Category: African Hunting

• Hunters select a package of Trophy animals at a fixed price, which includes the day fee.

• Also included is the cost of accommodation and meals as well as daily laundry.

• There are no hidden costs; the headline price is what you pay, excluding travel and taxidermy costs.

• We offer packages for the trophy animals that occur in significant numbers in our hunt area, ensuring a 100 % success rate.

• We offer 7 trophies in all our Africa hunt packages over 8 days of hunting as standard in our South African hunt packages.

• The hunter can always add additional trophies when the opportunity presents itself.

• Additional Trophies over and above the package are based on our standard price list. Our complete trophy price list can be seen below.

• Nick Bowker hunting observer fees (non-hunter) are charged at a daily rate of $150.

• Plains Game hunting packages are always the most cost-effective for the first-time African hunter.

• Our Africa hunting packages and daily rate hunts do not include airfare, hotel stopovers, and taxidermy costs. Prices are in USD.

Gemsbok & Wildebeest Package

1 Hunter $5000 2 Hunters $4000 each.

• Gemsbok
• Black Wildebeest
• Blesbok
• Impala
• Springbok
• Warthog
• Mountain Reedbuck

Kudu & Wildebeest Package

1 Hunter $5500 2 Hunters $4500 each.

• Kudu
• Black Wildebeest
• Blesbok
• Impala
• Springbok
• Warthog
• Mountain Reedbuck

Kudu and Gemsbok Package

1 Hunter $6000 2 Hunters $5000 each.

• Kudu
• Gemsbok
• Blesbok
• Impala
• Springbok
• Warthog
• Mountain Reedbuck

Kudu & Nyala Package

1 Hunter $6500.

• Nyala
• Kudu
• Blesbok
• Impala
• Springbok
• Warthog
• Zebra

$7500 per hunter 2025

Kudu, Nyala & Gemsbok Package

1 Hunter $7000.

• Nyala
• Kudu
• Gemsbok
• Blesbok
• Impala
• Springbok
• Zebra

$8000 per hunter 2025

Sable & Nyala Package

1 Hunter $7500.

• Sable antelope
• Nyala
• Blesbok
• Impala
• Springbok
• Warthog
• Red Hartebeest

$8500 per hunter 2025

Kudu Waterbuck Big Game Package

$8000 per hunter

• Kudu
• Waterbuck
• Nyala
• Gemsbok
• Fallow Deer
• Zebra
• Red Hartebeest

$9000 per hunter 2025

Sable Big Game Package

$9000 per hunter

• Sable
• Kudu
• Waterbuck
• Nyala
• Gemsbok
• Fallow Deer
• Zebra

$10,000 per hunter 2025

Red Lechwe Big Game Package

$10,000 per hunter

• Sable
• Red Lechwe
• Kudu
• Waterbuck
• Nyala
• Gemsbok
• Black wildebeest

$11,000 per hunter 2025

What is included in our African Hunt Packages?

• Nick Bowker, your Licensed Outfitter at all times
• Includes daily rates and trophy fee (Trophies included)
• Eight full days hunting & 9 nights in a 4-star lodge
• A Licensed Hunting Guide (Nick Bowker or Benjamin Pringle)
• Skinners, trackers, and dogs for retrieval of wounded animals
• Transport for pick-up and drop-off at Port Elizabeth airport
• 4×4 hunting vehicles and fuel for the duration of the safari
• Use of high-end rifles, scopes, and ammunition (Sako and Swarovski)
• Accommodation, meals and drinks, and daily laundry
• Field preparation of trophies and delivery to the taxidermy
• All taxes, hunting permits, and hunting licenses.
• Observer rates are $150 per day.

Introducing Nick Bowker Hunting

Price list for Trophies (Trophy Fees)

The price list continued (African Hunting Prices)

What is Cull Hunting?

Cull hunting packages are needed for the management of certain animals. This need stems from the animals’ lack of natural predators.

Management hunting is ideal for long-range enthusiasts and is certainly not limited to long-range hunting. Hunting is for mature males and older females and not for substandard or young animals.

Management hunts are no different from a trophy hunts, except you target other animals in the herd.

Cull Hunting prices?

In addition to our 20 and 30 animal packages below, non-trophy animals can be added to any trophy package.

