Ultimate Guide To Hunting in Zimbabwe: Top Game Hunting Safaris & Outfitter Connections

May 22, 2025

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Key Takeaways

Zimbabwe is a premier destination for big game and plains game hunting, renowned for its diverse wildlife, legendary safari experiences, and well-managed hunting areas.
Strict regulations and ethical hunting practices, including targeting mature animals and annual quotas, help ensure long-term wildlife conservation and habitat protection.
Hunting in Zimbabwe significantly benefits local communities through revenue sharing programs like CAMPFIRE, supporting schools, employment, and essential infrastructure.
Major hunting regions such as Matetsi, Zambezi Valley, Save Valley Conservancy, and Gonarezhou National Park each offer unique opportunities and specialties for both seasoned and first-time hunters.
Choosing a reputable, conservation-focused safari operator is crucial for safe, legal, and responsible hunting, with operators assisting in logistics, permitting, and community engagement.
Participating hunters contribute directly to anti-poaching efforts, rural development, and biodiversity—making every safari both an adventure and a force for positive impact.

Understanding Hunting In Zimbabwe: An Overview

Zimbabwe hunting safaris have long attracted those who value authentic African hunting experiences, thanks to extensive wildlife, regulated practices, and strong community involvement. We’ll break down the essentials of hunting in Zimbabwe to make this adventure approachable and rewarding.

Key Types of Game and Popular Hunts

Big Five hunting Zimbabwe: Most hunters are drawn by the chance to pursue Africa’s famous Big Five—elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, and rhino. Not everyone will go for all five, but even targeting one, like Cape buffalo hunting Zimbabwe or elephant hunting Zimbabwe, offers a memorable challenge.
Plains game hunting Zimbabwe: Beyond big game, plains species like sable antelope, kudu, and eland are highly sought after. Sable antelope hunting Zimbabwe is especially popular due to the animal’s rarity and the quality of trophies available.
Specialized regions: Legendary areas such as the Zambezi Valley and Matetsi hunting concession are renowned for abundant game, unique habitats, and professional guides. If you’re seeking leopard hunting Zimbabwe or want to focus on kudu hunting Zimbabwe, some regions stand out with higher densities and better odds.

Regulation and Ethical Standards

Hunting in Zimbabwe operates under strict regulations. National programs carefully manage quotas for each species, setting seasons and rules that protect wildlife populations. Ethical hunting means we target only mature animals, leaving breeding stocks untouched for future sustainability.

All trophy hunting Zimbabwe activities are monitored, and guides work closely with wildlife authorities.
Local initiatives like CAMPFIRE ensure hunting benefits both conservation and rural communities, helping fund schools and projects.

Booking and Planning Your Safari

Timing: The peak season for Zimbabwe hunting safaris runs from May to October. During these dry months, animals gather at water sources, making tracking and sightings easier.
Packages: Most outfitters offer both affordable African hunting safaris and premium experiences. Packages can be tailored to focus on specific species—like eland hunting Zimbabwe or combination hunts.
Preparation: You’ll need travel documents, permits, and appropriate gear. Operators typically assist with logistics so you can focus on the experience.

How Hunting Supports Conservation

Choosing ethical practices is key. Every hunting license, tag, and fee directly supports habitat protection, anti-poaching efforts, and community projects. This ensures that future generations will also enjoy Zimbabwe’s wildlife and landscapes.

Quick Reference: Key Facts and Figures

Hunt Type	Main Areas	Best Months	Community Benefits
Big Five hunting Zimbabwe	Zambezi Valley, Matetsi	May–October	Conservation, Revenue
Plains game hunting Zimbabwe	Matetsi, Midlands	May–October	Local development
Sable antelope hunting Zimbabwe	Zambezi, Lowveld	May–October	Education, Projects

We structure every Zimbabwe hunting safari to prioritize sustainability, authenticity, and a sense of connection with Africa’s legendary wildlife. For anyone searching African hunting listings or planning specialized hunting trips, understanding these basics helps make confident, well-informed choices.

Victoria falls in Zimbabwe — Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe

Exploring Zimbabwe’s Major Hunting Regions

Hunting in Zimbabwe brings us to some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes. Each region promises distinctive wildlife experiences, world-class game, and access to Zimbabwe hunting safaris tailored for both trophy and plains game hunters. Here’s a closer look at four of Zimbabwe’s best hunting areas.

