So, you've made the exciting decision to embark on an African hunting adventure but feeling out of your comfort zone. You've figured out what you want to hunt, selected your destination, and have a general sense of the costs involved. However, it’s important to remember that there are additional expenses to consider—such as flights, gear, and appropriate clothing. Before finalising any bookings, take the time to do some thorough research. Ask yourself some essential questions: how will you get there, when is the best time, and why did you choose this specific location? Which country is your hunting spot, and what documents are required for entry? Do you have a clear understanding of your destination? The internet can be a great resource for this kind of research, but for a more focused approach, the Rust De Winter Safari Blogs provide excellent advice. Your Outfitter will also help fill in the finer details, but here's a look at some basic planning steps to get you started.

Choosing the Right Destination

As a first-time hunter, South Africa is a great option, especially if you're bringing family along. South Africa offers a wide range of hunting packages, and opting for one of these packages will ensure that you know upfront what's included and what isn't. In South Africa places you'll find plenty of camp and lodge options and species to choose from. English is widely spoken, which makes travel easy in South Africa and relatively simple to navigate.

Airfare and Flights

Once you've locked down your destination, the next step is booking your flight. If you're planning on bringing your own firearms, make sure the airline you choose allows for their transportation. Some airlines charge a fee for handling firearms, so hiring a rifle from your Outfitter might be a simpler option, especially for your first safari. Check the baggage allowances of your airline and consider taking the most direct route, particularly if you're flying with firearms. Avoid airports or countries that are not firearm-friendly.

If you prefer to book your flights online, make sure to review the Terms and Conditions carefully. Alternatively, you can use a travel broker who specialises in booking flights for hunters. These brokers often offer cheaper rates and can help with travel documentation.

Travel Documents

Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned safari, with at least two blank pages available for stamps. Some countries may require a visa upon arrival, while others may need pre-arranged visas or letters of invitation. In South Africa visas are issued on arrival.

If you’re bringing firearms, make sure to gather all necessary documents for the temporary export and import of your weapons. Your Outfitter will guide you through the paperwork needed for entry and exit in your chosen country. Be sure to start this process well in advance, as some countries, including South Africa need at least 30 days or more to process the paperwork.

Luggage and Equipment

Pack your items in a sturdy, lockable duffel bag. Many airports offer baggage-wrapping services, which can help prevent theft. Also, ensure that any locks you use are compliant with airport security standards. If your journey involves a charter flight, be aware that most charter companies only accept soft bags and often have luggage size and weight restrictions.

What to Wear

You don’t need to buy a whole new wardrobe for your safari—chances are, you already own what you need. Jeans and T-shirts work perfectly for hunting, but if you want to blend in better, opt for earth-toned or dark-coloured clothing. Keep in mind that some African countries have banned camouflage clothing, so it's best to avoid it altogether.

Africa's winter months can bring cold temperatures, and in some areas, you might even encounter frost or snow. Dress in layers so that you can adjust to the varying temperatures throughout the day.

Since most Outfitters provide daily laundry services, packing light is perfectly acceptable.

Health Precautions and Medications

If your safari destination is in a malaria zone or if you require prescription medication, consult with your healthcare provider before your trip. While many international medical centres overprescribe malaria prophylactics, not all areas pose a malaria risk.

It’s essential to carry enough of any prescription drugs you may need, as hunting areas are often remote and far from medical facilities. Most safari camps are equipped with first aid kits, and Outfitters typically supply insect repellent. Some countries require specific vaccinations, so check with your Outfitter about what is necessary for your destination. No vaccinations are required to enter South Africa.

Drinking Water

Outfitters generally provide safe, bottled water, so the chances of becoming ill from drinking water are low.

Personal Items

For your more valuable or personal items, a carry-on bag or small backpack is ideal. Items such as binoculars, a camera, prescription medications, sunblock, a hat, and a jacket can all fit comfortably inside. During the flight, it's also a good idea to store your passport, a change of clothes, and other essentials in case your checked luggage gets lost in transit. Before heading to the airport, ensure that your carry-on doesn’t contain prohibited items like ammunition or knives, which could lead to significant delays.

Rifles and Optics

While it's tempting to buy a new firearm for your safari, it's often better to bring one you're already familiar with. For hunting dangerous game, a minimum of a .375 calibre rifle is required and is a great choice, as it can handle anything from elephants to smaller species.

It’s also essential to invest in good-quality optics since clear sightlines are crucial to successful hunting. Don’t skimp on the scope—solid optics will give you better results and reduce the risk of losing animals due to poorly aimed shots.

Money and Payments

Avoid carrying large sums of cash, and be discreet when handling money. Discuss payment options with your Outfitter to determine the safest way to handle final payments. If you're using a credit card abroad, notify your bank ahead of time to prevent the card from being blocked. ATMs are widely available in the towns and cities, but withdrawal limits may be lower than what you're used to.

Safety Considerations

Africa consists of 54 countries, each with its own unique political and safety climate. What applies in one country may not be relevant in another. During your travels, be streetwise and aware of your surroundings. Once you're with your Outfitter, your safety will be their top priority, and they won’t put themselves—or you—at unnecessary risk.

Insurance

If paying with a credit card check if your bank offers cancellation insurance, otherwise consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance. This will cover you in case of medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or evacuations.