South Africa attracts thousands of hunters from all over the world and is the leading safari hunting destination in Africa. South Africa boasts diverse wildlife and incredible landscapes, from open savannas, majestic mountains in the Eastern Cape and Drakensberg, to the dense bush-veld in the Limpopo Province.
South Africa, often referred to as “a world in one country” has a well-regulated hunting practice and some of the best infrastructure in Africa.
South Africa offers more than 45 plains game species, with iconic antelope such as Gemsbuck (Oryx), Kudu and of Springbuck, and a wide variety of sought after color variants.
What sets South Africa apart as the favored game hunting destination is its exceptional infrastructure and accessibility, modern airports and network of professional outfitters, making the country easy to navigate. Hunting lodges in South Africa vary from five-star facilities catering for family and non-hunters, to luxury safari tents providing an authentic African hunting safari.
South Africa is a destination where hunters can enjoy hunting some of Africa’s most prized game, while enjoying the rich culture and remarkable scenery that South Africa has offer.
Located along South Africa’s south eastern coastline, topography consists of rugged mountain ranges, rolling hills and with miles of coastline (ideal for fishing charters). The Eastern Cape Province offers some of the best plains game hunting opportunities for a variety of species including Kudu, Black Wildebeest, Gemsbuck and the elusive Vaal Rhebok, one of the most coveted trophies when hunting this area.
With the Eastern Cape positioned along the coastline, cooler climate during peak hunting season allows for long hikes up mountains and through the valleys.
Pursue your passion for wildlife management and conservation and prepare for this hunting adventure of a lifetime. The hunt will be conducted following the principles of “fair chase”. This team knows how to find the biggest trophies in the thickets, forests and on the open savanna’s. Whilst a vehicle may be used to traverse the hunting concession, hunting will be done on foot, using the spot, walk and stalk method. In some areas strategically placed hides may get you a little closer to these antelope.
Daily you will see a variety and plenty of antelope. Challenging hunting methods, skills and commitment will be needed to harvest these trophies. Some shots may require shooting at long distance, while others from as little as 100 yards.
As the hunt will be for a selective species of antelope, accommodations will vary depending on the distance traveled within the hunting concessions. Lodges will vary from comfortable safari-style homes to small and personal rustic camps and luxurious lodgings. All lodgings have en-suite bathrooms, showers with hot and cold water, back up generators/solar due to the ongoing load-shedding drama in South Africa.
With exceptional cuisine, you can look forward to being spoiled the “African way” and enjoy some of the best local meals that South Africa has to offer. Typical SA dishes are served with outstanding locally produced wines. As seasoned hunters in South Africa know, the country knows how to make a exceptional variety of beer.
This large hunting area of over three million acres consists of a variety of habitats, varying from dense coastal brush, semi-arid desert, open savanna, and valleys in the Winterberg Mountain range, which reaches heights of 7000 feet in places.
The area has high populations of spiral horn antelope, such as Cape Eland and Kudu which can be added to the hunting safari. Nights safaris for Caracal, Porcupine and Bushpig hunting can also be arranged directly with Jaco.
Plains game hunting in the Eastern Cape presents hunters with a comprehensive set of challenges based on the unique habitat and hunting conditions. As shots can vary from as little as sixty yards to over three hundred yards, a rifle shooting a flat trajectory such as a .270, 30.06, 7mm or 300-Win Mag is recommended. Only use excellent quality expanding ammunition and optics.
Plains game antelope in these conditions do not always present a perfect “broadside” shot, so a good understanding of the quarry’s anatomy is required to ensure a quick, ethical and humane death. .
Hunters can enter South Africa via Oliver Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) or fly to Cape Town International Airport. From both these points of entry, a domestic flight will needed to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). The domestic flight time is approximately 1,5 to 2 hours. These flights are pleasant and affordable.Depending on the arrival time of the inbound flight into Johannesburg, a overnight stay in Jhb may be needed before embarking on the domestic flight to Gqebertha.
We would recommend African Sky Boutique Hotel, situated in close proximity to Oliver Tambo International Airport who cater especially for international hunters, also providing transfers and assistance with firearm import permits. Should any additional information be required, see “Affiliate Services” below in the listing.
For the more adventurous hunters visiting South Africa, renting a vehicle and driving from either Johannesburg or Cape Town to the Eastern Cape is a great idea, assuming of course that time permits. A road trip from Cape Town takes approximately 7 hours. The drive is incredibly scenic, with favorite stop overs being the towns of Mossel Bay, Knysna and George. Stop at Glentana and enjoy a walk on the private beaches.
From Johannesburg, hunters can overnight at Gariep Dam in the Free State Province, covering an area of more than 200 square miles. .
To hunt in South Africa with firearms from the USA, you’ll need a temporary import permit (SAP520 form) and should apply for it before your arrival.
Required Documents:
African hunts are best during the cooler months, which run from April to September. While South Africa does has a set hunting season, safaris can take place all year around without any restrictions should outfitters/landowners be in possession of a P3 Exemption permit.
Be sure to pack warm clothes, gloves and jackets as the winter temperatures, especially in the months of June to mid-August can be exceptionally low, dropping to below 23 degrees Fahrenheit.
If further information is required relating to this packaged hunt in South Africa, contact our team at Game Hunting Safaris, or message Jaco directly using the icons provided. Should you wish to check availability, submit your preferred dates in “Request to Book”, Jaco will revert.
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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