Matetsi Safari Area

Matetsi hunting concession stands near Victoria Falls, recognized for rich biodiversity and dense populations of big game. We find incredible opportunities for Elephant hunting Zimbabwe, Cape buffalo hunting Zimbabwe, and Lion hunting Zimbabwe within these mopane woodlands and riverine habitats. Hunters often track Sable antelope, leopards, and encounter year-round game movement, thanks to Matetsi’s location next to Hwange National Park. Camps here offer both comfort and authenticity for anyone seeking genuine Big Five hunting Zimbabwe.

Highlights of Matetsi Safari Area:

Prime location for Big Five and plains game hunting Zimbabwe
Easy access to Victoria Falls
Game frequently includes elephants, lions, leopards, Cape buffalo, and sable antelope

Save Valley Conservancy

Save Valley Conservancy in southeastern Zimbabwe is a leading site for conservation-driven, ethical trophy hunting Zimbabwe. Managed under community-based wildlife programs, this conservancy gives us access to exceptional Kudu hunting Zimbabwe and Sable antelope hunting Zimbabwe, with consistent populations of impala and eland. It’s suitable for hunters who value responsible practices—each hunt supports wildlife management and local community projects.

Key features of Save Valley Conservancy:

Home to large herds of kudu, impala, eland, and sable
Focus on ethical and sustainable hunting
Supports Zimbabwe hunting safaris that benefit community development

Zambezi Valley

Zambezi Valley hunting is ideal for those seeking classic African adventure. This region draws global hunters with some of the largest herds of elephants and strong populations of Cape buffalo. But, Zambezi Valley also stands out for its Leopard hunting Zimbabwe and plains game. We navigate bushveld, floodplains, and riverine forests—ideal terrain for Lion and hippo hunts. Outfitters guide hunters in both government and private concessions.

Zambezi Valley regional highlights:

Major area for Cape buffalo hunting Zimbabwe and Elephant hunting Zimbabwe
High numbers of leopards and hippos
Mix of floodplains and rugged bush for varied hunting experiences

Gonarezhou National Park

Gonarezhou National Park and its bordering tribal lands deliver remote adventure for serious hunters. Known as the “Place of Elephants,” this region is the third largest national park in Zimbabwe. We often pursue elephants, buffalo, and diverse plains game species in challenging terrain. Ethical hunting under programs like CAMPFIRE ensures conservation and local engagement.

Why choose Gonarezhou National Park?

Large elephant herds and excellent buffalo populations
Community-managed hunting areas with a conservation focus
Crowd-free, wild settings for immersive hunting

Summary Table: Major Hunting Regions in Zimbabwe

Region	Main Species	Special Features
Matetsi Safari Area	Elephant, Lion, Buffalo, Sable	Proximity to Victoria Falls, diverse game
Save Valley Conservancy	Kudu, Sable, Eland, Impala	Community benefits, ethical hunting
Zambezi Valley	Elephant, Buffalo, Leopard	High wildlife density, river habitats
Gonarezhou National Park	Elephant, Buffalo, Plains game	Remote, conservation-driven, CAMPFIRE

Each major region offers unique hunting opportunities. Choosing the right area depends on your hunting goals—whether that’s pursuing the Big Five, targeting plains game, or enjoying a truly wild Zimbabwe safari experience.

Navigating Hunting Seasons And Regulations In Zimbabwe

Hunting in Zimbabwe is managed by clear wildlife regulations designed to keep populations healthy and safaris ethical. Knowing which permits are needed and the species allowed helps all Zimbabwe hunting safaris remain responsible and legal.

Trophy Hunting Permits And Licenses

Every hunter needs a government-issued trophy hunting permit from the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority before the hunt starts.
Special permits like CITES or TOPS are required for certain species. Examples include leopard, cheetah, lion, elephant, hippo, and crocodile.
No one except a licensed Zimbabwean professional hunter can guide a safari here. It’s illegal for nonresidents to operate hunts. This protects standards and ensures only qualified guides lead hunts.
Each permit names the hunter, the species, and precise location. If you’re booking an affordable African hunting safari, reputable outfitters will arrange these documents on your behalf.

