Free-Range Plains Game Hunting Package in South Africa

2026 / 2027

 

Rifle 1x1 ONLY $8,700!

 

Free-Range Plains Game Hunt With Big Trophies!

 

THIS SAFARI INCLUDES:

• 10 Full Hunting Days
• 1 Kudu Trophy Fee (Any Size!)
• 1 Nyala Trophy Fee (Any Size!)
• 1 Waterbuck Trophy Fee (Any Size!)
• 1 Common Reedbuck or Mountain Reedbuck Trophy Fee (Hunter’s Choice)
• 2 Travel Days
• 1×1 Professional Hunter, Tracker, Skinner, and Camp Staff
• All Meals and Beverages (Beer, Wine, & Spirits)
• 3-Star Lodge Accommodations
• Daily Laundry Service
• Field Prep of Trophies
• Trophy Transport to Dip & Pack
• All Licenses and Permits
• All VAT
• Round Trip Road Transfer from O.R. Tambo

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EXTRAS:

• Crating and Shipping of Trophies
• Taxidermy
• Firearms Rental ($150 total) / Ammo ($125 per box)
• Airfare to and from Johannesburg
• Gratuities

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Observer: $150 / Day

Additional Hunting Days: $350 / Day

 

This is a true free-range plains game hunt conducted in the diverse terrain of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The hunting area combines rolling hills, thornveld bush, river systems, reedbeds, and grassy highveld slopes that create ideal habitat for kudu, nyala, waterbuck, and reedbuck. Hunting is conducted using traditional spot-and-stalk methods, careful glassing, and patient stalking through natural terrain and thick cover. This is not a high-fence environment, and every opportunity is earned through persistence, local knowledge, and careful hunting. If you want a classic South African plains game experience focused on mature, hard-earned trophies in a natural free-range setting, look no further!

 

The Hunting Area in KwaZulu-Natal

The hunt takes place near Dundee in northern KwaZulu-Natal, a region known for its combination of highveld grasslands, river bottoms, thornveld bush, and broken ridgelines.

The terrain consists of:

• Rolling hills and ridgelines
• River systems and reed-lined drainage areas
• Open grassy slopes and thick acacia bush
• Deep valleys and low-lying wet ground

This varied habitat allows hunters to pursue multiple species in different environments throughout the safari while experiencing a wide range of South African terrain and hunting conditions.

 

The Free-Range Hunting Methods

Each morning begins early with coffee and a light breakfast before heading out to glass valleys, hillsides, river systems, and feeding areas for mature animals. Kudu are commonly found moving through broken bushveld and valleys, while nyala prefer thicker riverine habitat and shaded brush. Waterbuck stay closely tied to water sources and dense cover, and reedbuck are often found near wetlands, grassy floodplains, and drainage lines where they can quickly disappear into tall grass.

The hunt is conducted primarily on foot using classic spot-and-stalk methods, with a strong focus on patient glassing and careful stalking. Once a mature bull or ram is located, the stalk becomes deliberate and methodical, using terrain, vegetation, and wind direction to close the distance. Common reedbuck in particular can be extremely alert and may only move short distances before stopping again, requiring hunters to carefully track their exact location and plan each movement carefully.

Midday is usually spent back at camp while the animals bed during the warmer part of the day. In the late afternoon, the hunt resumes around water sources, feeding areas, hillsides, and thick cover where movement begins to increase again. Shots are typically taken between 80 and 250 yards, depending on terrain and vegetation.

 

About the Free-Range Plains Game Animals

Kudus are one of Africa’s most iconic plains game animals, recognized for their long, spiraled horns and elusive behavior. Mature bulls in this region are known for strong genetics and impressive horn development, while their sharp senses and ability to disappear into thick bush have earned them the nickname “the grey ghost.”

The nyala is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most beautiful antelope species. Mature bulls are known for their dark coats, white striping, and elegant spiral horns. Nyala thrive in thick riverine habitat and dense brush, where they rely heavily on camouflage and cautious movement.

