I see as much game in one African day as I may in an entire season in North America. The experience is awesome and within the financial reach of every working man or woman – the bargain basement deal of a lifetime. Outfitters in South Africa and Namibia offer a seven-day, fully-guided safari (including trophy fees for five animals) for less money than most North American hunts for just one.
Here’s the math:
“Ball-Park” Costs for North American and African Hunting:
Weather– Each day in June, July, and August (African winter) begins with a cold crisp morning, followed by a warm afternoon and a glorious sunset. Every day is like Indian summer in the fall.
Bugs– In three countries, I’ve yet to see a mosquito. Use repellent on clothes for ticks.
Game – You’ll see plenty of game plus interesting birds and non-game animals. Include a tour of a park and you can witness the big five, up close.
Camps – Rustic, yet comfortable and clean. Your laundry will be washed and pressed every day so you can pack light. Meals are all you can eat and expertly prepared. Many are tented in the spirit of Hemingway.
Gear – A 30-06 rifle and quality scope are ideal for plains game. Archers will do well with a 60# compound or recurve or crossbow.
Travel – Fly non-stop by Delta or SAA, or take the scenic route and see Europe for free. Frequent flier miles accumulate quickly. Get an airline credit card, change phone carriers and bargain for miles with telemarketers. Reduce the airfare and you can hunt two more animals. Right now, South African Airways has a special of $999 round trip from the USA to South Africa.
Trophies – African antelope such as kudu, impala, nyala, gemsbok, and the feisty warthog are exciting game animals. Taxidermy is cheaper in Africa, even including shipping back home.
Timing – Safari hunting will not compete with your regular fall seasons. When fall arrives, your shooting skills will already be in top form.
Hunting Style – Bow hunters usually watch waterholes from enclosed blinds or from tree stands. Animals usually visit in late morning and throughout the day. Rifle hunting is usually spot and stalk. You’ll glass plenty of game animals.
Here three (3) Outfitters you might consider from my experience:
Rassie Erasmus – offers “management” hunts for older animals at greatly reduced prices. My 50-inch kudu last year cost just $1,000. This is the best deal in South Africa. E-mail him at bowhunt@rassie.co.za.
Carin and Tielman Neethling – Operate Agagia Safaris in Namibia, a land of vast game reserves and wildlife populations. Agagia offers high-fence, free ranging, and a special bowhunting-only facility. Check their website at www.Agagia.com or contact Carin via email: carinneethling@icloud.com.
Luke Blackbeard – Yes he is a desendent of the famous pirate, is a native of Botswana, and operates a game ranch in Botswana with top-end trophies and facilities. This is one of the few hunting places left in Botswana. E-mail Luke at Blackbeardsafaris@gmail.com.
I’ve hunted with each of these companies and highly recommend them.