Zimbabwe Hunting, some of the finest Plains Game Trophy Antelope

If you have a Free-Range Kudu Bull on your radar, look no further than this plains game hunt in (Matetsi Extended Conservation Area) of Zimbabwe.

Pursing “The Grey Ghost”  is a dream of many international hunters.

7 x Full Days Plains Game Hunting for US$ 5 900

The Matetsi (ECA), extended conservation area in Zimbabwe is one of the most sought-after hunting areas in Africa.

Hunt your dream Kudu on more than 200 000 acres of unfenced African wilderness within the KAZA TFCA region.

**** Observers are welcome at US$ 250 per day per person

The Plains Game Hunt Includes:

1 x Hunter 1 x Professional Hunter

• Accommodation, Meals, Snacks, Beverages (Incl. Alcoholic)
• Daily Laundry & House Keeping
• Transport on Territory
• Hunting Permits
• Gun Import Permits
• Transfers to and from Victoria Falls Airport
• Field Preparation of Trophies

A “Kudu Hunting Safari” with Purpose

This safari is more than a just an extraordinary experience, it’s a chance to really make a difference. A portion of the income from your plains game hunt supports the ASA Foundation (Adopt Schools is Africa), funding education and development of local communities, contributing to a brighter future in Zimbabwe.

Exclusions in the Hunting Safari:

• Dip & Pack of Trophies
• International Shipping & Taxidermy
• Gratuities to staff (at the hunter’s discretion)
• Rifle rental @ US$ 30 per day and US$ 10 per round
• Visa payable on entry into Zimbabwe @ US$ 20
• Additional animals not included in the package.

In Matetsi ECA, plains game antelope roam free without any pressure from hunters, offering a variety of over 30 game species including dangerous game such as Leopard, Cape Buffalo and of course Lion and Elephant.

Why hunt high-fenced ranches when at the same price, you can have a Kudu hunting adventure in this ideal African location?

Hunting in Matetsi is a privilege that ensures safari memories that last a lifetime. This is un-spoilt Africa like it was thousands of years ago.

Life is short, book the Hunt in Zimbabwe!!! 

Hunting in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is one of the most sought after hunting destinations in Africa, which offers diversity in terms of terrain and animal habitat. Hunting areas stretch from the famous Zambezi Valley in the north, to the highly densely game populated areas in the south, known as the “Lowveld”.

When dangerous game hunting in Zimbabwe, the Zambezi Valley is a popular attraction for international hunters as it boasts high concentrations of Elephant, Cape Buffalo, Lion and Leopard. The marshes, swamps and estuaries in the region also support healthy populations of members of Africa’s dangerous 7, Hippo and Crocodile.

Zimbabwe also has a number of private conservancies which provide excellent game hunting opportunities such as the Bubye and Save Valley areas, which historically were traditional commercial farms, where stakeholders have now joined forces for the purpose of wildlife conservation.

Kudu Hunting in Zimbabwe

This majestic antelope is a nervous beast and always on high alert. These incredibly handsome antelope can disappear from sight in the mere blink of an eye, this despite their size.Kudus have magnificent radar ears with highly sensitive hearing that can quickly sense danger, which can easily put a damper on a hunter’s mood, even if in stealth mode.

These majestic large antelope are well known for their jumping abilities and can easily clear a nine-foot obstacle from a standing position.

The Hunting Area in Zimbabwe. Matetsi ECA

The Matetsi ECA area in Zimbabwe is one of the largest game hunting complexes and covers an area of more than 50 000 acres, 250 square miles.

The Matetsi Extended Conservation Area (ECA) is was formed by merging several game ranches that were open and unfenced to each other, creating a larger safari hunting area beyond the boundaries of the original Matetsi Units.  

The name Matetsi was named for the Matetsi River (named for the blue-green algae found on the rocks) which flows through the southern hunting area. Concessions in this area are famous for Big Five hunts and are also well known for the large populations of Sable.  

Traveling to the Matetsi (ECA) for the Plains Game Hunt

The nearest airport to the hunting lodge, named the River Range Camp is the Victoria Falls International Airport. When booking this hunt, it is worth adding a day or two before, or after the hunting safari to visit the iconic Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

Victoria Falls International can be reached by flying directly to OR Tambo International Airport in South Africa. Airlink is a preferred airline, affordable and on time and the flight takes roughly two hours. This African regional flight (return) will cosy between US$ 280 and US$ 450 depending on the season. Road transfers from the airport to the River Range camp will take approximately thirty minutes.

