Today, hunting in Zimbabwe is a bucket list opportunity for many American hunters, but the modern African hunt has much humbler beginnings. While the hunts of today focus on trophy size and bragging rights, the expeditions of old served to satisfy hungry stomachs, make men out of boys, and even appease the Gods.

So, how did hunting safaris in Zimbabwe evolve from such humble beginnings to the multi-million-dollar industry they are today? Through hard work, investment, and the unwavering desire of hunters to chase their dreams across the country’s vast and wild landscape.

[DYNAMIC-BLOGTABLEOFCONTENT]

Key Takeaways

• Hunting in Zimbabwe originated from humble beginnings and has risen to be a multi-million-dollar industry
• Zimbabwe is home to members of the Big 5 and prime African plains game species
• There is a strategic relationship between conservation and game hunting safaris in Zimbabwe
• The perks of unfenced land and free chase opportunities for American hunters add to Zim’s charm and allure
• Despite political and societal struggles, Zimbabwe's hunting industry is a foundation of its economy.

History of the African hunt in Zimbabwe: From Necessity to the New Age

To pinpoint the start of hunting in Zimbabwe would be to genuinely take a blind shot in the dark. Academic studies have traced game hunting back to Zimbabwe's Iron Age, where both San and other indigenous African tribes hunted for survival and ceremonial purposes. Currently, sites have uncovered "hunting tools" such as axes and dart tips that can be dated back almost 2 million years; so while Zimbabwe's formalized hunting industry has been around since the 50’s, the basic concept was born millions of years before in a time where survival was the order of the day.

The modern African hunting trip often involves the latest in “hunting technology” and gear; from compound bows, military grade optics and scopes, to hi-tech clothing materials and even trail cameras or drones. Yet those early hunters relied on primitive (some might say crude) yet effective tools that achieved the job as desired. These early days of the African hunt relied heavily on knowledge passed down from one generation to the next, often as a rite of passage or initiation into adulthood. Armed with poison-tipped arrows, stone hand axes, and clothed in animal skins, Zimbabwe's hunters of old might have had it rough by current standards, yet it's these generational skills and teachings that have made the Bushmen of Zimbabwe and Southern Africa the revered trackers and hunting guides that American hunters and others seek out for their hunting expeditions.

Given its grass-roots beginnings, hunting in Zimbabwe has grown into a thriving and sustainable industry built on both ancient knowledge and modern approaches that have made the country a top hunting destination on the African continent.

Hunting in Zimbabwe: From Subsistence to Sport

Zimbabwe's hunting industry has arguably moved through three phases, defined by the arrival of European settlers, traders, and their influence. The African hunting trip started as a means of survival, and thanks to the efforts of those who tracked, documented, and shaped Zimbabwe's wildlife history, we now have access to an environment that supports sustainable animal populations and provides enjoyable hunting opportunities.

The Pre-Colonial African Hunt: Days of Bushmen Hunters

Africa’s Bushmen tribes are recognized as some of the toughest and most resourceful populations to walk the continent. From farming, water finding and preservation, and even hunting, their practices have long influenced modern ideas.

Bushmen hunting was largely for subsistence and involved skilled hunting parties who would track and kill prey using poison-tipped arrows or spears, stone blades, and primitive snares or traps. By hunting only what they needed, animal populations were kept stable and were allowed to flourish naturally.

Bushmen also used the hunted animal’s products, such as skins, fat, blood, and horn, to make clothing, medicinal compounds, and perform traditional ritual practices. So while their hunting was primarily for sustenance, there was a symbolic or even spiritual connotation tied to their hunts.

Arrival of Colonialism and European Impact on Zimbabwe

The arrival of European colonialists brought a new practice of hunting to the fore, namely trophy hunting. Trophy hunting can be defined as the hunting of an animal for access to body parts used as a form of trophy or prize. European hunting in Zimbabwe was seen as a sport-like activity done for pleasure and pride, while also generating a profit through the export of skins and ivory.

