African lion hunting safari packages South Africa with the experts

How the African lion hunting safari packages South Africa work

Step 1	Talk You tell us which hunt you are interested in. This is the time you ask as many questions as you like. We never get tired of answering your questions.
Step 2	Plan it This is the part where the following plays a role: who, what, when, where and what thereafter. You decide which category lion you would like to hunt and we check availability. We move forward from there.
Step 3	Do it You are collected at the airport and transferred to the hunting lodge for a hunt of a lifetime. We take care of the paperwork and, time permitting, take you to visit our preferred taxidermist. You are dropped off at the airport.

 

Services we provide

Catering

Cost of the African lion hunting safari packages is determined according to the category lion you decide to hunt.

The category lion you decide to hunt is determined by the amount of black mane.

Category 4 lions have a full mane with variations of color between cinnamon and black. The mane extends between the chest, down the shoulders and the belly region towards the rear legs.

The color and extent of the mane is associated with the age of the animals along with the genes in the bloodline. Younger male lions have less mane and less color in the mane. Category 1 lions are in the 3 – 4 year age group while Category 4 lions are in the 8+ year age group.

A true black mane lion is older than eight years.

Our discounted African lion hunting safari packages include all your hunting expenses, but excludes transport to the hunting property. Below are pictures of the different category African lions available for hunting in South Africa. The pictures are a representation of the color of the mane.

We can hunt any other game on the same property we are hunting lions. The property is large enough to sustain a wide variety of game animals.

We hunt specific species on other properties on the way to the lion hunting property, alternatively on the way back. Here is a list of animals you can hunt in addition to your African lion:

Blesbok – common	√
Blue wildebeest	√
Bushbuck	√
Cape buffalo	√
Duiker	√
Gemsbok	√
Giraffe	√
Springbok	√
Impala	√
Kudu	√
Nyala	√
Ostrich	√
Red hartebeest	√
Roan antelope – tag required	√
Sable	√
Steenbok	√
Red lechwe	√
Warthog	√
Waterbuck	√
Zebra – common	√

 

Kick-off on a thrilling and informative journey into the heart of the African Kalahari as you hunt for the majestic lion. Your adventure begins with a scenic drive or a convenient flight to a remote, luxurious lodge.

 

The journey begins

As you travel, we delve in the rich tapestry of local culture and folklore. Upon arrival, settle into your comfortable accommodations and admire the stunning surroundings. The lodge’s proximity to watering holes offers the opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife, including Cape buffalo, sable antelope, roan antelope and springbok.

Lodge at African lion hunting safari packages

 

Hunting preparation and safety

Before heading out on your hunt, ensure you meet the minimum caliber requirements for legal lion hunting. [Link to caliber requirements].

We will site your rifle to make sure it shoots where you aim.

If time permits, you’ll head out on your first hunt the afternoon of your arrival.

Site your rifle before the African lion hunting safari starts

 

A memorable experience

Your days will be filled with the excitement of tracking and hunting lions, guided by experienced professionals. Enjoy the tranquility of the African bush, the camaraderie of fellow hunters, and the thrill of the chase. As the sun sets, gather around the campfire to share stories and reflect on your day’s adventures.

 

A new day dawns

As the first rays of sunlight break through the African sky, crested francolin couples announce the start of a new day. Over coffee and toast, you may feel a mix of anticipation and excitement. To ensure your safety, we’ll discuss emergency procedures and potential scenarios.

Crested francolin

 

Preparing for the hunt

While the staff prepare an ice chest filled with refreshments, we’ll plan our hunting strategy. Our goal is to be in the field until approximately noon, but the unpredictability of the African bush means plans can change.

 

Leaving on the hunt

Around 7:00 AM, we’ll begin our search for lions. The early morning hours offer optimal visibility for tracking and spotting potential dangers. Be prepared for chilly temperatures, especially during the May to August hunting season. Pack a beanie, gloves, and a warm jacket to stay comfortable until the sun rises. Expect temperatures to range from approximately 37°F (3°C) in the early morning to 64-68°F (18-20°C) during the hottest part of the day. As the afternoon progresses, temperatures will drop, so be ready to layer up.

 

Tracking the King

Once we’re equipped and ready, we set off in search of lion tracks. Our experienced trackers, perched on the front brush bar, carefully scan the terrain for fresh spoor. Their ability to identify and interpret tracks from a moving vehicle is truly remarkable, even after decades of hunting.

 

Following the trail

When a promising track is found, we dismount and prepare to follow on foot. While the thought of tracking a potentially dangerous predator can be intimidating, the trackers’ skill and precision quickly inspire confidence. In the sandy areas, following the spoor is relatively straightforward. However, in grassy patches and harder ground, the trackers’ keen eyes detect even the slightest discrepancies, revealing the lion’s direction.

