Hunt Plains Game in the Free State Province of South Africa
**** US$ 9450 ALL IN (Trophy Fees Included)
10 x Nights in Luxurious Accommodation
1 x Hunter 1 x Professional Hunter
9 x Full Days of Plains Game Hunting
**** Observers welcome on this family friendly Hunting Safari at US$ 250 per night/person
An amazing hunting opportunity on a 4 Star Private Ranch, bring the Family !!
Included on this African Hunt is: (4 x Exportable Trophies)
Additional Animals can be included on this Plains Game Hunt, just pay the Trophy Fees
**** Rifle Rental available @ US$ 180 for the duration of the Hunt (ammunition at cost) US$ 10/Bullet
This Packaged Plains Game Hunt Includes:
- Trophy fees on animals included in the Package
- Luxury Four Star Accommodation
- Services of Licensed Professional Hunter
- Services of Trackers, Skinners and Lodge Staff
- Field Preparation of Trophies
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Snacks
- Daily Laundry Services and Housekeeping
- Hot and Cold Beverages, Local Beer and Wines (In moderation)
- Transfers to/return Oliver Tambo International Airport to the Hunting Lodge
The African Hunt Excludes:
- Gratuities to Staff (at the Hunters Discretion)
- International Airfare and Travel Costs
- Firearm rental @ US$ 20 per Rifle per day (Optional)
- Ammunition @ US$ 10/ bullet
- Dip and Pack of Trophies
- International Shipping Costs of Trophies
- Any Pre or Post Safari Accommodations
Hunting in South Africa, Exploring the Free State
Game hunting areas are mostly areas of open savanna and grasslands, combined with grasslands, picturesque valleys, woodlands and “dolerite koppies”, meaning small hills. In other areas, there are higher mountains from where you can see the small country of Lesotho.
With the Free State Province commercially farming maize, lands are filled with birds, including Doves, Francolin, Pigeons, Guineafowl and Waterfowl which are available for hunting. Wing shooting can be arranged with Wesley and added to the plains game hunt.
In the winter months, which is prime game hunting season, temperatures can drop well below 32 Fahrenheit. You can expect cold, possibly windy conditions and in certain months even snow.
The expansive landscapes often require “long shots” at more than 300 yards, often even further requiring an additional level of skill and practice.
Traveling to the Free State (Heartland of S.A.) for the Plains Game Hunt
Arriving at Oliver Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, you will be met by your African outfitter Wesley, or a member of the team who will assist with any rifle import permits or other administration. Navigating through airport procedures and security is a smooth and efficient process. The transfer to the Free State Province will be by road, in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, which will take four hours. You can definitely expect Springbuck Biltong (Jerky) on the road trip. The Free State promises abundant wildlife and memorable African hunting safaris.
Depending on the arrival time of your inbound flight into Oliver Tambo International Airport, overnighting in Johannesburg may be a requirement, and again on departure. African Sky Boutique Hotel is recommended, situated in close proximity. Management of African Sky will assist with transfers to and from African Sky/ Oliver Tambo International Airport, along with arranging any firearm permits. For further information, see “Affiliated Services” below.
The Plains Game Hunting Safari
South Africa, has for many years been the top hunting destination in the world, attracting more hunters than any other country. On a plains game hunt, whether you are an experienced hunter, or first time hunter, South Africa is the perfect game hunting destination.
Ranches are mostly fenced due to the concept of private ownership of animals, but have more than double the amount of game animals compared to Government Reserves and Public Land. This ranch extends for more than 4000 acres.
On this hunting safari, you will be able to hunt 4 x Trophy animals (no size limit) with the option to choose between a Blue and Black Wildebeest and a Zebra. But, like on most safaris, you take what the bush gives you.
Plains game hunts are conducted on foot, with a truck transporting hunters and observers between the lodge and various areas on the ranch. Wear good quality boots, the safari may go from walking flat areas, to climbing ridges, be prepared for all circumstances. The typical method of hunting will be spot, then walk and stalk, however in instances hunting from a blind may be an alternative.
Choosing a Suitable Rifle for this Plains Game Hunt and Shot Placement
Hunting in the Free State offers a unique set of challenges. In some instances, shots may be fired at 150 yards and others over 300 yards Gemsbuck are known to be tough animals and if the bullet is not perfectly placed, the result could be a few day of exploring the terrain on foot, looking for blood spoor. A common mistake on a Gemsbuck hunt is, when following the traditional rule, 1/3 of the way up on the shoulder with African game, hunters mistake factoring in the Gemsbuck’s “high shoulder”. The result is the shot going high and missing the vital organs.
Blue Wildebeest are especially tough and are referred to the ” Property Agents” of the bush for a reason. A wounded Wildebeest will show you the entire ranch. In our experience, a Blue Wildebeest hunted in thick bush veld, is the one most often “lost”.
These animals all require a rifle with a “punch” and that shoots a flat trajectory with good quality optics. A 7mm, or any thirty caliber will get the job done. Our preferred rifle of choice that ” packs a punch”, with expanding 180 grain tips is a 300 Win Mag.
Accommodation and Cuisine on Safari in South Africa
The hunting lodge is a breathtaking beautiful four-star oasis. Luxurious accommodations, en-suite bathrooms and spacious rooms all decorated in themes of Africa. The lodge has panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and bush veld, featuring impressive indoor dining and lounging areas, along with a stunning bar. You can expect roaring campfires, outstanding meals and outdoor dining on the deck overlooking the vast expanse of Africa.
Prepare for an extraordinary culinary journey, as your personal chef crafts gourmet cuisine that showcases the finest flavors of South Africa. Springbuck back strap grilled to perfection over the open flame, or freshly cut strips of Springbuck Carpaccio, flavored with black pepper, freshly cut rocket and paired with Gruyere cheese will definitely be on the menu.
The African Outfitter on this Hunt in SA
Wesley and team have been operating and conducting plains and dangerous game in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Mozambique since 2007. The team is focused on delivering personal hunting experiences creating life long memories. They are one of the most highly acclaimed operators in South Africa delivering world class safaris of excellence.
When is the best time to book a Hunting Safari South Africa?
South Africa is not regulated with regards to a specific hunting season and hunting can take place all year round. The cooler months, which run from April to October are preferred. In summer, the temperatures are just to high which can make hunting even more of a challenge. The months of November through to February are also the rainy season. Rain showers and bad weather can continue for days, literally placing a “damper” on the hunting safari.
Rifle Imports and Permits when Hunting in South Africa
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).
So, if you are ready for the luxury plains game hunting adventure of a lifetime, look no further than the Free State Province.
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 preferred dates and Wesley and team will shortly revert.
