When it comes to African hunting destinations, one country stands above the rest: South Africa. While the prospect of a South African hunting trip may seem daunting for first-time game hunters, we are here to help you cover every detail for a smooth African adventure. This guide will help you navigate each step required to plan your ideal South Africa hunting journey, ensuring safety, success, and enjoyment from start to finish.
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Key Takeaways
- South Africa remains a top game hunting destination for international and US hunters wanting to experience a top-class African hunting safari
- Hunting is available throughout the country
- South Africa is home to 9 provinces, each with its own terrain and landscapes, offering different hunting safaris and experiences
- No visit to South Africa is complete without exploring this vibrant country. An array of unique tourist activities is available nationwide, so take the opportunity to experience South Africa’s highlights after your hunt!
- South Africa is the perfect destination to visit both for hunting, and to enjoy a holiday with the family.
9 Provinces from Which to Choose: Where do I go hunting in South Africa?
South Africa offers nine provinces, each providing hunters a unique safari encounter. The Eastern Cape is celebrated for its exclusive game reserves and safari lodges, blending luxury and adventure. Limpopo attracts those seeking exceptional trophies, both dangerous and plains game, with rich biodiversity and a vast range of species. KwaZulu-Natal captivates with lush terrains and diverse wildlife.
Each province offers a varying hunting experience. When choosing your destination, consider what type of safari you would prefer, the time of year you plan to visit, and the type of trophies you wish to harvest, as these all play a role in the decision-making process.
What Species are Available when hunting in South Africa?
South Africa is home to a wide array of species available to hunt throughout the country. Here is a list of popular species after targeted on a South Africa hunting trip, including dangerous game, African plains game, and specialty species:
One of South Africa's dangerous game species: The Mighty Hippo
When is the best time to embark on a South Africa Hunting Trip?
While hunting in South Africa is available throughout the year, the peak time to visit this diverse destination is generally during the drier winter months from May to September. During this time, the weather is cooler, allowing for less bugs and creepy crawlies, as well as cooler conditions in which to enjoy your South Africa hunting trip. It is the dry season in most areas which means that the animals are more likely to congregate around water holes or permanent water sources, and the vegetation is also shorter, making it easier to spot and track your chosen trophy.
Permits & Requirements of a South Africa Hunting Trip
South Africa, like many other African countries, has strict regulations in place to ensure both sustainable hunting practices and to support conservation. Your African outfitter on the hunt will assist and guide you with regards to the necessary paperwork required when hunting in South Africa.
SAPS 520 Form
To import a firearm for trophy hunting in South Africa, SAPS (South African Police Service) require that all visitors applying for a temporary firearms import permit to complete a SAPS 520 form. The SAPS 520 form is an all-encompassing form for numerous firearm related transactions.
The import Temporary License Application
- For the temporary permit to be granted by the South African Police, additional supporting documents will be required.
- If the hunter is a resident of the United States, a US Customs 4457 will be required. The US Customs form 4457, is the Certificate of Registration for personal effects taken abroad which is basically a verification of ownership.
- A few weeks before departing on the hunting safari to South Africa, pack the selected rifle/’s and head to your nearest CBP office with the completed form. An agent will cross check and verify that the serial numbers on the actual rifle/’s match what has been documented on the form. The agent will then certify the form.
- The certified and completed form will thus confirm proof of ownership when arriving in South Africa. Whatever happens during the hunting safari, make sure that this documents is not misplaced or damaged. The hunters needs this form to be able to take the rifle/’s back out of South Africa again.
- Always ensure that you have the most updated version of the form, showing the correct dates of issue and dates of expiration.
Additional Documents when Hunting in South Africa
- If you are travelling from international countries which exclude the USA, be sure to bring along your firearm license and proof of ownership. For American citizens, the 4457 will confirm ownership.
- A copy of your flight itinerary
- The South African outfitter, on their letterhead will need to provide you with a letter invitation providing details of the hunting safari.
- Passport: Your passport must have at least two free pages in it and must be valid for a period of at least six months after your trophy hunting safari in South Africa comes to an end. It is always wise to bring along a few certified or notarized copies.
What to Pack for a South Africa Hunting Trip
We have completed various articles and blogs on the subject, and the main takeaway here is that less is more. Check with your outfitter whether they will be offering daily laundry as part of the package, many do. This will cut down the amount of clothing that is packed.