This new African hunting trip brought the influence of rifles and other firearms, which caused a significant increase in the number of animal trophies taken and a serious decrease in remaining animal populations, pushing some to the brink of extinction.

The arrival of the Europeans and the rise of colonialism also saw indigenous populations being moved and removed from their homelands to create parks and reserves meant solely for the practice of game hunting. Laws were also implemented restricting the animals that the Bushmen were able to hunt, as they were now considered "royal game," and could only be hunted by European visitors and travelers.

Independence and New Beginnings: The Modern Era of Hunting Safaris in Zimbabwe

After gaining independence in 1980, the approach to hunting in Zimbabwe shifted. As land was slowly returned to indigenous groups, the country enacted conservation efforts that directly involved and incentivized local communities to share their spaces with otherwise "troublesome" visitors like Elephants, Crocodiles, Hippos, and Lions, with the promise of receiving a share in the hunting profits.

The new era also saw the growth and formalization of the Zimbabwean Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZPWMA), which some trace back to the mid-70s. This governing body of Zimbabwe’s state wildlife has strictly regulated the hunting industry through quota setting, permit regulation, and the setting of hunting guidelines governing aspects such as rifle caliber, hunting seasons and times, exclusion of species and genders, and the provision of hunt supervisors.

Appeal of the African Hunt: Why American Hunters Seek Out Zimbabwe

The allure of the African hunting trip has tempted American hunters for hundreds of years, from the earliest documentation of Peregrine Herne to the legendary excursions of Theodore Roosevelt and George Allen. The basic reasons that inspired them to step foot into "darkest Africa" aren't very different from the ones that draw the hunters of today.

These include promises of wild landscapes, epic natural environments, and trophy species sure to impress even the most discerning of hunters.

Fair Chase, Vast Landscapes, and Well-regulated Concessions

Many say Zimbabwe offers hunters an authentic African hunting trip experience. Influencing this sentiment is the common and encouraged practice of free-range or fair chase hunting offers available on both government and community or privately-owned land. Whether the area is fenced or not, they cover large expanses of open land, giving hunters a true sense of being in the wild.

Concessions are highly regulated and checked on to determine how the area is being used, what the population numbers look like, and even if quotas need adjusting to tackle overpopulation of certain species. These factors combined create an ethical appeal that helps Zimbabwe promote itself as a top contender among the African hunt destinations.

Qualified Outfitters and Professional Hunters

Those wanting to operate as an outfitter or professional hunter (PH) in Zimbabwe must complete a stringent series of studies and training requirements. This process includes a 2+ year apprenticeship under a qualified individual where the trainee receives real-world experience and learning, as well as completing (and passing) multiple exams on animal behavior and biology, environmental studies, tracking and hunting practices, and even first aid instruction. Much like drivers getting a learner's permit, newly qualified PHs are generally restricted to African plains game species until such time as they rack up enough hours and experience to "graduate" into the sphere of dangerous game hunting. This ensures that hunters tackling Zimbabwe's most dangerous species are in the best hands possible.

Diversity of Wildlife

Across the country's diverse landscape lies an impressive array of hunting possibilities. Zimbabwe is home to members of the Big 5, impressive African plains game species, and even some of the more alternative or exotic animals, either limited to select destinations or found nowhere else. This assortment means there's something for everyone when game hunting here, whether they're beginning their hunting tenure or looking for the next record winner.

Safety and Savings

Zimbabwe is considered a safe country for American hunters, as visitors are generally transported directly to their designated accommodation or resort, whether by vehicle or air charter, therefore bypassing areas which could be seen as “dodgy.” Thanks to Zimbabwe's highly regulated hunting industry, all outfitters, PHs, and guides must adhere to strict qualifications, ensuring that hunters and any visitor tagging along are in safe and well-trained hands.

In terms of money, hunting safaris in Zimbabwe are cost-effective when compared to other African hunting destinations like Tanzania, Mozambique, or South Africa, especially when it comes to big or dangerous game packages. As Zimbabwe makes use of the US dollar, this offers American hunters some financial ease and one less thing to worry about, as little to no foreign exchange is needed.

