Africa Hunting Areas

Limpopo Bushveld

Limpopo is South Africa's most northerly province. It is named after the river which forms the border between South Africa on the one side and Zimbabwe and Botswana on the other. A large part of the Kruger National Park is located in the province and it can rightfully lay claim to being an area of the world which is home to one of the greatest diversity's of mammal species. They range in size from Brant's Climbing Mouse which weighs no more than a few grams to the mighty African Elephant where the male can weigh up to seven thousand kilograms. In addition to the diversity in mammal species the area is blessed with a rich bird life with many of South Africa's most colorful birds found in the area.

Rainfall increases from East to West and the low lying areas of the province are characterized by wooded savannah with the Northern Drakensberg rising to form the divide between the Limpopo Bushveld and the Lowveld. Malaria is endemic to the Lowveld, a physician should be consulted concerning precautions which are advisable, and insect repellent is a must during the summer months. Rainfall occurs mainly in summer and would typically be late afternoon thunder showers which are fierce but short in duration, with lightning that creates a most spectacular display. The area is best visited between April and September. Winters are mild and in the author's opinion the combination of warm days and chilly evenings make it the best time of year to hunt in the area.

Limpopo Bushveld Hunting Camp

The Camps and Lodges we use on our hunting safaris in the Limpopo Bushveld are all very comfortable, even luxurious. All modern ammenities are available in each of the camps. The specific camp from which your safari will be conducted is determined by us prior to the start of your safari after evaluating variables such as potential droughts, trophy numbers and quality and a host of other factors which can influence your hunting safari. All hunting safaris we conduct in the Limpopo Bushveld are conducted from one of these camps or lodges. Our success rate is very close to 100%.

Free State

The Free State is the central province of South Africa. It is a rural province where farming plays an important role in the economy. We conduct safaris in areas of the Eastern Free State, which are characterized by rolling grassland with majestic sandstone hills rising from the plains below.

The Eastern Free State is bordered by Lesotho, a small land locked country which is often referred to as the roof of Africa. The Maluti Mountains which cover a large part of this country offers the most dramatic mountain scenery in Southern Africa. The high altitude ensures the summer months have pleasant days, but the winters can be very cold with snow occurring from time to time.

This region is best hunted during the late summer and early fall as well as during spring and early summer. The months of March to May and August to October should be the most pleasant. Hunting is however available throughout the year. Long shots are the order of the day and high velocity calibers that shoot a relatively flat trajectory tend to perform well in this area. The use of horses in some areas add an additional dimension to the hunting experience. We will check with you prior to the start of your safari whether you are an experienced horseman and will adapt your safari in this area to your specific capabilities on the horse.

Eastern Cape

The area receives increased rainfall as one moves from west to east where it is bordered by the Indian Ocean. To the west lies the Karoo, which is a semi-arid type desert land. Most of the area is hilly and some portions are quite mountainous. The climate can be varied, with frosty winters and hot summers. All of the popular plains game species can be found in the Eastern Cape including a few not found in other areas; for example the Vaal Rhebok. Many large game ranches are home to sustainable numbers of Africa's numerous antelope species.

The varying rainfall creates an abundance of Eco systems which range from thickly wooded coastal forest to open plains and steep mountain ranges. All of the most popular hunting methods are employed in this region. From walking and stalking, to glassing from elevated vantage points as well as hunting from well equipped 4x4 vehicles.

The Eastern Cape also offers clients fishing to combine a hunting safari with a deep sea fishing experience and ideal location from which both of these activities can be enjoyed.

Kalahari

The semi arid Kalahari straddles two of South Africa's provinces namely the North West and Northern Cape. It also stretches into the countries of Botswana and Namibia where this thirsty land supports great herds of Plains Game. We conduct safaris in the far Eastern areas of the Kalahari. This region is less arid than the Central Kalahari with an abundance of Camel Thorn Trees dotting the landscape. A further characteristic of the area are rolling sand dunes which are covered by sparse vegetation. It is the area of the world which the bushman call home and in some of the concessions you should have the opportunity to see these legendary trackers at work.

The area is very sparsely populated with a sense of quiet vastness definitely apparent. The distance from the closest cities or towns ensures that very little light pollution occurs , which make it one of the best places from which to view the stars of the southern hemisphere. On a clear night it seems possible to pluck the stars from the sky and the view of the heavens which can be experienced here is sure to add to the enjoyment of your African Safari...

Lowveld

The Lowveld of South Africa lies in the north eastern part of South Africa. The landscape changes drastically as one moves to the east.  The Drakensberg of Mpumalanga rises and separates the high plateau (highveld) from the low plains (lowveld), which extend to the east taking in most of Kruger National Park. 

The lowveld is characterized by low plains and hot, humid swamp lands where malaria can be a concern during the temperate seasons.  An abundance of game is to be found here.  In and around the Kruger, the Big Five roam freely. Most of the plains game species are abundant except those, which are exclusive plains dwellers such as the Springbok, Blesbok, and Black Wildebeest. While hunting in Kruger is not an option, there are many concessions surrounding the Kruger, which offer excellent opportunities.

