Zimbabwe Hunting Safari Packages & Costs
Zimbabwe offers hunting safari packages to suit every budget and ambition, from accessible plains game safaris starting at around $8,000 all-in to the ultimate Big 5 experience that can exceed $250,000. Whether you are planning your first African hunt or returning for your tenth, understanding the package options, pricing structures, and what is included at each level is essential for making an informed decision. Zimbabwe's hunting industry operates on a straightforward pricing model: you pay a daily rate that covers accommodation, meals, professional hunter, vehicle, trackers, and camp staff, plus individual trophy fees for each animal taken. Most outfitters offer pre-structured packages that bundle daily rates with a selection of trophy animals at a fixed price, which generally represents better value than booking each component separately. This comprehensive guide compares the major package categories available in Zimbabwe, from budget plains game hunts focused on kudu, zebra, and impala through to premium dangerous game safaris targeting Cape Buffalo, leopard, elephant, and lion. We break down what is included at each price level, explain the hidden costs that can catch first-time hunters off guard, and provide practical advice for choosing the right package based on your priorities, physical fitness, and available time.
Daily Rates
Basic accommodation, PH, 4x4, meals. Focus on kudu, impala, warthog, zebra.
Comfortable camp, experienced PH, full service. Buffalo, leopard, plains game.
Luxury accommodation, top PH, all amenities. Full Big 5 capability.
Trophy Fees
| Species | Trophy Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| Plains Game Package (kudu + 3 species) | $6,000 – $10,000 |
| Buffalo + Plains Game Package | $16,000 – $22,000 |
| Leopard + Buffalo + Plains Game | $22,000 – $32,000 |
| Big 5 Package (all species) | $80,000 – $150,000+ |
Additional Costs
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Dip & Pack (per trophy) | $300 – $800 |
| Trophy shipping (full container) | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| CITES permits (if applicable) | $200 – $800 |
| Gratuities | 10–15% of daily rate total |
| Travel insurance | $200 – $500 |
| Rifle import permit | $50 |
Total Budget Estimates
7-day Plains Game Safari
$8,000 – $15,000
7 days
10-day Buffalo + Plains Game
$25,000 – $40,000
10 days
14-day Buffalo + Leopard + Plains
$45,000 – $70,000
14 days
21-day Full Dangerous Game
$80,000 – $150,000
21 days
28-day Big 5 Ultimate Safari
$150,000 – $250,000+
28 days
Money-Saving Tips
- •Start with a 10-day buffalo + plains game package if it's your first African hunt
- •Book at major hunting conventions (SCI, DSC) for show specials and package deals
- •Group hunts (2–4 hunters sharing a PH) reduce daily rates by 20–30%
- •Off-peak season (May, October) often offers 10–15% discounts
- •Ask about "management" animals (old females, surplus males) for affordable trophies
- •Always get a written contract detailing every included and excluded cost
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
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.
African Elephant Hunting Guide
Hunt massive tuskers in Zimbabwe's prime elephant areas. Dande, Zambezi Valley, and Hwange offer world-class opportunities.
Leopard Hunting Guide
Zimbabwe has excellent leopard populations. Traditional baiting techniques in the Zambezi escarpment produce exceptional trophies.
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.
Save Valley Conservancy
Southern Africa's largest private conservancy. 3,400 km² of prime hunting land with exceptional buffalo, leopard, and plains game.
Matetsi Safari Area
Adjacent to Victoria Falls, Matetsi offers world-class sable antelope, buffalo, and leopard in stunning Kalahari sand woodland.