$250 for males and $100 for females for the below-mentioned species:

• Common Blesbok
• White Blesbok
• Impala
• Springbok
• Warthog
• Mountain Reedbuck

Non-trophy Kudu

• Bull $700
• Cow $350

20 Animal African Hunting Cull Package  5 Species

1 Hunter $6000

8 Days hunting is all-inclusive for the following 20 animals. No day fee & inclusive of accommodation and meals

• 4 Impala Rams
  (1 Trophy Ram)
• 6 Springbok Rams
  (1 Trophy Ram)
• 4 Warthog Boars
  (1 Trophy Boar)
• 4 Blesbok Rams
  (1 Trophy Ram)
• 2 Mountain Reedbuck Rams
  (1 Trophy Ram)
• Add any Trophies from our special offers set out below or our trophy price list

30 Animal South Hunting Cull Hunt Package  6 Species

1 Hunter $7500

8 Days hunting all-inclusive for the following 30 animals. No day fee & inclusive of accommodation and meals

• 4 Kudu Bulls
  (All Non-Trophy)
• 4 Impala Rams
  (1 Trophy Ram)
• 12 Springbok Rams
  (1 Trophy Ram)
• 4 Warthog Boars
  (1 Trophy Boar)
• 4 Blesbok Rams
  (1 Trophy Ram)
• 2 Mountain Reedbuck Rams
  (1 Trophy Ram)

Alternative one is that you dip and pack your trophies and have your taxidermist do the taxidermy. Dip and pack is a chemical treatment of your trophies and a legal requirement for entrance into the united states.

Alternative two is that you have the taxidermy work done in South Africa and the final product shipped.

For both alternatives, you need to decide which Trophies you will be doing a shoulder mount for and which trophies you will be doing a European skull mount for. Most hunters only decide that on the completion of their hunt.

The images below set out your taxidermy costs for the Kudu, Nyala, and Gemsbok package.

The cost will depend on how much of your taxidermy is shoulder-mounted versus skull mounted.

All South African taxidermist work incurs a 10% fee for export documentation, packing, crating, and admin.

The only variable we do not control is the shipping costs (which include taxes), which is a function of exchange rates, oil prices, and other costs.

We take care of all the field preparation of trophies and delivery to the taxidermy, all of which are included in your Package. Our skinners have a lifetime of experience in field trophy preparation.

We ensure that your taxidermy is of high quality, follow up on delivery, and ensure that your trophies are delivered safely and sound.

First-Time African Hunter – Plan Your African Hunting Safari

Are you a first-time African hunter looking for an affordable African hunting safari? Here is a list of important points for preparing yourself and planning your First African Hunting Safari.

1. Hunting laws in South Africa.
2. Hunting with three-legged shooting or quad sticks.
3. How do shooting sticks work in practice?
4. The importance of good optics.
5. Getting to South Africa.
6. Overnight accommodation in Johannesburg.
7. Suggested packing list.
8. Rifle considerations.
9. Regulations for a temporary rifle import permit.
10. Prohibited firearms.
11. A checklist for rifle permits.

Hunting Laws in South Africa

Laws in South Africa allow anyone who is not a South Africa citizen to hunt.

However, the client must be under the supervision of a licensed professional hunter. A licensed professional outfitter must host the hunt.

All professional hunters and outfitters are required to hold a valid permit. South African regulations hold the professional hunter responsible for compliance with local laws.

Nick Bowker is both a licensed Professional Hunter and Outfitter.

First-time African hunters may use licensed firearms belonging to the professional hunter. And are not required to have any home country licenses or a competency certificate.

South Africa has a friendly regulatory environment for foreign hunters. Also, it offers hunters a very affordable African hunting safari.

Hunting with Shooting Sticks

Hunting with shooting sticks is universal in Africa and an important point for planning your African hunting safari. This is because most hunting in Africa is from a standing position.

Shooting sticks are often new for the first-time African hunter.

A shooting stick is a tripod to rest your rifle over for support while taking a standing shot. Prone, sitting and kneeling shots are not that common. Because of:

• The low vegetation obscures your target.

• Lying in a prone position or kneeling can be very uncomfortable. Also, it may not be possible because of rocky terrain and thorns, and other impediments.

• Furthermore, shots in Africa often need to be taken relatively quickly. Consequently, shooting sticks and a standing position facilitate this.

We are currently using Rudolph quad sticks for our African shooting sticks. We find the quad sticks give significantly more stability and facilitate far longer shots. The preferred style of Rudolph is the one that has a flat forearm. This allows a little extra opportunity to move the rifle without having to move the sticks completely.

How do shooting sticks work in practice, how should I prepare?

• The Professional hunter will carry the sticks or tripod for the first time African hunter. He will be walking in front, followed by the tracker and then the hunter.

• The professional hunter will place the shooting sticks for the hunter when the moment arrives.

• The hunter will then place his rifle across the shooting sticks, and the professional hunter will move over to the side.

• Historically the shooting sticks were homemade by the Professional hunter.

• These days shooting tripods are readily available, durable, and light, often made of titanium.

• A lot of material is available on the right methodology for using shooting sticks on YouTube. The right way is probably the one that works best for you.

• Buy some shooting sticks. PRACTISE A LOT WITH SHOOTING STICKS to prepare for your African hunting safari.

“A good pair of optics is a must for any first time, African hunter.”

Dan hunted with Nick Bowker in 2012 and 2019 and has some advice for the first-time African hunter.

