker for trophy quality is when the horn tips point outwards instead of turning in, thicker bases are also a good indication of horn quality, and even deformities that can result in some unique and impressive displays should not be laughed at.
Grey duiker
While the Red and Blue duikers are also found in Zimbabwe, the Grey duiker is the most common. A member of the Tiny Ten, the Grey duiker is known for fast getaways and “blink-and-you’ll-miss-it” sightings. Their horns are short and spike-like, and are found on males, while females can grow rudimentary “stubs.” A plus is that a duiker can easily be made into a full mount trophy without much fuss or finance due to their size.
Kudu
Known as the Gray Ghost, the kudu can be a master of camouflage and hiding, with some stories telling of how hunters have walked right past them in dense thickets/bushes without noticing. Kudu are a traditional symbol of the African hunting scene and are notable for their horns and distinctive white markings on the flank and face. Kudu are found throughout Zimbabwe and require no special permits or permissions.
Waterbuck
Thanks to the Zambezi and other esteemed water sources, waterbuck are spread across Zimbabwe, wherever there is water. Waterbuck, compared to other antelope, have a much longer and almost fuzzy coat and are recognized for their “bullseye” ring around the rump. These antelope have been known to get aggressive and charge when near hunters, so practice caution. Waterbuck can be tracked by their body odor, which comes from an oily substance secreted through the skin.
Tsessebe
An odd-looking antelope if ever there were one, the Tsessebe is an interesting and rewarding hunt. With chestnut brown coats and signature black patches/markings on the face, legs, and tail; the Tsessebe’s horns are placed slightly further apart than those of other antelope’s and can alter the Tsessebe’s appearance depending on the angle. The Tsessebe loves to roam the wide open spaces and seek water in the afternoon time, factors that can help one plan their approach.
Bushbuck – Chobe
Chobe bushbuck are rusty in color, and sport more white spots along the broadside when compared with the Common bushbuck. Water-dependent by nature, the Chobe tends to stay in the thickets during daylight hours, moving towards water sources and feeding areas from dusk into the night. Only males grow horns, and one should be wary as these antelope are known to attack both dogs and humans when wounded or threatened.
Gemsbok
Also known as the Oryx and commonly found in semi-arid lands, the Gemsbok can be found on a select few hunting concessions in Zimbabwe’s western regions. One of Africa’s most striking and unique-looking buck, they have impressive slender horns that sweep backward and up; males tend to have thicker horns, while females can grow longer horns.
Blue wildebeest
Given the nickname of “poor man’s buffalo,” the blue wildebeest might not be in line for any beauty awards, but they pick up the slack in challenge and trophy quality. The blue wildebeest can be found across Zimbabwe’s southern and western regions, as long as water is near. Like the buffalo, wounded wildebeest can put up a remarkable fight and if shot placement is slightly off, prepare to spend time tracking a fleeing wildebeest into the sunset.
Sable
Another of Africa’s more exotic plains game, the sable is known for a near-black coat marked with a white belly and face markings. Their horns are seriously impressive, thick, and backward curving; this combined with some wickedly quick reflexes, means the sable is more than capable of defending itself from predators. These antelope prefer areas of long grass or wetland-type environments, as this helps them to camouflage and blend into the scenery. Like the bushbuck, wounded sable can pose a threat if approached while they’re still mobile, so shot placement is key.
Alternative Africa hunts in Zimbabwe
Giraffe
Needing no introduction at all, the tallest animal of all in Zimbabwe makes for a beautiful trophy, and a hunt not as challenging as one would think. Giraffes are commonly found in southern and western areas of the country, while funnily enough, being very scarce in the Zambezi region. The differences between males and females are slight; males are slightly darker in color and have thicker/stubbier horns than females, these horns are used by males when fighting for territory or mating opportunities. Hunters must remember that their great height gives them the advantage of seeing an approach easily, so careful tracking is key.
Spotted and Brown hyena
Both species of hyena are commonly hunted as a “by-product” when baiting for lion or leopard. The Spotted hyena is the more often found one of the two, they also have the stronger jaw and are more likely to be found at kill sites or attacking scraps. Brown hyenas are the shy and quiet cousin, they are rarely heard making calls and aren’t sighted as often due to their elusive nature. The browns tend to have a shaggier coat and have a less impactful jaw strength.