Mozambique

Hunting Mozambique can offer some unique and varied hunting experiences. Located on the Indian Ocean, it faces the island of Madagascar and is bordered by Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Swaziland. The hunting areas of Mozambique, comprise a large portion of the entire country. The habitat in these areas are largely comprised of green savannah, forest glades and some dense forest which can make hunting Mozambique quite challenging at times. Best hunting can be found in the more remote areas of the country near the borders of Tanzania and Zimbabwe. The large game reserves of these countries help to contribute to the larger animal populations found there.

If you are interested in hunting Mozambique for the regal Sable Antelope, you are in luck. The Sable can be found in virtually all of the hunting areas. Nearly all of the antelope special can be found here including the Nyala, Cape Eland, Greater Kudu, Lichtenstein Hartebeest, and Chobe Bushbuck just to name a few. If hunting Mozambique for Lion, it is done by calling or tracking rather than baiting as is popular in many other countries of Southern Africa. Leopards are abundant in many areas of the North and West, while Cape Buffalo can be found in almost all areas. Hunting Mozambique for Crocodile can be a real challenge for the marksman as shot placement must be very precise. The Croc can be found in abundance in the Zambezi River and Lake Gahora Bassa region. Where the Croc is found, so is the great "Water Horse" … Hippo hunting both on land and in the water can certainly be challenging. Hunting Elephant is legal and best populations are to be found in the North and West. If hunting Mozambique for Elephant, plan to do a great bit of walking, as they say: Elephant are hunted with the feet.

The hunting areas of Mozambique are characterized by vast, open territories for the most part un-fenced. The average area is usually in the vicinity of 150,000 acres. Hunting Mozambique, begins in the 4x4 vehicle from well appointed camps and once in the bush, tracking on foot becomes the order of the day. Terrain in most of the hunting areas tends to be flat and thus not necessarily physically demanding. Camps are generally permanent fixtures with comfortable bungalows and food is good with plenty to eat. The hunting season runs from June till November.

Marvel Africa Safaris can provide quality hunting opportunities in Mozambique. You can expect the same quality service and attention to detail that our clients have come to expect.

If hunting Mozambique is high on your list, please call, write, or email for a full and detailed quotation.

Namibia

Namibia lies on the west coast of Southern Africa. It borders Angola to the north, Botswana to the east, and South Africa to the south. A small panhandle protrudes from the northeast corner of Namibia, known as the Caprivi Strip and it touches both Zambia and Zimbabwe. The cold Benguela current of the Atlantic Ocean keeps the coastal areas of Namibia cool, damp, and rain free with think coastal fog often prevalent. Inland, rain falls during the summer months between October and April; days being hot while the nights are cool. Namibia covers an area of some 825,000 square kilometer and is sparsely populated with only about 1.3 million inhabitants. English is the national language, however Afrikaans, is widely spoken with German and Bantu in some areas.

Namibia is known for it's rich and diverse wildlife resource and over the past several decades has been a prime destination for sport hunters from all over the globe. Conservation programs have largely protected this important resource and species such as the Kudu, Giant Oryx, Springbok, and even the Warthog are found in abundance. With the government's positive attitude toward Sport and Trophy hunting outfitters from all over Southern Africa, visit to take advantage of Namibia's great hunting opportunities. The hunting industry has proven itself crucial to ensuring the survival of Namibia's game species.

Among the species indigenous to Namibia are: the typical plains dwellers such as the Springbok, Blue Wildebeest, as well as the Elephant. Namibia sports the largest population of Black Rhino in all of Africa. The Roan Antelope is making a recovery and several antelope species such as the Red Lechwe, Waterbuck, Reedbuck, and the Sitatunga can be found in the wetlands of the far northeast.

I you're looking for something different, you might like Leopard hunting using dogs, a bit more active than the traditional Leopard on bait from a blind. Namibia is a great place to hunt, let Marvel Africa Safaris organize your next Namibian Safari.

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe has long been one of Africa's top safari destinations. Formerly known as Rhodesia, it is a land-locked country surrounded by South Africa, to the south, Botswana to the west, Zambia to the north, and Mozambique to the east. The Zambezi River defines it northern border and attracts many tourists each year to view spectacular Victoria Falls; at twice the height of America's Niagara Falls, it is one of the 7 natural wonders of the world. When hunting Zimbabwe, many safari clients include a side trip to the falls. The Limpopo River flows along Zim's southern border and when hunting Zimbabwe a "Tiger fishing trip" may be in order.

