Southern Africa Hunting Safari FAQ
Choronga Safaris – Bow & Rifle Hunting in Africa

Planning a African hunting safari? Below are answers to the most common questions about safety, travel, firearm permits, bow hunting in Africa, rifle hunting regulations, and what to expect on your African safari with Choronga Safaris.

General Southern Africa Hunting Safari Questions

Is it Safe to Hunt in Southern Africa?

Yes — hunting in South Africa is extremely safe, especially in privately managed concessions like those operated by Choronga Safaris.

Most of your time will be spent in remote, professionally managed hunting areas. Upon arrival at O. R. Tambo International Airport, you will be met by our team and transported directly to camp.

We prioritize:

Controlled access hunting concessions
Professional Hunter supervision
Safe firearm handling protocols
Organized airport transfers

Thousands of hunters safely visit South Africa every year.

How Many Hunters Will Be in Camp?

Our South Africa hunting season runs approximately 6–7 months. We typically schedule a minimum of six hunters per camp.

Groups of 6+ hunters often receive exclusive use of camp.
Smaller groups may share camp depending on scheduling.

We intentionally limit hunter numbers to maintain a premium African safari experience.

What Is There for Non-Hunters to Do on a South Africa Safari?

South Africa offers world-class tourism beyond hunting.

Non-hunters can enjoy:

Photographic safaris
Cultural tours
Shopping excursions
Spa services
Big Five viewing

Visit our Non-Hunting & Family Safari page for complete details.

What Clothing Should I Bring on an African Hunting Safari?

Laundry service is provided daily in our South Africa camps, so you only need:

2–3 sets of dark hunting clothing
Neutral colors (khaki, olive, dark camo)
Warm layers for early mornings
Comfortable camp attire

Important Travel Tips for South Africa

Bring 2 color copies of your passport
Use TSA-approved locks
Pack valuables in your carry-on
Camouflage clothing is legal in South Africa

If hunting outside South Africa, ask us about camouflage laws in that country.

We strongly recommend reading no matter where you are hunting in Africa:

📖 The Perfect Shot by Kevin Robertson

* This book is essential for understanding African game anatomy and proper shot placement.

Are Vaccinations Required for a South Africa Hunting Safari?

Consult your physician for the most current CDC travel recommendations.

Is There Malaria in South Africa?

In our primary South Africa hunting concessions: No.

However, if you add:

A Big Five hunting safari
A photographic safari in certain regions

You may enter a malaria zone. Always consult your doctor regarding malaria prevention.

Do I Need Medical or Evacuation Insurance for Africa?

We recommend confirming international medical coverage with your insurance provider.

Many hunters choose to use Ripcord, Global Rescue or something similar for additional evacuation protection.

What Gratuities Are Standard on an African Hunting Safari?

Gratuities are optional but customary in Africa.

Tips typically apply to:

Professional Hunters
Trackers
Skinners
Camp staff

* A detailed tipping guideline is provided upon booking.

Is There Internet or Phone Service in Camp?

In our South Africa hunting concessions:

Cellular service is available but inconsistent.
We recommend activating international roaming before travel.

In other African countries, many camps now use Starlink, though connectivity may vary.

* Remember — part of an authentic African safari experience is disconnecting from daily life.

When Do We Decide on Trophy Mounting?

Trophy mounting decisions must be made immediately after harvest.

Options include:

Full Mount
Shoulder Mount
Pedestal Mount
Flat Skin (Rug)

* Each mount requires different skinning procedures.

All raw trophy preparation is handled by Choronga Safaris before shipment to a professional taxidermist for either:

Dip & Ship
Full mounting

Do I Need Electrical Converters in South Africa?

No — converters and adapters are provided in camp.

If traveling outside South Africa, bring appropriate adapters for that country.

⚠ High-wattage appliances such as hair dryers and curling irons will not function properly.

How Do We Pay for Our South Africa Hunting Safari?

We accept:

Bank transfers (U.S. account)
Cash
Personal checks
Credit cards (3% surcharge)

* Traveler’s checks are not accepted.

Bow Hunting in Africa – FAQ

Is There Rifle Hunting on Your Bow Hunting Concessions?

- NO -

The last rifle hunt on our bow concessions occurred in 1999. These areas are now managed exclusively for bow hunting in Africa, ensuring optimal bow hunting conditions.

What Is the Best Time for Bow Hunting in South Africa?

Hunting season: Early March – End of October

Prime Bow Hunting Months: Mid-May through Mid-October

May–June: Rut activity increases movement
June–August: Dry winter; excellent blind hunting
September–October: Peak dry season; exceptional bow hunting

Temperatures range from 30s–40s in winter mornings to 90+ degrees in late season.

What Bow Setup Works Best for African Game?

Equipment evolves rapidly. Contact us directly before purchasing new gear.

We evaluate the latest bows, arrows, and broadheads every season and can recommend proven setups for African plains game and dangerous game.

Poor equipment choices can cost you animals — and money.

How Should I Prepare for a Bow Hunting Safari in Africa?

Read The Perfect Shot
Practice extensively
Shoot from elevated positions and inside confined spaces (blinds)

African game anatomy differs significantly from North American species.

Rifle Hunting in Africa – FAQ

What Caliber Is Best for Rifle Hunting in South Africa?

For plains game:

.300 caliber or larger

For dangerous game:

Minimum .375 caliber

Confidence and accuracy are more important than recoil.

We strongly recommend practicing off shooting sticks, as most shots during an African rifle hunting safari are taken from sticks.

Recommended bullets:

Barnes TSX
Swift A-Frame
Nosler Partition
Trophy Bonded Bearclaw

How Do I Get a South Africa Firearm Permit?

Choronga Safaris pre-approves your temporary import permit before arrival at O. R. Tambo International Airport.

Required documents include:

Passport copy
Flight itinerary
U.S. Customs Form 4457
Invitation letter (provided by us)
SAP 520 Application
Letter of motivation (example provided by us)

* All paperwork must be completed in black ink.

Should I Travel Through Europe or New York with Firearms?

We strongly discourage traveling through:

New York, Europe, or the Middle East

* Firearm transport complications are common in these transit points.

What Is the Best Time for Rifle Hunting in South Africa?

Rifle hunting season: Early February – November

February–April: Post-rainy season, lush landscape
May–September: Cooler temperatures, excellent hunting
October–November: Very dry and hot (temps up to 100°F)

Rifle hunting in South Africa remains productive throughout the season.

Why Choose Choronga Safaris for Your African Hunting Safari?

Exclusive bow hunting concessions
Professionally managed private land
Pre-approved firearm permits
Experienced Professional Hunters
Personalized safari planning

Whether you are planning your first African hunting safari or returning for another adventure, Choronga Safaris delivers a safe, organized, and authentic experience.

Southern Africa Hunting Safari FAQ Choronga Safaris – Bow & Rifle Hunting in Africa