Overview of South Africa Free Range hunt - Nature Reserve
Ready for the South Africa Free Range hunt of a lifetime?
This outfitter delivers. They hold exclusive hunting rights on a massive 173,000-acre World Heritage site, part of a 420,000-acre transfrontier conservation area. That’s serious country. It’s South Africa’s largest provincial reserve — and it’s yours to hunt. A hidden secret with little hunting pressure.
This is Africa of olde. Real spot-and-stalk hunting on unfenced, free-range land with low hunting pressure. No high fences. No shortcuts. Just you, the terrain, and the animals.
South Africa Free Range Hunting
Take advantage of several lodging options from Luxury tented accommodations to rustic old world lodging. Take a packed lunch into the field, hunt hard through the day, and return to camp in the evening. A great dinner by the river, then drift off to sleep with the sound of running water.
This isn’t just another safari ground. It’s wild and unforgettable. The Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage Site — you’ll see it with your own eyes.
World-Class Hunting
Rifle hunt only. The plains hold Buffalo, Blesbuck, Blue Wildebeest, Eland, Impala, Red Hartebeest, and Zebra. The hills hold Bushbuck, Giraffe, Kudu, and Mountain Reedbuck. Elephant are found in the area but are not hunted. Additional species — Black Wildebeest, Reedbuck, Oribi, Springbuck, and more — are offered at a nearby nature reserve.
Every animal is trophy-quality. The terrain is varied. The challenge is real. Your professional hunter and his team know this country and will put you on the animals.
Hunting
This is the free-range, unfenced hunt you’ve been waiting for.
You’ll be rifle hunting across 173,800 acres of real wilderness — not a small property, not a canned setup. The season runs April 1 through October 31, and every hunt is guided by seasoned professionals. Expect classic spot-and-stalk across big, varied country: open grass plains, tucked-away valleys, and timbered hillsides where the game can disappear in a heartbeat.
Trophy Species (Permit-Based)
Blesbuck, Blue Wildebeest, Bushbuck, Cape Buffalo, Giraffe, Impala, Greater Kudu, Mountain Reedbuck, Red Hartebeest, Waterbuck, Warthog, and Burchell’s Zebra.
Each hunter is issued a permit for the species you’re pursuing — then it’s on you and your team to earn them the right way.
Buffalo Hunts: The Real Deal
Buffalo permits here are limited to a select few hunters — and for good reason. This is one of the most demanding buffalo hunts you can book. You’ll head out on foot with your professional hunter, trackers, and skinners and push deep into the reserve. Expect long, deliberate stalks — often 3–4 hours each way — over rolling hills and into the far corners where those old bulls stay as far from people as they can get.
If you want a buffalo hunt that tests your legs, your nerve, and your shot discipline, this is it.
Your Day in the Field
Up 30 minutes before sunrise. Coffee. Breakfast. Move out as the sun breaks the horizon.
Lunch is packed — eaten on the bank of the Komati River or under a Paperbark tree.
Hunt through the afternoon. Back at sunset. Hot shower. A drink. A solid dinner.
Then stories by firelight.
This is the rhythm of a true African safari — the kind of hunt you’ll talk about for the rest of your life.
Extended Opportunities
Just 1½ hours away is Nooitgedacht Dam Nature Reserve — an easy day trip that opens up even more options, including Black Wildebeest, Common Reedbuck, Oribi, and Springbuck.
More ground. More species. More chances to make the most of the trip.
Book now — this is the hunt of a lifetime.
Lodging
You’ve got choices when you hunt this lodge — each one unique, each one memorable. Here’s the lay of the land so you can pick what fits your style.
Option 1: Tented Camp on the Reserve
A true tented camp on the nature reserve, opening in 2027. Comfortable tents with en-suite bathrooms. A common area to kick back in, and a big firepit for swapping stories over a drink at the end of the day.
Option 2: Luxury Tented Lodge
Ten minutes down the road, a luxury tented photographic lodge set along a rushing river. All the amenities — chef-prepared meals, spa, workout facilities, firepits, and more. For any non-hunters in your group, daily photographic safaris are offered.
Option 3: English-Style Luxury Lodge
Further down the road, a proper luxury English-style lodge with activities like ATVs, fishing, hiking, waterfalls, and more — ideal for family or friends who want to join the safari but aren’t interested in the hunt.
The Daily Routine
Wake up 30 minutes before sunrise. Coffee. Breakfast. Head out.
Packed lunch by the Komati River or under a Paperbark tree. Hunt through the afternoon. Back at sunset.
Hot shower. A drink. Hearty dinner. Stories by the fire.
This is the rhythm. This is the life.
Length of Stay / Itinerary
Hunts vary in length depending on the species hunted and touring interests. We suggest a minimum of 10 days for this safari but longer and shorter stays are available.
Travel Details & Location
Fly into Johannesburg where we will have you greeted as you exit the airplane. Most guests arrive in the evening and overnight at the hotel located at the airport and then fly by charter flight or commercial flight to the hunting area. Antlers & Anglers Worldwide will take care of all the details for you!
Other Activities
For those that do not wish to join on the hunt, we offer other activities depending on the lodging selected such as:
- Photographic safaris
- Spa activities
- ATV riding
- Fishing
- Waterfalls
- Sit by the running river or enjoy a picnic
We will customize touring before or after your hunting safari! In nearby areas you can visit Blyde River Canyon, Rhino Sanctuary, Elephant Whispers, Geo trails, and Kruger National Park. Or continue on safari to other areas of Africa. Many clients choose to begin or end their safari in Cape Town or Victoria Falls. Family Expeditions will take care of all the details and safari planning for you!
Internet & Communications
Wifi is available at all lodges. Cell service is available but can be limited in certain areas.
Pricing
Call for pricing