Dense African lion hunting safari terrain South Africa

 

A journey of discovery

This unique experience offers a glimpse into the natural world that few hunters have the opportunity to witness. As we follow the trail, we may encounter other fascinating wildlife, such as sleepy gemsbok, industrious dung beetles, or graceful herds of springbok. Imagine the thrill of being part of such a captivating adventure. Let’s make it a reality for you.

Dung beetle South Africa

 

Navigating the African Bush

The terrain where we hunt lions is a diverse landscape characterized by open areas and dense thickets of wait-a-bit bush. These thorny shrubs can be challenging to navigate, so careful attention is required to avoid getting caught. In some areas, the thickets are so dense that we may need to circumnavigate them to continue tracking.

Summer time bush when hunting lions in South Africa – can you see the lion in this picture?

A well-deserved break

After a morning of hunting, we return to the lodge for a delicious brunch. Enjoy a variety of options, including eggs, bacon, meatballs, and game meat, paired with refreshing coffee or tea. Our meals are designed to provide you with the energy and nourishment you need to continue your adventure.

African lion hunting safari packages brunch food

Relaxation and refreshment

During the lunch break, take advantage of the comfortable accommodations at the lodge. Relax in your spacious room, enjoy a refreshing shower, or simply unwind with the air conditioning. Our daily laundry service ensures your clothes are always clean and pressed.

 Relax during the lunch break

Continuing the hunt

After a brief respite, we’ll resume our hunt, picking up the trail where we left off. As we follow the spoor, we’ll take time to appreciate the beauty of the African bush, observe wildlife, and even learn a few local terms like “scuttles,” which refers to animal droppings. While it’s unlikely we’ll encounter the lion on our first full day of tracking, the thrill of the hunt and the opportunity to experience the African wilderness make it a truly unforgettable adventure.

If we haven’t been successful in finding the lion, we’ll return to the lodge in the late afternoon or early evening. A crackling fire will guide us to our gathering place, where we’ll enjoy a delicious meal. Expect to savor the flavors of eland, gemsbok, or perhaps even the elusive gray ghost, often served as a roast with sides like potatoes, green beans, and rice. The chef may also surprise us with a hearty stew or a traditional braai (pronounced: br-i).

 

Relaxation and storytelling

After dinner, we’ll gather around the boma (pronounced: bow-mah), a communal area where we can enjoy the warmth of the fire and the soothing sounds of the African night. Share stories, laughter, and a few drinks as we reflect on the day’s adventures.

Relaxing and sharing stories by the African hunting fire.

A new day begins

With the first light of dawn, a new day begins, filled with the promise of adventure and the excitement of the hunt.

 

Encountering the lion

The moment you’ve been waiting for may involve a brief encounter as the lion initially flees when disturbed. However, there are several possible scenarios to consider:

1. Immediate encounter and shot: In rare cases, you may spot and shoot the lion immediately. While this is the ideal scenario, it’s almost never the reality.
2. Tracking and observation: More commonly, the lion will lie hidden in the shade or a thicket. As you approach, it may become uncomfortable and run off, leaving fresh tracks to follow. This is a normal occurrence, and it provides you with a chance to get a better shot. We’ll guide you to take aim at the lion, ensuring you’re within a safe shooting distance.
3. Dangerous Encounter: A lion charge

The most challenging and potentially dangerous scenario is a lion charge. These powerful animals can move with incredible speed, and a sudden grunt may be your only warning before you need to react. It’s essential to remain calm and take a decisive shot. Your professional hunter will provide guidance and support to ensure your safety and the safety of others. Remember, while charges are uncommon, it’s crucial to be prepared for this possibility.

African lion paw size

 

After the hunt

Once the hunt is successfully completed, we’ll prioritize skinning the lion as quickly as possible. Salt is applied to preserve the skin, and we’ll leave the skin and skull at the hunting property for proper curing. After the curing process, we’ll arrange for the trophies to be shipped to our preferred taxidermist.

Departure or continued adventure

Once you’re satisfied with the arrangements for your trophies, we’ll transport you to the departure airport. If you’re planning to continue your hunting adventure at another location, we can assist with the logistics.

 

Taxidermy costs

All taxidermy-related costs, including shipping, will be settled directly with the taxidermist and the shipping company respectively. Please note that there may be additional fees charged by a broker in your home country.

 

Contact us

If you have any questions or require further information about the hunting process or taxidermy arrangements, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to assist you throughout your adventure.