Endemic to Ethiopia’s Highland region, Menelik’s Bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus meneliki) is a sought-after medium-sized African plains game antelope renowned for its shy and elusive nature. Menelik Bushbuck hunting in Ethiopia is a challenging safari, with this rare and elusive species found in high-altitude forest regions. Find out more about why this endemic species is such a rewarding Ethiopian hunting safari.
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Key Takeaways
· The Menelik’s bushbuck is a shy and elusive African plains game species found in the high-altitude regions of Ethiopia
· It is endemic to the region
· Hunting in this area is extremely testing, and hunters need to be physically fit and ready for extremely challenging conditions
· While Ethiopia remains the pinnacle of African hunts for certain American hunters and collectors, it is not your everyday hunting adventure.
· Fewer hunters in the region means a more intimate and tailored experience on your Ethiopia hunting safari, with unusual and rare species adding to your trophy room
Introduction to Ethiopia
Situated in the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia is a landlocked country, bordered by Kenya, Sudan, South Sudan, Eritrea, Somalia, and Djibouti. Hunting in Ethiopia feels like stepping back in time and experiencing old Africa. This unique destination allows hunting enthusiasts to pursue exceptional and rare trophies to add to their collections.
This is not a destination that is overrun with hunters, but rather one that calls hunters to challenge themselves when hunting unusual and rare species, including the Mountain Nyala, Salt’s Dik-Dik, Menelik’s bushbuck, and various Old-World Monkeys.
The terrain is tough, and the conditions can sometimes be very harsh, but that’s what attracts many hunters to this stunning destination.
This is hunting. This is Ethiopia. And this is what an African hunting safari is all about.
Ethiopian Map, courtesy of WorldAtlas.com
Why consider an Ethiopian hunting safari?
Ethiopia is a rugged, challenging, and epic hunting safari experience that is not for the average hunter. This destination requires guts and courage, with a never-give-up attitude as hunters face the reality of an authentic African hunt in challenging conditions. The destination appeals to US hunters looking for a memorable hunting safari adventure, with exceptional species and experiences.
Check out some of the reasons why this country is growing in popularity as a hunting destination:
· Authentic African Experience: Hunting in Ethiopia is free-range, not within fenced or semi-fenced concessions, ensuring a more authentic African hunt.
· Diverse Array of Unusual Species: Ethiopia is home to rare and sought-after species, such as the Abyssinian bushbuck, Menelik’s Bushbuck, Salt’s Dik-Dik, as well as numerous Old-World monkeys.
· Adventure in Rugged Terrain: Hunters can experience the challenge of an authentic Ethiopian hunting adventure, taking in the Ethiopian highlands, remote valleys, and desolate hunting regions.
· Access All Year Round: Ethiopia safari hunts take place throughout the year, although the best time to enjoy a hunting safari is from October to June, as this falls outside of the wet season.
· Exclusivity: Hunting in Ethiopia is not a discount hunting destination, with few hunters annually visiting this unique destination, allowing those that do to experience this African gem as a serene and exclusive hunting experience.
· Scenic Landscapes: Enjoy your Ethiopian hunting safari with a wide array of scenic landscapes forming the backdrop of an unforgettable hunt.
Hunting the Menelik’s Bushbuck
Introduction
If you want an authentic African hunt to challenge yourself, together with an exceptionally striking trophy, this hunting safari ticks all the boxes. The Menelik’s bushbuck is endemic to Ethiopia, preferring high-altitude habitats. Hunting this medium-sized antelope requires much tenacity from the hunter, as well as a good helping of patience and perseverance – but the reward of harvesting the Menelik’s bushbuck is well worth the efforts undertaken.
Description
The Menelik’s bushbuck is truly a beautiful trophy, sporting a dark brown coat and white markings, making it both a pleasure to hunt and a privilege to add to any hunting enthusiast’s trophy room. Only the males of this striking species have long spiral horns.
Hunting Range
As mentioned, Menelik’s bushbuck is endemic to Ethiopia and is only found in the Ethiopian Highlands, with hunting generally taking place in areas above 6,500 – 11,500 ft.
Popular areas to target this elusive antelope include:
· Bale Mountains (South Eastern Ethiopia)
· Arsi Mountains
· Simien Mountains (very restricted due to national parks in the region)
Bale Mountains in Ethiopia
Challenges of Hunting this Elusive Trophy
Menelik’s bushbuck hunting in Ethiopia is a tough safari; there is no doubting that. Being endemic to Ethiopia, opportunities may be more limited than with other antelopes that are more widely dispersed, but this makes the intense hunt even more rewarding. Hunting at high altitudes can be challenging for the hunter and requires a high level of fitness, so be sure to adequately prepare. These African hunts take place in altitudes of 6,500 ft or more, together with steep climbs, wet conditions, and icy weather that can take its toll on hunting parties, while adding an exciting level of adventure to this already exciting hunting safari.
The Menelik’s bushbuck is also a master at camouflage, preferring dense cover where it is easier to hide within the thick vegetation. Add to this that they are solitary creatures, extremely wary, as well as being nocturnal, and you have a real challenge on your hands! Read up about this interesting species, learn about its habitat, behavior, shot placement and more to fully prepared for this hunt.