“Finally, a few recommendations I would highly suggest to anyone:

• Give yourself a MINIMUM of 3-4 hours for a layover between Johannesburg and Port Elizabeth.

• We were delayed out of Port Elizabeth and barely made the plane back to the United States.

• You will need all that time for gun transfer, International check-in, etc.

• Follow the recommended packing list Nick provides. On both trips, I have over packed.

• You only need two sets of hunting stuff. As they will wash and clean your clothes each day; used the previous day.

• Bring an excellent collection of optics! The eyesight of Nick and his crew is astonishing.

• They see stuff with their naked eye that is difficult to pick up with good binoculars.

• As a result, great binoculars will make your experience much better with the amount of glassing you will be doing.

“Practice off shooting sticks.” – The majority of shooting will be from the standing postion.

• The majority of your shooting will be standing off of sticks.

• The first time I went on my African hunting safari, I did not realize how much shooting would be off sticks.

• Practice, A LOT, and be prepared to get a quality shot off in the standing position off sticks quickly.

• When you anchor an animal with one good shot, it makes everything so much better.

• As a result, you don’t want to spend a half-day or more tracking a trophy.

• Bring quality bullets and know your ballistics this will be valuable in preventing frustrating circumstances.

• Listen to your Professional Hunter. For instance, Nick can quickly judge an excellent African animal from a great one.

• Even after two trips, every decent Kudu bull still looks enormous. He will promptly be able to tell you what is a shooter and what is not. So, I would like to trust their judgment.

• Start planning your next trip after experiencing your first trip, as this is an addicting experience. Besides, South Africa offers hunters a very affordable African hunting safari.

Getting to South Africa

First-world airports and easily affordable travel make South Africa a convenient and trouble-free destination for the first-time African hunter. There are daily flights between the US and Europe and South Africa. See Getting to South Africa for an affordable African hunting safari.

It would help if you considered using a travel agency that specializes in airfare to international hunting destinations. Especially in the case of first-time African hunters. As they can assist with all aspects of your travel plans from:

• Airfare and lodging
• Entry visas
• Firearm permits
• Trip insurance policies
• Medical evacuation services

We recommend Gracy Travel. Gracy will take care of your entire trip including the paperwork for rifle permits and make planning your African hunting safari easy.

Overnight in Johannesburg

If you need to overnight in Johannesburg, we recommend City Lodge which is about 300m from International Arrivals at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport.

Access to the City Lodge from the airport is easy. It is reached via a well-signposted corridor, which also serves a multi-story car park, and thence by a private escalator. The escalator’s doors are barely five minutes walk from the international arrivals section of the airport, and airport luggage trolleys can be wheeled right up to these doors.

The reception area is staffed 24 hours a day, and we found it efficient. Beside it, you’ll find a bank of flat screens displaying live flight departure information linked to the airport’s system. Conveniently, the porter at reception can organize a luggage facility for guests for which there is no charge.  

Contact Information

City Lodge Hotel OR Tambo International Airport – Johannesburg

+27 11 552 7600 Email: [email protected]

Traveling with children to South Africa

The South African Department of Home Affairs introduced new requirements.

From 2 April 2019, all minors may be required to produce:

• Passport.
• An Unabridged Birth Certificate.

Or a passport that details both parents for all international travel to and from South Africa.

Travelers should visit the Department of Home Affairs website.

Packing for the first time African hunter

• Two pairs of hiking boots
• Three hunting shirts (earth color)
• Two hunting pants
• One warm jacket
• One pullover
• Casual outfit
• Loafers
• Sleepwear
• Cap/sun hat

Extras for the first time African Hunter

• Binoculars
• Torch
• Sunglasses
• Small backpack
• Sunscreen

Rifle Considerations for Planning Your African Safari

For many bringing their rifle is a must. Getting hunting firearms into South Africa is relatively easy, even for a first-time African hunter.

Thousands of hunters bring firearms into South Africa every year. However, you do need to be prepared.

Hunters who bring their rifles must comply with their local home country regulations. These include licensing requirements and ownership proof.

Currently, only AIRLINK carries firearms to Port Elizabeth. Connecting flights must be with AIRLINK. When traveling with weapons, it is advisable to use the service of an agent in Johannesburg.

Rifle Agents for the first time African hunter

We suggest Henry Durheim. Henry will ensure you hold valid permits for your rifles while hunting in South Africa.

• Email: [email protected]

• Website: www.riflepermits.com

• Henry charges $140 per rifle.
• And will pre-register the firearms.
• Meet you on arrival.
• Take you through customs and accompany you to your connecting flight for an additional $100.

Henry needs to be contacted at least a month before arrival.

The following needs to be sent to Henry at least a month in advance. See the checklist below for detailed information.