Legal Game Species And Bag Limits

Zimbabwe allows hunting of many species, including Big Five hunting Zimbabwe—elephant, lion, leopard, Cape buffalo, and rhinoceros—as well as plains game hunting like sable antelope, kudu, and impala.
Bag limits are set each year to match conservation needs. These limits define the maximum number of each animal you may harvest per permit. For example, some regions might offer only one lion or leopard per license, while there’s a broader bag limit for plains game such as Eland or Zebra.
Dangerous game—like in Zambezi Valley hunting or Matetsi hunting concession—carry stricter quotas. Because of heavy demand for animals like leopard and elephant, permits are limited and must be requested months ahead.
Firearms regulations are clear: one person can import as many rifles as needed for trophy hunting Zimbabwe but not more than 100 rounds per firearm. Handguns and black powder rifles are also permitted, while semi-automatic and military firearms are restricted.

Conservation Policies And Ethical Guidelines

All Zimbabwe hunting safaris operate under conservation-focused rules. Annual quotas are scientifically set to target only mature animals, protecting breeding stocks for the future.
Ethical rules require fair chase and no hunting from vehicles. Night hunting is only allowed for listed species—lion, leopard, and bush pig—using special gear like callers or night vision scopes.
Bow hunting is legal but limited. It’s only allowed on private or tribal land, not inside national parks, and requires extra permits. Only compound bows are generally approved, with the law prohibiting crossbows, recurve, and longbows unless a special permit is issued.
All hunts directly support conservation. Revenue funds anti-poaching efforts, local projects, and community incentives through programs like CAMPFIRE. Choosing an outfitter focused on sustainable practices makes every safari contribute to wildlife protection and rural growth.

Hunters who respect these regulations help keep Zimbabwe’s wildlife flourishing and ensure affordable African hunting safaris remain available for generations. If you ever feel unsure, reputable guides and operators will walk you through every step of the permitting and legal process.

Available plains game hunting in Zimbabwe includes eland, zebra, impala, roan, waterbuck, sable, and bushbuck.

Choosing Popular Game Species For Hunting In Zimbabwe

When planning Zimbabwe hunting safaris, it’s smart to know which game species attract hunters year after year. Let’s break down hunting opportunities in Zimbabwe by big game, plains game, and even bird hunting.

Big Five Game Animals

Big Five hunting in Zimbabwe creates unforgettable experiences for both new and seasoned adventurers. Here’s why these species are always in demand:

Elephant Hunting in Zimbabwe: We find healthy elephant populations in areas like Hwange and Matetsi. Most bookings happen from May to October when elephants gather around water, making tracking rewarding.
Lion Hunting in Zimbabwe: Lion hunts take place in Matetsi, Hwange, and the Zambezi Valley. We often use tracking or baited blinds, both methods test skill and patience.
Leopard Hunting in Zimbabwe: Zimbabwe stands out for leopard densities in Nuanetsi Conservancy and Matetsi. Using conservation-focused quotas, successful hunts aren’t unusual.
Cape Buffalo Hunting in Zimbabwe: Zambezi Valley hunting is famous for Cape buffalo. Large herds provide exciting chances, especially in thick mopane forests.
Rhinoceros: Although rhino hunting is strictly regulated and rare, Zimbabwe remains on the list of a few countries with available permits.

Big Five Species	Top Locations (Zimbabwe)	Notable Season
Elephant	Hwange, Matetsi	May–October
Lion	Matetsi, Hwange, Zambezi Valley	Dry season
Leopard	Nuanetsi, Matetsi, Save Conservancy	May–September
Cape Buffalo	Zambezi Valley, Hwange	Year-round
Rhinoceros	Private conservancies (limited)	By permit only

Plains Game Species

Plains game hunting in Zimbabwe offers variety for hunters looking to collect several trophies or focus on a specific species. We see consistent game densities across regions like Save Valley and Makuti—ideal for affordable African hunting safaris.

Top plains game species by preference:

Kudu
Sable Antelope
Eland
Impala
Zebra
Bushbuck
Waterbuck
Warthog

We can arrange tailored plains game hunting Zimbabwe packages, making it easy to combine multiple species and regions. Trophy hunting in Zimbabwe is well-known for quality, especially for hunters seeking variety in a single safari.

Bird Hunting Opportunities

Bird hunting in Zimbabwe sees less attention but is no less exciting. Local guides help us find healthy populations, adding another dimension to Zimbabwe hunting safaris.

Preferred bird hunting targets:

Guinea fowl
Francolin
Dove
Sandgrouse
Waterfowl (seasonal)

Typical bird hunts coincide with plains game outings, letting hunters maximize trip value. Rules, permits, and bag limits apply for sustainability.

