“Let’s go hunting in South Africa!”
While this suggestion might lead to the experience of a lifetime, it is not something that you can attempt without some serious planning.
This article gives a helpful reference to some important things that should be considered and included in your planning process.
Finding the Right Hunting Outfitter
A hunting outfitter is the company that has been granted a license and employs guides in order to lead hunters on hunting excursions. Hunting outfitters offer their customers a wide range of services that guarantee that their customers will have the most enjoyable experience possible and the greatest potential for success.
Documentation Pertaining to Your Planned Hunting Safari
Get your reservation documents that include all the important details of your hunting safari, ready.
They serve as a contract between you and your chosen hunting outfitter, in this case African Hunts & Safaris.
It must be signed by both parties and will contain all the details of your quote, the animals included in your hunting package, the daily rates of the hunting lodges, what is included and what is not, details about taxidermy, bringing your hunting equipemts into the country, and all applicable terms and conditions.
Upon your arrival in South Africa, you may be required to sign an indemnity form – an important formality as a hunting safari in South Africa is potentially dangerous. However, as your professional hunter, African Hunts & Safaris will go out of their way to ensure your safety and comfort at all times.
Taxidermy
Even though hunting outfitters in South Africa like African Hunts & Safaris do not personally oversee the taxidermy process for your trophies, they have good relationships with the most reputable partners in each region where they operate hunting safaris. Ask them beforehand for information regarding the available taxidermists as well as any regulations and processes that are involved.
Temporary Import of Your Equipment(s)
Any visitor who wants to bring a firearm into South Africa for hunting purposes must temporary import it to the country.
It is best to obtain a copy of the Temporary Firearm Import Application (SAPS520) in advance and complete it before arrival to streamline the entry process.
A person may only import two hunting equipements, one single- or double-barrel shotgun, and one handgun of .45 or smaller caliber and 200 rounds of ammunition per caliber. You must have proof of ownership, for example a license and export permit from the country of origin.
You will need 2 import permits, one from the South African Police and the other from the Director of Import and Export Control.
You must report to the South African Police Services (SAPS) Firearm office immediately after clearing immigration, for the relevant temporary import permit to be issued. African Hunts and Safaris have a reputable partner who can assist clients with a hassle free solution of providing Equipment permits and storage for hunting equipment.
It is your responsibility to adhere to all requirements of your own country before departing from home.
Deciding upon Equipment’s & What to Bring
Discuss the planned hunt with African Hunts & Safaris so that you know which caliber and ammunition are best for the animals you plan to hunt on your safari.
They would probably suggest that you bring the Equipment (s) you are most comfortable with; therefore, you must spend time on a shooting range before commencing your hunt.
If you plan a hunt of a dangerous animal, there will be minimum caliber and you must also remember that South African law prohibits the import of semi-automatic firearms.
They can also advise you on the gear and clothes you should bring with you.
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