• Completed SAP 520 Form
• Copy of Your Passport
• Complete Flight Itinerary
• US Customs Form 4457
• Invitation letter from Nick Bowker Hunting

Regulations for a Temporary in Transit Import Permit

1. No more than ONE firearm per caliber or gauge.
2. No more than 200 rounds for each permitted firearm.
3. Ammunition is packed in a separate lockable case.
4. No ammunition is other than for permitted firearms.
5. Do not try and bring ammunition for your PH’s rifle.
6. Firearms must bear the manufacturer’s serial number or any other mark by which the gun can be identified.
7. The identification number must be stamped.
8. The mark is affixed in the prescribed manner on the barrel, the frame, or the firearm’s receiver.
9. Handguns are allowed only for hunting.
10. Any visitor bringing a handgun into the country needs a letter from a registered association.
    1. Stating that he/she is a registered member of the association.
    2. The handgun to be used for hunting purposes.

Prohibited firearms which may NOT be imported into South Africa, include:

• Any fully automatic weapon
• Any semi-automatic weapon
• No semi-automatic shotguns
• Handgun(s) for self-defense
• Weapons that fall under military categories

If bringing your own rifle is not a must. We suggest using the outfitter’s rifles. Nick Bowker has high-end rifles and optics included in packages free of charge. Using the outfitter’s rifles will simplify planning your African hunting safari

Check List for Rifle Permit

First-time African hunter rifle permit checklist.

1. Completed SAPS 520 Application Form.
2. Did you SIGN the SAPS520 application form? You must sign sections 4.3 and J3 on page 6.
3. Copy of photo page of the passport.
   Minimum of THREE blank pages left in the passport.
   Validity of at least four months beyond your planned return.
4. Copy of Complete Itinerary as issued by your Travel Agency or copies of your return airline tickets.
5. Proof of Ownership.
   Firearm license / Firearm registration form
   Letter from local Sheriff OR
   Invoice from Firearms Dealer
   For hunters traveling from the United States of America, the CBP4457 Customs Form will be sufficient. Just so you know, US customs must date, sign, and stamp this form.
6. Proof of Export from Country of Origin – The CBP4457 Customs Form will be sufficient for hunters traveling from the USA.
   This only applies to US applicants.

Check List Continued

1. Invitation Letter from Hunting Outfitter on Company Letterhead (with the following details).
   Registered Outfitter Number.
   Registered PH Number.
   Office Address.
   Contact Details.
   Name of the area where the hunt will take place.
   Date of the planned hunt.
   Species of Animals that the hunter is planning on hunting – (this is for the SAPS to verify if the rifle calibers are suitable).
   Details of firearms that the hunter intends to import.
2. VERY IMPORTANT: The copies of the passport and US4457 form must be certified as true copies by a notary or your local sheriff.
3. Download the CBP4457 Customs Form. This is only a blank form; you need to take your rifles to your nearest customs office for the form to be completed, signed, and stamped by US customs.

Structure your hunting to fit a budget

• Alternative 1:
  • Clients select animals and pay the trophy fee for each animal. Also, there is a day rate irrespective of any trophy shot.

• Alternative 2:
  • Hunters can select a package of animals offered by the outfitter at a fixed price, including the day fee, accommodation, and meals.

• We also offer competitive and high-quality taxidermy work.

• We ensure that your Taxidermy is of high quality, follow up on delivery, and ensure that your trophies are delivered safe and sound

Consider a starter package at a fixed price

• We offer a wide selection of all-inclusive African Hunting Packages.

• My first-time African hunter package starts at $4000 and includes seven trophies.

• We also offer Cull Packages in addition to trophy hunting.

• Cull animals that comprise mature animals that don’t qualify as trophy animals can be added to trophy packages.

• I offer Blesbok, Impala, Warthog, Springbok, and Mountain Reedbuck cull males at $250 each and females at $100 each.

• Up at dawn for a cup of coffee and a light snack.

• Set off to our hunting area for the targeted species.

• All hunting areas are within half an hour’s drive.

• Generally, we will target the brush-dwelling animals such as the spiral horns in the very early mornings and late evenings when they come out to graze.

• We would target Plains Game animals during the day as they are easier to find.

• Many hours are spent glassing animals before mounting a stalk on a selected quarry, so a high-quality pair of binoculars is a must for African hunting.

• Typically, we find an elevated position and glass the surrounding valleys in search of a Trophy.

• We would then set up a plan and begin our stalk.

• Alternatively, we may try and set up an ambush.

• Generally, return for a big brunch around 11h30.

• Sometimes we will take packed lunch and be gone for the whole day.

• Out again in the afternoon for more hunting.

• Dinner around a fire, discussing the day, and making plans for the next day’s hunting in Africa.

I conduct my Hunting in a Free Range environment with no high fences

Hopewell Lodge sits on an escarpment (2200 feet above sea level) and has four unique biospheres within half an hour’s drive.

This unique change in biospheres results in broad and diverse animal diversity.

