Planning Your First African Hunting Safari
Planning your first African hunting safari can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance, it becomes one of the most rewarding experiences a hunter can have. From travel logistics to what to expect in the field, understanding the process ahead of time helps you hunt with confidence.
At Waymaker Safaris, we work with American hunters to simplify every step—from your first questions to your time in camp in South Africa’s Limpopo region.
How to Plan an African Hunting Safari
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Choose species: Your first step is to decide what species interest you.
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Pick dates: The best time to hunt in the Limpopo area is from late April to the end of September.
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Budget: In developing your budget, know there are two different types of hunts--package hunts and custom, individual animal hunts. (For help on understanding total safari costs, see our Safari Costs page.)
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Package hunts: Here you select a package that is typically the most budget friendly and has most of your costs included. Like the daily rate (which includes lodging, transportation, food etc.); trophy fees per animal; and the cost to hire your PH. Note: Let your outfitter know if you'd like to add extra animals or days to your package.
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Individual animal hunts: Here you tell the outfitter which animals are on your "bucket list" for the safari you are planning. Then you factor in the costs of each animal (and taxidermy--shoulder mounts vs European skull and horns only). Want a few species-specific info pages see our: Impala; Kudu; or Cape Bufalo pages.
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Traveling to South Africa for Your Hunt
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You will fly into Johannesburg (JNB) at O.R. Tambo International Airport. From there we will pick you up and bring you north to your hunting lodge. This is approximately a four-and-a-half-hour car ride. Note, you can reduce your overland car drive by booking a short 30-minute flight from JNB into Polokwane (PTG) where we would pick you up and drive you to your hunting lodge--drive time an hour and a half. Flights between JNB and PTG are about one to two hundred U.S. dollars.
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Note, Delta Airlines now offers a non-stop flight from Atlanta to Johannesburg. This is the quickest way to get here and the price is very competitive. A round-trip ticket from Anchorage Alaska to Johannesburg is around $2,000.00.
Firearms and Gear
Bringing your own rifle offers familiarity, confidence, and tailored ballistics but involves airline logistics, permits, and risk of delays, whereas using a professional hunter’s rifle is hassle-free and reliable yet may sacrifice personal fit and practice familiarity. If you choose to bring your own rifle(s), click here for more information.
Gear requirements are much less than most western North American hunts. You are not backpacking or camping overnight in the woods, so gear requirements are minimal. It can be cool in the mornings and evenings so some outer garments for protection are required. For a full list of recommended gear click here.
What to Expect in Camp
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Lodging: comfortable and clean. Often with a pool.
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Meals: You will be well fed and will enjoy your time dinning on African cuisine.
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Daily routine: Your day will start with a hearty breakfast, followed by loading up into one of our land cruisers and heading out to your hunting area. There we will glass for the targeted animals of the day and then do "spot and stalk." Once an animal is harvested, it will be loaded and brought to our skinning area where it will be properly taken care of. The day will conclude with a meal around the fire or indoors dining.
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Guided experience: You will have a Professional Hunter (PH) assigned to you for the duration of your safari. He will be your guide and instruct you on stalking and shot placement and take care of your animal one harvested. He will also become a good friend as we truly believe in our motto: Hunt together--Family forever.
Best Time of Year to Hunt in South Africa
Safaris can be conducted year-round in South Africa, but the dry months from late April through the end of September offer the best visibility and is the most pleasant weather of the year. This window makes it easier to locate animals and increases overall hunting success.
Is Hunting in Africa Safe?
South Africa offers one of the most structured and professionally guided hunting environments in the world. With experienced Professional Hunters and well-managed properties, hunters can expect a safe and controlled experience throughout their safari.