Are You Researching Africa Hunting Trips?
Are you a hunter researching or planning your first African Hunting Safari?
We offer cost-effective All-Inclusive Packages at affordable prices. This website contains detailed information on planning hunting safaris in South Africa.
In addition, hunts can be booked with either Nick or Meyrick Bowker.
Table of Contents
Hunting in Africa
South Africa has become the premier hunting destination in Africa, offering first-world hospitality and infrastructure.
South Africa’s renowned hunting destinations are famous for their diverse wildlife and iconic species, making it a top choice for adventure seekers.
Nowhere else can such diversity and availability of animals for hunting safaris be found at a reasonable cost.
This abundance attracts trophy hunters seeking exceptional game and prestigious trophies.
Getting to South Africa is easy, and visitors from the United States or the European Union do not require a visa.
Please review our comprehensive planning and information guide for first-time African hunters.
Hunting in Southern Africa is conducted Safari Style, where hunters drive around in search of plains game. When sighted, hunters stalk on foot.
Alternatively, hunting is conducted from an elevated vantage point, and a trophy is spotted in the thick brush, then stalked.
Our Hunt Areas and Free Range Game Hunts in South Africa
Our hunting is on low-fenced ranches with four-foot barbed-wire fences to keep sheep and cattle.
Plains game primarily moves at will over and through these low fences.
We do not shoot on traditional high-fenced game farms, where we drive the same roads daily and shoot game from the truck.
We have access to over 2 million acres of farmland for hunting in and around Bedford.
These hunting areas are home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including notable species such as the Cape eland.
Hunters often encounter hundreds of animals each day, increasing their chances of seeing a wider range of species.
Bowker Conservancy and Reserves in Africa
Hunting conservancies and reserves across Africa, such as the Bowker Conservancy and the Baviaansriver Conservancy in South Africa, are central to sustainable hunting and wildlife conservation.
These free-range hunting areas offer exclusive access to vast territories teeming with plains and big game.
Conservation efforts, supported by hunting fees, aid wildlife conservation and anti-poaching programs in Africa.
Guided by experienced professional hunters and conservationists, hunters enjoy ethical, authentic hunts while supporting vital conservation efforts that safeguard Africa’s iconic wildlife for future generations.
Our ALL-Inclusive African Safaris Packages
We offer a selection of plains safaris, big game hunts, and dangerous game hunts for all budgets.
Our African hunting packages offer all-inclusive options that cover accommodation, meals, and trophy fees.
Included in our hunting packages are transportation to and from the airport.
A high-end rifle, optics, and ammunition are offered free of charge to all hunters.
Each hunting package includes the guidance of one professional hunter for a personalized experience.
Custom hunting packages can be built to suit clients’ preferences and include specific species.
Kudu hunting is a key component in our hunting packages, offering hunters the chance to pursue quality Eastern Cape kudu trophies in an excellent, genuine free-range hunting environment.
Why Book Your Hunt With Us
- Fixed, All-Inclusive Pricing – No Surprises
One clear price covers everything from start to finish—no hidden fees or unexpected add-ons. - No Deposit Required
Book with confidence. You only pay at the end of your hunt. - See Exactly What to Expect
Watch dozens of recent full-length hunts on YouTube—real clients, real experiences, real results. - Independent Reviews You Can Trust
Verified feedback from hunters on multiple international hunting platforms. - Transparent Taxidermy and Shipping
Fixed taxidermy prices and a fully transparent shipping process from start to finish.
Taxidermy for Your Safari
Nick Bowker hunting will ensure that your Taxidermy is of high quality after your safari hunt. We follow up on delivery and ensure that your trophies are delivered safely after your safari. Please review our taxidermy information and prices.
Hunters have access to two outstanding taxidermy partners in South Africa. Timoland Taxidermy, led by master craftsman Tim Olwage in Port Alfred, brings over 20 years of expertise and a passion for wildlife preservation to every piece.
African Wildlife Artistry, run by Rudolph and Caroline Ferreira in Somerset East, combines U.S.-trained skill with true artistic flair to capture the beauty of African game.
Both studios ensure your trophies are transformed into world-class works of art, preserving your African hunting memories for a lifetime.
Bowker Hunting gives clients the flexibility to obtain independent shipping quotes, providing transparency, peace of mind, and control over costs.