Zimbabwe remains a top destination for trophy hunting, Big Five adventures, and rich bird and plains game hunts tailored to personal interests. Without a doubt, every hunting in Zimbabwe experience offers something for everyone exploring Africa’s legendary wilderness.

Choosing The Right Safari Operator For Hunting In Zimbabwe

Picking the right operator can make or break your hunting trip. When planning Zimbabwe hunting safaris—whether it’s Big Five hunting Zimbabwe, plains game hunting Zimbabwe, or seeking the thrill of Cape buffalo hunting Zimbabwe—you’ll want an outfitter who meets your expectations for safety, ethics, and local expertise.

Factors To Consider When Selecting An Outfitter

A few important factors set top Zimbabwe hunting safaris apart. Here’s what to look for:

Experience with Local Wildlife

Companies who organize elephant hunting Zimbabwe or lion hunting Zimbabwe must have guides with years of field experience. Local knowledge is essential for tracking animals and following Zimbabwe’s strict wildlife management rules.

Official Licensing and Reputation

Operators must be registered and follow Zimbabwe’s National Wildlife Laws. Always verify licenses and look for memberships in groups like the ZPGA.

Ethical and Conservation Practices

The best outifts support conservation-focused hunting. They contribute to community projects and follow quotas for trophy hunting Zimbabwe, such as limiting hunts for leopard hunting Zimbabwe or buffalo.

Tailored Packages

Many reliable operators offer customizable hunting adventures. Whether you’re after kudu hunting Zimbabwe, eland hunting Zimbabwe, or affordable African hunting safaris, a good operator lets you choose regions, game species, and hunting methods—like hunting in the Matetsi hunting concession or Zambezi Valley hunting.

Logistical Support

An established safari company manages paperwork, permits, firearms clearance, and travel and accommodation. This support helps you focus on the hunt, not administration.

Reviews and Recommendations

We recommend checking independent ratings and feedback from other hunters. Past guests often share insights on guides, camp comfort, and hunting success in areas like plains game hunting Zimbabwe or specific regions.

Checklist for Choosing an Outfitter

Criteria	Why It Matters	What to Check
Licensing & Compliance	Ensures legal, ethical hunts	Valid operating permits
Local Expertise	Guides safety, better results	Years of guiding in Zimbabwe
Conservation Ethics	Supports future of wildlife	Involvement in community/wildlife projects
Flexible Packages	Fits your hunting goals	Customizable game and regions
Logistical Support	Eases travel/admin burden	Arranges licensing, transport, camp
Client Reviews	Real hunter experiences	Ratings, testimonials

Recommended Safari Companies

When searching for an operator, you’ll find several companies who stand out thanks to their strong results and ethical standards. Here are some reputable options to consider for your next Zimbabwe hunting safari:

Expert-Guided Teams

Pick companies with professional hunters who have decades of experience guiding hunts for zebra, sable, and the Big Five. Look for teams offering safaris in popular concessions like Matetsi, Gonarezhou, or the Zambezi Valley.

Authentic, Well-Run Camps

Some Zimbabwe safari operators provide authentic bush camps with comfortable rooms, supporting both adventure and relaxation. Facilities often include WiFi and essentials, blending comfort with a real African bush experience.

Customizable Hunting Packages

Many recommended outfitters tailor adventures to your interests—be it trophy hunting Zimbabwe for leopard or buffalo, or tracking kudu and eland across the plains.

Proven Conservation Commitment

Opt for operators recognized for supporting anti-poaching and local community projects and offering hunts within sustainable quotas set by the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority.

Transparent Communication

Trustworthy companies provide clear package details, list all costs upfront, and guide you through each step of planning and travel.

Choosing the right safari operator ensures your hunting in Zimbabwe is safe, ethical, and memorable—letting you focus on the adventure while making a positive impact on wildlife and local communities.

Preparing For Your Zimbabwe Hunting Safari

Getting ready for hunting in Zimbabwe means planning for comfort, safety, and success in the wild. Let’s cover the essentials so you can focus on the thrill of your adventure, whether it’s Big Five hunting Zimbabwe, plains game hunting, or a mix of both.

Essential Gear And Clothing

Bringing the right gear keeps us prepared for Zimbabwe hunting safaris, no matter which region or species we’re after—from Cape buffalo hunting in Zimbabwe’s Zambezi Valley to kudu and sable antelope hunting in well-known concessions.

