Safaris have come a long way over the years. Now you can enjoy all the adventure of hunting big game and still have the comforts of modern convenience (electricity, running water, indoor plumbing, internet access, telephone, laundry service, traditional South African cuisine). It has also never been safer. Safari services take every precaution to make sure that you will be safe during every leg of your trip. Well-equipped safari vehicles and secure hunting blinds will help ensure your safety.
Some of the species you can expect to encounter on a South African safari are buffalo, giraffe, wildebeest, Roan or Sable antelope, Kudu, zebra, Nyala, Bushbuck, Caracal, Bush pig, Eland, Impala, Jackal, Hyaena, leopard, lion, baboon, ostrich, and warthog. Any lost or wounded animals must still be paid for. Prices vary depending on the animal. With skilled hunting guides, trackers and skinners available to you, your chances are good of coming away the hunt successfully. Unlike the United States, there isn't a limit as to how many animals you can shoot. So, you may get more than one during your trip.
Most South African safari companies offer both rifle and bow hunting opportunities and of course, hunters are free to bring their own rifles or rent them from the company. Depending on your country of origin, it may not be possible to ship any meat back home due to import regulations. However, all safari companies are aware of this and will happily prepare and cook the meat for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, there are highly skilled craftsmen who can prepare the pelts and even create stuffed mounts which are of course possible to ship back home.
Generally speaking, June, July and August are the best months for hunting in South Africa as these are the cooler winter months with temperatures ranging from about 34 degrees at night to about 85 degrees at midday. Light layers of clothing are best as they allow one to add or remove as temperatures fluctuate. Rain is unlikely so rain gear is not necessary at all. A further benefit of hunting during this period is that one tends to come across very few snakes.
Most safari services offer other activities that can be done during any downtime. Horseback riding, game viewing for photography purposes, night drives, golf, historic sites-all these activities make a safari a great trip for the entire family to enjoy. Most blinds can accommodate another person besides the hunter so friends or family are welcome to come along as well. So, consider South Africa for your next hunting safari. Thousands of acres of wild game are awaiting your arrival.