What Animals Can You Hunt in Africa?

If you’re contemplating an African safari with the goal of hunting trophies, you likely have questions: what species are legally huntable, which ones are off-limits, and how can I choose a trusted outfitter? In this guide, we’ll walk you through what animals you can hunt in Africa, explain what’s possible ethically and legally, and show you why Huntershill Safaris is the smart choice for your next African adventure.

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Let’s Understand the Legal and Ethical Framework

Before we explore what game you can hunt in Africa, it’s vital to understand the framework that dictates what animals you can hunt in Africa.

This is governed by strict national and provincial laws, as well as international conservation treaties (such as CITES) and ethical guidelines.

Some of the most emblematic African species are never legally huntable, or only under extremely limited and well-regulated circumstances.

Animals You Can Hunt in Africa (Trophy and Plains Game)

Many species of plains game and dangerous game are legally huntable in many parts of southern Africa. Below is a representative sample of species you can hunt in Africa on our safaris.

From our trophy-list you can expect to hunt species such as:

• Cape Buffalo
• Eland
• Kudu
• Impala
• Warthog
• Lechwe
• Bushbuck
• Blesbuck
• Springbok
• Blue Wildebeest
• Black Wildebeest
• Royal Wildebeest
• Sable antelope
• Roan antelope
• Duiker
• and several other plains-game species

These species represent a wide variety in size, horn configuration, challenge, and habitat. Cape buffalo is considered one of the “Big Five” (though the rest are excluded) and offers a challenging, robust hunt; the antelope and plains game species offer everything from approachable hunts to expert-level opportunities, depending on your choice.

View Hunting Packages here.

View Cull Hunting Packages here.

Why Huntershill Safaris Is the Preferred African Hunting Destination

Choosing a safari outfitter is perhaps as important as choosing which species you’ll hunt. Here’s why many U.S. and European hunters trust Huntershill Safaris with their African adventure.

1. Family-Friendly Environment

We understand that safaris are often multi-generational, or may include non-hunters (spouses, children, wildlife photographers). At Huntershill, we structure lodging, and schedules so that even non-hunters can enjoy wildlife viewing, guided nature walks, birding, photographic safaris, and comfortable downtime. Our philosophy is: everyone in your party should have an unforgettable experience.

• Game drives and photographic safaris
• View our own private wildlife reserve and lion feedings
• Nature walks and birdwatching
• Cultural village visits (where permitted)
• Relaxation and leisure time at camp
• Stargazing, evening fireside talks, and communal time

This ensures that while you’re out on a hunt, the rest of your party is engaged and happy, and when you regroup, there is shared excitement.

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2. Expert Professional Hunters (PHs)

Our Professional Hunters (PHs) are seasoned, licensed, and deeply familiar with terrain, species behavior, tracking and safety protocols. They guide every hunt personally, ensuring ethical practices, respect for wildlife, and maximizing the opportunity for success. Their local knowledge is invaluable for making the difference between a “good safari” and a great safari.

3. All-Inclusive Packages

We prefer to keep things straightforward: hunting package pricing, inclusive of accommodation, meals, transportation (within the concession), skinning/field prep, support staff, and game transfer to your nominated taxidermist or shipping location. It also includes airport pick up and drop off from either East London or Port Elizabeth.

You won’t be surprised by hidden extras. We believe in transparency.

4. Welcoming Hunters of All Experience Levels

Whether you’re a first-time safari hunter or a seasoned African big-game veteran, we tailor the experience to your skill set.

• Novices can begin with smaller, more manageable species, and gradually step up.
• Intermediate and advanced hunters can pursue Cape Buffalo or more challenging trophies under proven conditions.

5. Logistics and Infrastructure

Hunting wildlife doesn’t mean you have to live in the wild. South Africa – where Huntershill is located – has well-established infrastructure, airports, and more.

• Easy access from major South African hubs (airport transfers, ground transport)
• Comfortable and secure camps or lodges with modern amenities
• Skilled staff for trophy prep, transportation, export documentation
• Local partnerships for legal compliance, customs, and international shipment

View our FAQs

Book Your African Hunting Safari Today

Now that you know what exciting and beautiful animals you can hunt in Africa, it’s time to immerse yourself into our wild landscapes. Forge memories, test skills, and support sustainable wildlife economies. When you hunt responsibly, it contributes to conservation, local communities, and the continuation of wild lands.

Huntershill Safaris offers you the best of ethical, professional, family-friendly, and unforgettable experiences. If you’d like the current trophy list, or want to discuss a bespoke safari, we would be happy to send that your way.

FAQs

Can you hunt in South Africa?

Yes. South Africa is one of the most popular and responsibly managed hunting destinations in the world. With strict conservation laws, professional PH guides, and sustainable wildlife populations, hunters can legally trophy hunt a wide variety of plains game and Cape Buffalo. At Huntershill Safaris, we handle all permits, logistics, and lodgings, so you can focus on the experience. Enquire now to plan your South African hunting safari.

What is the top 5 hunting in Africa?

Traditionally known as the “Big Five,” Africa’s most iconic species for hunters are lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and Cape Buffalo. At Huntershill Safaris, we proudly and ethically offer Cape Buffalo hunts — the most challenging and respected of the five — alongside a wide range of plains game. Contact us to learn more about building your own top-tier hunting experience.

What is the most successful hunting animal in Africa?

Plains game species such as impala, kudu, and warthog are the most commonly and successfully hunted animals across Africa, and offer a rewarding experience for hunters of all skill levels. At Huntershill Safaris, these hunts are guided by expert PHs on beautiful, well-managed land, ideal for first-time and seasoned hunters alike. Plan your hunt with us today.