Striped and Black-backed jackal
Like the hyena, there are 2 main species of jackal found in Zimbabwe’s concessions. The striped jackal is a browny-grey color and sports a distinctive white stripe along its side, they are also slightly smaller. Black-backed jackals are more commonly found and are known for the signature black “saddle” on their backs and a more rusty-brown coat. Black-backed jackals are also more territorial and are known to attack livestock and anything encroaching on their territory.
Bushpig
A nocturnal animal, the Bushpig is considered a pest in many of the areas it inhabits due to its destructive nature when they get in the crop fields. Red-brown in color, the Bushpig is often hunted over a baiting site or stalked at dusk as they emerge from their slumber and begin foraging.
Honey badger
Dynamite in a small package, what the honey badger lacks in size, it makes up for in attitude and attacking ability. Honey badgers are mostly nocturnal, but during the day can be found around bait sites where they are known to climb trees with great ability. An interesting trophy to capture, the honey badger can be a menace if stumbled upon, watch out for the claws and some unexpected speed
Civet cat
While “cat” may be in the name, these animals resemble a large raccoon with longer legs and spotted coats. Nocturnal by nature, the civet is found across Zimbabwe and is often hunted at night by the spotlight, targeted while foraging for fruits, bird eggs, rodents, and even carrion. Occasionally, civets can be found hanging around bait sites waiting to steal a morsel.
Caracal
The bobcat of Africa; the caracal is known for its tufted, spotted ears and brick-red coat. Like other alternative plains game, the caracal is nocturnal and can be a thorn in the side of small livestock farmers, as they are known to target sheep, goats, and chickens. Caracal can be found across Zimbabwe, from the semi-arid to the savannah, and even rocky outcrops. They are typically tracked and hunted at night with the use of artificial light and sometimes predator callers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are plains game animals in Africa?
African plains game refers to any animals that inhabit the plains or savannas of Africa. There are many antelope that fall under African plains game, but also includes species such as giraffe, warthogs, and bushpigs. These animals do not include dangerous game, or members of the Big 5. In total, there are more than 180 species of African plains game to hunt.
What is the largest African plains game species?
The Cape eland is the largest African plains game species.
What are some common plains game species to target when hunting in Africa?
Popular African plains game species include the impala, springbok, wildebeest, gemsbok, warthog, zebra, giraffe, blesbuck, kudu, and reedbuck.
What African game are the best to hunt?
Sought-after African plains game species include the Greater kudu, with its magnificent spiral horns, as well as the striking gemsbok, with its long, straight horns.
Where is the best place to hunt in Zimbabwe?
One of the most popular hunting destinations within this African destination is the Matetsi region, that is renowned for its African plains game, as well as dangerous game species.
Is hunting legal in Zimbabwe?
Yes, hunting is legal in Zimbabwe. The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZPWMA) issues hunting licenses and permits in Zimbabwe, and hunters need to adhere to these guidelines and regulations.
What African plains game species can be hunted in Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwe is home to abundant wildlife species, including the Chobe bushbuck, nyala, waterbuck, bushpig, eland, blesbuck, and black wildebeest, amongst others.
What is the most sought-after African plains game?
Often referred to as the “gray ghost” as its camouflage skills are so exceptional, the kudu remains the most popular African plains game species to hunt, with its long spiral horns and beautiful markings making it a striking antelope on the African plains.
What are the best animals to shoot in Africa?
Some of the most common animals to hunt during an African hunt include the springbok, blesbok, impala, kudu, red hartebeest, and gemsbok.
Conclusion
Zimbabwe, and Africa as a whole, may be known for the dangerous game that calls it home, but the alternative options prove just as worthy and exciting when looking at the hunting safaris Zimbabwe has on option. Africa plains game can be a great starting block and testing ground for those starting their hunting career, while also being a great way for seasoned hunters to add to their trophy collection and try something different. Hunting in Zimbabwe is an occasion not to be missed.
Author: A. Baker