Waterbuck are one of Africa’s largest antelope species and are strongly associated with rivers, wetlands, and permanent water sources. Mature bulls are recognized for their heavy, ridged horns and large body size. They are durable animals that often use thick vegetation and difficult terrain for protection.

Common reedbuck and mountain reedbuck are highly respected plains game species that depend heavily on terrain and cover to avoid danger. Common reedbuck are usually found near wetlands and tall grass, while mountain reedbuck prefer rocky hillsides and elevated grassy slopes. Both species are alert and cautious, making them rewarding animals to pursue in a true free-range environment.

This region of KwaZulu-Natal has a strong reputation for producing mature, naturally developed trophies. Success here comes from hunting hard, understanding the terrain, and spending time behind the glass rather than relying on artificial management practices.

 

The Free Range Hunting Lodge

Hunters are accommodated in a comfortable 3-star lodge setting, with options for chalet-style rooms or house-style accommodations with private bedrooms. All rooms feature en-suite bathrooms, and the lodges have permanent electric power. Cell phone service and Wi-Fi internet are available.

Meals are freshly prepared and served daily, offering a mix of local and traditional dishes. Evenings are usually spent relaxing around the fire, reviewing the day’s hunt, and planning for the next outing.

 

Additional Hunting Opportunities

If your trophies are taken early or you wish to extend your safari, a variety of additional free-range plains game species are available. This area also has excellent populations of impala, bushbuck, bushpig, warthog, grey duiker, and other plains game species that can be added to the hunt.

 

Trophy Handling

After your trophies are harvested, recovery is handled promptly to ensure the highest trophy quality possible. Photos are taken while the animal is still fresh before field preparation begins. Skinning and caping are completed carefully by experienced staff to preserve the integrity of the hide and horns for taxidermy purposes.

Special attention is given to proper fleshing, salting, and cooling of the capes to prevent spoilage in the African climate. All trophies are tagged and documented immediately after preparation to ensure proper identification throughout the process. Once completed, trophies are transported to the client’s preferred dip & pack or taxidermy facility. Delivery typically occurs within 2–4 weeks after the conclusion of the hunt.

 

Taxidermy

We recommend Hunters Heart Taxidermy. Hunters Heart Taxidermy is a top-rated taxidermist and will pick up your trophies at no charge within 2-3 weeks of your hunt.

 

Getting There

Hunters will fly into O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, South Africa. From there, you will be met and transferred by road to the hunting area near Dundee. The drive takes several hours through scenic countryside. No charter flights are required.

 

The Hunting Season

This hunt is available year-round.

 

The Best Time to Hunt

• April – August: Cooler temperatures and dry conditions improve visibility and animal movement
• April – June: Kudu and nyala rut activity increases movement and daytime visibility
• November – February: Green conditions and feeding activity increase movement near water and grasslands

 

Recommended Firearms

Any rifle between .270 Winchester and .375 is suitable for this hunt. a. 300 Win-Mag or a 30-06 is the recommended caliber for this hunt. Flat-shooting calibers with quality bullets are recommended due to varying terrain and shot opportunities.

Shots are typically taken between 80 and 250 yards.

The outfitter has a .243, .270, 30-06, and a .375 for rent.

 

Deposit Policy

A 30% deposit is required within 7 days of booking to secure your hunt. The remaining balance is due upon completion of the hunt prior to departure by either wire, US cash, or credit card (credit card payments incur a 4% processing fee).

 

Cancellation Policy

Deposits are non-refundable. Hunts may be rescheduled at the outfitter’s sole discretion based on availability. Hunts rescheduled to the following year are subject to that year's pricing. A $150 fee will be paid directly to the booking agent for any rebooked hunts.

 

EXCLUSIONS: International airfare, dip & pack, taxidermy, shipping of trophies, gratuities, and personal expenses.