Dangerous game hunting is exactly as the words imply, namely the hunting of dangerous game that can cause major injury or even death. The circumstances in which these animals are targeted are often unpredictable, everchanging, and extremely challenging.

Which African Animals Are Considered Dangerous Game?

Africa is home to many species of wildlife. Some species are seen as being more docile (read less aggressive and likely to turn on you and try to kill you!) and an easier target when hunting in Africa, with most species of antelopes and many specialty game falling into this game hunting segment.

Then, there is another group of animals that give even experienced hunters an involuntary chill when they think about them, simply because they know the damage, destruction, and mayhem that they can cause. This group will take you out without a second’s hesitation and will defend themselves or their herd until death, whether yours or theirs.

Africa’s Big 5 members form part of this dangerous game hunting group and remain sought-after game hunting trophies while hunting in Africa, with the African lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, and Cape buffalo being notoriously difficult and dangerous to hunt under any conditions.

Two more deadly adversaries are added to the Big 5 to form the Dangerous 7 and a grouping of the deadliest animals in Africa: The hippo and Nile crocodile.

The Lion

When thinking of dangerous game hunting in Africa, your first thought is usually that of the African lion. And no, not Simba from The Lion King or any other Disney tale. Lions are not referred to as being king of the jungle in vain – They are apex predators whose cold stare is enough to make the hair rise on the back of your neck as you imagine it deciding how best to hunt you. Its razor-sharp claws can rip a man from top to bottom, while one good swipe of its paw is enough to down a man – permanently. Ever looked closely at a lion’s teeth? Perhaps you should as these are what can tear and rip you to shreds if a dangerous African hunt goes wrong.

The Cape Buffalo

The Cape buffalo’s reputation precedes it. Known as “Africa’s Black Death” or the “Widowmaker” this large bovine is 2,000 pounds of pure muscle, sharp horns, and a bad attitude. Many hunters worldwide regard the Cape buffalo as the most dangerous of all dangerous game to hunt, simply because of its largely unpredictable nature, pure aggression, and trick of doubling back on the hunting party and launching an unexpected counterattack.

The Leopard

Being so shy and elusive, one would imagine that this African cat is quite calm and relaxed. Yes, at times it may well be, but this apex predator is not one to take being hunted lightly and will fight tooth and nail to the bitter end. Take an agile, lightning-fast predator, with exceptional night vision, who is known to retaliate, and you know you have a thrilling, dangerous, and exciting hunting safari ahead!

A word of caution here: Leopards are extremely dangerous when wounded. They are known for their resilience in the face of danger, their cunning ways, and their unpredictable nature. Be extremely wary should you find yourself in the position of following up on this wounded African cat.

The Elephant

As the world’s largest terrestrial mammal, the elephant is certainly impressive at first sight. The African elephant remains a sought-after dangerous game hunting target due to its ivory tusks which make it a great trophy, not only for hunters but poachers alike.  Unfortunately for these magnificent beasts, the WWF estimates that more than 20,000 elephants in Africa lose their fight to illegal poachers annually.

Although at a glance elephants may not look especially dangerous, they can become very agitated, irritated, and aggressive should they feel that they, or their herd, are in any type of danger. They also have excellent memories and have been known to take revenge on hunters who targeted them.

Weighing up to 14,000 pounds with its impressive strength, intelligence, sharp tusks, and protective nature, this mammoth mammal is a force with which to be reckoned. They may not have very good eyesight, but their sense of smell and hearing are both excellent, standing them in good stead against potential danger, whether the predator is an animal or human.

The Rhino

Both black and white rhinos are available for dangerous game hunting safaris in South Africa and Namibia. At this point, these are the only two countries in Africa where rhinos can be legally hunted. While their eyesight may not be anything to write home about, their sense of smell and hearing are superb. Their sheer size and weight – not to mention their horns! – make them a dangerous opponent when big game hunting in Africa.

Just as elephants are hunted for their ivory tusks, so rhinos are hunted for their horns, with many rhinos falling victim to illegal poachers across the continent. Many conservation programs have been initiated and are ongoing to protect this vulnerable species.

The Nile Crocodile

I hate to admit it, but I have a grudging respect for this cold-blooded killer. I mean, what other animal has survived and thrived to still be a force to be reckoned with, after so long? These prehistoric apex predators are exceptionally good at what they do and that is taking down any living creature that is unfortunate enough to cross its path.

The Nile crocodile is cold, calculating, and cunning, thriving in various environments such as swamps, dams, lakes, estuaries, and deltas. Dangerous from both ends, whether you encounter the mighty tail or the snapping razor-sharp teeth, encounters with this predator rarely end well for resident wildlife. These crocs are also renowned for being man-eaters, targeting and hunting humans as they go about their daily routine near the water’s edge or indulge in fishing or other water activities.

The Hippo

Sharing the same habitat as the Nile crocodile, hippos may look cute with their short stubby legs and rounded tubby bodies, but in this case, looks can be deceiving. These mammals are also killers and are responsible for the deaths of more than 500 humans per year. They spend close to 16 hours a day in the water, making a difficult game hunting target in terms of shot placement, but we all need a good challenge, right?

They are dangerous, and aggressive and are problematic not only due to their large size and incredible weight but also their extremely strong and sharp tusks. These ivory tusks are used in defense as well as in attack and are the downfall of many humans and animals.

A word of caution: When hippo hunting in Africa, never come between a hippo cow and her calf, it may well be the last thing you do.

