Cape Buffalo Hunting in Free State?

[Brian]

Can anyone tel me about hunting cape buffalo in Free State, South Africa. I have hunted a lot of buffalo but never in Free State.
What is the walking like NW of Bloemfontein ? I am an old guy. Thanks, Brian

 

[Wyfox]

@BeeMaa has a hunt report in that area for Buff at Sandymount.

 

[JG26Irish_2]

I took a Buff in Free State in June this year. The terrain is flatter than Limpopo and mostly open grassland but the area we hunted was thick thornbush cover with open areas and little lakes. It was tough hunting because of the buffalo had been hunted a lot and were very wary of hunters. They stayed in the thick cover most days and we got so close we could smell them and still could not see to judge a shot. In my view it was too close unless you were using very heavy stopper rifles. Yeah we have backup but that would not have helped if one had charged at 20y. As it was, we managed to bounce a small group of three bulls and a cow out of the cover one morning and after some cat n mouse games in the trees, I was able to approach within range for a shot.

I would rate Free State as easier than Limpopo due to the flatter terrain but the shots can be longer due to the lack of cover. In Limpopo we had no issue getting within 40-80y or big bulls. Any closer and you risk a charge or scaring them off. For my money, I do not plan to hunt Free State ever again. It was fun but I like other places better.

 

[BeeMaa]

@BeeMaa has a hunt report in that area for Buff at Sandymount.

Minor correction to your statement.

My 2025 buffalo hunt was in North West province just miles from the Botswana border.

In 2019 my wife and I hunted Sandveld Nature Reserve and Koppie Dam (both in Free State province) for PG with a different outfitter. We saw buffalo, but nothing I'd consider outstanding IMO. Although everyone's opinion is different when it comes to what they are looking for in a buffalo.

Can anyone tel me about hunting cape buffalo in Free State, South Africa. I have hunted a lot of buffalo but never in Free State.
What is the walking like NW of Bloemfontein ? I am an old guy. Thanks, Brian

The terrain at both places we hunted was varied. The best I could say is to have an honest conversation with your outfitter about your physical capabilities and limitations. Also let them know what you would like to expect from a hunt. Meaning all stalking & walking all day, or ride in the truck to spot one, then put a stalk on...etc. Also let them know what kind of buffalo you are looking for. Over the hill with worn down horns and poor body condition? 40" spread minimum? Lots of choices and it's a good idea to know what you want beforehand so you aren't disappointed afterwards.

Whatever you do, have fun and wear comfortable boots!

 

[Brian]

Thanks for your info and suggestions. I think that I have talked with some of you gents before. It's nice to hear from you.
I'm the old guy who likes to hunt multiple old cows with my single shot big bore in Limpopo and NW Province.
So far I am planning to go with KB Safaris at Boshof, north east of Kimberly in 2026.
It looks like nice country and easy walking. I'll bet there will be some sneaks where there is no cover.
I will be using a scope this time.

Thanks again for your posts. Brian Gallup