Hunting Zimbabwe's vast Game Reserves and concessions can be a challenge for even the most experienced hunter. Hunting areas are of three different types; governmental, tribal, and private, all of which have their own unique rules. Most of these areas encompass thousands of acres and are non-fenced and open. Hunting areas are mostly Mopane forest and dry and grassy savanna. Hunting Zimbabwe is accomplished primarily on foot however the terrain is not especially rugged and therefore not very physically demanding. Still reminiscent of the "wild Africa" of years gone by, game is plentiful. All of the plains game species abound here as well as the Big Five. If you come to hunt Zimbabwe for Elephant, the country is home to an estimated 100,000 of this the world's largest land mammal. Lion and Leopard hunting is still open here and the success rate is high. Hunting Zimbabwe for the big cats is done exclusively over bait and it is of note that Cheetah can also be taken here. A word of caution here, while Cheetah can be taken, their import into some countries of the world is prohibited. In addition to the Big Five, if you come to hunt Zimbabwe for Hippo or Croc, you will not be disappointed. These two aquatic dwellers abound in the Zim's rivers and pans, and can be counted upon to make for an interesting hunt.

While Zimbabwe has suffered some difficult times recently, she is on the mend and you can come to hunt Zimbabwe with the confidence that the sport hunting and safari industry has remained strong even during the hard times.

Marvel Africa Safaris can provide quality hunting safaris in Zimbabwe. A client can expect the same top notch service, accommodation, and attention to detail that has become our hallmark in South Africa. If hunting Zimbabwe is at the top of your menu, a full and detailed quotation can be yours for the asking.

Botswana

Hunting Botswana is still an option for the dedicated sportsman. Sport hunting caught on in Botswana in about 1962 and since has become one of the prime destinations for hunters from around the world.

Botswana is a landlocked country located in Southern Africa and bordered by Namibia to the west, Zambia to the north, Zimbabwe to the northeast, and South Africa to the south. It is a former British protectorate, gaining its independence in 1966. Two major areas are of note when hunting Botswana: the Okavango Delta, and the central region of the Kalahari Desert which is designated the "Central Kalahari Game Reserve." The Okavango Delta is the largest inland delta in the world; instead of flowing to the sea, the Okavango flows into the Kalahari Desert and disappears. The unique habitat which it creates is home to countless species of game animals. Among these are thousands of Elephant, large herds of Cape Buffalo, Crocodiles, Hippos, Lions, and Leopards. This is the home of the very unique Red Lechwe. If hunting Botswana for plains game, the Kalahari region offers some of the most beautiful and largest of antelope. Among them are the Gemsbok, Cape Eland, and the Greater Kudu. If you are hunting Botswana for predators, the use of dogs as well as bushmen trackers is widely employed.

While Botswana offers opportunities to hunt on game ranches, you will find that the Okavango and the Kalahari regions are open and unfenced when hunting Botswana. The habitat is characterized by alternating wet and dry areas of seasonal variation. The Kalahari of course is primarily sand with acacia or mopane forest, thorn bush and grassy plain.

The Safari leaves camp by 4x4 but once in the bush hunting Botswana is largely done on foot. Terrain is flat and not very physically demanding. Hunting Botswana in the Okavango, the party may employ the use of dugout canoes which makes for a quite memorable and unique experience. Hunting Botswana is best accomplished during the months between April and the end of September. While some bird hunting is available throughout the year.

Recent years have seen the closure of hunting regarding several species. Among them, Situtunga, Sable, Roan, and the Southern Reedbuck. While unfortunate for the sport hunter, there is still plenty of game available to be taken.

If hunting Botswana is high on your list … Marvel Africa Safaris can make your dream come true. We can arrange high quality hunting opportunities in Botswana, featuring the same premier accommodation, food, service and attention to detail that has made us famous. Please call, write, or Email for more information, a quotation, or references.

Gauteng

Gauteng is South Africa's smallest province. It is home to two major cities namely Pretoria and Johannesburg. This region does however offer some quality hunting experiences. In the north western part of Gauteng the Dinokeng conservation area and the Rust de Winter area offer pristine wildlife habitat. Most of the Plains Game species which occur in the northern part of South Africa abound in this area, which is characterized by wooded savannah in varying degrees of density. The area is located no more than one hour from O.R. Tambo International Airport and is ideal for those with limited time, who would like to spend a few days in the African wilderness in pursuit of her antelope species. Kudu trophies taken in this area tend to be of exceptional quality.

North-West

Much of the province consists of flat areas of scattered trees and grassland. The Magaliesberg mountain range in the northeast extends about 130 km (about 80 miles) from Pretoria to Rustenburg. The Vaal River flows along the southern border of the province. Temperatures range from 17° to 31 °C (62° to 88 °F) in the summer and from 3° to 21 °C (37° to 70 °F) in the winter. Annual rainfall totals about 360 mm (about 14 in), with almost all of it falling during the summer months, between October and April.

North West borders the following districts of Botswana:

Kgatleng – far northeast
South-East – northeast
Southern – north
Kgalagadi – northwest

Domestically, it borders the following provinces:

Limpopo – northeast
Gauteng – east
Free State – southeast
Northern Cape – southwest

North West Province is traversed by the northwesterly line of equal latitude and longitude.