Reaching Victoria Falls International Airport in Zimbabwe is mostly done by flying through Oliver Tambo International Airport in South Africa. If you need to overnight in Johannesburg  before taking the regional flight to Victoria Falls, we would recommend African Sky Boutique Hotel situated in close proximity to the airport. Not only will management arrange transfers to and from African Sky/OR Tambo, but they will also assist with any firearm permits. For further information, see our “Affiliated Services” link below.

Shingi, or a member of the team will meet be at Victoria Falls on you arrival and will assist with any administration or permit related matters. Transfer to the hunting lodge will be by 4 x 4 truck, fitted with air-condition and will take approximately 1 and 1/2 hours.

Rifle Imports and Permits when Traveling through 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).

Rifles permits and restrictions when Hunting in Zimbabwe

• There is no limit to the number of firearms a hunter may import in Zimbabwe for game hunting purposes.
•  Handguns are allowed for hunting on private land and communal/tribal land but not on
  government concessions. A special permit is necessary from the general director of the
  Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZPWMA).
• No automatic or semi-automatic firearms are allowed, except a semi-automatic shotgun for bird
  hunting purposes.
• Black powder rifles are allowed with a minimum caliber .40 for hunting purposes.
• A maximum of one hundred (100) rounds of ammunition may be imported per hunting rifle.
• There is no fee for a firearm permit for rifles or shotguns
• Application for a temporary firearm import permit for Zimbabwe can be made on arrival at the
  port of entry.

The “Best Season” for a Hunting Safari in Zimbabwe?

Hunting safaris in Zimbabwe can be conducted all year round, but the cooler and drier months from early April to late October are preferred.

In the warmer months, insect activity increases, such as pepper ticks which can make the consequences of walking through the brush even more of a challenge. Mosquitoes and other small pests are also far more active in the warmer and wetter conditions. In high temperatures, the risk of dehydration also increases and the importance of maintaining hydration is critical.

But, with that been said, Zimbabwe is great to hunt anytime, the country is just so remarkable, with so much to offer hunters.  

Is Matetsi in Zimbabwe a Malaria area? Yes, these hunting concessions are Malaria areas, and the hunter needs to take anti-malarial medication before commencement of the hunting safari. Your local physician can be consulted in this regard who will prescribe the necessary medication.

The African Outfitter on this Safari in Zimbabwe

Shingi has decades of game hunting experience under his belt and partners with Marco,an avid International hunter of more than 25 years. Shingi is the lead professional  hunter and gives 110% to ensure that you get your trophy animal. Together, their  goal is to provide top quality and true safari experience in Zimbabwe. You will be hunting with local guides, who knows every secret in the hunting areas. An unforgettable safari is guaranteed. 

The River Range Camp

This classic safari camp has all the necessary amenities while retaining its rustic charm as a safari hunting camp. Independent brick lodges each have ensuite bathrooms, safes, outdoor showers, electricity and a fridge. The lodge, with central dining and entertainment areas has mobile network coverage and internet. 

At River Range, you will bask in the glow of the endless stars around the bonfire and listen to the roars of Lions at daybreak.

We reserve the right to change any terms, conditions and prices without notice. Rates at the time of the hunt will apply.

Kudu Shot Placement

Hunting kudu is tricky business. A big bull does not always immediately give the perfect shot and in some instances, hunters must wait for what feels like a lifetime before they can move into position. Harvesting a trophy bull requires stealth, patience and the skill to shoot straight.

Shot placement needs to penetrate the vitals, ensuring a quick and humane kill.  

Additional Plains Game Hunting Opportunities

Shingi has decades of game hunting experience under his belt and partnering with Marco,

Following your successful Kudu hunt, there are a variety of plains game available as per the below additional trophy costs tabled below (plus government levy of 4% on the trophy fee)

 A few of the favorites in Matetsi (ECA) are:

• Sable US$ 5900
• Livingston Eland US$ 2400
• Waterbuck US$ 2400
• Warthog US$ 400
• Chapmans Zebra US$ 1300
• Chobe Bushbuck US$ 1200
• Giraffe US$ 2400
• Impala US$ 400

Game Hunting Safaris in Zimbabwe, Wounding & T& C’s

• When wounded, the animal must be paid for in full even if it is not recovered during the hunt. 4% VAT to be paid on lost animals.
• Hunt may be considered over at PH’s discretion if 3 clear shooting opportunities have occurred.

If any further information is required re this plains game hunt in Zimbabwe, contact our team at Game Hunting Safaris, or message Marco directly using the quick links provided.

Should you wish to check availability, submit your preferred dates using the “Request to Book” Link.