Hunt Zambia for Buffalo, Hippo and Giant Crocodile

Hunt some of Africa’s most sought-after dangerous game and plains game species on a classic safari in Zambia. From cape buffalo hunts, crocodile, and hippo to exceptional sable hunts, lechwe, and Cookson’s wildebeest. These free-range hunting areas offer authentic wilderness safaris across the Luangwa Valley, Kafue region, and remote Zambian game reserves.

Internation hunters interested in traditional African safaris will find Zambia to be one of the continent’s last great hunting destinations, with vast protected wilderness areas, experienced professional hunters, and an outstanding variety of available plains game and dangerous game hunting opportunities. Hunters planning a safari in Zambia will find these concessions to offer an authentic free-range hunting experience in some of Africa’s last truly wild wilderness areas. With vast game-rich landscapes and exceptional species diversity, hunting in Zambia remains one of the great traditional safari destinations in Africa.

Safari Overview

Price: US$20,500 (Government Fees Included, Trophy Fees Excluded)

Duration: 7 Hunting Days / 8 Nights

Observer Rate: US$450 per person per day

Includes: Daily Rates, Hunting Permits, and License Fees

Trophy Fees: Charged separately for animals harvested (see trophy fee table below) 

Trophy fees to be added for animals hunted to the total cost of Safari (see table below)

Hunting in Zambia -  Zambian laws require certain minimum hunting days for select species.  All game that is listed in each area, if available on quota, can be hunted.  Please note your preferences on our “additional requirements” section when booking your hunt to ensure that Jackson can reserve specific species for your hunt from their quota.  Quotas are set by the Zambian Wildlife Authority.

Note: Jackson can also arrange to hunt the At Large Government Areas in Zambia.  These non-operated area operations for Kafue Lechwe (Kafue flats), Sitatunga and Black Lechwe (Bangweulu Swamp) can be added to a package on request.

Why hunt in Zambia?

Zambia is regarded as one of Africa’s classic dangerous game destinations, well known for exceptional lion hunts and remote wilderness areas that also produce outstanding leopard hunts, and a remarkable variety of plains game species. Hunters pursuing an elephant hunt in Zambia can expect true free-range conditions and the possibility of encountering impressive old tuskers in some of Africa’s most remote and game-rich wilderness areas.The finest sable in Africa are found in Zambia, along with Black Lechwe and other plains game species found nowhere else.

Combine this dangerous game and other wildlife diversity with the highest percentage area coverage of protected areas (national parks and the buffer zones around the parks) in Africa and you have an open-range wilderness safari experience unrivaled across the African continent.

Why Hunters Choose Zambia

For many American and international hunters, Zambia represents one of Africa's last truly traditional safari destinations. Vast unfenced wilderness areas, low hunting pressure, and access to both dangerous game and unique plains game species create a hunting experience that feels very different from more developed safari destinations.

Beyond species such as Cape Buffalo, Hippo, and Crocodile, Zambia is also renowned for exceptional Sable, Black Lechwe, Kafue Lechwe, Sitatunga, and Cookson's Wildebeest. For hunters seeking a genuine free-range safari where wildlife moves naturally across large wilderness areas, Zambia remains one of Africa's most respected hunting destinations. 

Hunting Accommodation

Luangwa River Valley Camp

Situated along the banks of the Luangwa River, this classic safari camp offers comfortable tented accommodation with en-suite bathrooms, mosquito netting, excellent meals, and daily laundry service. Wildlife is often seen directly from camp, including elephant and hippo along the riverbanks. Access is typically via a short flight from Lusaka to Mfuwe, followed by a road transfer to camp, or by private charter.

Kafue River Concession

Located near Kafue National Park, this concession is well known for exceptional sable, Defassa waterbuck, leopard, lion, hippo, crocodile, and quality plains game hunting. The riverfront camp overlooks the Kafue River and offers comfortable tented accommodation in a remote wilderness setting rich in birdlife and dangerous game. Camp can be reached by road transfer from Lusaka or private charter.

Nchila & Nkwaji Game Reserves

These private reserves in northwestern Zambia offer excellent plains game hunting in a mix of woodland, riverine habitat, swamps, and open plains. The area is especially well known for sable, sitatunga, lechwe, and several duiker species. Remote luxury camps provide comfortable accommodation with hot showers, good food, and daily laundry service, while local communities remain closely involved in the conservation and operation of the reserves.

Hunting Safari Price Inclusions:

• “Daily rates” on a 1x1 basis
• Hunting license and gun permits
• Lusaka Airport reception and departure services, including any transport from airport to hotel or back upon arrival if necessary
• Meals and beverages while in camp
• Accommodations while in camp
• Daily laundry service
• Professional hunter services, safari/camp support staff, and field care/skinning of your trophies
• Any transportation needs within your hunting area related to pick-up/drop-off upon arrival or departure

Safari Price Exclusions:

• Trophy fees for Buffalo $4500, Crocodile $4000 and Hippo $3000 
• Trophy fees for any other animals, killed or wounded
• Non-hunting related activities while you are staying in camp that involve 3rd party guides and/or vehicles or national park visits
• International travel/airline expenses
• In country air or ground transportation to or from your hunting area
• Hotels/accommodations/meals before or after your safari dates
• Firearm rental rates of $250 per rifle and ammo at cost
• Extra professional hunter/guide or driver and/or vehicle for non-hunting observers, baiting, or other purposes during your hunt
• Tips to professional hunter and support staff
• “Dip and Pack” fees or expenses associated with trophy preparation for shipping, overseas customs, shipping and handling fees and expenses of your trophies,
• Any miscellaneous expenses or tips not identified in what costs are included

Hunting in Zambia, the best time for game hunting in Zambia is typically late May and continues through to the end of October.

