General Information

Zimbabwe, a country renowned for its untamed wilderness, remains a premier hunting destination in Africa. Formerly known as Rhodesia, Zimbabwe encompasses an area of approximately 150,820 square miles and is situated between the Zambezi and Limpopo rivers. The country features a diverse landscape, including picturesque savannahs, woodlands, and significant bodies of water such as Lake Kariba and the renowned Victoria Falls.

The hunting season extends throughout the year; however, optimal hunting conditions are typically found during the dry, sunny winter months from May to September. During this period, average temperatures range from 7°C to 20°C (45°F to 70°F), contrasting with the hotter and more humid summer temperatures ranging from 25°C to 38°C (75°F to 100°F). Hunting activities predominantly occur in three types of areas: governmental, tribal, and private hunting zones.

These areas are generally unfenced and open. Notable regions include Hwange Colliery, Matetsi, Tsholosho and Gwai, known for its impressive elephant bulls, and Lake Kariba, which offers excellent opportunities for hunting trophy crocodiles and hippos. Additionally, various species for wing shooting, such as ducks, geese, partridges, guinea fowl, pigeons, doves, and quails, are available.

Firearms and Ammunition

Zimbabwe imposes no restrictions on the number of firearms that may be imported for trophy hunting. However, hunters are limited to bringing a maximum of 100 rounds of ammunition per rifle. Handguns and black powder rifles are permitted, but automatic, semi-automatic, and military-type firearms are prohibited. Bowhunting is restricted to alienated (private) land or communal (tribal) land; it is prohibited in National Parks, Safari Areas, or Government-Controlled Areas, and crossbows, recurve bows, and longbows are not allowed. For most hunting scenarios, a rifle with a caliber of .375 or larger, or a medium calibre rifle in the 7mm to 300 H&H range, is recommended. Hunters who prefer not to bring their own rifles may utilize camp-provided rifles and ammunition for an additional fee.

Permits and Licenses

All hunters are required to obtain a hunting permit from the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority. These permits must be secured prior to the commencement of the hunt, and Cletus & Joe Safaris will facilitate this process on behalf of clients. Special permits are also required for hunting large cats, including leopard, cheetah, and lion, as well as elephants and crocodiles.