With no commercial ties to shipping companies, you can compare benchmark rates, manage expenses effectively, and ensure your trophies are shipped at fair, competitive prices.
Cape Buffalo Big Game Packages – Dangerous Game Hunts
Nick Bowker has a dangerous game license and offers a wide selection of buffalo safaris.
Hunting Buffalo is one of Africa’s most iconic safari hunts. We have outstanding hunting areas for buffalo.
Our concession area is situated in the mountains, surrounded by dense brush in a vast expanse.
This Buffalo hunt is proper. The bulls are challenging to find and are shot at close range. Be prepared to be charged!
We also offer a standalone all-inclusive 5-day Cape Buffalo Hunt for $14500.
In addition, hunting Cape Buffalo can be added to any of our Plains Game hunts at the following prices.
- Buffalo (Hard Boss) – $14,500
- Management Cape Buffalo (Soft Boss) – $7500
- Buffalo Cow (Mature) – $4500
Safety and Responsibility on African Hunts
Safety and responsibility are essential when hunting in Africa’s rugged terrains and among unpredictable wildlife.
Professional hunters ensure that hunts are conducted safely, following strict safety protocols and adhering to fair-chase hunting principles.
Hunters are expected to respect the animals, the environment, and others in the field—maintaining awareness, safe distances, and practicing ethical hunting through selective harvesting and adherence to local regulations.
By prioritizing safety and responsibility, hunters contribute to sustainable conservation while thoroughly enjoying the African hunting adventure.
Plains Game Hunts
Our core Plains Game Animals list includes the following game hunt species:
Big Game & Plains Game Hunts
Big game hunting in Africa offers a unique and thrilling experience for hunters worldwide.
The continent is home to diverse ecosystems and majestic species, including the Sable Antelope and Cape Kudu.
Big game hunting in Africa features iconic species, including the Cape buffalo, lion, leopard, elephant, and rhino.
Plains game hunting includes species like kudu, impala, and warthog.
These hunts are far more affordable than dangerous game hunts—often costing about the same as a guided elk hunt in the U.S., but offering up to seven species for the same price.
We practice ethical hunting, which is defined as hunting that respects wildlife, habitats, and the social and economic impacts on local communities.
Evaluating Trophy Quality
Evaluating trophy quality in plains game and big game hunting goes beyond size—it considers age, condition, and unique features.
Plains game trophies are judged by horn length, thickness, and symmetry, while big game evaluations focus on traits such as tusks or antlers.
Professional hunters guide hunters in identifying mature, prime animals, ensuring ethical harvests that enhance the hunting experience and protect long-term sustainability.
This careful approach preserves exceptional trophy quality for future generations of hunters.
Fair Chase African Hunts – Nick and Meyrick Bowker
Nick & Meyrick
- We are a personalized African Outfitters in Bedford, South Africa, in the Eastern Cape.
- Bedford is one of the safest areas in Africa to hunt.
- We have been a Guide and Outfitter for more than 25 years.
- We will be with you throughout your safari.
- We both have dangerous-game licenses.
Our Concessions
- Your hunting safari will be a fair chase in free-range, low-fenced hunting areas.
- Our hunting lodges have unique access to four hunting biospheres.
- This unique change in the biosphere results in considerable animal diversity, including 30 species of trophy-quality game.
- We own several ranches in the Bowker family.
South Africa
- South Africa has become the world’s premier country for affordable hunting.
- South Africa offers first-world hospitality and infrastructure for safaris.
- An African safari can be combined with a trip to a national park to see the “Big Five.”
- Hunting is conducted in a malaria-free area in the Eastern Cape, South Africa.
Nick Bowker
Nick Bowker Hunting has earned a reputation for delivering exceptional African hunting safaris in the Eastern Cape, specializing in free-range, ethical plains game hunts.
Nick Bowker Hunting offers an authentic and ethical African hunting safari in the Eastern Cape, combining top-tier guiding, diverse free-range terrain, comfortable lodges, and a wide selection of species.
Hunting packages include skilled professional hunters to guide the safari experience.
The dedicated camp staff, including experienced guides, cooks, and support personnel, ensure a seamless and enjoyable stay for guests.
It’s a popular choice for both first-time and seasoned hunters seeking a personalized, unforgettable safari.
Meyrick Bowker
Meyrick Bowker of Bowker Safaris offers hunters a wider range of opportunities, including exclusive hunting packages and family-only safaris designed to create unforgettable experiences.
