Hippo Hunting trip in SA, Plus Hyena, Bushpig & More!
Booking Season: 2026
Hunt Difficulty: Difficult
Designed by Hunters, for Hunters
*** 1 x Observer Included
INCLUDED – 1 Day guided tour of the Kruger National Park AND 1 Safari DVD
Hunting in Limpopo, South Africa, is a popular and diverse experience due to the province’s varied terrain and climate. Located in the northern part of the country, Limpopo offers a rich array of wildlife and pristine landscapes, making it a sought-after destination for hunters from around the world.
The terrain in Limpopo is a mix of savannah, bushveld, and mountainous regions. The bushveld, characterized by dense thickets and acacia trees, is home to a wide variety of game species such as kudu, impala, zebra, and warthog. The Limpopo River, which forms part of the northern border, also adds a unique wetland ecosystem to the landscape.
Limpopo’s climate is classified as subtropical, with hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. Summer temperatures can soar above 35°C (95°F), especially from November to February, making early morning and late afternoon hunts more favorable. Winter, from June to August, sees cooler temperatures, often dropping to around 5°C (41°F) in the mornings and warming up during the day. These conditions make it a comfortable time for hunting, as the wildlife is more active during the colder months.
The combination of diverse terrain, abundant wildlife, and varying climate conditions make Limpopo a top-tier destination for both novice and experienced hunters looking for a truly immersive African hunting experience.
Your Exclusive Hippo Hunting Combo adventure starts here!
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 hunting adventure in Limpopo Province, South Africa, is a thrilling and demanding experience that tests your endurance, skill, and determination. The goal is to track and hunt 11 different species, each presenting its own unique challenges and rewards.
Hippo Hunting: The Hippo, is one of Africa’s most dangerous animals despite its calm appearance. Hunting hippos requires patience and precision, as they spend most of their time submerged in water. Finding the perfect shot placement, often from a distance, while ensuring your safety near water bodies is crucial.
Cape Buffalo Hunt, a massive and unpredictable animal that roams the dense bushveld. This hunt requires physical stamina and sharp tracking skills to navigate the thick vegetation and rugged terrain.
The Sable Antelope, with its striking curved horns and dark coat, is a highly sought-after trophy. Tracking a sable in the vast savannas and woodlands of Limpopo requires keen observation and stealth, as these alert animals can vanish into the brush in an instant.
Roan antelopes, known for their distinctive facial markings and large size, present a formidable challenge. Hunting roan involves traversing open grasslands and semi-wooded areas where they graze.
As night falls, the hunt for the elusive Spotted Hyena, or “laughing hyena,” begins. These cunning predators require night vision equipment and an understanding of their behaviour.
The Honey Badger, or “ratel,” is known for its fearless nature and tenacity. Hunting a honey badger tests both strategy and perseverance, as these small but fierce creatures are often found in rocky outcrops and dense underbrush.
Bushpigs are nocturnal and elusive, making them a challenging target.
Baboons are intelligent and wary, making them difficult to hunt. This requires a combination of stealth and quick reflexes, as baboons are always on the lookout for danger. The rugged terrain and rocky hillsides where baboons are often found add to the challenge.
Hunting Vervet Monkeys is a test of quick reflexes and precise shooting, as these small and agile creatures move swiftly through the trees. The challenge lies in their agility and the dense canopy of the forest.
The Jackal is a cunning and opportunistic predator, making it a challenging target. Hunting jackals involves calling techniques and strategic positioning in the open plains and savannas where they roam.
The elusive Genet is a nocturnal hunter, requiring night vision equipment and a stealthy approach. These small and agile creatures are found in dense forests and rocky areas.
Rifle Imports and Permits 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).
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 Wayne directly.
Please note that terms, conditions and price are subject to change without notice and rates at the time of the hunt will apply
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