Big Game Hunting Regulations in Zimbabwe: A Comprehensive Guide

Nov 09, 2025 0

Zimbabwe is renowned as one of Africa’s premier destinations for dangerous game hunting, offering hunters the opportunity to experience Africa at its best - wild, untamed, and authentic. The country remains a popular choice for hunting the Big 5, including Cape Buffalo, Elephant, Lion, and Leopards. Zimbabwe hunting safaris are seen as some of the most authentic hunting adventures in Africa.

The African Elephant, the world's largest land animal.

In this article, we delve into the essential aspects of big game hunting regulations in Zimbabwe, covering hunting areas, species, permits, ethical practices, and the crucial role of conservation.

Key Aspects of Hunting in Zimbabwe

Seen as offering authentic African hunts, hunting in Zimbabwe remains a sought-after activity for many reasons:

Zimbabwe is one of the few African destinations where hunters can enjoy the feeling of a truly wild and authentic African hunting experience, with untamed landscapes and free-range hunting safaris.
Zimbabwe hunting safaris allow hunters a wide choice of wildlife options, including dangerous game, African plains game, and specialty hunting species.
It is home to members of the Big 5 and Dangerous 7, including the Cape Buffalo, Rhino, Leopard, Lion, Elephant, Nile Crocodile, and Hippo.
Zimbabwe is known for consistently producing excellent game hunting trophies.
Hunting in Zimbabwe is also seen as being affordable when compared to other African game hunting destinations.
It is also one of the only African destinations where Leopards can still be hunted with hounds.
Zimbabwe is seen as a safe country to enjoy a Big Five hunting safari.
The country offers a great deal of pre- and post-hunting activities for individuals, couples or families, with tourist attractions including the Victoria Falls, Lake Kariba, as well as many national parks, and cultural activities.

Hunting Areas in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe’s hunting regions provide a range of environments, from scenic river valleys to rugged plains, each offering a unique experience for hunters. Key areas are known for their wildlife diversity and strong conservation practices, creating a premier environment for hunting in Zimbabwe.

Read also: Discover Thula Thula

Matetsi Safari Area

The Matetsi Safari Area, close to Victoria Falls, is one of Zimbabwe’s most iconic hunting regions. Known for its dense populations of lion, Cape buffalo, elephant, and sable, Matetsi’s diverse habitats-including mopane woodlands and bushveld-provide the perfect terrain for big game tracking. Conservation is a core focus here, with Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Authority managing hunting quotas to maintain healthy animal populations.

Gache Gache

For those interested in hunting in Zimbabwe near the scenic Lake Kariba, Gache Gache offers a picturesque setting. Located on the lake’s southeastern shores, this area is known for its thriving populations of Cape buffalo, hippo, and crocodile, particularly along the Gache Gache River and surrounding floodplains. A Zimbabwe safari in Gache Gache combines big game pursuits with Lake Kariba’s scenic beauty, ideal for hunters and non-hunters alike.

Makuti

Hunting in Zimbabwe’s Makuti region offers the excitement of big game along with the challenge of rugged terrain. Located near the Zambezi Escarpment, Makuti is renowned for significant populations of elephant, buffalo, and leopard. The mix of dense woodlands and open plains creates ideal habitats for both plains game and big game hunting.

Zambezi Valley

The Zambezi Valley, including concessions like Omay North and South, is one of the largest and most popular areas for hunting in Zimbabwe. Bordering Lake Kariba and the Lower Zambezi, these concessions provide hunters with access to buffalo, leopard, hippo, and crocodile in vast floodplains and riverine forests. The valley’s wild, untamed environment offers a challenging Zimbabwe safari, where much of the hunting is done on foot, tracking game through diverse terrains.

Nuanetsi Conservancy

The Nuanetsi Conservancy, located in Zimbabwe’s Lowveld region along the Mwenezi River, spans over 350,000 acres and is noted for its high density of plains game, including eland, kudu, and impala, as well as its renowned leopard populations. This area’s mixed woodlands and savannah create a rich ecosystem ideal for a safari in Zimbabwe focused on leopard hunting and plains game.