Guests can also request a custom hunting package tailored to their specific needs and interests.
Alternatively, hunters can choose an à la Carte option to select what they wish to hunt based on daily rates and trophy fees.
In addition to world-class plains game hunting, Meyrick specializes in dangerous game hunting in Southern Africa, including Cape buffalo, leopard, lion, elephant, and rhino.
Bowker Safaris also offers premier bow hunting opportunities and world-class wing shooting for avid bird hunters.
Together, Nick Bowker Hunting and Bowker Safaris bring you the perfect combination of decades of professional expertise, generations of hunting tradition, and an unmatched understanding of Africa’s diverse landscapes.
This collaboration delivers truly world-class African hunting safaris tailored for discerning hunters seeking authenticity, adventure, and lifelong memories.
We offer activities specifically for non-hunters, including wildlife viewing and sightseeing excursions.
Hunters are encouraged to contact outfitters via email to discuss custom hunting packages.
Hopewell Safaris African Hunt Lodge
We are proud to announce the opening of our new safari hunting accomodation, Hopewell, in South Africa.
Nestled at the top of a valley, Hopewell is a premier hunting lodge offering breathtaking views of the surrounding bushveld and savanna, with the Kagga and Winterberg mountain ranges in the background.
Our luxurious hunting accommodations are of the highest standards, offering a splendid charm and a charismatic ambiance for your safari.
Hopewell is located in the Eastern Cape, approximately an hour and a half’s drive from Port Elizabeth.
Family hunts are most welcome. Non-hunting guests are welcome to join hunters on safaris and participate in activities such as game drives and photo safaris.
Family-oriented hunting packages often cater to father-son, mother-daughter, or other family combinations, providing a memorable shared experience.
Children can usually participate in family hunting safaris, creating shared experiences.
The hunting lodge and safari experience are suitable for the whole family, with activities and accommodations designed for visitors of all ages. Are you ready to begin your hunting adventures of a lifetime?
View Hopewell Lodge on Google Earth
Temperature and Weather
The Eastern Cape is a diverse hunting province — from coastal valleys to semi-arid Karoo plains.
Bedford lies inland, in the Albany/Karoo transition zone, so its weather closely mirrors the province’s inland averages, but with slightly cooler nights and a touch more temperature swing than coastal or lowland areas.
Annual Snapshot
- Temperature range: ~43–86 °F annually (rarely below 37 °F or above 95 °F).
- Rainfall: Peak from November to March; driest between June and August.
- Wind: Winter is typically the windiest, especially in inland plateaus and coastal zones.
- Sky cover:Â Mostly sunny throughout the year, with summer cloud build-up in the afternoons.
Bow Hunting
All bow hunting with us is conducted on a walk-and-stalk basis, offering one of the most challenging yet rewarding hunting experiences in South Africa.
Unlike hunting from a blind, this method requires you to track actively and approach game across the diverse terrain of the Eastern Cape.
We specialize in bow-hunting safaris, offering expert guidance and promoting ethical hunting practices for those seeking a premier bow-hunting experience in the Eastern Cape.
We do not put out food, control waterholes, and do not have blinds in our hunting areas. In addition, we are low-fenced, and the game is free-ranging. We are 100 percent fair chase, and bow hunters will be on an authentic spot-and-stalk safari.
This hunting adventure is not for the novice safari bow hunter as it is highly challenging, and game hunting requires longer shots. Traveling with a bow does not require any documentation or permits. Check it in as you would with golf clubs.
Big Five Guided Photographic Tours
We offer a private guiding service to the National Parks. Our expert guides will drive you through the park to try and find the Big 5. Your guide will be with you throughout your safari. In addition to guided tours, guests can enjoy a game drive to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
The parks are large with actual free-roaming predators. You can see large parts of the countryside and enjoy an authentic wilderness experience rather than being confined to a small game farm with limited flexibility.
While our photographic tours offer incredible opportunities for wildlife observation, those seeking the thrill of South African hunting adventures will find a different kind of excitement, allowing you to enjoy both experiences during your stay.
Sightseeing and Activities Beyond the Hunt
An African hunting safari is more than the hunt itself. Between hunts, you can explore national parks like Kruger, visit the Cape Winelands, or experience local culture and cuisine.
Hunting lodges often offer additional activities, such as birdwatching, fishing, hiking, and guided photo safaris, making the trip enjoyable for both hunters and families.