To the south of the lodge is the deep valley bushveld. These deep, broad valleys with thick riverine bush are the home of the Eastern Cape Kudu and Bushbuck, Nyala and Warthog.

The valleys and canyons’ sides and tops make great vantage points for glassing animals.

We spend a lot of time at these elevated points, glassing for trophies. At the plateau’s start above the valley, bushveld lies savanna and woodlands in amongst small plateaus.

The savanna and woodlands are home to such species as Impala, Sable, Zebra, and Waterbuck. The savanna areas are ideal for spot and stalk hunting.

The unique topography provides one of the finest hunting areas in the world.

Nothing beats a day of free-range African Hunting and doing long stalks and trying to outwit your quarry.

Plateaus also make great vantage points for glassing and the start of many long stalks into the savanna.

The savanna gradually gives way to the long rolling Bedford plains. These grass plains were once the place of vast animal migrations across the Eastern Cape in the summer months.

These plains are where Springbok, Blesbok, and Black Wildebeest are to be found.

Consequently, the plains game often needs to be ambushed, and the endless anthills found on these plains make for the right hiding place.

The Plains give way to the Kaggaberg Mountain range, which can be viewed from the lodge. The Kaggaberg contains thick, steep valleys and box canyons. Here, you will find Eland and Kudu.

I also offer long-range Hunting for enthusiasts. Bedford provides an ideal terrain for long-range Hunting with broad valleys and plains. I limit our distances to approximately 650 meters.

I target Impala, Springbok, Blesbok, Mountain Reedbuck, and Warthog for long-range Hunting. Our standard rate for non-trophy animals for the above target list is $250 for males and $100 for females.

Long-range Hunting provides the chance for hunters to truly test their shooting and hunting skills and the opportunity for making a significant amount of shots during a day of hunting.

There are few places in the world with similar diversity and such numbers of wild animals available at these prices.

I am also a long-range hunting enthusiast with significant experience with tactical scopes and handloading ammunition.

I have tactical and digital Swarovski scopes available for use.

Also, I offer driven hunts for the species mentioned above under the same conditions.

Easy to Travel to

You will fly to Johannesburg or Cape Town and then take a connecting flight to Port Elizabeth.

We will meet you in Port Elizabeth at the Airport and drive you to the hunting lodge.

The hunting lodge is two hours from Port Elizabeth in the Bedford district.

Mild Climate

We hunt in South Africa from March through October.

Bedford has a mild climate and receives around 390 mm of rain annually, with most rain falling in thunderstorms from January through April.

South Africa

The average midday temperatures range from 18 degrees in June to 28 degrees in January.

We hunt in a malaria-free area at all times!

Also, we have private hospitals and medical care available in the surrounding area.

Our lodges are about 20 minute drive from Bedford. See lodging options.

Bedford is a rural town in the center of the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. It was established in the mid-19th century.

It is located on the southern edge of the Winterberg mountain range.

A vibrant country district famous for our annual Garden Festival (second-to-last weekend in October), fun-loving farmers, and fabulous hospitality.

Bedford is waiting to welcome you.

The historic village is tucked up against the Kaggaberg mountain (part of the Winterberg range).

Our farms stretch across extensive grasslands and up into the dramatic Mankazana, Cowie, and Baviaans River valleys.

Angoras, merinos, beef cattle, goats, and game are all to be seen.

Kudu & Gemsbok Package

1 Hunter $6000

• Kudu
• Gemsbok
• Blesbok
• Impala
• Springbok
• Warthog
• Mountain Reedbuck

Sable Big Game Package

1 Hunter $9000

• Sable
• Kudu
• Waterbuck
• Nyala
• Gemsbok
• Black wildebeest
• Zebra

Cape Buffalo Packages

1 Hunter $18000

• Cape Buffalo
• Red Lechwe
• Nyala
• Waterbuck
• Bushbuck
• Gemsbok
• Black Wildebeest

• Kudu hunts
• Gemsbok hunts
• Blue Wildebeest hunts
• Black Wildebeest hunts
• Eland hunts
• Blesbok hunts
• White Blesbok hunts
• Steenbok hunts
• Fallow Deer hunts
• Mountain Reedbuck hunts
• Zebra hunts

• Impala hunts
• Black Impala hunts
• Burchell’s Zebra hunts
• Nyala hunts
• Giraffe hunts
• Cape Buffalo hunts
• Springbok hunts
• White Springbok
• Black Springbok hunts
• Copper Springbok hunting
• Bontebok hunts

• Red Hartebeest hunts
• Red Lechwe hunts
• Waterbuck hunts
• Sable Antelope hunts
• Roan Antelope hunts
• Bushbuck hunts
• Warthog hunts
• Duiker hunts
• Bushpig hunts
• Common Reedbuck hunts
• Grey Rhebok hunts

Nick Bowker Hunting

• I am a small personalized African Outfitter in the Eastern Cape – Bedford, South Africa.