From the Table to the Trophy: Historically Popular Locations and Species

Hunting safaris in Zimbabwe offer hunters a mix of both big game and African plains species. The country has several well-known and reputable hunting areas/conservancies that host a varied number of species and populations, so knowing what you want to target, or where you want to be, will be something to consider when booking your hunt.

Save Valley

Located in Zimbabwe's southeast area, the Save Valley has a more woodland type of vegetation, which can be very thick in areas. This gives cover and camouflage to the region's many species, which include:

 Bubye

A privately-owned conservancy, the Bubye Valley covers an area of 850,000 acres and contains no internal fences. The area is home to the Bubye River, which creates a riverine habitat throughout the central region. Elsewhere, the landscape is flat and includes acacia woodland plus vast grassland veld marked by granite peaks. The conservancy is home to a number of both big game and plains species, such as:

 Zambezi region

Home to the mighty Zambezi River, much of this concession consists of floodplains and woodlands with rugged hills and sandbanks that can prove challenging depending on the type of hunting trip engaged in. The area is large, so travelling by vehicle within the concession is standard practice, alongside tracking and stalking through miles of bushveld to locate and scout your chosen target. Thanks to the Zambezi being a rich and reliable water source, the area is home to various populations of game hunting species, including:

Matetsi

This area includes several unfenced land units that border the Hwange National Park, Kazuma Pan, and Zambezi National Park. Matetsi offers hunters a truly "free-range" game hunting experience, featuring a variety of landscapes and easy accessibility through the Victoria Falls International Airport. Matetsi is also renowned for its numerous water sources that remain sustainable throughout Zimbabwe's dry season. This feature attracts large concentrations of game into the area's plains and hills.

Hunting safaris in Zimbabwe have changed a lot over the years, from something of basic need, to a highly profitable industry that has trained and employed many through the millions of dollars in investment and income to the country.

American hunters come to Zimbabwe for different reasons, but at the end of the day, this southern African country offers an almost "one-stop shop" for those who choose to try their hand at an authentic African hunt and tackle its environment in the hopes of achieving their trophy dreams.

Zimbabwe’s hunting trophies aren't limited to land - Crocodile and Hippo opportunities abound

Frequently Asked Questions

Can American hunters export their trophies from Zimbabwe?

Exportable trophies can be shipped to the US, either ready to undergo taxidermy or already mounted, depending on the hunter's preference. Hunters need to comply with CITES permits as well as regulations set out by the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZPWMA) and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).

Regulations regarding trophy import/export can be altered at any given time, so it is wise for hunters to consult with their outfitter or a reliable Internet source to clarify the current regulations.

How do Zimbabwe’s safaris compare to others in cost?

Hunting safaris in Zimbabwe fall into the mid to high price range, depending on the chosen species. African plains game packages are generally very competitively priced when compared to other African hunt destinations such as South Africa, Tanzania, Botswana, and Namibia.

Big game hunting packages can come at a premium price, but be on the lookout for cull and cancellation hunts, which can bag you a Big 5-member trophy at a largely reduced rate.

Is hunting in Zimbabwe challenging?

Thanks to Zimbabwe's landscape, many hunts in this area lend themselves to long walk-and-stalk sessions, requiring good spotting skills. Thicker, wooded areas can restrict visibility, while the open savannah or grassland regions offer clearer scanning of the land. Hunters must have reasonable physical fitness levels due to Zimbabwe's climate and the amount of walking required, whether you're tackling the summer heat (over 100ºF) or the muddy rainy season.

Do I need special gear for this African hunting trip?

While no specialized gear is required for hunting in Zimbabwe, hunters must comply with the minimum requirements for both rifle and bow hunting methods. Good binoculars and optics are a necessity, as well as neutral-colored clothing that can be adapted to weather changes. Other general hunting goods, such as adequate boots, sun protection measures, and basic first aid goods, are strongly recommended.