Read also: Explore Madikwe

Save Valley Conservancy

Save Valley Conservancy in southeastern Zimbabwe emphasizes ethical hunting practices within its diverse plains game populations, such as sable, kudu, and impala. Operated under Zimbabwe’s CAMPFIRE program, this conservancy allocates hunting revenue to local communities, supporting wildlife preservation and socioeconomic development. Hunting in Zimbabwe’s Save Valley is ideal for eco-conscious hunters seeking an immersive safari in Zimbabwe.

The Save Valley Conservancy is renowned for its exceptional trophies, wide array of species, and the opportunity to experience a true hunting adventure in the heart of Africa.

Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park and its surrounding concessions offer a dynamic experience for hunting in Zimbabwe, featuring a combination of plains game and big game. As Zimbabwe’s largest national park, Hwange is home to the country’s largest elephant population and supports abundant buffalo, lion, and a variety of plains game species. The area’s mix of mopane woodland, acacia scrub, and grasslands provides varied hunting environments, with ethical hunting quotas that align with Zimbabwe’s conservation goals.

Gonarezhou National Park

Gonarezhou National Park, meaning “Place of Elephants,” along with nearby tribal lands, provides hunters with some of Zimbabwe’s most remote and rugged hunting grounds. Known for its dramatic cliffs, scenic river valleys, and large elephant herds, Gonarezhou offers a safari in Zimbabwe that emphasizes both cultural immersion and wildlife interaction. Tribal areas around Gonarezhou are managed under CAMPFIRE, allowing hunters to engage in ethical, community-based hunting practices.

Central Regions (Midlands)

In Zimbabwe’s central regions, including areas within the Midlands, hunting is largely focused on plains game, such as kudu, zebra, and wildebeest, while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainable practices. This region’s open savannah and mixed bush environments are well-suited for tracking and spot-and-stalk hunting, making a Zimbabwe safari in the Midlands ideal for plains game enthusiasts.

Popular Species for Hunting in Zimbabwe

Hunting in Zimbabwe offers a range of popular species, from the Big Five to prized plains game. Each species has its own unique appeal, habitat, and peak hunting season, providing hunters with an array of experiences on their Zimbabwe safari.

The Big Five

One of the main draws of hunting in Zimbabwe is the opportunity to pursue the Big Five:

Elephant: Zimbabwe is renowned for its elephant populations, especially in areas like Hwange National Park and Matetsi.
Lion: Lion hunting is a hallmark of a Zimbabwe safari, with significant populations in Matetsi, Hwange, and the Zambezi Valley.
Leopard: Leopard hunting in Zimbabwe is celebrated for its conservation focus and challenging conditions.
Cape Buffalo: Often called “Black Death” due to its power and unpredictable nature, Cape buffalo are widely hunted across Zimbabwe, especially in Matetsi and the Gache Gache region.
Rhinoceros: Rhino hunting in Zimbabwe is limited and carefully regulated to ensure conservation.

Plains Game

Zimbabwe is equally famous for its plains game, which appeals to hunters looking for variety and consistent game densities across regions like Save Valley, Makuti, and Hwange.

Sable Antelope: Known for their striking curved horns, sable antelope are one of the most sought-after plains game species.
Kudu: Often called the “Gray Ghost” due to its elusive nature, kudu is prized by hunters for its impressive spiral horns.
Eland: As one of the largest antelope species, eland are highly valued for their size and beauty.
Impala: Impala are one of the most abundant species for hunting in Zimbabwe, found in almost every region, including the Zambezi Valley and Midlands.
Waterbuck: Known for its shaggy coat and white ring around the rump, the waterbuck thrives near water sources.
Bushbuck: Small and elusive, bushbuck are known for their secretive behavior and are best hunted in the dense riverine areas of Makuti and Hwange.
Hyena: Hyena hunts in Zimbabwe are an exhilarating experience, particularly for hunters interested in nocturnal hunts.
Warthog: Known for their distinctive tusks, warthogs are common across Zimbabwe and provide a great addition to plains game hunts.
Crocodile and Hippo: For hunters interested in water-based game, Lake Kariba and the Gache Gache region offer prime opportunities for crocodile and hippo hunting.

Hunting Seasons in Zimbabwe

When planning a Zimbabwe safari, timing is essential. Zimbabwe’s hunting seasons vary based on climate, game movement, and animal behavior, with the dry season from May to October being the most popular time for hunting in Zimbabwe.