• Bedford is one of the safest areas to hunt in Africa.

• I have been a Guide and Outfitter for 25 years.

• I will be present for your entire safari.

• I have a dangerous game license if the Cape Buffalo is on the menu.

Our Concessions

• Your hunting safari will be a fair chase in free-range, low-fenced hunting areas.

• The hunting lodge sits on an escarpment and has four unique biospheres.

• This unique change in biospheres results in a considerable animal diversity with 30 species of trophy-quality game.

• We have a number of ranches owned by the Bowker family.

South Africa

• South Africa has become the premier country in the world for reasonably priced hunting.

• South Africa Offers first-world hospitality and infrastructure for safaris.

• An African safari visit can be combined with a national park trip to see the “Big Five.”

• Hunting is conducted in a malaria-free area in the Bedford region in the East Cape – South Africa.

Choosing a rifle for your African hunt safari is crucial for a successful hunting experience. Factors such as the type of game you’re hunting, the terrain and weather conditions, and legal and logistical requirements can all impact your choice of firearm for Africa.

At Nick Bowker Hunting, we believe high-quality safari binoculars are the most essential hunting gear for hunting in Africa. We spend hours glassing through varied terrain while game viewing. You will miss out on large parts of the safari by not having a good set of optics.

Our rifles have state-of-the-art combination suppressors and muzzle brakes for your safari.

We use 300 Win Mags with suppressors as our preferred African safari rifle. Here’s why?

“Are you considering Safari Hunting? Are you overwhelmed and don’t know how to choose an Outfitter in Africa for your African hunt safari?”

“Here is a list of questions to ask a hunting outfitter to help make your choice for an adventure to Africa.”

Cull Hunt

November 2019

“I saw a posting on another website for an African cull safari package for a twenty animals safari. The package included five trophies and fifteen culls.

The animals in the package were Impala, Blesbok, Mountain Reedbuck, and warthogs. I did not care about the trophies.

I didn’t know what to expect of a cull hunt. Once I saw on TV where someone had a portable shooting bench, and the TV made it look like a shoot and stack them up.

I got the impression that it was a “lesser” form of hunting.

It turned out to be the same as trophy hunting. The difference being a multiple of tags, and your “trophy” has different characteristics.”

My first Plains Game Adventure

October 2019

“An African Safari, the stories of vast lands and a wide variety of game animals. In 2019, my friends invited me on a trip to South Africa.

A trip I am glad to have been part of. Nick Bowker runs a quality operation, with laid back, easy-going, friendly accommodation, and great food.

From Day 1, it was “Hakuna Matata.” Good morning, coffee, and scanning the ever-changing landscape for plains animals.

A grand brunch, a good nap, great company, back to view the countryside for more trophy plains game animals.

To top it off with stories and tall tales of the daily adventures, wine and dine and start all over the next day in Africa.”

Plains Game Experience of a Lifetime

October 2019

“Growing up, I was an avid reader. “Green Hills of Africa” by Ernest Hemingway and “African Game Trails” by Theodore Roosevelt were always favorites.

I had a deep passion for hunting from an early age. Hunting the dark continent has always been a dream.

This last fall, I had the opportunity to finally make that dream a reality and booked a hunting safari with Nick Bowker.

I chose to hunt with Nick because he runs low-fenced, free-range hunting.

The second reason was that his safaris costs are very competitive compared to others”

First Time Safari

October 2019

“My wife and I decided to take our honeymoon to South Africa for 2 weeks.

We got the opportunity to stumble across Nick’s website while planning, and he was one of the few Professional Hunters that offered single day game hunting.

Outside of the other great hunting safari packages that he has advertised.

Nick and his brother greeted us at the airport and took the short 2-hour drive to his family farm.

While I was after Kudu, my wife had never shot anything outside of two rounds at a target more than a decade ago.”

Armando back from Italy

October 2019

“Armando was back with his wife Roberta for their fifth plains game hunting safari in Africa.

Previously, Armando had made hunting trips to Namibia, the Limpopo bushveld areas, and the Eastern Cape Province.

Armando sought high-quality Lechwe, Nyala, Waterbuck, Warthog, and Bushbuck trophies in a free-range area rather than a high-fenced game farm.

I was on hand to meet Armando and Roberta in Port Elizabeth after their long trip from Italy and drive them back to camp.”

The Czechs arrive

August 2019

“Rob Bowker collected us from the Port Elizabeth.

I was returning for a 2nd hunting Safari with Nick Bowker.

After having an excellent previous experience with Nick in Africa, I was keen for our next adventure and some new species.

I wanted to bring my friend Andre to some free-range hunting areas in Africa.

Nick is an Outfitter with more than 25 years of professional experience and has offered a 7-animal trophy package and fantastic safaris in Africa.”