By embracing these experiences, you’ll return home with not only exceptional hunting memories but also a deeper appreciation of Africa’s landscapes, wildlife, and traditions.
African Hunting Gear
Choosing a rifle for your African hunt safari is crucial for a successful hunting experience.
Factors such as the type of game you’re hunting, the terrain and weather conditions, and legal and logistical requirements can all impact your choice of firearm for Africa.
At Nick Bowker Hunting, we believe high-quality safari binoculars are the most essential piece of hunting gear for Africa.
We spend hours glassing through varied terrain while game viewing. You will miss out on a significant portion of the safari without a good set of optics.
Our rifles have state-of-the-art combination suppressors and muzzle brakes for your safari.
We use 300 Win Mag rifles with suppressors as our preferred choice for African safaris. Here’s why?
Shooting Sticks on Hunting Safaris
Hunting with shooting sticks is a must in Africa. The hunter should practice beforehand.
Shooting sticks are often new for the first-time hunter in Africa.
A three-legged shooting stick is a tripod to rest your rifle for support while taking a standing shot.
Prone, sitting, and kneeling shots with a gun are not that common. Because of:
- Africa’s low vegetation obscures your target.
- Hunters lying in a prone position or kneeling can be very uncomfortable. Also, it may not be possible due to rocky terrain, thorns, and other obstacles.
- Furthermore, shots in Africa often need to be taken relatively quickly. Consequently, shooting sticks and a standing position facilitate this.
This guide explains everything you need to know about selecting the Best Safari Rifle, understanding caliber choices, and equipping yourself with the right optics and accessories to make accurate, ethical shots on your African safari.
About our Parsons Terriers and Beagle Scent Dogs
Our Parsons Terriers and Beagle scent dogs will be present in South Africa as partners and companions to assist in tracking down trophies that can’t be found or are wounded during safaris. Black Jack the Parson Terrier hunter has obtained legend status!
Selecting Your Outfitter
“Are you considering Safari Hunting? Are you overwhelmed and don’t know how to choose an Outfitter in Africa for your African hunt safari?”
“Here is a list of questions to ask a hunting outfitter to help make your choice for an adventure to Africa.”
This article will help you choose the best African hunting safari outfitter for you by listing a series of questions and considerations you should take into account.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
An African hunting safari is the adventure of a lifetime, combining the thrill of hunting cape buffalo and plains game with the serenity of evenings by the campfire.
Every moment offers challenge, excitement, and discovery in South Africa and beyond.
By choosing a reputable outfitter and practicing ethical, sustainable hunting, hunters ensure their experience is both rewarding and responsible.
South Africa is renowned for its diverse ecosystems and high-quality trophy animals, largely due to its free-range conditions.
Whether pursuing exceptional trophy quality animals or embracing the wild beauty and warm hospitality of Africa, a hunting safari is more than just a hunt—it’s a journey into the heart of wild Africa, filled with sights, sounds, and memories that last a lifetime.
Key planning considerations for an African hunting safari include selecting a destination country and species, practicing shooting at longer distances, and obtaining the necessary travel documents.
Documentation for an African hunting safari includes ensuring a valid passport and arranging firearms permits if you plan to bring personal weapons.
Client Testimonials – African Hunting Trips with Nick Bowker
Affordable African Hunting Trips for First-Time Hunters
May 2022
“Back from superb safari management and trophy trip with Nick Bowker in South Africa. The start was in 2019 when Nick posted a 20-animal cull hunt. My buddy and I booked for March 2020. Well, we all know what happened, so we went for 2021.
Thanks to our Prime Monster, travel was too risky. Now, in 2022 we finally put the safari together. My self Great Nephew and buddy arrived on the 25th of May in Port Elizabeth, where Nick was waiting for us, and off to Bedford we went for our game hunting safari”.
Review of Nick Bowker
April 2021
“It took me nearly 68 years to determine African hunting safaris are available in South Africa. And it didn’t require being a millionaire to make it happen. I took eight trophies and was treated like a king.
All this for less than a guided Montana Elk Hunt and far lower percentage of taking just one trophy class bull. Don’t get me wrong. I will never stop chasing the great Wapiti in my home state. I have 400+ bulls hanging on my wall; however, South Africa is the answer when it all comes down to plains game hunting with your family”.
