Safari Hunting in Zambia, Trophy Cape Buffalo Nkala GMA

This is an incredible opportunity to hunt Buffalo in the Nkala GMA, situated on the Eastern boundary of the Kafue National Park, the oldest and the largest national reserve in Zambia, at a phenomenal price for 2025.

100% Free Range Cape Buffalo hunting on 180 000 acres “NO SIZE LIMIT”

US$ 14 750, Including Trophy Fees and Government Levies  

7 x Days and 8 x Nights Cape Buffalo Hunting in Zambia

Observers welcome at US$ 350/day

Due to a few administration “hiccups”  in signing over the hunting rights for this exceptional game hunting concession earlier in the year, these hunts could not been marketed at all the USA Hunting and Outdoor Shows.

 The result, a reduced rate to achieve annual game quotas.  2026 will see steep price escalations.

Hunting safaris have not taken place on this concession for a period of more than six years, this is true “wild Africa”.

*** Additional plains game hunts may be added to the Buffalo hunt, see table at the end of the listing for details. Pay only trophy fees.

Hunting in Zambia, a premier African Destination

Zambia is well known for exceptional game hunting safaris, attracting hunters from all over the world.  Zambia offers a diverse array of game, from Elephants to awe-inspiring Lions, Leopards and Cape Buffalo. The untouched wilderness allows hunters the opportunity to hunt “free-range” trophy specimens.

Beyond the hunt, the country showcases exceptional landscapes and attractions, with the pristine wilderness consisting of savannas, lush forests and meandering rivers and estuaries.

 Zambia’s diverse ecosystems support an abundance of wildlife. From the South Luangwa National Park to the Lower Zambezi National Park, hunters can experience the beauty and biodiversity of Zambia while engaging in the age-old tradition of trophy hunting. Zambia is a premier destination for those seeking an authentic and unforgettable hunting adventure.

Hunting in Zambia is highly regulated, with very specific game hunting seasons and limited quotas in place to ensure sustainability.

Safari Hunting in Zambia, the Nkala Concession

Peering over the water from the fire-pit seating arena, it’s possible to gaze at the resident hippos wallowing in the mud.  There are many Nile Crocodiles on the river’s edge that will certainly make an appearance. Nkala Camp is bush luxury with a touch of whimsical bohemian wildness, confirming that you are in fact Buffalo hunting untamed Africa.

This vast living expanse opens out to a panoramic vista, where you can view the early morning sunrise.  Late afternoons will be spent in the peaceful surrounds, sipping a cold sun-downer next to the open-pit fire. Nkala is game management (GMA) area close to the boundary of the Kafue National Park. The landscape is totally different to that of South Luangwa National Park. Nkala camp consists of open savanna grassland, with some marshy regions that swell with water during the rainy season. Dense scrubby hideouts provide perfect camouflage for wild herds of Cape Buffalo.

Water holes are cloaked in lilies and flocks of birds, such as the quirky named “Black Belly Bastard”.  Nkala is renowned for its herds of Cape Buffalo, Lion and Leopard, with an extensive variety of plains game. Nkala has healthy populations of South-Western Oribi, Defassa Waterbuck and Puku (Varden’s Cob), a must for any serious collector.

Buffalo Hunting in Zambia, Safari Inclusions:

• Accommodation in Luxury African Safari Tents
• 8 x Nights and 7 x Days Cape Buffalo Hunting
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Snacks
• Hot and Cold Beverages, Beer and Wine
• Cape Buffalo Trophy Fee
• Hunting License
• On Territory Transport (4 x 4 vehicle or boat)
• Guiding by Registered Dangerous Game Professional Hunter
• Daily Laundry Service and Housekeeping
• Transport of trophies to Taxidermy for Dip & Pack
• Road Transfer to/from Lusaka

The Cape Buffalo Hunt in Zambia

The free-range trophy Buffalo hunt takes place on the Nkala GMA, hunting an area of over 180 000 areas.  A typical day Buffalo hunting will start at 05h00, with a hot beverage and a light breakfast before heading out to look for fresh tracks.

Nkala concession is well stocked with Buffalo, whether you are looking for an old “Dagga Boy” with a big spread, or a “broom handled bull”. You may even be fortunate enough to track down a “scrum cap” hard bossed bull. Buffalo hunting method will be using the classic “fair chase” principle of looking for tracks and following suitable “spoor” on foot. Tracking down your trophy Cape Buffalo may require a reasonable amount of walking, so prepare accordingly.

This track and stalk method will on occasion take you into “the thick stuff” to where Buffalo bed down during the mid-day heat.  Once a suitable Buffalo has been tracked and located, you and your professional hunter will stalk to within shooting range. With any luck, hopefully the Buffalo will shortly thereafter be on the way to the salt room and field prepped.

Buffalo hunting is exceptionally dangerous. In fact, Cape Buffalo kill more hunters than any of the other members of Africa’s Big Five. Shot placement is critical. It takes one bullet to kill a Buffalo, another good few to convince the Buffalo he is in fact dead. A Cape Buffalo hunt in Zambia does not require a Cites permit.

Hunting Safari Exclusions:

• Any Pre and post hunt accommodation
• Dip and Pack of Trophies
• Gratuities to staff (at your discretion)
• Personal and Travel Insurance
• International and Domestic Travel Costs
• Taxidermy & Shipping Costs
• Any additional Observer Costs (US$ 350 per day/per person)

Hunting Outfitter in Zambia

Pieter and his team of professionals have been conducting dangerous game hunts all over Africa, including South Africa, Cameroon, Angola, Zambia, Tanzania  (and many more exotic destinations) for decades.

