Botswana Hunting Guide

Botswana, situated in Southern Africa, is topographically flat and consists mainly of the Kalahari Desert in which the world’s largest inland delta, the Okavango Delta, sinks. It is one of the least densely populated countries in the world leading to its flourishing natural wildlife. In addition to the delta and Kalahari desert, there are grasslands where other plains game such as blue wildebeest and impala are found. Northern Botswana has one of the few remaining large populations of the endangered African wild dog while the Chobe district has the world’s largest concentration of elephants. Due to the increased human-wildlife conflict the ban on elephant hunting has been lifted during 2019.

You may import a total of three (3) firearms into Botswana: two (2) rifles and one (1) shotgun; or two (2) shotguns and one (1) rifle. Rifles must be of different calibres. A maximum of 100 rounds of ammunition per firearm. Ammunition must be the same calibre(s) as the firearms you are importing. Semi-automatic, automatic and military-style firearms, and handguns are prohibited.

Should a hunter wish not to bring his/her own firearm on the safari, there are camp rifles and ammunition available for their use at an additional cost.

Each hunter requires a hunting licence. No trophy may be shot without a valid license. Licenses are issued in accordance with available quota in the specific hunting area and it is important to clarify which species of animals are required. Additional CITES and/or TOPS permits are required for certain species such as elephant, leopard etc. We obtain this on our client’s behalf.

The main ports of entry for international flights to Botswana is Maun airport (MUB), Gaborone Airport (GBE) and Kasane Airport (BBK). The closest airport to our CH8 camp is Kasane. From here it is a 3-hour drive. Most major international airlines from Europe, the United States, Asia and Australia fly to Johannesburg, South Africa, where connecting flights can be booked to Kasane.

It is advisable to make use of a travel agent when booking your international flights to Africa. Miriam Clingensmith at Frosch travel agency can assist with any flight bookings (miriam.clingensmith@frosch.com / +1 713-590-8138). She is also available to meet in person at the DSC and SCI shows.

Every visitor to Botswana must be in possession of a passport that is valid until six months after the initial date of travel and has at least one blank page for endorsements, a valid visa (if required), a return or onward ticket and a yellow fever certificates if the journey starts or entails passing through the yellow fever belt of Africa or South America. US, UK, Russian and Mexican citizens (to name a few) do not require a visa to enter Botswana. However, requirements for visitor’s visas are subject to change and all visitors must check with their nearest consulate about entry regulations and obtaining a visa.

It is important to note that all hunting safaris are potentially dangerous and it is each client’s own responsibility to arrange his/her medical, evacuation or personal insurance. We recommend Ripcord Comprehensive Travel Protection (www.ripcordtravelprotection.com) as a preferred travel insurer.

It is advisable to take out full insurance for all firearms before travelling anywhere in Africa. Ensure that your ammunition is in a separate lockable container from your rifle. A temporary import/export permit is required to bring any firearms into Botswana. We will obtain these permits on your behalf (at US$ 200.00 per rifle) and we request to submit your information and application to us at least two months in advance of your arrival.

Note that an 12% import tax and 36% duty tax is charged by customs on arrival. The amount depends on the calibre size of the ammunition. (Remember that airlines will restrict you to no more than 11 pounds or 5 kilos of ammunition)

If you plan to travel through South Africa, you will need a South African firearm import permit if you overnight there or if you must claim your baggage to check onto your connecting flight to Botswana. Check with your airline to ensure it has an interline baggage agreement with your connecting airline to Botswana and that you can check your bags all the way to your final destination. Otherwise you will need an in-transit permit for South Africa.

Our continent is known for rich and colourful cultures, friendly people, exhilarating adventures and breath-taking natural beauty. Chapungu-Kambako Safaris can assist in arranging some additional sightseeing, interesting excursions or alternative activities for our travellers and observers.

Skinning of trophies and field preparation is included in our services, however all dipping, collecting, taxidermy work and shipping of trophies are not included.
Trophies are field prepared in camp and shipped to a designated shipping agent in Maun, Botswana, who will then dip, pack, and freight your trophies to your local shipping agent. An associate of the shipping agent will discuss your requirements with you either by phone, fax, or e-mail.

A gratuity is a gift of appreciation for services provided. They can be given to staff members at the hunter’s own discretion. We can provide a proposed gratuity list as guideline should it be required.

There exists a risk of malaria in the North-Eastern part of the country that includes the provinces of Central, Chobe, Ghanzi, Okavango Delta and Ngamiland. It is recommended to take malaria prophylactics and other precautions. Adequate clothing as well as mosquito repellent are important to minimize mosquito bites. Each hunter is advised to also bring a small personal medical kit with necessary preferred medication for headaches, colds, burns, allergies etc.

All safaris booked through and conducted by Chapungu-Kambako Safaris are based on the following terms and conditions: (Please see the Safari Price List and Contract for the detailed Terms and Conditions)

Safaris are confirmed on receipt of 50% of the TOTAL PACKAGE PRICE. The balance is payable 90 days prior to the commencement of the safari. Any additional costs incurred are payable at the conclusion of the safari and can be made in cash in camp (new US dollar notes only) or by electronic bank transfer, prior to the safari. Any other payment arrangement must be authorized in writing.

There will be no refund on a deposit within 3 months prior to the safari’s commencement date. If cancelled before 3 months prior to this date, 50% of the deposit will be refunded.

It is hereby agreed that any leopard shot, regardless of its age, without the consent of the professional hunter accrues an immediate fine of US$ 30,000.00. The hunt will not continue until payment has been received.

It must be noted that hunting is a dangerous vocation and although Chapungu-Kambako safaris are committed to your safety, comfort and enjoyment, we cannot be held responsible for any accidents, illness or death that may occur whilst on the safari.