Packing List For Every Hunter

Lightweight, Neutral Clothing: We pack breathable shirts and pants in khaki, olive, or brown to help us stay cool and blend in.
Layer Options: We add a jacket or fleece for chilly mornings and evenings, especially in highland or riverine areas like the Matetsi hunting concession.
Waterproof Outerwear: We bring a compact rain jacket, especially during the rainy season in the Zambezi Valley.
Sturdy Footwear: We choose comfortable boots with ankle support and waterproofing for moving over rocky, wet, or dense bush terrains.
Sun & Insect Protection: We always include a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, and strong insect repellent—useful anywhere, but critical in low-lying hunting areas.
Reliable Daypack: We go with a small, durable backpack for our optics, ammo, snacks, and water.
Optics: We take binoculars with 8x or 10x magnification for spotting game far across plains in popular trophy hunting Zimbabwe destinations.
Personal Essentials: We remember toiletries, medications, and charging cables; some items may not be available in remote camps.

Here’s a quick table to check your packing progress:

Item Type	Example/Tip
Clothing	Shorts, shirts, jacket, socks
Footwear	Boots, sandals for around camp
Sun/Insect Gear	Hat, sunscreen, insect spray
Waterproofing	Rain jacket and/or gaiters
Optics	Binoculars, range finder
Daypack	Snacks, water, small first aid kit

We always match our gear to our preferred hunt—Elephant hunting in Zimbabwe’s bush or Eland hunting in Zimbabwe’s open plains calls for flexible planning.

Health, Safety, And Vaccination Tips

Staying healthy and safe is just as important as good gear when planning affordable African hunting safaris.

Steps To Protect Your Health

Vaccinations: We check with our doctor for required and recommended shots, such as yellow fever, hepatitis A/B, tetanus, and typhoid.
Malaria Prevention: We know malaria is a risk, particularly in the Zambezi Valley and Hwange. Taking prescribed anti-malarials, wearing long sleeves in the evenings, and using bed nets is our standard practice.
Water Safety: We always drink bottled or purified water and avoid ice in off-grid areas.
First Aid: We pack a personal kit for small injuries, pain relief, and blisters.
Insurance: We pick travel and medical coverage that includes remote evacuation, since quick access to hospitals in areas like Matetsi can be challenging.

Safety Checklist Before Departure

Visit a travel clinic 6–8 weeks before flying.
Pack health records and emergency contact info.
Check in with safari operators for updates on local safety, including recent changes to Zimbabwe hunting laws or travel regulations.

And let’s not forget—regular physical activity (walking or hiking) makes it much easier when tracking game in Zimbabwe. The terrain can get tough, especially if we’re after elusive species like leopard or pursue trophy hunting in Zimbabwe’s wildest corners.

With the right preparation, hunting in Zimbabwe becomes a true adventure—one where safety, comfort, and those memorable safari moments are built right in.

landscape with mountain, some in shadow — Zimbabwe mountain landscape

Understanding The Economic And Conservation Impact Of Hunting In Zimbabwe

Hunting in Zimbabwe provides more than just adventure—it supports wide-reaching economic and conservation goals. Below, we break down how Zimbabwe hunting safaris power local communities, enhance anti-poaching efforts, and ensure the sustainability of wildlife populations including the Big Five.

Community Involvement And Revenue Sharing

Local communities are central to the sustainability of hunting in Zimbabwe. Through government-supported programs like CAMPFIRE (Communal Areas Management Programme for Indigenous Resources), a significant portion of revenue from trophy hunting Zimbabwe packages—covering everything from Cape buffalo hunting to sable antelope hunting—flows back to villages and rural residents.

We see communities benefit in several direct ways:

Revenue Distribution: Villages receive a large share of hunting license income and concession fees.
Essential Services: Funds often go toward schools, medical clinics, and crucial infrastructure projects.
Employment: Zimbabwe hunting safaris create jobs as trackers, guides, cooks, and camp support staff. This can be seen in well-known areas like the Zambezi Valley hunting concessions and Matetsi hunting concession, where safari operations offer stable work.
Sustainable Practices: By viewing wildlife as a renewable community asset, local people help manage land and game with long-term gain in mind, reducing conflict and increasing wildlife stewardship.

This community-first approach helps ensure that hunting, whether it’s kudu hunting or big game hunting, benefits not just hunters but also Zimbabwe’s people and its future.

Anti-Poaching And Wildlife Management Efforts

Revenue from hunting in Zimbabwe is vital for on-the-ground conservation, especially in the fight against poaching and the management o

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