10 Day Packaged Plains Game Hunt in South Africa

This South African hunting safari takes place on a private ranch in the Free State, with four exportable trophies included and 9 full hunting days. The hunt combines open grasslands, valleys, woodland, and rocky ridges, with four-star accommodation at the lodge.

Hunt Summary

• Price: US$9,450 all-in, including trophy fees
• Duration: 9 full hunting days / 10 nights
• Hunter / PH Ratio: 1 Hunter : 1 Professional Hunter
• Observers: US$250 per person, per night
• Rifle Rental: US$180 for the duration of the hunt
• Ammunition: US$10 per bullet
• Included Trophies: Kudu bull | Blue Wildebeest or Black Wildebeest or Zebra stallion | Gemsbok bull | Impala ram

Additional animals can be added at the applicable trophy fees.

Included on this Plains Game Safari

• Four trophy fees
• Four-star accommodation
• Professional Hunter, trackers and skinners
• Field preparation of trophies
• All meals, snacks and beverages
• Daily laundry and housekeeping
• Return road transfers between OR Tambo International Airport and the hunting lodge

This Hunting Safari Excludes

• Gratuities
• International airfare and travel costs
• Dip and pack
• International trophy shipping
• Pre- or post-safari accommodation

Hunting Plains Game in the Free State

The Free State remains a popular choice for hunters wanting an authentic African hunting safari, with several classic plains game species available to hunt. The region consists largely of open grasslands and savanna, with valleys, woodland, dolerite koppies and mountainous areas. The terrain can provide longer-range shooting opportunities, with some shots beyond 300 yards.

Plains game hunts are generally conducted using a spot-and-stalk approach. Hunters walk the terrain while vehicles are used to access different areas of the ranch. Good walking boots are recommended.

The province is also suitable for wing shooting, with dove, francolin, pigeon, guineafowl and waterfowl available by arrangement. Winter is the preferred hunting period, with cold mornings and evenings. Temperatures can fall below freezing.

The African Outfitter

Wesley and his team have operated hunting safaris in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Mozambique since 2007, offering both plains game and dangerous game hunts. 

Rifle Options and Shot Placement

A 7mm or .30-caliber rifle is suitable for this hunt, with a .300 Winchester Magnum being a versatile rifle option for kudu, wildebeest, gemsbok and zebra hunts.

Shot placement is particularly important with gemsbok, wildebeest and zebra. Gemsbok have a high shoulder structure that can make conventional aiming references misleading. The Professional Hunter should assess the animal's position and angle before the shot.

The same applies to hunts for zebra as well as wildebeest hunting in South Africa. During this safari, hunters should use a rifle and ammunition combination they are familiar with, and familiarize themselves with shot placement for African game when preparing for the safari.

Rifle hire is available from the outfitter at an additional cost. Hunters bringing their own firearms into South Africa require the appropriate import permits, including the SAPS 520 application form, with supporting documents including a passport copy, airline tickets, letter of invitation, and proof of firearm ownership.

Traveling to the Free State

International hunters arrive at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg and are transferred by road to the hunting lodge, approximately four hours away. Wesley or a member of his team will assist with airport procedures and firearm documentation. Hunters should not that depending on flight times, an overnight stay in Johannesburg may be required either upon arrival or departure.

Tips for Plains Game Hunts in the Free State

• Prepare for long-range opportunities: The open Free State terrain can result in shots at 200–300 yards or more, so practice shooting accurately at different distances.
• Use good optics: Quality binoculars and a reliable riflescope are important for spotting and judging game across open grassland.
• Watch the wind: Open country can make scent travel, so pay close attention to wind direction before starting a stalk.
• Use the terrain: Valleys, ridges, koppies and folds in the ground provide valuable cover when closing the distance.
• Take your time glassing: Game can be difficult to spot in open grassland, so scan carefully before moving.
• Be prepared for cold mornings: Free State winters can be very cold, particularly during early starts. Dress in layers.
• Choose your footwear carefully: Hunts can involve considerable walking over uneven ground, rocky areas and slopes.
• Know your rifle: Whether hunting kudu, gemsbok, wildebeest, zebra or impala, be confident with your rifle and ammunition before the safari.
• Pay close attention to shot placement: Larger plains game such as gemsbok and wildebeest require careful shot placement and should only be taken when the angle is suitable.
• Listen to your Professional Hunter: Your PH knows the terrain and will help judge distance, wind, animal position and the safest opportunity for a shot.

For hunters planning an African hunting trip, this Free State safari provides nine full hunting days with four included trophies and the option to add additional species. It offers variety and the opportunity to hunt numerous classic plains game trophies, without traveling between regions.

For further information about this hunt, to customize it or add to the hunting party, contact the team at Game Hunting Safaris.