New and a question

[JGH]

I'm new here but want to jump in with a question.

I'm organizing a trip for two couples (three experienced hunters,) aiming for 2028. We want to target cape buffalo and a sable, with other game being welcomed, but we're not after numbers so much as experience.

We have recommendations for South Africa, but I want to at least consider additional destinations.

I'm suspecting that South Africa represents "what everyone does," in short, and wondering if there can be similar experiences (in terms of accommodations) in less-travelled portions of Africa.

Or, should I expect a South African ranch to be just as "wild" and unique as elsewhere?

 

[Mekaniks]

Lots of really good sponsor outfitters around here that can help you out

 

[mdwest]

Or, should I expect a South African ranch to be just as "wild" and unique as elsewhere?

First, Welcome!

Regarding the "wildness" of a SA ranch... it really "depends"... Some places are very large and have 100% self sustaining herds.. it can take days to track down a quality buffalo and get a shot on it...

Other places can be relatively small and run a "put and take" type operation where they go and buy the buffalo for you to "hunt" a short period of time before you arrive, and then you essentially go to where they know it is hanging out and you shoot it...

and then there are a lot of places that offer an experience somewhere in between... (perhaps a medium sized property with a self sustaining herd, etc)..

Its important that you ask all the right questions of your outfitter before you sign your contract and make sure you know what sort of operation he/she is running..

Nothing in South Africa is going to be as "wild" as say Zimbabwe or Mozambique.. but you also want to consider who all is in your party... if the other part of the "couple" isnt necessarily a hunter, or not someone willing to live/work/hunt "hard" some camps in more "wild" Africa might not be to their liking.. youre also going to be a lot more limited on non hunting activities if the other part of the couple are not serious hunters (its pretty common for people to take a day off from hunting in South Africa for example and do an excursion of some sort.. ladies might treat themselves to a spa day.. or you might go do a tour of an elephant sanctuary or a national park, etc.. Thats going to be a whole lot harder to pull off in most places in Zim though (or even many places in Namibia, etc..)...

 

[Doug3006]

South Africa is undoubtedly the least expensive option. For Cape Buffalo and Sable, I’d think Mozambique would also be a good choice.

 

[JGH]

South Africa is undoubtedly the least expensive option. For Cape Buffalo and Sable, I’d think Mozambique would also be a good choice.

Any particular operations in Moz come to mind?

 

[Flipper Dude]

Mokore in Mozambique. Coutada 9. Neil Duckworth is a fine gentleman to spend time with and is an excellent PH. My wife enjoys the time spent with Neil. Not cheap by any means. They can probably tie the trip into some deep sea fishing as well. Not sure, but worth asking,

 

[AfricaHunting.com]

Welcome to AH JGH!

 

[Ridge Runner]

Welcome to AH.

 

[375Fox]

It really depends what you are looking for. There is a very different standard for hunting camps in Africa than North America. Even concession areas in Zimbabwe and a Mozambique will have very comfortable tented camps with very good food every night and daily laundry. If you are looking for a permanent lodge with big pool and other luxuries then South Africa is really your only option.
I find ranch hunting very fun but it’s a very different experience than hunting concession areas. It’s a balance though. If you were going alone, a concession area in Zimbabwe or Mozambique would give a great experience. You’d work hard for your trophies and might take the whole hunt, but it’s wild Africa. Going as two couples hunting farms in South Africa gives some flexibility to suit what everyone wants. It’s going to be a lot easier to get your trophies and then other options are available. It’s fun, but it’s not nearly as wild, but it’s a lot more flexible for a bigger group. It’s also a lot cheaper to give you a more clear picture of what you want for next hunt.