The dry season, stretching from May to October, is widely regarded as the prime season for hunting in Zimbabwe. Water sources become scarce during these months, drawing game animals like elephant, buffalo, and lion to rivers, lakes, and watering holes. A Zimbabwe safari during this dry period allows hunters to take advantage of higher game densities and clearer tracking conditions.

The green season, which spans November to April, is associated with rains that transform Zimbabwe’s landscapes into lush, green environments. This season provides distinct advantages for those interested in plains game hunting, as kudu, sable, and impala flourish in the verdant grasslands of Save Valley and Gache Gache. A safari in Zimbabwe during the green season is ideal for those seeking a less crowded experience, as tourist numbers tend to be lower.

Best Times for Hunting Specific Species

Elephant and Buffalo: July to October marks the peak time for hunting elephant and Cape buffalo.
Lion: Lion hunting in Zimbabwe is generally most successful from July through October.
Leopard: The best time for leopard hunting in Zimbabwe is from June to August, when cooler temperatures increase leopard activity.
Plains Game: Plains game such as sable, kudu, and eland are best hunted year-round, with the dry season (May to October) being ideal for optimal visibility.
Crocodile and Hippo: Water-based game, including crocodile and hippo, is best hunted from June to October in the Gache Gache region and along Lake Kariba.

Preparing for a Hunting Safari in Zimbabwe

Proper preparation and the right gear are crucial for anyone embarking on a Zimbabwe safari. Hunting in Zimbabwe demands a combination of high-quality equipment, detailed planning, and an understanding of Zimbabwe’s diverse climates and terrains.

Clothing and Footwear

The clothing needed for a Zimbabwe safari should be functional, durable, and suited to Zimbabwe’s varied environments. Lightweight, moisture-wicking materials are ideal for hunting in Zimbabwe’s warm, dry season, while layering options help adjust to cooler morning and evening temperatures. Comfortable, sturdy boots with ankle support are necessary for traversing Zimbabwe’s diverse terrains, from the rocky escarpments of Makuti to the riverine landscapes of the Zambezi Valley.

Optics and Navigation

High-quality optics are essential for hunting in Zimbabwe. Binoculars with 8x to 10x magnification provide clear views across Zimbabwe’s open plains and dense forests, allowing hunters to spot game from a distance. Rangefinders are also helpful, especially for plains game hunting on a Zimbabwe safari, where distances can vary greatly across open savannas. GPS devices or handheld trackers are recommended for those who will be navigating remote areas, ensuring hunters can move confidently through unfamiliar landscapes.

Firearms and Ammunition

The selection of firearms and ammunition is a critical aspect of preparing for hunting in Zimbabwe. Each Zimbabwe safari destination may have regulations on caliber size, particularly for big game such as elephant and buffalo. The .375 H&H Magnum is often the minimum caliber required for big game in Zimbabwe, while larger calibers like .416 Rigby are also popular. Quality ammunition is vital, with soft-point or expanding bullets recommended for big game to ensure effective and humane hunting in Zimbabwe.

Additional Essential Items

Beyond clothing and firearms, certain items enhance comfort and safety during a Zimbabwe safari.

Insect repellent
First-aid kit
Necessary medications
Durable water bottle or hydration system

Documentation

Proper documentation is essential for a smooth Zimbabwe safari.

Valid passports
Visa for entry into Zimbabwe
Firearms permit

Safari operators often assist with these arrangements to streamline the process. Hunting in Zimbabwe requires compliance with local hunting laws and regulations, including licensing for big game and plains game hunts.

Physical and Mental Preparation

Hunting in Zimbabwe can be physically demanding, especially in areas with rugged terrain, such as the Zambezi Valley or Makuti. It’s recommended to engage in regular physical training before a Zimbabwe safari, focusing on strength, endurance, and mobility. Mental preparation is equally important, as hunting in Zimbabwe’s remote areas requires patience and persistence.

Hunting Regulations and Legalities

When planning a hunting safari to Zimbabwe, the hunter needs to have a good understanding that it is not only about the perfect shot placement but also includes being aware and knowing the country’s relevant hunting laws and procedures.

