Namibia vs South Africa
I think if you want to hunt a lot of animals at very good prices then Namibia is for you. The shooting can be long. But I live the desert environment for a vacation. The people are very friendly.
South Africa has a lot of diversity for animal species. So to me it is a solid #2. If you are going for the Big 5 right off the bat. I would go to Zimbabwe.
I would tend to agree with Enysse's opinion on Namibia vs South Africa having hunted plains game in both. But it really depends on how experienced a hunter you are? What species you want to hunt? and What style of hunting you expect?
Can't comment on Zimbabwe, but I hear you can also hunt the big 5 in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zambia.
My first safari hunting trip was with
Mananga Safaris in Limpopo province in South Africa. They are a very reputable outfitter with 1st class accomodation and I would have no hesitation in recommending them. Provided you can shoot straight and follow the PH's instructions you will be successful and have a great time. Shot a Blue Wildebeast, Kudu, Impala, red hartebeast and blesbok. Nyala, bushbuck and Oryx also available.
My general impression is that South Africa is dominated by fenced game farms and reserves. It also has a bigger diversity of species, but in a more controlled environment than Namibia. For my 2nd hunt I wanted a more free range "fair chase" experience, which is one of the reasons why I opted for Namibia. I also liked the look of the more open desert landscapes whereas Limpopo province is more thick bushveld.
For Namibia I chose to hunt with PH Hentie Van Heerden at
Van Heerden Safaris :: The Ultimate Namibian Hunting Safari. Van Heerden safaris holds the hunting rights to two tribal concessions in Damaraland near Mt Brandberg.
I must say I had an absolutely brilliant time and achieved the 5 top class trophies I wanted in 5 days. Shot Hartmann's mountain zebra, kudu, Oryx and 2 x springbok including a rare natural white springbok.
This was in no small way down to Hentie's skill and experience. Anyone who imagines these animals are sitting around waiting to get shot, is in for a big surprise! Damaraland is a hard, parched land and the game are widely dispersed. You have to be prepared if necessary, to walk long distances in hot, dry conditions. You will earn your kills. This is no canned, game farm shoot. This is proper fair chase African hunting!!