Key Takeaways

·       Tanzania is one of Africa’s leading big game hunting destinations, famous for its variety of species

·       The country offers three types of hunting packages: 10-day, 16-day, and 21-day

·       Hunting permits are issued by the TAWA

·       Game hunting blocks in Tanzania are separated into five classes

·       Tanzania is home to almost half of Africa’s Cape Buffalo

·       Lunda Nkwambi, a GCA of more than 400 square miles, has healthy populations of Cape Buffalo and is a sought-after hunting block

·       If hunters are searching for a traditional “up close” and personal safari, hunting Cape Buffalo in Lunda Nkwambi is a good safari choice

·       The best time for a Cape Buffalo hunt on Lunda Nkwambi would be in the dry months (July-late September)

·       If the hunter wants an authentic African hunting safari, Cape Buffalo hunts in Lunda Nkwambi tick all the blocks

Safari Hunting Packages

Tanzania offers three types of hunting packages:

-        Regular License (10 Days)

-        Major License (16 Days)

-        Premium License (21 Days)

To align service offerings with customer expectations, regulations allow for hunters to move from one game hunting block to another and change operator during their hunting safari in Tanzania. The longer the hunting license, the more expensive, thus allowing hunters to add additional species per hunting license.

Tanzania Hunting Safari Permits

Operators apply for permits on behalf of hunters and these applications are submitted for approval at TAWA regional offices. Hunting applications are reviewed by officials and if all conditions have been met, the hunting permits will be issued to the outfitter. At the end of the Tanzania hunting safari, clients are requested to sign the original documents. 

Safari Hunting Regulations

Hunting safaris for tourists are directly connected to TAWA’s long term conservation strategy. Game hunting is controlled using a quota system, which is reviewed by a committee and is based of research, harvests, and existing animal population numbers.

Hunting Blocks in Tanzania

Game hunting blocks in Tanzania are separated into five classes. These classes are determined by their economic value, and based on ratings which include accessibility, game diversity, and investment requirements. Various categories influence the duration of the operators’ hunting license. 

A GPA (Grade Points Average) score is determined using criteria such as (but not limited to) species diversity, levels of human encroachment, availability of water and natural vegetation, to name a few. 

The duration of a hunting license may vary per hunting block category. For example, Category 1 and 2 game hunting blocks may be valid for 10 years, while others such as Category 3 blocks might be valid for 15 years.

Cape Buffalo Populations in Tanzania  

In Africa, it is estimated that in the wild, more than 400,000 Cape Buffalo (Syncerus caffer) roam the continent based on numbers per the IUCN Red List. While there are several species of African Buffalo, the Cape Buffalo has the highest population numbers.

Tanzania is home to almost half of Africa’s Cape Buffalo, with recent research estimating the buffalo population in the country to be more than 190,000.

Cape Buffalo are particularly abundant in the Serengeti ecosystem, and these Buffalo play a part on the annual great migration.

Trophy Hunting in Tanzania, Cape Buffalo in Lunda Nkwambi

Lunda Nkwambi, a GCA of more than 400 square miles, has healthy populations of Cape Buffalo and as such is a much sought-after buffalo hunting block. Along with Cape Buffalo, the hunting GCA block also boasts strong Lion, Leopard and Elephant populations (Big 5 species).

We at Game Hunting Safaris recently visited the GCA and if an authentic Cape Buffalo hunt is on your list, Lunda Nkwambi certainly is an option. This is hard hunting, on foot, following traditional hunting methods. With so many Cape Buffalo in the area, while it many be tempting, do not necessarily shoot the first Cape Buffalo you see.

In Lunda Nkwambi, with the river flowing miles through the block, during the dry season (June to September), hunters can follow fresh spoor leading from the riverbeds into the thick brush.Cape Buffalo, as we witnessed, pass through in herds over 200 strong while solitary Dugga boys patrol and roam the riverbanks.

Cape Buffalo Hunting Methods in Lunda Kwambi

For American and international hunters booking their dream Cape Buffalo hunt in Tanzania, a variety of tactics can be deployed to successfully harvest your sought-after trophy.

Identifying Fresh Buffalo Tracks: Hunting Cape Buffalo “Dugga Boys” 

-        Identifying fresh tracks is always a good start.  These solitary Buffalo bulls will have left the main breeding herds and chosen their own path, often pairing with other lone bulls. In Lunda, the Dugga boys will traverse between the hunting blocks and game reserves such as Kazigo National Park.

-        In the drier season, Dugga boys, will not venture far from fresh water, as habitat is not overgrazed and the Buffalo do not need travels miles to graze.

-        Fresh tracks can be found in the dry areas along the riverbanks leading to the waterholes. Cape Buffalo, being water dependant need to drink every day, due to the course vegetation they consume.

-        During drier months, Buffalo may need to drink twice a day. These tracks can be followed, leading to the possible quarry.

