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Waymaker Safaris U.S. based safari planning with exclusive South African outfitters

Waymaker Safaris connects American Hunters with world-class South African plains game and dangerous game hunts through our exclusive outfitter partnership led by Professional Hunter Craig Whitcomb.  Thus, we offer a range of safari packages and individual species hunts that cater to different preferences, ensuring an unforgettable and luxurious experience in the heart of untamed landscapes.

Criag Whitcomb professional hunter and owner of Waymaker Safaris in Africa.  With client.

Our Story

Unforgettable Safari Experiences

At Waymaker Safaris, we are dedicated to creating exceptional safari experiences tailored to meet your specific interests. Our team of experienced professional hunters and support staff is committed to providing unparalleled adventure and hospitality, ensuring that every moment in the wilderness becomes a cherished memory.

Gemsbok or Oryx taken on safari with Waymaker Safaris
Kudu from safari hunt in South Africa with Waymaker Safaris
Dangerous game cape buffalo taken on hunt safari with Waymaker Safaris

Our Services

Explore Our Offerings

Steven Unfreid safari planning director Waymaker Safaris.

All Inclusive Packages & Specials

Individual Animals & Dangerous Game Hunts

Tailored to You

Craig Whitcomb professional hunter and owner Waymaker Safaris South Africa

Camp Dining

Culinary Adventures & Evening Barbeques

For our North American hunters (and those not taking their harvested game meat home with them) on the last evening of your hunt we will prepare an unforgettable dinner with your properly aged tenderloins. That dinner, along with the others along the way, will round out your Safari experience leaving a literal great taste in your mouth! 

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Our Land & Lodges

Comfort & Luxury in the Bush

In 2017, we purchased a 2,500 acre ranch as part of a private reserve within a 12 mile long valley. We are the only outfitter allowed access to all land in the valley. We also have access to numerous other properties across our region if there is a specific animal that is not found on our property/leases. Our pristine land is in the Soutpansberg mountain range in Northern Limpopo province South Africa. It's a unique biosphere of animal, bird and wildlife in the heart of one of the best hunting areas in South Africa. A true African experience not to be missed. Hunting is done by rifle via our Land Cruisers and spot and stalk. Bowhunters have the additional option of hunting from ground blinds typically over water. Its important to note that these animals have other water sources depending on the time of year and temperatures. It's not a canned shoot but a true hunt--similar to any tree stand over a buck scrape or open field food plot. That said, at the end of the day you'll return to our various lodges throughout our region that will refresh your body, soul and spirit. All come with comfortable rooms, meeting areas, fire pits, and dining areas. And most all of the lodges we use will also have pools for a refreshing dip at the end of the day.

Why Choose Us

Exceeding Expectations

At Waymaker Safaris, we have a passion for our land and all people. Most of our team is comprised of South Africans with generational experience.  Thus, each has a deep love and respect for the land and the animals that we hunt.  

 

 

 

The size of our operation allows us the flexibility to tailor the perfect safari for most individual hunters and groups.  We are not too small - we're fully capable of taking even the largest of dangerous game - but not so large that you become just another number. Like our tag-line states: Hunt together - family forever. As mentioned, we also love people. Thus, in our off season we can be found in neighboring countries working with others to help them fulfill their own destinies through various mission outreach projects. So know that its our desire that your safari not only meets your expectations of an amazing adventure in the bush, but that you also leave with a cultural exchange that will mark your life forever.

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Steven Unfreid safari planning director Waymaker Safaril

Exceptional Guides

Our team of expert guides offers exceptional support and assistance, guaranteeing an unforgettable safari adventure. We focus on establishing a deep connection with our guests, fostering a welcoming and enriching environment throughout the journey.

Quality Trophy Care

Our team includes skinners with years of experience and our guides and PHs understand the dynamic field of taxidermy that combines art with science. Thus, we are fully equipped to take proper care of your trophies and ensure the process from taking game in the field, to seeing your trophies reach you at home is seamless. You can leave your trophies with trusted taxidermists here, or we'll prepare your animals to be sent to your home-town taxidermist of choice. 

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Personalized Attention

We believe in tailoring our services to your unique preferences and desires, empowering you to have the most fulfilling safari experience. Our goal is to provide you with the support and attention you deserve, making every moment in the bush truly extraordinary.

Meet our Senior Leaders

Our team at Waymaker Safaris comprises skilled and passionate professionals who are committed to providing the highest quality of service during your safari adventure. Each member brings a wealth of experience to ensure the well-being and satisfaction of our guests.

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Craig Whitcomb

Lead Safari Outfitter/Owner South Africa

Craig is a lifelong South African with a love for both the land and its people. His history in South Africa goes back generations. He purchased 2,500 acres in a mountain valley just north of Louis Trichardt in the heart of the Limpopo big game region. He named his company "Yisrael Game and Hunt" to reflect his "promise land" in South Africa. And in 2025 renamed his operation, "Waymaker Safaris" to reflect the new and expanding opportunities taking place within his network and organization. Craig travels extensively across southern Africa both guiding, hunting and working with the various people groups to see them prosper spirit, soul and body.

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Bernie Whitcomb

Co-Owner/PH

Bernie is Craig's brother and together they founded "Yisrael Game and Hunt" (now "Waymaker Safaris"). Both brothers travel extensively and are licensed PHs to include dangerous game certifications.

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Steven Unfreid

U.S. Safari Planning Director

Steve grew up hunting and fishing in the "Lower 48" of the US and moved to Alaska at age 20. He served 20 years on Active Duty in the US Army, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. Following retirement, Steve served as a big game hunting guide in Alaska for 10 years. In 2005, Steve and his wife Katheryn felt called by God to use their talents to serve in Africa. However, it wasn't until meeting Craig and his "tribe," that he realized the perfect fit that God had been establishing all these years. Together, their love for the land and its people allows them to network extensively throughout southern Africa to bring the most amazing and fulfilling trips to their clients while providing each group the chance to have a total African experience.

Professional Hunters (PHs)

Dedication. Expertise. Passion.

Because we have such a depth of quality PHs in our network, we can accommodate your groups size and still ensure an individualized and professional safari.

Our Support Staff

Our support staff serves with the desire to exceed your expectations to create a safari with lasting positive memories.

Guest Reviews

Real Stories, Real Experiences

My safari with Craig was one of the best experiences we've ever had hunting in South Africa. Great animals, beautiful scenery and a hassle free experience.  His team, his family are the best of the best. I have my full and complete confidence in Craig moving forward.

Sean Feucht

Over the past 12 years, I've traveled to Africa six times.  On my last visit, I met Craig and his team.  I was so impressed by the quality and integrity of his whole operation, I launched a booking agency in Alaska to expand his reach.  Note, while I've met many fine people in the guiding industry, I've never met a network of likeminded folks with the same passion and vision - I found my tribe.

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Steven Unfreid

LTC(R) USA

We had a lovely hunting experience with Craig at Waymaker Safaris.  The hospitality was exceptional, and the guidance in the hunting experience professional. The hunting ranch is located in a beautiful bushveld, surrounded by lovely mountains.  Surely a place to be.  Don't miss out on this experience.

 

Jan Hugo

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