Hunting Permits (TR2 Form)

A TR2 form, otherwise known as a hunting permit, must be stamped and issued by the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZPWMA) and issued to each hunter. The current cost for the TR2 form to be issued is $5. This TR2 form is your authorization to hunt, declaration of harvested game during the safari, and the export application form. You must always have the TR2 on your person at all times.

Safari Operators

Zimbabwe hunting outfitters, or “operators” as they are referred to locally, must be registered and licensed by the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority. It is always worthwhile if you take a chance and book your hunting safari to request the Zimbabwe hunting outfitter’s license number. These operators can be verified through the Safari Operators Association of Zimbabwe (SOAZ).

Firearm Regulations

When arriving at the port of entry into Zimbabwe for your African safari hunting trip, a temporary firearm import permit can be obtained at no cost to the hunter. Any number of firearms can be imported but the limitation is 100 rounds per firearm. Fully automatic rifles are prohibited.

Bow Hunting Regulations

Bow hunting is legal in Zimbabwe. Bow hunting in Zimbabwe was only legalized in 1999, under new legislation. Bow hunting may only take place on tribal and private land. Bow hunting is, however, illegal on National Park safari areas in Zimbabwe.

Hunting of Class A game such as elephant, Cape buffalo, and hippo with a bow can only be done once the hunter has obtained a bowhunting permit which is granted by the General Director of Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZPWMA). In this instance, it would strongly be suggested that applications be made months in advance before booking the game hunting safari.

Bowhunting may only be conducted using compound bows. A special permit again is required for the use of recurve, longbows, and crossbows.

Minimum Kinetic Energy for Bow Hunting

Class A Game (Elephants, Buffalo, and Hippo): The Bow Kinetic Energy must not be less than 80ft/lbs.
Class B Game (Giraffe, Eland, and Lion): The bow Kinetic Energy must not be less than 77ft /lbs. Arrow weight 695 grain.
Class C Game (gemsbok, zebra, wildebeest, nyala, sable, waterbuck, tsessebe, and kudu): The Bow Kinetic Energy must not be less than 70ft/lbs.
Class D Game (impala, reedbuck, duiker, jackal, sitatunga, etc.): The bow Kinetic Energy must not be less than 56ft/lbs.

Zimbabwe Professional Guides Association (ZPGA)

Zimbabwe Professional Guides Association (ZPGA) is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism amongst their members and is committed to the long term management and utilization of wildlife. The Zimbabwe Department of National Parks and Wildlife (ZDNPW) along with the Zimbabwe Professional Guides Association (ZPGA) ensure the highest ethics and morals of their members.

To qualify as a hunting guide in Zimbabwe takes two years. All members undergo rigorous training on animal behavior and life cycles ensuring they understand which animals to select sustainably. All guides practice fair chase. All professional hunting guides must comply with national wildlife laws, including tourist hunting regulations.

Conservation Initiatives

Hunting in Zimbabwe serves as a cornerstone for wildlife conservation, habitat protection, and community development. Through ethical hunting practices, carefully regulated by national programs like CAMPFIRE (Communal Areas Management Programme for Indigenous Resources), hunting in Zimbabwe directly funds vital conservation initiatives and empowers rural communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you hunt the Big 5 in Zimbabwe?

While hunting in Zimbabwe allows for the hunting of dangerous game, not all members of the Big 5 can be hunted. The Cape Buffalo, Elephant, Lion, and Leopard can be hunted, but Rhino hunting is illegal.

What Paperwork is required to enjoy a Zimbabwe hunting safari?

Before the start of the hunting safari, all hunters must apply for a permit from the Zimbabwean Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, and elephant hunts require a separate special permit.

What caliber rifle do I need to go dangerous game hunting in Zimbabwe?

Dangerous game hunting in Zimbabwe calls for the minimum of a .375 caliber rifle.

When can I go hunting in Zimbabwe?

Zimbabwe’s hunting season is year-round. Although it is year-round, the peak hunting season is during the cooler, drier months (April to November) when animals are more likely to gather around waterholes, and vegetation is shorter, allowing hunters to glass for game easier.

When it best time to enjoy elephant hunting in Zimbabwe?

Elephant hunting in Zimbabwe is best undertaken during the drier months (April to November). The peak months for elephant hunting are from September to November.