Our Hunting Trip with Nick Bowker

April 2019

“It was 7 years since our last hunting trip to the Eastern Cape South Africa with Nick Bowker.

I was with my buddy for our second trip with Nick. We wanted to go after some different species this time.

We also wanted to hunt a few of the same animals as our first time in South Africa.

On the last trip, we had had fantastic plains hunting.

In 2012, we took Wildebeest, Impala, and Blesbok.

Nick has appealing 8-day seven animal hunting package safaris available.” Hunters can email Nick for more information about safaris.

READ MORE – African hunting trip

My Hunt with Nick Bowker

May 2018

“While touring their quaint log home, Thomas showed us his African plains game trophies.

One thing leads to another, and a year later, Thomas and I are on an airplane to South Africa. Wild!

My first game hunt in another country.

Our host, Nick Bowker, and his brother Rob, rugged 5th generation South African “farmers” of English descent, were most gracious and met us at the “Oliver Tambo” in Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape.

Guns, ammo, luggage all right there and a great relief after nearly 24 hours of flight from Minneapolis, Houston, Atlanta, Johannesburg, and Port Elizabeth.”

READ MORE – African hunting EXPERIENCE

The big five and a few other animals, such as crocodiles, hyenas, and hippopotamuses, are described or classified as Dangerous Game.

Plains Game includes larger species such as Eland, Kudu, Gemsbok, and Wildebeest. The term ‘Big Game‘ describes the larger species of plains game.

• Cape Buffalo
• East Cape Kudu
• Nyala
• Sable Antelope
• Gemsbok
• Black Wildebeest
• Waterbuck
• Blesbok
• Impala
• Mountain Reedbuck

• Eland
• Warthog
• Springbok
• Red Lechwe
• Zebra
• Blue Wildebeest
• Bushbuck
• Red Hartebeest
• Giraffe
• Copper Springbok

• Steenbok
• Fallow Deer
• Black Springbok
• White Springbok
• Black Impala
• White Blesbok
• Duiker
• Roan Antelope
• Bushpig
• Common Reedbuck

Cape Buffalo Plains Game Hunting

Cape Buffalo is one of the most sort after African trophies. A 375- rifle caliber is the minimum legal requirement for hunting a Cape buffalo. Buffalo kill more hunters than any other species while on safari any where in Africa.

Kudu Plains Game Hunting

A truly magnificent trophy for any safari. Kudu is one of the first on any African hunter’s trophy list. They have fantastic eyesight, and the apt nickname “gray ghost” is for a good reason. Kudu will simply vanish into thin air at any moment.

Nyala Plains Game Hunting

A very sort after and cherished trophy and one of the most beautiful African antelope. A nyala bull stepping out from the thick bush and giving you a shot will not be forgotten. This is a must have trophy on any hunting African safari.

Sable Antelope Trophy Hunting

A jet black mature sable bull is, without a doubt, the most impressive trophy. Sable is not indigenous to the Eastern Cape but introduced. Sable is a must-have trophy for any hunter. Trophy fees have reduced substanstially.

Gemsbok Plains Game Hunt

Gemsbok males and females make for large and impressive trophies. Very aggressive when they are threatened or cornered and both sexes carry long sharp impressive spear-like horns. Avoid shooting above the Gemsbok’s midline.

Black Wildebeest Plains Game Hunt

These strange-looking animals occur only in South Africa. The black wildebeest was saved from extinction, with only 17 remaining animals. Black Wildebeest are now widespread and common. One extremely tough animal.

Waterbuck Plains Game Hunt

A waterbuck bull is a must for any aspiring African hunter. Its sheer size and large curved horns which sweep back and hook forward make it a very sort after trophy. Hunting free range waterbuck is challenging in South Africa.

Blesbok Plains Game Hunt

Seen by many as the perfect trophy for a hunter’s first plains game hunt. Blesbok is a true plains game. Can be difficult to approach. Longer shots may be required for your blesbok plains game hunting in South Africa.

Impala Plains Game Hunt

Another trophy most hunters want to take on their first African hunting safari. The smooth skin and two-tone color make for a beautiful striking trophy. Impala is also included in most plains game hunting packages in Africa.

Eland Plains Game Hunt

The largest of the spiral-horned family in Africa. The larger mature males often weigh up to one ton and can be challenging to bring down. Another inspiring trophy. Eland makes for a fantastic big game hunting.

Warthog Plains Game Hunt

Warthogs are great trophies for hunting, always with a very exciting stalk. They are now one of the most widely spread game animals across the Eastern Cape. Any plains game safari hunt should include a trophy warthog.

Springbok Plains Game Hunt

The name of this antelope comes from the Afrikaans word “spring,” which means to jump. This antelope is a magnificent plains game antelope. Springbok is shot in the open plains, and stalks can be very tricky.

