General Bowhunting Info – Africa

Where should I bowhunt in Africa?

 

For your first African bowhunting safari, South Africa or Namibia are hard to beat. Both are relatively safe, well organized, and offer an incredible variety of plains game at reasonable prices.

Your outfitter will typically meet you at the airport and handle all transportation. As with any major city, it’s best not to wander around on your own at night. If you need to overnight near Johannesburg, staying at a reputable hunter-friendly lodge will make the transition smooth and stress-free before continuing on to your hunting area.

Starting with plains game allows you to get comfortable with Africa—its pace, terrain, animals, and hunting style. Dangerous game bowhunting demands full focus, and having some African experience under your belt first makes a big difference. Africa is overwhelming in the best way, and your first trip should be enjoyed, not rushed.

 

What about high fences?

 

Most hunting land in South Africa is high fenced. This allows outfitters to responsibly manage wildlife and control hunting pressure. These fences should not be confused with “canned hunting.”

Many concessions range from 10,000 acres to well over 200,000 acres, and it’s common to only see the fence when entering or leaving the property. The fencing is designed mainly for plains game—kudu, eland, and other species regularly cross fences, and smaller animals move freely through natural openings.

A good rule of thumb is to hunt concessions of at least 10,000 acres. Some outfitters may use neighboring concessions for certain species, so it’s always worth asking about travel time between areas.

Namibia generally has fewer fences, and when fencing exists, the properties tend to be very large.

 

When is the best time to go?

 

Africa’s seasons are the opposite of North America. Hunting generally runs from late February through October, with the peak season being May through September.

June through August is ideal for bowhunters:

• Drier conditions concentrate animals near water

• Thinner vegetation makes animals easier to spot

• Fewer insects and snakes

• Excellent conditions for waterhole hunting from blinds

If you prefer spot-and-stalk hunting, earlier months with greener bush may be more appealing, though the thicker vegetation can make stalking noisier.

 

Blind hunting vs. spot and stalk

 

For bowhunting in Africa, hunting from a blind at a waterhole is by far the most effective method. Animals often come in during the heat of the day, so pre-dawn wakeups aren’t always necessary. Midday to mid-afternoon can be prime time.

Spot-and-stalk hunting is incredibly exciting and immersive, but success rates are lower. The best approach is often a mix of both—spend time glassing and stalking to experience more of Africa, then focus on blinds when you want to put animals on the ground.

 

How long should I hunt?

 

Most packages are 7 days, but if possible, 10 days is strongly recommended. Once travel days are factored in, a 10-day hunt usually means about two weeks away from home.

Given airfare costs, adding a few extra hunting days is usually money well spent. On a 10-day bowhunt, harvesting 5–10 animals is very realistic. If Africa is a once-in-a-lifetime trip, those extra days matter.

 

Bowhunting equipment basics

 

African animals are tough. Draw weight matters:

• Elephant: 90+ lbs

• Buffalo & rhino: 80+ lbs

• Lion & eland: 70+ lbs

• Kudu, gemsbok, wildebeest: 60+ lbs

• Impala, warthog, smaller species: 50+ lbs minimum

Mechanical broadheads should stay at home. They’re illegal in many countries and simply not ideal for African game. Fixed-blade broadheads offer better penetration and reliability—seen firsthand by many experienced African bowhunters.

Bring at least six arrows. Running out happens more often than people expect, and Africa is not forgiving.

 

Clothing considerations

 

Winter mornings can be cold, especially riding to blinds. Dress in layers. If you’re hunting from a blind, dark clothing helps minimize movement. If stalking, check with your outfitter about camouflage—some countries restrict or discourage camo.

 

Bringing a non-hunting companion

 

Absolutely—just plan ahead. Make sure blinds can accommodate an observer, or that there are activities available during hunting hours. Africa is unforgettable, and sharing the experience often becomes one of the best parts of the trip.

 

Final thoughts on bowhunting Africa

 

Africa offers some of the most rewarding bowhunting on the planet. You’ll see far more of the country riding, glassing, and exploring than sitting in a blind all day—so balance your hunt accordingly.

Some species may not frequent waterholes, and a short rifle hunt can be added if desired. Many outfitters offer rental rifles if needed.

Ask whether the outfitter has bowhunting-only concessions. Animals in these areas tend to be calmer, and success rates are often higher.

Keep shots under 35 yards, aim slightly forward compared to North American game, and stay disciplined. If a bad shot happens, don’t let it ruin the hunt. Regain confidence, refocus, and move forward.

Most importantly—don’t obsess over tape measurements. Africa has a way of reminding you that the experience matters more than the inches. Take photos, slow down, and soak it all in.

Africa is special. Enjoy every second of it.