Where is the Best African Destination to Hunt Dangerous Game?

What many hunters don’t realize about hunting in Africa, is that they are spoilt for choice. Africa is home to an abundance of wildlife, including dangerous game that are spread across the continent.

Destinations such as South Africa, Mozambique, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, Tanzania, and Cameroon all offer exceptional dangerous game packages.

Do your homework and find out more about the types of dangerous game available in each destination and see which destinations are seen as being one of the best for the specific dangerous game you are planning on targeting. For example, while it is legal in South Africa to hunt leopards, no leopard permits have been issued in a long time, BUT it does offer some of the best dangerous game hunting in the country’s Limpopo province and Kalahari region. Consider Namibia for your next big game hunting safari, the country offers quality Nile crocodile and hippo trophies in the region’s Zambezi region (formerly known as the Caprivi Strip); while Mozambique has exquisite Cape buffalo trophies, to mention but a few.

These are only a few of the many options available in various dangerous game destinations across Africa. Be bold, be adventurous…and book a hunt (or two!).

Read more about dangerous game hunting destinations in a recent blog entitled: Dangerous Game Hunting: Sought-after Destinations.

Can You Hunt Dangerous Game at Night?

Yes, dangerous game hunting most definitely can take place at night, but only in certain areas or destinations, as each country has its own set of hunting guidelines and regulations. Also, only certain members of the dangerous game family can be hunted.

Hunting dangerous game at night just ups the stakes completely, doesn’t it? Let’s play open cards, shall we? When hunting dangerous game, you are already putting your life on the line. These are not fluffy bunnies you are targeting but rather dangerous, aggressive animals who will do their utmost to escape, whether that is around you – or through you. And now, you are putting your life in the balance by taking on what are regarded as the most dangerous animals worldwide, AT NIGHT! Thrilling? Yes! Exciting? Yes! Crazy? Perhaps, slightly…

Why is Hunting Dangerous Game at Night More Challenging?

Dangerous game hunting during daylight hours is an experience that tests the skills, patience, endurance, and tenacity of experienced game hunters and is not a hunting adventure to be taken lightly. But night hunts just up the stakes completely for the hunter, providing an unforgettable dangerous game hunting experience!

Some reasons why it is more dangerous and challenging include:

• At night, you have less visibility than during the day, and the African bush can be full of shadows and darkness where prey can hide.
• Some members of the cat family, such as the leopard, are nocturnal and can see extremely well in low-light conditions. Add to that their lightning speed as well as their cunning and unpredictable nature and the danger levels are rising fast!
• On a night hunt, just like during the day, you are never quite sure what is around the next corner – or bush! The only difference is that during the day, your visibility is much improved and there is less chance of disturbing other animals. But imagine the excitement should you happen upon something unexpected during your hunt!
• Let’s not forget the reason why many choose dangerous game hunting to start with – the thrill of the chase. And nothing beats a chase under the African night skies, with places for your prey to hide, or attack from, where everything looks and feels different, but the memories of stalking dangerous game will last forever!

Which Destinations Allow Dangerous Game Hunting at Night?

In many dangerous game hunting destinations, night hunting is illegal. It is, however, legal in some countries or specific areas within them, under artificial lights and with the necessary permits and permissions in place.

The following countries allow night hunting, together with specific regulations and permits that are required:

• Mozambique
• South Africa
• Zimbabwe
• Botswana (specific in its ruling to only allow night hunting on private land)

Which Dangerous Game Are Hunted During a Night Game Hunting Safari?

The Hippo

Hippos spent around 16 hours a day wallowing in water. As dusk hits, these heavy herbivores head to the shore and spend the night grazing before returning to the water. The best time to target them is on land, during their trip to or from the water source at dusk or dawn.

Although not very common, hippos are hunted through the dense bush on foot while they graze at night. This is EXCEPTIONALLY dangerous and therefore not common practice but does happen on rare occasions.

The Lion

These aggressive, unpredictable African cats are difficult enough to hunt during daylight hours and after dark there are just added layers of increased risks, challenges, and danger. Yes, the adrenaline is certainly at an all-time high, but so is the element of danger.

In areas with great hunting pressure, lions tend to be reluctant to appear during daylight hours for fear of being targeted and prefer to appear under the shadow of darkness. Lion hunting at night can take place under artificial light and they are usually hunted from a blind. The adrenaline races as you sit in the darkness, hearing the African wildlife around you, waiting for your prey to appear.

The Leopard

This elusive and cunning African cat has lightning-fast reflexes and excellent eyesight. Leopards are usually hunted from blinds at night, but there are some areas in Mozambique where they are hunted at night, using hounds.

The thrill of this hunt is all in the chase but be prepared to meet up with an angry, vicious animal intent on escape. And just a quick reminder that a wounded leopard is regarded as one of the most dangerous animals on earth. A wounded leopard…at night? Not a situation that I would like to find myself in, I must admit. My suggestion is to ensure that the first shot is 100% accurate. Read up on options for shot placement on a leopard.

Dangerous Game Hunting at Night: Is the Additional Risk Worth it?

Dangerous game hunting at night provides an additional level of danger and excitement to a hunting adventure that is already a risk! As your heart rate rises, so does the thrill of enjoying such a hazardous hunting trip – but is the additional thrill of the chase worth the danger a hunter faces? 

Only they can decide…

Author: B. Hershensohnn