While a buffalo appears as docile as a cow on the surface, nothing could be further from the truth. Buffalo must be regarded with healthy respect as they have an aggressive and unpredictable nature and are considered one of the most dangerous animals to hunt. A wounded buffalo is a hunter’s worst nightmare, as he will charge his aggressor, often with fatal consequences.

In Mozambique, buffaloes are often found in swampy areas.

Buffalo hunters must be fit and able to walk long distances, owing to the animal’s elusiveness and excellent senses. This is exacerbated by the humidity and heat in Mozambique, which also attracts mosquitoes and tsetse flies, posing disease risks that hunters must protect themselves against.

Firstly, a powerful, high-caliber rifle to ensure a clean and humane kill.

Your packing list should include durable clothing for the African bush, binoculars, a camera, comfortable walking boots, a hat, insect repellent, prophylactics, and sunblock. Your hunting outfitter will almost certainly provide you with a comprehensive checklist.

Buffalo hunting in Mozambique can be conducted in any of the following hunting concessions, game reserves, and national parks:

• Coutadas (Hunting Concessions): Coutada 9, 10, 11, and 12 are highly regarded for their well-managed wildlife populations and professional hunting operations. Accessibility and well-established hunting infrastructure make these concessions a popular choice for hunters.  Access depends on the specific Coutada, and hunters may fly into Beira or Tete, followed by charter flights or drives to the hunt area.
• Niassa Reserve: This is one of the largest and well-known protected areas in Mozambique. It is popular for its remote wilderness and high density of buffalo and has a reputation for offering challenging and rewarding hunts.  Access normally involves flying domestically into Pemba or Lichinga and taking charter flights or long drives to the hunting camps.
• Zambezi Delta: The Delta is renowned for its extensive floodplains and dense wildlife populations and is a prime destination for buffalo hunting. Access is best by flying into Beira, followed by a charter flight to airstrips near the delta, or drive to the hunting area.
• Cahora Bassa: Located in the Tete Province, Cahora Bassa is known for its rugged terrain and high density of buffalo. This area is less frequented but offers excellent hunting opportunities for those willing to tackle the rugged landscape.  Access via flying to Tete, then a charter flight or drive to hunting areas.

The main international airports in Mozambique are Maputo International Airport (MPM), Beira Airport (BEW), and Nampula Airport (APL). Ensure you have a valid passport at least six months before expiry and obtain a visa if required.

Typically, in the drier months of April to November.

Buffalo hunting in Mozambique requires stringent safety measures and ethical practices.  It may only be done under the guidance of a licensed professional hunter and hunting outfitter. 

You must prove competency with your high-caliber firearm. Effective communication is imperative for a safe and successful hunt.

Your outfitter must carry a comprehensive first aid kit, and your PH must be trained in first aid and emergency procedures, including an evacuation plan.

Ensure that your outfitter is properly registered and, if you need peace of mind, request their registration number. You can verify your outfitter’s legitimacy by lodging a query with the Safari Operators Association of Zimbabwe (SOAZ) by e-mailing them on soaz@mweb.co.zw.

To obtain your hunting license you will need to provide proof of competency, such as prior hunting experience or a certificate from a recognized hunting organization. You must comply with the age restrictions and pay the applicable fees.

Out of respect for the animal, only fair chase methods, such as tracking and approaching on foot, are permitted.

The Mozambican approach to buffalo conservation includes government regulations, community involvement, ethical hunting practices, and partnerships with NGOs and international organizations.

Some national parks and reserves are protected areas managed to conserve wildlife and their habitats.

Hunting regulations include scientifically based quotas and licensing. The quotas are set annually for the hunting season typically between April and November.

The Mozambican population has various ethnic groups including the Makua, Tsonga, Makonde, and Shona.

The official language of Mozambique is Portuguese, which is widely spoken, particularly in the urban areas.

Always greet the Mozambican politely, with a handshake and friendly smile. A slight bow or nod shows respect in rural areas. Show respect by dressing modestly and covering your shoulders and knees. Always ask permission before taking photographs.

Mozambique is a diverse and beautiful country, from pristine beaches to dense tropical forests. Its people are colorful and friendly, and the professional hunters are of the highest standard and can guarantee the experience of a lifetime.

Some national parks and reserves are protected areas managed to conserve wildlife and their habitats.

Hunting regulations include scientifically based quotas and licensing. The quotas are set annually for the hunting season typically between April and November.

In choosing your hunting outfitter, you can’t go wrong by working through Game Hunting Safaris who will team you up with a hunting team that will suit your needs.  We look forward to hearing from you.

A high-caliber rifle, durable clothing, binoculars, camera and other essential gear for the bush.

Typically, in the drier months of April to November.

Ensure your professional hunter has a comprehensive first aid kit and an evacuation plan. Follow ethical fair chase hunting methods.

Engage with locals respectfully, try to learn some common phrases, and dress modestly.

Various hunting concessions, game reserves, and national parks are accessible by charter air or road, via international and domestic airports.

Select your hunting outfitter, process all the required documentation and travel arrangements, hunt under the guidance of your professional hunter, and prepare trophy and CITES documentation for return

Government regulations, community involvement, ethical hunting practices, NGOs, and international organizations work together to ensure the sustainability of wildlife in Mozambique.