*** Observer Included
The Safari in SA gets even better: A Guided day tour of Kruger National Park, Plus DVD Included.
The amount of animals in South Africa is truly amazing. A hunter could spend a fortune, as well as a lifetime trying to collect them all, but what a hunting safari it would be!! From dangerous game, specialty animals and plains game, South Africa has them all.
Plains game hunting safaris bring more sport hunters and create more revenue than all the dangerous game hunts combined. In Sub-Saharan Africa, South Africa contains more huntable species than most other world wide destinations. South Africa also includes many of the “tiny ten” antelope such as Klipspringers, Duikers and the illusive Sharp’s Grysbok.
Game hunting in South Africa takes place in every province, which each one having its own hunting laws and regulations. SA has a variety of geographical areas, which range from semi-arid desert, open savanna’s and bush veld to high mountain ranges. All areas offer a unique set of challenges to hunters, some plains game are hunted and shot at distances of as little as twenty yards on a walk and stalk, to long range shots exceeding four hundred yards. On a hunt in South Africa, know that hunters often leave with additional trophies, the temptation just being to great while on the hunt.
Arriving at Oliver Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, you will then need to take a domestic flight to Hoedspruit Airport, the gateway to nature reserves and hunting concessions in the Limpopo Province.There are in excess of forty flights a week to Hoedspruit. Airlink would be the carrier of choice, being on time and having facilities for transportation of hunting rifles (plus they serve “adult beverages” at no cost). A return flight, depending on season ranges between US$ 200 and US$ 400 per person.
Depending on the arrival time of your inbound flight into Oliver Tambo International Airport, overnighting in Johannesburg may be a requirement before departing to Hoedspruit. The same may apply for departure. African Sky Boutique Hotel is recommended and made is use of by many international hunters visiting South Africa. Johannesburg is also the main gateway into other Africa destinations such as Tanzania, Mozambique, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Management of African Sky Boutique Hotel will assist with transfers to and from African Sky/ Oliver Tambo International Airport, and with and firearm permits. For further information, see “Affiliated Services” below.
On arrival in Hoedspruit, Wayne, or a member of the team will meet you to embark on the short road transfer to the hunting concession.
Choose between a luxurious tented camp or a refined brick-and-mortar lodge at the hunting lodge.
At the tented camp, revel in the ultimate African adventure amidst expansive, tastefully furnished tents featuring plush beds, en-suite bathrooms, and private verandas, providing the ideal backdrop for unwinding in tranquil surroundings.
Alternatively, the brick-and-mortar lodge offers a more conventional luxury experience with beautifully appointed rooms, modern amenities, and inviting common areas, ensuring a stay that seamlessly blends comfort and style. WiFi is available.
After a hard day of stalking Africa’s wildlife, indulge in gourmet meals fit for royalty. Your chef will skillfully prepare dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, offering a culinary journey through traditional South African flavors that perfectly complement your hunting adventure.
Wayne and his team of professional hunters operate in six territories in Africa, specializing in dangerous, plains game and specialty nocturnal hunts, being in operation for more than a decade. They prioritize personalized care, providing complete privacy with exclusive access to the lodge and hunting concessions.
Wayne welcomes novice and experienced hunters and caters for rifle as well as bow hunters.
Embarking on a 10-day African safari in the Hoedspruit/Gravelotte area of South Africa is a hunting adventure, packed with challenges and rewards.
The safari may start with a Cape Buffalo hunt, one of Africa’s big five, known for its power, unpredictability and aggression, known as “Africa’s Black Death”, for very good reason.
As the days pass, you will track and hunt a variety of game, each presenting its own unique set of challenges. The Giraffe is a majestic beast, towering high above eye level. Its sheer size demands a perfectly placed shot to ensure a successful hunt. Never underestimate the Kudu, Africa’s ”Gray Ghost”. waterbuck will certainly test your patience and precision. The rugged terrain may push your endurance, but the landscapes and close encounters with nature make it all worthwhile.
Hunting the Blue Wildebeest and Burchell’s Zebra is a lesson in patience and adaptability, while the Red Hartebeest and Impala highlight the importance of understanding animal behavior.
Night hunts for the elusive Spotted Hyena, known as the “laughing hyena,” and the fierce Honey Badger, or “Ratel,” bring a whole new set of challenges.The pursuit of equally cunning animals such as bushpig, baboon, Vervet Monkey, and the elusive Black Backed Jackal and Genet calls for quick reflexes. These night hunts can take quite a toll on the hunter, especially since so many day hunts are also on the go. Wayne will need to load the cooler with a good many “Red Bulls”
To import a firearm into South Africa for the purpose of Sport Hunting, you will need to complete a SAPS 520 form. International hunters bringing their own rifles will need to provide copy passports, copy airline tickets, letter of invitation from Wesley and proof of ownership. (Customs declaration form 4457 for US citizens).
At Game Hunting Safaris, we prefer using our own equipment when hunting. Before “panic” sets in with such a variety of animals included on this hunt in South Africa, hunters are legally allowed temporary permits for a maximum of four firearms. But, you cannot practically carry so many many firearms around the African bush veld on hunt. For Cape Buffalo, I would pack the 500 NE as this dangerous hunt will definitely be “up close and personal” in the thick stuff and we like stopping power, but any caliber, .375 and bigger will work.
For Giraffe, right down to the Impala Ram, since we would be hunting trophies, we would pack a 300 Win Mag loaded with 180 grains quality ammunition, which can also be used on the Chacma Baboon ( the bullet would go right through the Vervet Monkey without expanding). For the night hunt we would opt for rifle rental, else so much equipment becomes impractical and cumbersome.
The hunting season in South Africa runs January to December. Hunts can thus take place all year round. When free-range hunting in Limpopo, the choice depends on personal preferences and factors such as weather, vegetation, and animal behavior. The dry season, typically from May to October, is often considered the prime time for hunting. The months of January to February can have rain continuing for days on end, and if its not raining, temperatures can exceed 104 Fahrenheit.
During the dry season, vegetation is sparse, making it easier to spot game. Water sources become scarce, leading animals to waterholes, increasing the likelihood of successful hunts. The cooler temperatures during this time also make for more comfortable hunting conditions.
Each successful African hunting safari brings a deep sense of accomplishment and a profound appreciation for South Africa’s rich biodiversity.
If any additional information is required regarding this plains game hunt in South Africa, contact the team at Game Hunting Safaris or message Wesley directly using the message icons provided.
If you would like to check availability, please select “request to book”, Wayne and team will shortly revert.
Please note that terms, conditions and price are subject to change without notice and rates at the time of the hunt will apply
Needing assistance with firearm permits and international travel services, or good taxidermists? View our affiliated companies
View Affiliated Services