Leopard Hunting in Zimbabwe plus 7 x Plains Game Trophies
Booking Season: 2026
Hunt Difficulty: Moderate, Difficult
Designed by Hunters, for Hunters
Not many hunters can resist the lure of an exciting African plains game hunting adventure, especially not when it involves the warthog (Phacochoerus). Warthog hunting is an exciting, fast-paced hunting safari well worth enjoying. Hunters are fortunate that warthog hunting in Zimbabwe happens throughout the region, with large trophies available throughout the year. While warthogs are more active during the day, they can also be nocturnal if necessary. They are highly adaptable in terms of habitats but prefer grasslands, open bush, and woodlands. Warthogs are omnivores, with a varied diet including fruits, vegetables, roots, insects, grass, eggs, and even carrion. Methods used for warthog hunting include the spot-and-stalk method, as well as ambushing the hog as it comes down to a water hole to drink. These hogs are water-dependent, and hunters construct a temporary blind from which to target them. Another option is, of course, the purely opportunistic hunt that cannot be ignored! Adult warthog males weigh up to 340 pounds, with females tipping the scales at 170 pounds. They are light brown, with tough skin, and have very little hair coverage on their bodies. Warthogs have manes that run down the spine to mid-back, and a short little tail that stands upright as they run. These hogs have large heads with two tusks that protrude from under their upper lip, the bottom jaw provides two smaller teeth that mirror the shape of the tusks. The easiest way to tell the male and female warthog apart, without relying on size, is by their warts. Males have two large warts on each side of their head, while females only have one on each side. Males also have larger and thicker tusks, reaching 10-35 inches compared to 6-10 inches of females’ tusks.
Shot Placement when Warthog Hunting
Warthogs provide a challenge to hunters firstly with their speed and secondly, they are forever on the move! For an ethical and humane hunting adventure, ensure that your shot placement is on target. Ignore high-risk shots like the head or neck, as they can also ruin your trophy. From the broadside, aim directly above the front leg. Measure one-third of the way up the body and that is the sweet spot that will target the warthog’s vital organs, the heart, and the lungs. This shot placement will ensure a humane death for the animal.
What Caliber Rifle is used when Warthog Hunting?
Although small, these hogs are exceptionally tough adversaries! A 12 X 50 scope can be fitted to anything from a .243 to a 30.06 when warthog hunting. Another consideration is a .308, with good-quality ammunition. Hunters can also deliberate over a .375 shooting 300-grain solids, which will work well on this hunting safari. Warthog hunting in Zimbabwe can also be enjoyed with a bow.
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