But hunting in South Africa doesn’t always see you close to a corner store, or drug store, so remember to pack essential items such as toiletries, medication, basic first aid kit, and so forth.
Here’s a basic list of clothing to include on your South African hunting safari:
- If you are hunting dangerous game that are nocturnal from a blind, it is going to be cold in winter. A thick jacket, gloves, and a woollen beanie are essential to keep warm as temperatures drop.
- Warm undergarments are an additional consideration, as the hunter will be sitting still, along with the ability to move and get blood flowing.
- A lightweight rain jacket always comes in handy regardless of the season.
- In summer, shorts are always worn unless you are walking through long grass and scrub. Long pants can also add protection from thorns, bugs and insect stings.
- A long-sleeved shirt comes in handy against thorns, and insect stings, and helps to add protection from the blazing African sun.
- Check with your outfitter before departure if there are washing facilities for your clothes. There normally are but if not, pack a small box of hand washing powder.
- A wide-brimmed sunhat is essential. While a peak cap may feel more comfortable, a wide-brimmed hat can protect your neck and ears.
- In Africa, the sun is your biggest enemy, more dangerous than any of the Big 5 animals.
- Ensure that you have comfortable, waterproof boots as it is likely you will be walking and stalking your trophy over many miles.
Tips when Hunting in South Africa
So…you’ve decided to visit this diverse and exciting hunting safari destination. We’ve so glad, and are happy to share some great hunting tips with you:
- Practice shooting from sticks, as this is a very common occurrence in Africa.
- Learn more about your chosen trophies, including behavior, shot placement, and habitats, so that you can better prepare for the hunt.
- Read up on rules and regulations when hunting in South Africa to familiarize yourself with the requirements.
- Choose your rifle carefully. Remember that a minimum of a .375 is required to hunt dangerous game in South Africa, while plains game generally use a .270 upwards.
- Pack essential gear in your hand luggage, in case your booked in luggage is delayed.
- Pack lightly and check with your outfitter whether they offer a laundry service. Stick to neutral clothing. Allow for layering of clothing, as mornings and evenings can be cold, with warm days.
- Choose a reputable outfitter. There are many outfitters and hunts listed on our website to assist you. Feel free to contact the team at Game Hunting Safaris directly too, should you require any further information or assistance. We’re happy to help arrange an unforgettable hunting safari!
Pre- and Post-Hunting Activities in South Africa
South Africa is a kaleidoscope of people, activities, and experiences to enjoy before or after your hunting safari. Enjoying some hunting in South Africa, and then not staying to enjoy the tourism activities would be a waste!
South Africa ticks the boxes in terms of tourist activities for families, couples, friends, or even solo travelers in this diverse destination.
Depending on where your hunting safari takes place, there are tourist activities in each region to enjoy:
Western Cape
From wine tours and visits up Table Mountain with tours of the Mother City (Cape Town), to visiting Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned or shopping in the Waterfront, the Western Cape is seen as a highlight of any visit to South Africa. Don’t miss out on the Garden Route with all its fascinating little towns and many adventure activities to enjoy.
Cape Town Harbour
Eastern Cape
The Eastern Cape offers a wide range of tourist activities including wildlife safaris, cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and beach activities. Some highlights include Addo Elephant Park, Tsitsikamma National Park, as well as Port Elizabeth and Jeffrey’s Bay that are renowned for their breathtaking beaches.
Limpopo
Limpopo offers a rich variety of tourist activities that highlight its natural beauty, wildlife, cultural heritage, and adventure opportunities. Highlights of the area include numerous game reserves to see the Big 5, cultural experiences in the local Venda villages, as well as numerous adventure activities including white water rafting, canopy tours, ziplining, and hiking.
Mpumalanga
Mpumalanga is a premier South African tourist region known for its stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and diverse attractions. At a glance, visitors to the region can enjoy Big 5 experiences at various game reserves in the area, including the Kruger National Park, scenic stops along the Panaroma Route and God’s Window, as well as historical and cultural experiences in the preserved gold town of Pilgrim’s Rest and local Ndebele villages. For adventure seekers, the region offers ziplining, water rafting, and hiking opportunities.
