**** Observers welcome at only US$ 300 per day
**** Rifle Rental available at US$ 30 per hunting day, plus cost of ammunition.
This Royal specie hunting safari takes place on a private wildlife estate, located in the Matabele offering luxurious accommodation, incredible cuisine and hunting takes place on an area of more than 32 000 acres, which is enormous in size. This wildlife ranch produces exceptional quality trophies and here a 60 inch Kudu may be possible.
The wildlife ranch is a Malaria Free area.
Zimbabwe is a unique destination which is full of untapped potential. Zimbabwe is safe, with a friendly atmosphere and boasts abundant wildlife, fabulous hunting lodges and offers world class hunting safaris. Since as early as 2010, the number of international hunters choosing a hunt in Zimbabwe has exponentially grown and continues to do so. New safaris lodges are opening across the country, creating more dangerous and plains game hunting opportunities.
The natural landscape is a sight like no other, a vibrant hunting environment bordered to the north by the mighty Zambezi River and to the south by the Limpopo River. Between these mighty rivers, lies a variety of kopjes (granite outcrops), impressive national parks, mountains, forests and wide-open savanna.
Zimbabwe offers great opportunities for plains game hunts, with hunts taking place on tribal (community) land, privately owned ranches/concessions or on government land. Hunting areas, both privately and government owned can extend into hundreds of thousands of acres. There is no hunting season in Zimbabwe, however game hunting is preferred in the dry season which runs middle April to October. The summer months, December through to February can be incredibly hot, with days of continuous rainfall. Late May, to early August is the best time for a hunt in Zimbabwe.
Hunting is done on foot, following “fair chase principals and ethics”. Four by four vehicles may also be made use of to cover more ground as the concessions are just so large. There are no limits in terms of how many firearms, including black powder can be brought in Zimbabwe, but international hunters need to take cognizance of rules and regulations that may be in place in countries they are traveling through.
International travelers will fly into the city of Bulawayo, one of Zimbabwe’s primary international gateways. Depending on flight times, it may be viable to spend a night in Johannesburg if you choose Bulawayo via Oliver Tambo Airport. Airlink is recommended for the return flight, are affordable (+- US$ 400 return), on time and serve “adult beverages”. Airlink also have facilities in place for rifles transfers. We would recommend African Sky Boutique Hotel situated near OR Tambo Airport if you have to overnight in Johannesburg. Management can arrange transfers to and from African Sky/OR Tambo and also assist with any firearm permits. For further information, see our “Affiliated Services“ link below.
The road transfer from Bulawayo to the wildlife reserve will take approximately an hour, situated approximately 40 miles from Bulawayo.
Kudu are often referred to as being the equivalent of “Africa’s Elk”, or also famously known as “The Gray Ghost”. This spiral horn antelope is one of the species that is normally at the top of any hunters African “Bucket List”. Kudu are found in most areas of Zimbabwe and are sought after by hunters for their remarkable spiral horns, SCI minimum score is 121 using method 2. Kudu prefer the hilly and mountainous habitat and one of their favorite “tricks” to avoid hunters in to stand dead still. No permits are required when Kudu hunting in Zimbabwe.
When hunting Eland in Zimbabwe, note that you will be hunting what is known as a Livingston or Patterson Eland. They have stripes compared to Cape Eland. A mature Bull will have a tuft of dark brown/black hair growing down his forehead, often referred to as a “Kuif” by many Afrikaans Africans. Both males and females have horns, while the male, bigger in the body will also have a dewlap. No permits are required.
This majestic large antelope is often referred to as “The Prince of Africa”. Sable have incredibly sharp horns with lightning-fast reflexes and can be extremely aggressive. Hunters need to be careful when approaching this antelope as a Sable can do an immense amount of damage. These antelope are difficult to spot in the longer grass, and if shot placement is not perfect, it will definitely require a few miles to be covered on foot. No permits are required for a Sable Hunt in Zimbabwe.
Tsessebe are classified as medium sized antelope can be difficult to spot in the taller grass. As a defense mechanism against predators, Tsessebe prefer open areas and cover ground at a rapid rate being Africa’s fastest antelope. Tsessebe make incredible trophies and it really is a privilege to be able to hunt these magnificent antelope. No permits are required when hunting Tsessebe in Zimbabwe
The classic tented safari camp is built on a rocky hillside, offering a oasis of green lawns, shaded tents with private bathrooms and swimming pool. There is a wooden deck overlooking a waterhole where wildlife come to drink in the dry months. Spacious “Meru” styled tents are furnished with extra length 3/4 quality beds,hot water and flushing toilets.
Each luxury tent has 220v electricity with multi-way adapters. Hair dryers are available and 110 v shaver plugs are installed in bathrooms. The lodge features a large and comfortable dining/living area, with a “fire pit” to enjoy the African evenings. The gardens are are inundated with Bushbuck, Warthog, Kudu and Mongooses.
The cuisine is five star,and venison from the animals that you’ve hunted during the day is often served, grilled to perfection over the open coals. Organic duck, lamb and pork may also be served – a real plethora of tasty food!
Giles promotes family friendly hunts, and this is the ideal area for children to explore and enjoy the African landscape. As the sign at the entrance of the wildlife ranch says, “Welcome to Paradise”. This family hunting ranch is owned and managed by 3rd and 4th generation Zimbabweans who have been running hunting safaris for over forty years. This dedicated team of professionals knows how to conduct the perfect safari.
Giles also conducts dangerous game hunts in Zimbabwe, as well as Tanzania.
Like with most large antelope species, there are options which can be considered and pondered. Kudu, Cape Eland and Sable need a larger caliber with a little more “punch” than smaller rifles such as .243 or .270. As ethical hunters, we want to ensure that antelope are hunted following humane practices. When hunting in Zimbabwe, we would recommend any thirty-caliber shooting a flat trajectory, such as 30.06 or a 300 Win Mag. Giles will recommend hunters taking the broadside shot into the vital organs. The heart and lungs present a good size target and a well-placed bullet into this area will be fatal.
Zimbabwe is a captivating tourist destination renowned for its beautiful natural landscapes, wildlife, rich cultural heritage and offering a vast variety of experiences ranging from wildlife safaris to exploring ancient ruins. Some of the best non-hunting activities include visits to:
A plains game hunt in Zimbabwe is one of the most memorable safaris you will ever experience!!
If you have any queries relating to this hunt in Zimbabwe, please contact our team at Game Hunting Safaris, or message Giles directly via the links provided. Should you wish to check availability, insert dates in “Request to Book” and submit, Giles 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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