Elephant Hunting Cost in Zimbabwe
Elephant hunting in Zimbabwe represents the ultimate African safari experience — and the pinnacle of hunting budgets. Understanding the full cost structure is essential, as elephant hunts involve significant trophy fees, extended daily rates, and additional expenses for CITES permits, trophy preparation, and ivory shipping. This guide provides a transparent breakdown of every cost you'll encounter.
Daily Rates
Comfortable tented camp, experienced elephant PH, tracking team, hunting vehicle
Superior accommodation, top elephant PH, full team, charter transfers included
Luxury camp, premier elephant specialist PH, full concierge service, video
Trophy Fees
| Species | Trophy Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| Elephant (tuskless / small ivory) | $20,000 – $25,000 |
| Elephant (40–60 lb ivory) | $30,000 – $40,000 |
| Elephant (60+ lb ivory / premium) | $40,000 – $55,000 |
Additional Costs
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| CITES export permit | $250 – $500 |
| CITES import permit (USA) | $150 – $300 |
| Dip & Pack | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| Ivory shipping | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Trophy shipping (skull/feet/skin) | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| ZPWMA conservation levy | 2% of trophy fee |
| PH & staff gratuities | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| International flights | $1,500 – $3,000 |
Total Budget Estimates
Budget: 10-day elephant (small ivory)
$50,000 – $70,000
10 days
Standard: 14-day elephant + buffalo
$70,000 – $100,000
14 days
Premium: 21-day elephant + Big 5 package
$120,000 – $180,000+
21 days
Money-Saving Tips
- •Verify CITES import regulations for your home country before booking — rules change frequently
- •Choose your PH carefully — elephant hunting requires specialised skills and experience
- •Consider a "tuskless" or management elephant for a more affordable dangerous game experience
- •Book 18–24 months in advance for top Zambezi Valley concessions
- •Budget an extra 20% contingency for unexpected expenses
Get an Accurate Quote
Our vetted outfitters provide detailed, transparent pricing with no hidden costs. Request a free personalised quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Species Guides
African Elephant Hunting Guide
Hunt massive tuskers in Zimbabwe's prime elephant areas. Dande, Zambezi Valley, and Hwange offer world-class opportunities.
Cape Buffalo Hunting Guide
The most sought-after of Africa's Big 5. Zimbabwe offers exceptional buffalo hunting in the Zambezi Valley and Save Conservancy.
Hippopotamus Hunting Guide
Africa's most dangerous animal by annual human fatality count. Zimbabwe's Zambezi River offers exceptional hippo hunting.
Hunting Areas
Zambezi Valley
Zimbabwe's premier hunting destination. The Zambezi Valley offers Big 5 hunting in vast wilderness areas along the Zambezi River escarpment.
Hwange Ecosystem
Zimbabwe's largest and most famous wildlife ecosystem. The greater Hwange area offers exceptional elephant, sable, and plains game.