Hunting Roan Antelope in Africa

For the passionate plains game hunter, few trophies rival the majesty and challenge of the Roan Antelope. Known for their powerful build, striking coloration, and elusive behavior, Roan are often described as one of Africa’s most regal antelope species. At Rocklands Safaris, we’re proud to offer guests the true Rocklands Safaris hunting experience: the opportunity to pursue this coveted animal in a setting that’s both ethical and unforgettable.

Whether you’re a seasoned international hunter or this is your first African safari, hunting Roan Antelope at Rocklands is the kind of experience that stays with you long after the dust is off your boots. In this article, we’ll explore the characteristics of the Roan Antelope, the best techniques for hunting them, and why Rocklands is the ideal destination for your Roan safari adventure.

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Meet the Roan Antelope, Africa’s Proud and Elusive Giant

The Roan Antelope (Hippotragus equinus) is among the largest and most striking of all African antelope species. Males can weigh up to 300 kilograms (660 pounds), standing nearly 1.4 meters (4.6 feet) at the shoulder. Their name comes from their roan (reddish-brown) coloring, offset by a pale underbelly, black and white facial markings, and a sturdy black mane running down the neck. 

Both males and females possess scimitar-shaped horns, though the bulls’ horns are typically longer and more robust, often curving gracefully backward over the shoulders. Their strong, horse-like bodies-combined with a thick neck and impressive horn length-make Roan one of the most iconic trophies for any African hunter.

Despite their size, Roan Antelope are known for their wariness and intelligence. They often retreat into thick bush when disturbed, using the dense cover as both refuge and camouflage. Spotting one is a rare reward. Taking one ethically and cleanly? That’s the kind of moment hunters dream of.

Habitat and Behavior

Roan Antelope prefer a combination of open grassland and lightly wooded savannah, where they can graze while staying near cover for safety. At Rocklands Safaris, our expansive Eastern Cape terrain offers an ideal balance of both. This unique environment supports a healthy and free-ranging Roan population while giving hunters the thrill of fair-chase pursuit.

Roan are social animals, generally found in small herds of five to fifteen individuals, often led by a dominant bull. Mature bulls are territorial and can be aggressive, both toward rivals and even potential threats. This boldness adds to their appeal as a challenging and honorable quarry.

They feed primarily on mid-length grasses and are most active during early mornings and late afternoons, resting in shaded areas during the heat of the day. Their elusive nature means hunters must be patient, persistent, and prepared to work for their opportunity.

The Hunt: Strategy, Skill, and Safari Tradition

Hunting Roan Antelope is a pursuit of strategy and skill. At Rocklands Safaris, our professional hunters (PHs) have decades of experience in guiding clients safely and successfully across the Eastern Cape’s diverse terrain. Each Roan hunt is tailored to the hunter’s preferences, abilities, and goals. 

Spot-and-stalk is our preferred method for hunting Roan. It begins with glassing likely areas from a distance-scanning clearings, grazing zones, and waterholes where herds may congregate. Once a suitable bull is identified, the real challenge begins: a careful and deliberate approach, often involving long crawls through grass and scrub.

Due to the Roan’s sharp senses and preference for cover, successful shots are typically taken at ranges of 100-250 yards, though this can vary depending on terrain and hunter skill. We recommend flat-shooting calibers such as the .300 Win Mag, .30-06 Springfield, or .375 H&H powerful enough to anchor this robust animal with a well-placed shot.

Our PHs will guide you every step of the way-from target identification to shot placement and post-shot tracking. Ethical hunting is at the core of our ethos. At Rocklands, a successful hunt means a clean kill, a fair chase, and a deep respect for the animal.

Why Choose Rocklands Safaris for Your Roan Antelope Hunt?

Rocklands Safaris is an experience crafted around excellence, ethics, and authentic African adventure. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Prime Roan Habitat: Our privately managed land is home to a thriving population of Roan Antelope. With their preferred habitat protected and well-maintained, your chances of encountering and harvesting a mature trophy bull are excellent.
• Experienced Professional Hunters: Our PHs are skilled, passionate, and deeply knowledgeable about both the animal and the land. They’re not just guides-they’re your partners in an unforgettable journey.
• Comfortable Accommodation and Amenities: After a long day in the bush, retreat to our comfortable lodges, complete with hearty meals, and stunning South African views. All-inclusive packages mean you can focus on the hunt, while we handle the logistics.
• Family-Style Hospitality: At Rocklands, we welcome guests not just as clients, but as friends. You’ll enjoy authentic South African cuisine, shared campfire stories, and personalized attention throughout your stay.
• Complete Safari Experience: While we do not offer in-house taxidermy, we assist with every other detail-permit arrangements, trophy field prep, and delivery to your preferred taxidermist or export partner.

Book Now. Your Roan Antelope Hunt Awaits

The Roan Antelope is more than just a trophy; it’s a symbol of the wild spirit of Africa. At Rocklands Safaris, we invite you to chase that spirit in a setting as timeless as the animal itself.

Whether you’re looking to add a Roan to your collection or fulfill a lifelong dream, we promise a hunt defined by challenge, beauty, and camaraderie. The land is waiting. The Roan are out there. All that’s missing is you.

Book your next African hunting adventure today.