South Africa Plains Game Hunting Trip, Kudu plus 5 Species

This 8-day South African hunting safari offers two hunters the opportunity to pursue six sought-after species while enjoying professionally managed hunting in a productive and scenic environment.

Hunt Summary

• Price: US$8,950 per hunter
• Duration: 8 Hunting Days
• Hunter / PH Ratio: 2 Hunters | 1 Professional Hunter
• Observer: US$250 per day per person
• Rifle Rental: US$40 per day
• Trophies Included: Impala Ram, Warthog Boar, Blue Wildebeest, Blesbuck Ram, Kudu Bull under 55 inches, Zebra Stallion

South Africa's Mpumalanga Province

Mpumalanga is one of South Africa's most diverse provinces, characterized by dramatic mountain passes, expansive valleys, waterfalls, rivers and dense forests. The province is also home to some of the country's most famous attractions, including the Blyde River Canyon and Kruger National Park.

Hunting areas in Mpumalanga can broadly be divided by the Drakensberg Mountains into the Lowveld and Highveld. The Lowveld is regarded as Big Game Hunting Country, with dangerous game hunting taking place on private ranches and government reserves classified for free-range hunting. The region also supports a wide variety of plains game hunts, including nyala, waterbuck, bushbuck and kudu hunts.

The higher-lying Highveld presents very different hunting conditions, with species such as Cape eland, black wildebeest, springbok and blesbuck found across its open grasslands and varied terrain. This diversity makes Mpumalanga an excellent destination for hunters interested in combining several species during a single safari.

The South African Plains Game Hunting Trip

South Africa is an exceptional destination for hunters seeking a diverse and well-established safari experience. This plains game hunting adventure takes place in the Lowveld region of Mpumalanga, close to the famous Kruger National Park, and provides the opportunity to pursue several iconic African species during one safari.

The spiral-horned kudu, often referred to as Africa's "Gray Ghost," is one of the most challenging and highly regarded antelope to hunt. A combination of its alert nature, excellent camouflage and ability to disappear into thick bush makes kudu hunting in South Africa a rewarding challenge, particularly when pursuing a mature bull.

The impala is a graceful and widespread antelope that remains a sought-after trophy for both experienced and first-time safari hunters. Blue wildebeest are renowned for their strength, resilience and ability to withstand difficult conditions, making them an exciting species to pursue.

Warthog hunts offers a completely different experience, with these tough and alert animals capable of disappearing quickly into thick cover when alarmed. Zebra are among Africa's most recognizable plains game trophies, valued for their distinctive hides, with every animal displaying its own unique stripe pattern.

Blesbuck are wary and alert, making a careful approach essential. A successful stalk through the South African bushveld can provide a particularly rewarding hunting experience.

Hunters should also take time to understand shot placement for African game species, particularly when pursuing a range of animals with different body structures and physical characteristics.

Traveling to the Mpumalanga Hunting Grounds

International hunters should fly into Johannesburg's OR Tambo International Airport before connecting by domestic flight to Kruger Airport. Airlink is recommended for this route and provides a convenient connection between Johannesburg and Mpumalanga.

Hunters spending a night in Johannesburg may consider Africa Sky Boutique, where management can assist with transfers to and from OR Tambo International Airport. The hotel can also assist with rifle import permits and pre-clearance approvals, helping international hunters avoid unnecessary delays when arriving with firearms.

Hunters who prefer to travel by road from OR Tambo International Airport to the hunting lodge can arrange a private road transfer. The journey takes approximately five hours, with the cost depending on fuel prices at the time of booking.

For international hunters planning African hunting trips, advance preparation of flights, accommodation, firearm permits and transfers is recommended to ensure a smooth arrival and departure.

When Is the Best Time to Hunt in South Africa?

South Africa does not have a single nationwide hunting season, and plains game hunts can take place throughout the year. However, the cooler and drier months from April through October are generally preferred. During the dry season, grasses become shorter and vegetation is less dense, improving visibility and making it easier for hunters and Professional Hunters to glass and locate game. Cooler temperatures also make long days in the field more comfortable.

The period from November through February generally brings higher temperatures and the summer rainy season. Rainfall can make roads and terrain more challenging, while dense vegetation can reduce visibility. Weather conditions can also change quickly, so hunters should consider the seasonal conditions when selecting their preferred dates.

Wounding Policy on the Hunting Safari

An animal is considered hunted once a shot has been taken and any blood, hair or bone is found. Any animal that is wounded or hit and subsequently found or lost will be deemed to have been taken.

The full trophy fee will apply.

If you require any further information about this South African plains game safari, contact the Game Hunting Safaris team.