Agreed 100%. $250 - $400 per day for my wife?? No way. We share a bed, she eats like a bird and she takes great photos that we share with the operators. $0-$150 is what I’ve been able to negotiate.I don't particularly like the phrase bargaining, but I think there are ways to put a little icing on the cake.
I think it is 100% fair and normal to ask an outfitter what the cost would be for x number of days for x animals even if they have a price list with no packages. Imo, there should be quite a bit of wiggle room for RSA and Namibia. Let them answer and if you don't like it, move on. I wouldn't start haggling over prices: "your kudu is $2000, would you take 1500" just makes you a dumbass imo.
Little things that incur minimal cost can help seal the deal. Throw in a baboon or a night hunt. Ensuring a particular side trip is available.
A big area for negotiation is with non-hunting guests and family. Often observers are like $150 a day. For what? Does your wife eat $150 worth of food??? Maybe you want to bring your kids. Again, I wouldn't start haggling against their stated prices, but throw it out there: "I really like your 10 day package. My wife would like to come along and she's low maintenance. What can you do as a package upgrade for her to come?"
so...from an outfitters point of viewHello do you bargain with your outfitter prior to the hunt? If so, give examples!
Sure you can but you need to ask yourself what are you bringing to the table? Are you going on a 5 day 4 animal package hunt for the smaller game animals or are you planning a 10 day safari with lots of add ons? Buffalo?Hello do you bargain with your outfitter prior to the hunt? If so, give examples!