Pieter was selected as outfitter of the year by Dallas Safari Club, along with the prestigious award of being chosen as International Professional hunter of the year by Safari Club International.  This group of internationally recognized and dedicated professionals have a reputation for not only their outstanding food, but excellent and well-qualified staff and know how to deliver a top-quality African hunting safari.

We at Game Hunting Safaris have hunted Hippo, Cape Buffalo and Elephant with Pieter in Namibia and we can guarantee, you will not be disappointed. This is a five-star operation.

Tips when Safari Hunting in Zambia

• Familiarize yourself with the targeted species, their behavior and shot placement, especially when dangerous game hunting.
• Obtain the necessary permits/visas months before commencement of the safari.
• Be patient and do not rush the hunt. Be aware of the varied terrain and how it may affect hunting opportunities.
• Listen to your guide/professional hunter.
• Stay hydrated, especially during the summer months and ensure that gear is comfortable, with a good pair of walking boots (pack extra laces)
• Familiarize yourself with all Zambian hunting laws and regulations.

Accommodation on the Hunting Safari

• Classic luxury tented safari camps (with fire-pit, Lapa, on-suite bathroom, and full time 220 electricity)
• Each tent has two ¾ beds (which is easily joined to make a King) and private patios with exceptional views of the Zambian bush-veld. Via data roaming, internet is available on the concession.
• The hunting lodge is comfortable, stylish and a few nights lying in bed and listening to sounds of Africa is rejuvenating. Good for both the mind and soul. The staff are friendly, the chef is incredible, and the meals prepared are of exceptional quality.  After a day of Buffalo hunting, you can relax and recharge African style.
• Wi-Fi available for hunters needing to stay in touch with the outside world.

Traveling to the Buffalo Hunting Grounds

Traveling to the Nkala hunting concession will see hunters entering Zambia through the capital city of Lusaka and landing at Kennith Kaunda International Airport. In Lusaka, you will be met by a member of the team, who will assist with any administration. Leaving Lusaka, you will head out by road transfer to Nkala. The road transfer will take approximately 4 and ½ hours.

A private charter, optional but not a necessity can be arranged at an additional cost. Oliver Tambo International Airport in South Africa is a major “gateway” into Zambia, so travelers may need to transfer through the city of Johannesburg. Depending on arrival and departure times, overnighting in Johannesburg may be a requirement. We would suggest overnighting at the African Sky Boutique Hotel, situated a mere 10 minutes from Oliver Tambo.

African sky can assist with transfers to/from Oliver Tambo as well as any rifle permits. Should a firearm not be able to be checked direct to Lusaka, a temporary permit for South Africa may be required. Hunters will need to complete a SAPS 520 form. For further information, see our “Affiliate Services” link below.

Hunting Season in Zambia

Zambia’s hunting season runs from May 1st to December 31^st. Game hunting safaris are best in the dry season, which is from May to October. During this dry season, animals tend to congregate nearer remaining water sources making spotting targeted species a little easier.

In the hotter months, November to January, temperatures can exceed 104 Fahrenheit, which can lead to additional risks such as dehydration. Insect activity also increases in the heat which can make for unpleasant conditions. 

Temporary Firearm Permits when hunting in Zambia

A Temporary Firearms Import Permit (TIP) is required to import a hunting rifle into the country. The firearm permit will be issued to your African outfitter.  Hunters will need to provide the outfitter with all the usual detail, firearms caliber, make, model and serial numbers well in advance.

Hunters will also need to specify the quantity and caliber of any ammunition you will be importing, with ammunition matching the caliber.   Ammunition is taxed and the cost is approximately $1/round.  When exiting Zambia, you will need the original copy of the TIP form.  Ensure that the serial numbers on the TIP match your firearms! Your hunting license is issued to you’re the outfitter and they will work with you to see that the necessary licenses are applied for in advance. 

Minimum Rifle Calibers on a Cape Buffalo Hunt

• When undertaking a dangerous game hunting safari in Zambia, the minimum legal requirement is a .375 caliber with a bullet weighing 30 grains.
• For Cape Buffalo, larger calibers such as a .404, 416, 458, 458 Lott, or any quality double rifle from .470 and up is recommended.
• On a Buffalo hunt in Zambia, while shot placement as always is important, there is no such thing as “too much gun”!!  

Visa Requirements when Safari Hunting in Zambia

For tourist activities such as game hunting, nationals of certain countries do not require a Visa, but need to have return air tickets in their possession. To check which national visitors do not need a visa: zambiaimmagration.gov.net 

It is always wise to confirm with your local visa assistance office before traveling, as in Africa these rules, regulations and requirements frequently change.  

Additional animals available to hunt

Health when hunting in Zambia

When safari hunting in Zambia, consider vaccinations for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Cholera and Rabies, as well as ensuring your routine vaccinations like Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Polio are up to date. Check with your local physician or vaccination center as to Yellow Fever requirements, as they differ from country to country.

Zambia is calling and this is an incredible Cape Buffalo hunting opportunity for 2025!!

If any further information is required for this Buffalo hunt in Zambia, please contact the team at Game Hunting Safaris, or message Pieter directly on the links provided. If you would like to check availability, input date in “Request to Book”, Pieter or Anso will shortly respond.