What to Hunt in Africa

By admin | April 25, 2025

At Rocklands Safaris, we know there’s nothing quite like stepping onto African soil with your rifle in hand, the golden early-morning light on your skin, heart racing, and the promise of adventure in the air. If you’re coming from the U.S. or Europe and you are not sure what to hunt in Africa, look no further. Our hunting packages combine a wide variety of game, tradition, skill, and the raw beauty of Africa. You’re in for a treat.

What to Hunt in Africa: Plains Game

If you’re new to African safaris or looking for a mix of strategy and satisfaction, plains game should be high on your list. These species roam the open savannas and bushveld, offering unique tracking challenges and opportunities for classic spot-and-stalk hunting.

Here are some of our favorites:

1. Kudu

Nicknamed the “gray ghost” for a reason, the kudu is elusive, majestic, and a must-hunt. With their iconic spiral horns and ghost-like ability to vanish into thick bush, hunting kudu tests your patience and precision.

2. Impala

They might be common, but don’t let that fool you. Impala are fast, agile, and provide an excellent challenge, especially for bowhunters. Plus, they’re a great species for honing your African hunting skills.

3. Gemsbok (Oryx)

With their long, spear-like horns and desert-hardiness, gemsbok offer one of the most picturesque trophies and a fascinating hunt. They’re tough, wary, and often in wide-open areas that require smart stalking.

4. Warthog

Who doesn’t love the rugged look of a warthog? These guys might be a little funny looking, but they’re quick, unpredictable, and a blast to hunt. Plus, they make for great stories and even better taxidermy.

5. Blue Wildebeest

Often called the “poor man’s buffalo,” the blue wildebeest is tough as nails and known for its fighting spirit. Don’t underestimate the challenge, or the satisfaction, of taking down one of these trophies.

The Spiral Slam: A Collector’s Dream

There’s something incredibly satisfying about pursuing Africa’s spiral horned antelope. They’re elegant, elusive, and each species offers a unique hunting experience.

At Rocklands Safaris, our Spiral Slam hunting package includes these trophies over seven days of one-on-one hunting:

1. Greater Kudu

We’ve mentioned kudu before, but it’s worth repeating. This is the crown jewel of the spiral slam. Long, corkscrew horns and a ghostly presence make every kudu hunt unforgettable.

2. Eland

The largest antelope on the continent, eland are massive yet surprisingly stealthy. You’ll need to be fit and focused to get close to one, but the payoff is a trophy you’ll never forget.

3. Nyala

With their sleek coats and striped flanks, nyala are one of the most beautiful species you’ll find. Typically found in thick brush, they make for an exciting and challenging hunt.

4. Bushbuck

Small, solitary, and fiercely territorial, bushbuck are no walk in the park. They hide in dense cover and vanish in an instant, giving even seasoned hunters a run for their money.

What to Hunt in Africa: The Tiny Ten – Big Challenge, Small Package

For those who love a true challenge, the Tiny Ten is where it’s at. These ten species of pygmy antelope are notoriously tricky to spot, let alone hunt. You’ll need keen eyes, a steady hand, and a whole lot of patience.

Here’s a taste of what awaits you:

1. Common Duiker, Red and Blue Duiker

Tiny, shy, and often found darting through coastal forests, the blue, red, and common duiker is a miniature marvel, standing at 20 inches.

2. Steenbok

Small and skittish, the steenbok will test your spotting skills and your trigger discipline, standing at only 16 – 24 inches.

3. Klipspringer

Living among rocky outcrops, these sure-footed 17-23 inch antelope are a favorite among experienced hunters.

Other species in the Tiny Ten include the grysbok, dik-dik, orbi, and suni, each more elusive than the last.

Hunting Gear Tips for Plains Game and Specialty Species

If you’re planning your first hunt in Africa with us, or your tenth, here are a few tips to get the most out of your African safari:

Caliber: .270, .30-06, and .300 Win Mag are all excellent choices for plains game. Bring what you shoot best.
Optics: Good glass is worth its weight in gold. You’ll be glassing constantly—don’t skimp on your scope or binos.
Clothing: Earth tones, breathable fabric, and good boots. Comfort and quietness matter more than camo.
Fitness: We tailor our hunts to your abilities, but being in decent shape helps you enjoy the experience even more.

Why Hunt in Africa with Rocklands Safaris?

We’re not just outfitters—we’re passionate hunters ourselves. Rocklands is a family-run safari operation in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, and we pride ourselves on ethical hunting, top-notch hospitality, and delivering the kind of adventure you’ll be talking about for years.

Whether you’re after your first impala or looking to complete the Spiral Slam or Tiny Ten, we’ll make sure your safari is tailored, memorable, and filled with adrenaline-pumping moments.

Still Not Sure What to Hunt in Africa? Let’s Talk.

Africa is calling, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re a seasoned international hunter or making your first journey to the dark continent, Rocklands Safaris offers the expertise, species diversity, and unforgettable experiences that make African hunting so legendary.

Enquire today

FAQs

What are the top 5 animals hunted in Africa?

Outside of the Big Five, some of the most popular animals our guests come to hunt include kudu, impala, warthog, gemsbok (oryx), and springbok. These species offer a thrilling combination of skill, beauty, and the true essence of plains game hunting.

Which country in Africa is best for hunting?

We believe South Africa stands out as the best all-around destination for hunting in Africa. The diversity of game, world-class conservation practices, and well-established safari infrastructure make it ideal for first-time and seasoned hunters alike.

What is the Big 5 hunt in Africa?

The Big Five refers to lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhinoceros, originally coined for the difficulty of hunting them on foot. While we don’t focus on the Big Five, we offer some of the most exciting and ethical plains game hunts you’ll find anywhere on the continent.

Where is the best place to hunt in Africa?

Right here at Rocklands Safaris in South Africa! Our private land offers diverse terrain and abundant wildlife, from majestic kudu to the elusive steenbok, all in a safe, well-managed environment with expert guides at your side.

What animal is the most successful hunter in Africa?

Believe it or not, it’s the African wild dog, with a hunting success rate of over 80%. While not a game species, seeing them in the wild is always a special moment for our guests, nature’s teamwork at its finest.

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