Hunting Methods on this Ethiopian Hunting Safari
American hunters, and those seeking the ultimate thrill in an African hunting safari, will do well to choose this antelope to hunt.
A hunting safari targeting this elusive and wary antelope is mostly undertaken by stalking. The hunting party uses strategic lookout points to spot this shy antelope. They are usually spotted when they emerge from the vegetation to eat or drink. The best time to enjoy this hunting safari is early in the morning or late afternoon when they are more likely to be active. The PHs and guides then map its location before arranging a coordinated, slow, and steady approach to stalk it and get within range undetected. Shots are generally taken at long range, due to the antelope being so wary and shy.Rifles & Calibers for Menelik’s Bushbuck Hunting Safari
When it comes to a Menelik’s Bushbuck African hunt, keep in mind that the best option would be a rifle that you can shoot comfortably – and accurately – with. Shot placement remains paramount during this safari, as a wounded bushbuck would disappear into the thick vegetation, making tracking it quite difficult. Add to this the fact that this tough animal become aggressive when wounded and you have another reason to ensure your shot placement is spot on!
The suggested caliber for this hunting adventure is a .30, such as the 30-06 Springfield, or the 300 Winchester Magnum and 300 Weatherby Magnum.
This caliber offers both the accuracy and power needed to take down this antelope at shots from distances around 300 yards.
Traveling to Ethiopia
Flights & Visas
· Traveling to Ethiopia is quite straightforward, with Ethiopian Airlines offering direct flights from many cities within the United States, including Boston, Washington, Atlanta, Chicago, and Minneapolis, among others.
· Direct flights from the United States to Addis Ababa take between 12-15 hours, depending on the departure city.
· Ethiopian Airlines also offers direct flights from various European cities, including Rome, Frankfurt, and Paris.
· Most travelers from European countries, as well as the United States, require a visa for Ethiopia.
· Ethiopia’s e-Visa provides travelers with an easy option to obtain a visa before departure.
· The cost for a single-entry 30-day tourist visa is US$62, with visitors needing to enter through Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.
· The passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months after entering the country.
Medical Requirements
· To enter Ethiopia, proof of a Yellow Fever Vaccination is required should you arrive from a high-risk country or transit through an airport of a high-risk country. While not required to enter the country for travelers from the US or Europe, it is recommended for travelers older than 9 months.
· Ensure that all routine inoculations are updated: MMR, Chickenpox, Polio, Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis, etc.
· Ethiopia is a known Malaria area. Start Malaria medication before you arrive in the country
· Other recommended vaccinations include:
o Covid-19 Vaccination
o Hepatitis A
o Hepatitis B
o Typhoid
o Meningitis
What can I expect from an Ethiopian hunting safari?
To put it very simply, expect the unexpected! This African hunt destination offers an array of endemic species, tough and trying conditions, as well as diverse landscape and terrain.
· Rare and unique species: You will have the opportunity to hunt species endemic to the area, as well as rare species that challenge a hunter. Think Mountain Nyala, Abyssinian bushbuck, Menelik’s bushbuck, Salt’s Dik-Dik, Beisa Oryx, and the Lesser Kudu, amongst others.
· Authentic Safari Experience: Hunting in Ethiopia allows hunters to not only experience the destination, but with hunts often calling for an initial overnight stay in Addis Ababa, they can enjoy the culture of the local city, followed by an African safari experience on the way to the hunting grounds.
· Expert Guides: Hunts are undertaken by experienced and expert guides and outfitters, offering hunters a once-in-a-lifetime hunting safari in this diverse destination. They often have exclusive access to exceptional concessions, and this, together with their innate knowledge, skill, and experience, promises an unforgettable hunting adventure.
· Challenging Hunts: For those targeting the Menelik’s Bushbuck or the Mountain Nyala, expect a taxing hunting experience. These hunts require patience, perseverance, and skilled stalking to harvest these trophies.
· A memorable African hunt: The combination of exceptional species, great outfitters and guides, interesting tourism activities, together with diverse landscapes and hunting adventures, makes for an unforgettable Ethiopian hunting safari.
The Abyssinian Bushbuck
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you hunt in Ethiopia?
Yes, hunting in Ethiopia is legal.
When is the best time for Menelik’s Bushbuck hunting in Ethiopia?
The best time to hunt these antelopes is during the dry season that runs from October to June, with the weather being more favorable when hunting in the Highland region.
What is the largest animal in Ethiopia?
The largest animal in Ethiopia is the African elephant. Their population within the country has been decreasing, but the world’s largest land animal is still found within Ethiopia. These mammals are not available to hunt in Ethiopia.
When it the best time to go hunting in Ethiopia?
The best time to consider an Ethiopian hunting safari is during the dry season that runs from October through to June. During the rainy season it becomes more difficult to navigate the region, with thick vegetation and harsh conditions making hunting in Ethiopia exceptionally challenging.
Ethiopia: An Unforgettable Hunting Adventure
It’s not every day that a hunters gets to hunt such a prized trophy in breathtaking surroundings. If you are in the market for a unique and rare trophy and are wanting an unforgettable hunt that both challenges and rewards you, head to Ethiopia to hunt this prestigious species. You won’t be disappointed.