KwaZulu-Natal
This sunshine province is renowned for its beautiful beaches, especially in the Durban and Umhlanga regions. From Ushaka Marine World in Durban and numerous game reserves within the region, to hiking, sporting and even cultural activities, such as Shakaland and the Zulu Villages or the Anglo-Zulu or Boer battlefields, the area offers diverse events to interest all!
Free State
The Free State offers a blend of serene natural landscapes, cultural experiences, thrilling outdoor activities, and historical sites, making it a diverse and captivating tourist destination. For adventure seekers, the area offers abseiling, ziplining, water rafting, and quad biking, while those tourists more interested in the history of the area can enjoy a visit to National Museum in Bloemfontein, Naval Hill, and various heritage sites. The area also offers numerous game reserves and picturesque towns to visit and explore.
North West Province
The North West Province offers tourists a mixture of luxury, wilderness, culture, and adrenaline-filled adventures. From world-class game reserves offering the ultimate game experience, to the famous Sun City Resort, visitors are spoilt for choice in this diverse tourism destination. For culture seekers, the area offers the Taung Heritage Site, part of the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site, and the Siege of Mafikeng museum, amongst others. For adrenaline-junkies needing their fix, the Magaliesburg mountain range is home to numerous activities, including hot air ballooning, abseiling, canopy tours, and hiking.
Sun City Resort, North West Province, South Africa
Gauteng
This province seamlessly blends urban excitement, rich history, vibrant culture, and outdoor adventure events to tickle the interest of tourists in the region. For those wanting to explore local history and culture, the area is alive with possibilities: From guided township tours in Pretoria and Johannesburg, and the UNESCO Site the Cradle of Mankind, to the Apartheid Museum and the Hector Pieterse Museum, the province offers diverse cultural experiences. The area offers open markets, casinos, theatres, adventure activities and culinary delights, all culminating in an unforgettable experience.
Northern Cape
As South Africa’s largest and most sparsely populated province, the Northern Cape offers tourist to the region a blend of tranquil wilderness, thrilling adventure activities, and the opportunity to step back into its rich heritage and culture, culminating in a unique and varied experience. From stargazing in Sutherland to visiting Kimberley’s Big Hole and Diamond Mine Museum, to outdoor adventure activities such as 4x4 trails, fishing, hiking, and the opportunity to explore the unique desert landscapes, the Northen Cape is well worth a visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best hunting in South Africa?
This all depends on which trophy you wish to hunt, but the Limpopo, Eastern Cape, Free State, KZN, and Mpumalanga provinces are some of the more popular options when hunting in South Africa. These locations all offer differing terrain and landscapes, challenging the hunter to overcome these obstacles to secure his chosen trophy.
Can Tourists enjoy a South Africa hunting trip?
It is legal for international tourists to hunt in South Africa. These hunters just need to ensure that they obtain the necessary permits and adhere to the regulations related to a South African hunt.
Do you need a permit for a South African hunting safari?
Yes, a hunting permit is required. Each province has its own rules and regulations, check with your outfitter with regard specific requirements for your hunting region.
Can you hunt the Big 5 in South Africa?
When it comes to a Big 5 hunting safari in South Africa, technically all members of the Big 5 can be hunted. These include the Leopard, Lion, Cape Buffalo, Elephant, and Rhino. However, no permits have been issued for Leopard hunting in South Africa for quite a few years already.
When is the best time to enjoy hunting in South Africa?
While you can hunt throughout the year in South Africa, the best time to hunt in this African destination is during the cooler months of May to August. These are generally the drier months in the region, allowing hunters more visibility as vegetation is less dense and animals are more likely to gather around water sources. There are also less bugs and insects around during the cooler months, with the hot weather seeing an increase in these pesky irritants.
What is the most difficult African plains game species to hunt?
While many African plains game species can be quite challenging to harvest, the most difficult and testing species would be the Greater Kudu. Often referred to as Africa’s Gray Ghost, this large antelope is a master at camouflage techniques and often disappears seamlessly into its habitat.
The Kudu: A Master of Camouflage
Start Planning Your South Africa hunting trip today!
If you’re a US hunter ready to experience the thrill of hunting in South Africa, we’ll connect you with vetted outfitters, handle all paperwork, and ensure your trophies arrive safely back home.
Game Hunting Safaris
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Email: info@gamehuntingsafaris.com
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