Red Lechwe Plains Game Hunt

Red Lechwe is a wonderful trophy with sweeping lyre horns and not abundant in South Africa. The Bedford area is fortunate to have free-ranging lechwe herds. Horns will tend to wear down with age or the tips break.

Zebra Plains Game Hunt

Plains zebra can prove very difficult in certain areas as judging stallions from mares can be very tough. Zebra are very resilient and likely will require a follow-up shot. Zebra trophy makes for beautiful flat skin.

Reedbuck Plains Game Hunt

Mountain Reedbuck will usually be found lying in the grass or under a tree. The male will likely be lying a little way off from the females. This is a great hunt and a worthwhile endeavour for any African plains game hunter.

Blue Wildebeest Trophy Hunting

Blue Wildebeest are also called the poor man’s buffalo. Wildebeest can travel a few hundred yards with a heart shot. Caution when hunting Wildebeest. They can be very aggressive when wounded or cornered.

Bushbuck Trophy Hunting

In the Bedford area, bushbuck are hunted in the mountain area or along river beds in thick brush. They will live amongst human settlements and will adapt and begin feeding at night when significant hunting place.

Red Hartebeest Plains Game Hunt

One of the fastest plains game species in Southern Africa. They have an excellent sense of hearing and smell but very poor sight. Be cautious of the ‘humped withers, ‘ which can result in your shot being a little high.

Giraffe Trophy Hunting

The giraffe is the largest ruminant and the tallest mammal on the planet. The giraffes can reach 18 feet and makes for very interesting big game hunting. Hunting will be done by walk and stalk.

Steenbok Trophy Hunting

These beautiful little antelope occur widely on the plains in Africa. Only the males carry horns. A hugely underrated trophy, due to its size and few people notice them while hunting other lager game.

Fallow Deer Trophy Hunting

Fallow Deer from were introduced by the British into South Africa in the late 1800s. They are now widespread in the Eastern Cape, particularly in the Bedford region. Fallow deer can jump 6 feet.

Copper Springbok Trophy Hunting

Copper Springbok is a color phase and not a separate subspecies and form part of the four springbok color variations. Shooting all four springbok color variations is referred to as the “Springbok slam.”

Black Springbok Trophy Hunting

Black Springbok is a color phase and is not a separate subspecies. They form part of the four springbok variations. Shooting all the four springbok color variations makes a great combination pedestal mount.

White Springbok Trophy Hunting

White Springbok is a color phase and not a separate subspecies. They form part of the four springbok color phases. Consider the springbok slam on a plains game hunt. Springbok prices have reduced.

Black Impala Trophy Hunting

Black Impala is a color variant of the common impala. The black impala is not a sub-species. The color is all black but with the same two-tone color as the southern impala. An impressive trophy addition for a plains game hunt.

White Blesbok Trophy Hunting

The White Blesbok displays a color mutation of the blesbok and is not a recognized subspecies. Many hunters now opt to shoot both blesboks on a plains game hunt. White blesbok are now common and affordable.

Duiker Trophy Hunting

Duikers are shy, elusive creatures with a fondness for dense cover and will dive into thickets for protection. These are solitary animals and often shot opportunistically while glassing for other larger big game trophies.

By the 1950s, very few wild animals were found outside parks, which resulted from overhunting, the introduction of domestic animals, and overgrazing. The domestic animals introduced diseases that devastated local wildlife, and many areas became devoid of meaningful wildlife.

The fall of apartheid and related increase in tourism and private ownership of wild animals resulted in the reintroduction of many animal species and a rapid rise in the safari and game ranching industries that now surpasses East Africa.

Game ranching in South Africa is now unique in terms of species diversity. South Africa is one of only a few countries where ownership of wildlife is vested with private landowners.

South Africa accounts for a significant portion of the continent’s endangered species such as the African Wild Dog.

Over the ensuing years, an industry unique to South Africa has sprung up, occupying 20m ha (20%) of South Africa’s marginal agricultural land.

Today there is almost 20 million head of game on private ranches; in comparison, there is 14 million head of cattle in South Africa.

The State, in the form of National parks and Provincial parks, conserves only 6 million ha, on which are found only about 5 to 6 million game animals.

The tremendous growth and development of the game ranching and hunted plains game industries are visible throughout South Africa. Supporting infrastructure development all over the country.

African plains animals are always on the increase. As well as the number of hectares dedicated to African Plains Game Hunting.

We are conservation-oriented, owning vast numbers of established herds of wild game in their natural habitat on large land areas. This was achieved over many years of reintroducing game and conservation. Our hunts are only large free-range conservancies. We limit the number of hunting parties to twenty per year to ensure exclusive and high-quality hunting.

Nick Bowker and his family own a significant portion of the land you will be hunting on. You will have exclusive access to some of the best free-range hunting areas in South Africa, hunting African plains animals in their habitat, superior quality, and authentic experience, ensuring you the best African game trophy hunting.