Hunt Brown Hyena and African Cats in South Africa

This specialized safari takes hunters into the Limpopo bushveld after dark in pursuit of some of Africa's most elusive nocturnal species. Over 6 nights, the hunt focuses on brown hyena, honey badger, civet and bushpig, combining traditional baiting and calling techniques with modern night-vision and thermal technology.

Hunt Summary

• Price: US$7,600
• Duration: 6 days / 7 Nights
• Hunter / PH Ratio: 1 Hunter | 1 Professional Hunter
• Observer: No additional charge
• Rifle Rental: US$50 per hunting day
• Hunting Ground: Private reserve in the Waterberg Biosphere, Limpopo
• Trophies: Brown Hyena | Honey Badger | Civet | Bushpig

Brown hyena is not exportable to the USA.

The Nocturnal Hunting Challenge

Hunting in South Africa after dark is very different from a conventional daytime safari. The hunter must remain patient and alert through long periods of waiting, often relying on movement, sounds and signs of activity to determine when an animal is approaching.

Brown hyena hunting is conducted using bait, with areas dragged using fresh bait from antelope hunts. FoxPro callers may also be used where appropriate.

Bushpig hunts are conducted over pre-baited sites. Once the bait has been hit regularly, the hunter waits from a blind for the opportunity.

Baits for civet and honey badger, also known as ratel, are placed in strategic locations which the hunter and Professional Hunter will patrol. Artificial lighting may be used to locate these nocturnal animals.

Hunters planning a dedicated hyena hunt should be prepared for long nights, careful observation and brief shooting opportunities. Brown hyenas are particularly elusive and can approach bait cautiously, making patience and precise shot placement essential.

Advanced Nocturnal Hunting Technology

Modern technology adds another dimension to this specialized hunt. Rifle scopes can be fitted with night-vision equipment, while the Professional Hunter uses thermal scanning equipment to monitor activity and locate animals in the darkness.

The combination of traditional baiting and calling techniques with modern night-vision and thermal technology allows the hunting team to monitor the bush more effectively while waiting for the right opportunity.

For hunters interested in the specifics of hyena hunting in South Africa, this is a particularly specialized way to experience the species.

Hunting Season

South Africa is not governed by one nationwide hunting season, and nocturnal specialty hunts can take place throughout the year where the required permits and exemptions are in place.

The cooler months from April through October are generally the most comfortable for hunting. Summer temperatures in Limpopo can exceed 104°F and coincide with the rainy season, when showers can continue for several days.

Transfers to and From the Concession

Hunters must arrive at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, where they will be met a member of the outfitter's team. The road transfer to the concession takes approximately three hours on national roads.

The cost of the transfer is included in the package price.

Preparing for a Nocturnal Hunt

Nocturnal hunting requires a different approach from a conventional African safari. Hunters should be prepared for long periods in a blind, changing conditions, limited visibility and the need to remain completely focused when an animal finally appears.

Understanding shot placement for African game before arriving is particularly important when hunting at night, when the opportunity for a clean shot may be brief.

For hunters looking for something outside the traditional plains game safari, this is a chance to experience a very different side of African hunting. The combination of brown hyena, honey badger, civet and bushpig makes this a specialized safari for hunters who want to spend their nights pursuing some of Limpopo's most elusive species.

To explore more African hunting trips, or for further information about this nocturnal hunting safari, contact the Game Hunting Safaris team.