SPECIES	TROPHY FEE	LUANGWA VALLEY	KAFUE PARK AREA	NKWAJI WILDLIFE RESERVE
Baboon	$250	X	X
Buffalo	$4,500	X	X
Bushbuck	$1,100	X	X	X
Bushpig	$900	X	X
Crocodile *	$4,000	X	X
Common Duiker	$650	X	X
Blue Duiker	$1,200			X
Grysbok	$2,200	X	X
Eland *	$3,800	X		X
Hartebeest *	$2,000	X	X	X
Hippopotamus	$3,000	X	X
Hyena	$1,200	X	X
Impala	$550	X	X
Kudu *	$2,800	X	X	X
Black Lechwe	$6,500	X		X
Kafue Lechwe	$5,500			X
Monkey Vervet	$200	X
Oribi*	$1,000	X	X	X
Puku	$1,300	X	X	X
Reedbuck *	$1,000	X	X	X
Roan *	$8,000	X	X	X
Sable (Below 41")	$6,500		X	X
Sable (Above 41")	$9,000		X	X
Sitatunga	$16,500	X		X
Tsessebe	$3,500			X
Warthog	$950	X	X	X
Defassa Waterbuck	$2,700		X	X
Common Waterbuck *	$1,800	X
Cookson’s Wildebeest*	$3700	X
Blue Wildebeest	$1,500			X
Zebra	$1,800	X	X	X

Non-hunting Related Activities 

Community visits Spend some time with the local villages and visit some of our current education, health, and community projects we are proud to be helping with. We highly recommend that everyone who hunts with    visits the communities that their hunt helps support.

Sundowners An iconic tradition. As the sun sinks below the horizon, there is nothing better than finding a spectacular spot in the heart of the bush for an ice-cold beverage to watch the sun sink below the horizon, like you have never seen before.

Night drives Heighten your senses, as a whole new cast of characters fills the landscape of Zambia at night. With the help of a spotlight, take to the road with your private guide and see what you can find. You will not want to leave Zambia without seeing the wildlife come to life under the stars

Walking Safaris The walking safari was born in South Luangwa National Park, so it’s only fitting that you experience this incredible landscape on foot with the very finest guides. This unique way of wildlife viewing gets you up close and personal with the wildlife

Private Game Drives Safari on your own terms, and tailor your trip to exactly what you want. Explore the rich diversity and incredible wildlife of Zambia on a private game drive. On four wheels, you’ll cover as much of the region as possible and maximize your game-viewing.

Visa Requirements when Hunting in Zambia

• Copy Passport
• Proof of Payment
• Two Visa application forms and two passport sized photos stapled to the top right-hand corner.
• Letter of invitation from Jackson/Outfitter company particulars, after booking and confirming the hunt.
• Flight itinerary and a copy of tickets
• Self-addressed prepaid envelope for return of your passport

Rifles and Ammunition

When planning a buffalo hunting in Zambia safari, or when hunting larger species such as hippo or elephant, a .375 is generally considered the practical minimum and is also the legal minimum for dangerous game in many African countries.

Regardless of the species being hunted, accurate shooting and proper shot placement are far more important than excessive calibre size. Hunters should take the time to study anatomy and understand the correct angles for different animals before arriving in camp. Our shot placement guide for hunting game in Africa provides useful information for both dangerous game and plains game species commonly hunted throughout Africa.

Important information

Maximum number of firearms allowed per person is 3

Maximum ammunition of 100 rounds per rifle (but airlines are more restrictive, limiting you to 11pounds so bear this in mind)

Hunt Zambia: Health and Requirements

A Yellow fever vaccination certificate is a requirement.

Zambia is a malaria area. Taking the necessary precautions is essential. Your local physician will assist.

A tetanus shot and a general antibiotic while not a requirement is suggested. Better safe than sorry!! 

Why Choose This Zambia Hunting Safari?

This safari is ideal for hunters looking to experience the diversity that makes Zambia one of Africa's most respected hunting destinations. Rather than focusing on a single species, hunters have access to a wide range of dangerous game and plains game opportunities across several renowned hunting areas, including the Luangwa Valley, Kafue region, and private wildlife reserves.

Whether your goal is buffalo hunting in Zambia, pursuing a giant crocodile or hippo, or adding unique species such as Sitatunga, Black Lechwe, Kafue Lechwe, or Cookson's Wildebeest to your trophy room, this safari offers exceptional flexibility. Combined with experienced professional hunters, authentic free-range hunting conditions, and access to some of Africa's last truly wild hunting areas, this hunt provides an outstanding introduction to Zambia's hunting opportunities. 

If any additional information is required pertaining to this Lion, leopard, buffalo and plainsgame Hunt in Zambia, please message our team at Game Hunting Safaris.