Trophy Lion Hunting 21 Days in Untamed Rufunsa GMA Zambia

American hunters looking for a fully exportable lion trophy will find few opportunities as authentic as this Rufunsa GMA safari.

This free-range safari offers American hunters the opportunity to pursue a mature male lion during a fully exportable Lion Hunt in Zambia. Conducted in the vast wilderness of Rufunsa GMA, this is one of Africa's classic Lion Hunts, combining traditional tracking methods, remote unfenced terrain and professional dangerous game hunting expertise.

Located within Zambia's renowned Lower Zambezi ecosystem, the safari provides access to prime lion habitat where mature males are hunted under strict conservation regulations. Success depends on patience, effective baiting strategies, experienced trackers and the expertise of a qualified professional hunter operating in one of Africa's last remaining wild lion strongholds.

Safari Overview

Trophy Included: 1 x Exportable Lion

Additional Species: Hippo, Crocodile, Cape Buffalo, Elephant, Kudu, Eland and Roan Available

Duration: 21 Nights / 20 Hunting Days

Location: Rufunsa GMA, Zambia

Hunt Method: Baiting and Spot-and-Stalk

Safari Pricing

Trophy Included: 1 x Exportable Lion

Hunter/PH Ratio: 1x1

Observer Rate: US$300 per Night

Airport: Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, Lusaka

Rifle Hire Available: US$50 per Day plus Ammunition

Total Safari Cost: US$99,800

Hunting in Rufunsa GMA

The Rufunsa Game Management Area lies within Zambia's Lower Zambezi Valley and borders the renowned Lower Zambezi National Park. Across the Zambezi River lies Zimbabwe's famous Chewore Safari Area, creating part of one of Southern Africa's most productive dangerous game ecosystems.

This remote concession exceeds 2,000 square miles in size and offers true free-range hunting in unfenced wilderness. Hunters can expect a mixture of Mopane woodland, thick Jesse bush, river systems and open areas that support healthy populations of lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, hippo and crocodile.

For hunters interested in authentic Hunting in Zambia, few areas offer the same combination of size, wildlife density and traditional safari conditions.

The region is also recognised as one of Zambia's premier destinations for Dangerous Game Hunts, with opportunities to pursue several members of Africa's Dangerous Seven during a single safari.

Additional Dangerous Game Opportunities

While the primary focus of this safari is lion hunting, Rufunsa GMA offers exceptional opportunities for hunters wishing to add additional dangerous game species.

A trophy hippo can be added for US$3,500 and may also provide bait opportunities for the lion hunt. Nile crocodile hunting remains extremely popular in the area, with the Zambezi River producing exceptional trophies year after year.

The concession also supports healthy populations of Cape buffalo and elephant. Buffalo are well known for their aggressive nature and are considered among Africa's most respected dangerous game animals. Elephant hunting opportunities are available subject to quota allocations and current regulations.

Hunters wishing to extend the safari can discuss additional trophy options with the outfitter prior to arrival.

Available Plains Game Hunts

While this safari is focused on lion hunting, the concession also produces excellent plains game trophies.

Available species include:

• Kudu Hunts – US$3,000
• Eland Hunts – US$4,500
• Roan Hunts – US$7,500

Additional plains game hunting opportunities may be available depending on season and quota availability.

The African Outfitter

Steven is one of Zambia's most experienced dangerous game outfitters and operates across several renowned hunting regions throughout the country. His experience extends beyond Rufunsa GMA to areas such as South Luangwa, Kafue and the Bangweulu ecosystem.

All hunting is conducted on free-range concessions where wildlife moves naturally across vast wilderness areas. Traditional fair-chase principles and ethical hunting practices form the foundation of every safari.

Hunting Lodge

The hunting lodge is situated on the banks of the Zambezi River and consists of comfortable permanent chalets with private en-suite bathrooms and modern amenities. Hunters can expect hot showers, comfortable accommodation and a relaxing environment after long days spent in the field.

The central dining and entertainment area overlooks the river and provides an ideal setting for sharing stories from the day's hunt while enjoying freshly prepared meals. Wi-Fi is available for hunters wishing to remain in contact with home during their safari.

Lion Hunting in Zambia

Zambia remains one of Africa's most respected lion hunting destinations due to its strict management practices, limited quotas and extensive free-range hunting areas. Only mature males meeting legal age requirements may be harvested, ensuring the long-term sustainability of wild lion populations.

Lion hunting in Rufunsa is conducted primarily through baiting methods. Suitable bait sites are established and monitored carefully, with hunters and professional hunters assessing tracks, age and activity before commencing the final stages of the hunt.

Patience is often the key to success. Mature males may visit bait sites cautiously and irregularly, requiring hunters to remain disciplined and ready when an opportunity presents itself.

Whether hunting with a rifle or bow, understanding proper Lion Shot Placement is critical. Accurate shot placement becomes especially important when pursuing dangerous game where recovery opportunities may be limited.

Bow Hunting Opportunities

Zambia is one of the few African destinations where dangerous game bow hunting opportunities may be available under specific conditions and regulations. Hunters interested in pursuing lion with archery equipment should discuss requirements with the outfitter before booking, as equipment standards, permit requirements and hunting methods may differ from traditional rifle safaris.

Lion Hunting Rifles and Ammunition

Zambian regulations require a minimum calibre of .375 for dangerous game hunting. Most hunters choose quality expanding bullets for lion hunting due to the animal's relatively soft body structure compared to buffalo or elephant.

Hunters planning to add buffalo or elephant to the safari may wish to consider larger calibres such as the .416 Rigby, .458 Winchester Magnum or .500 Nitro Express.

Travelling to Rufunsa

International hunters typically arrive through Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka. Return road transfers between Lusaka and the hunting area are included in the safari price and take approximately five hours each way.

Hunters wishing to reduce travel time may arrange a charter flight directly into the concession. Flight times are approximately 40 minutes, with charter costs available on request.

Why Choose This Hunt

This safari offers something increasingly difficult to find in modern Africa: a fully exportable, free-range lion hunt conducted in vast unfenced wilderness. Combining a renowned hunting concession, experienced dangerous game professionals, healthy lion populations and opportunities for additional dangerous game species, Rufunsa GMA remains one of Zambia's premier destinations for hunters pursuing Africa's most iconic predator.