Following the Cape Buffalo Herds

-        The herds of Cape Buffalo are not that difficult to find. More than 200 Cape Buffalo leave an easy path to follow. These Buffalo herds in the dry season will also find water and utilize these open areas to spread out and drink.

-        Like with any breeding herd, mature Cape Buffalo will lead. Hunters can follow these herds, stalk into close proximity and try get eyes on “mature bulls.”

-        Stalking to get eyes on the herd can be challenging, as not only are there many Buffalo on “high alert,” but the ground is covered in dry leaves and foliage which can a lot of noise. Walking in these conditions are often described as “walking on cornflakes.”

Cape Buffalo Hunting, using the “Ambush” Method

-        With there being so many Cape Buffalo in Lunda, following the tracks is relatively easy for the experienced guides. With grazing being of high quality, one of the biggest challenges is ensuring a continuous supply of drinking water.

-        With the Cape Buffalo moving to and from the water sources, hunters can strategically place themselves in a position where the quality of bulls can be identified.

-        Once a suitable bull is identified, hunters can leave the vantage point and stalk the last yards to get into shooting range.

Terrain and Buffalo Hunting in Lunda Nkwambi

If hunters are searching for a traditional “up close” and personal safari, hunting Buffalo in Lunda is a good choice for a safari. 

The terrain is decorated with hundreds of Baobabs, and the bush is thick. Here American hunters will shoot at less than 20 yards. There are a few open areas where shots can be made at 40 yards, but the thick foliage will allow you to get in close.

When Trophy Hunting in Tanzania, how many days should the Safari be?

Considering the travel logistics and costs to get to Tanzania, a 10-day hunt is definitely recommended for American hunters wanting to harvest “something special.”  While there are plenty of Buffalo, a few days will be required to find the “dream bull,” assuming, of course, that everything goes to plan.

If you are looking to enjoy the experience of hunting Cape Buffalo in Tanzania, and you will be satisfied with a mature 12-year bull, measuring 38 to 40 inches, 7-day hunting safari will suffice.

 How much will it cost to go Trophy Hunting in Tanzania for Cape Buffalo?

A typical Buffalo hunting safari, being 7 days and 8 nights, will cost US$ 21000. The safari will include:

-        Accommodation, drinks and meals

-        Services of licensed Professional Hunter, Trackers and Lodge Staff

-        Road Transfers to and from Dodoma

-        Tanzania Hunting License

-        Field Preparation of Trophies

-        On Territory Transport

-        Daily Laundry Service

The safari will exclude costs such as dip and pack, gratuities to staff, international shipping and taxidermy costs and rifle import fees.

Best rifle when Trophy Hunting in Tanzania for Cape Buffalo

With the topography varying in Lunda, along with the variety of open areas such as the dry riverbeds to the thick areas of brush, choosing a suitable caliber is always going to be a difficult choice.

This choice will largely depend on the chosen method. Hunting Cape Buffalo along the banks of the riverbeds and semi-open areas will allow hunters a shot of 50 plus yards. In these circumstances, a .375, or .458, fitted with good quality optics can be used.

For hunters wanting to get close, “in the thick,” a big caliber rifle with open sights, or fitted with a “red dot” will get the job done.  Visibility will be at a minimum.

The success of any Cape Buffalo hunt, irrespective of calibre will, of course, depend on shot placement. 

If you are planning to add specialty or plains game trophies, pack a good quality suitable rifle, such as a 30.06, 7mm or 300 Win Mag loaded with premium quality ammunition.

Tips when Trophy Hunting in Tanzania, Lunda Nkwambi

• To improve your chances of success, focus on ethical big game hunting practice, precision, and preparation in the months leading up to the dangerous game hunt.

• Study your adversary and the Cape Buffalo’s behaviour.

• Know shot placement and be prepared for quick follow up shots.

• Invest in quality equipment, from gear to equipment and ensure everything is well-maintained.

• Chat to the PH in advance and consider the approach, including terrain and wind conditions.   

• Load your rifle with correct ammunition i.e. solids or expanding tips.

• Hunters need to ensure that all the necessary hunting permits are in place.

Best time to go Buffalo hunting in Tanzania, Lunda Nkwambi

With vegetation being so thick and international hunters wanting to avoid the rainy season, the best time for a Cape Buffalo hunt would be in the dry months, which are between July and late September.

Hunting Lodge on the Cape Buffalo Hunt

Accommodations are standard safari tents, with hot and cold water. Each unit is equipped with comfortable beds, bedside cabinets, electricity (solar) and patio sets to enjoy the African landscape.

Safari tents, as well as the main lodge have specular views overlooking the river. The main lodge features a bar, dining area with a viewing deck.

At night, you can hear Lions and other African predators causing mayhem in the darkness.

Conclusion

If Trophy hunting in Tanzania for Cape Buffalo is a consideration, hunters will not be disappointed. Lunda Nkwambi provides for an authentic East African Safari.

Start Planning Your Cape Buffalo Hunt Today

If you’re a Texas hunter ready to experience the intensity of a Cape buffalo safari, 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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