Low Fenced Rifle Hunts
March 2020
“Hunting with no fences or low-fenced African hunting areas (meant to control sheep, not the wild game) is a priority. Nick’s hunting areas fitted the bill for our hunting party. The plains game herd numbers and variety of animals blew us away.”
Cull Hunt in the Eastern Cape South Africa
November 2019
“I saw a posting on another website for an African cull safari package for a twenty animals safari. The package included five trophies and fifteen culls.
The animals in the package were Impala, Blesbok, Mountain Reedbuck, and warthogs. I did not care about the trophies.
I didn’t know what to expect of a cull hunt. Once I saw on TV where someone had a portable shooting bench, and the TV made it look like a shoot and stack them up.
I got the impression that it was a “lesser” form of hunting.
It turned out to be the same as trophy hunting. The difference being a multiple of tags, and your “trophy” has different characteristics.”
My first Plains Game Adventure
October 2019
“An African Safari, the stories of vast lands and a wide variety of game animals. In 2019, my friends invited me on a trip to South Africa.
A trip I am glad to have been part of. Nick Bowker runs a quality operation, with laid back, easy-going, friendly accommodation, and great food.
From Day 1, it was “Hakuna Matata.” Good morning, coffee, and scanning the ever-changing landscape for plains animals.
A grand brunch, a good nap, great company, back to view the countryside for more trophy plains game animals.
To top it off with stories and tall tales of the daily adventures, wine and dine and start all over the next day in Africa.”
Lifetime Plains Game Experience
October 2019
“Growing up, I was an avid reader. “Green Hills of Africa” by Ernest Hemingway and “African Game Trails” by Theodore Roosevelt were always favorites.
I had a deep passion for hunting from an early age. Hunting the dark continent has always been a dream.
This last fall, I had the opportunity to finally make that dream a reality and booked a hunting safari with Nick Bowker.
I chose to hunt with Nick because he runs low-fenced, free-range hunting.
The second reason was that his safaris costs are very competitive compared to others”
First Time Safari
October 2019
“My wife and I decided to take our honeymoon to South Africa for 2 weeks.
We got the opportunity to stumble across Nick’s website while planning, and he was one of the few Professional Hunters that offered single day game hunting.
Outside of the other great hunting safari packages that he has advertised.
Nick and his brother greeted us at the airport and took the short 2-hour drive to his family farm.
While I was after Kudu, my wife had never shot anything outside of two rounds at a target more than a decade ago.”
Armando back from Italy
October 2019
“Armando was back with his wife Roberta for their fifth plains game hunting safari in Africa.
Previously, Armando had made hunting trips to Namibia, the Limpopo bushveld areas (located in Limpopo Province, one of South Africa’s premier hunting destinations), and the Eastern Cape Province.
Armando sought high-quality Lechwe, Nyala, Waterbuck, Warthog, and Bushbuck trophies in a free-range area rather than a high-fenced game farm.
I was on hand to meet Armando and Roberta in Port Elizabeth after their long trip from Italy and drive them back to camp.”
The Czechs arrive
August 2019
“Rob Bowker collected us from the Port Elizabeth.
I was returning for a 2nd hunting Safari with Nick Bowker.
After having an excellent previous experience with Nick in Africa, I was keen for our next adventure and some new species.
I wanted to bring my friend Andre to some free-range hunting areas in Africa.
Nick is an Outfitter with more than 25 years of professional experience and has offered a 7-animal trophy package and fantastic safaris in Africa.”
Our Hunting Trip with Nick
April 2019
“It was 7 years since our last hunting trip to the Eastern Cape South Africa with Nick Bowker.
I was with my buddy for our second trip with Nick. We wanted to go after some different species this time.
We also wanted to hunt a few of the same animals as our first time in South Africa.
On the last trip, we had had fantastic plains hunting.
In 2012, we took Wildebeest, Impala, and Blesbok.
Nick has appealing 8-day seven animal hunting package safaris available.” Hunters can email Nick for more information about safaris.
My Hunt with Nick Bowker
May 2018
“While touring their quaint log home, Thomas showed us his African plains game trophies.
One thing leads to another, and a year later, Thomas and I are on an airplane to South Africa. Wild!
My first game hunt in another country.
Our host, Nick Bowker, and his brother Rob, rugged 5th generation South African “farmers” of English descent, were most gracious and met us at the “Oliver Tambo” in Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape.
Guns, ammo, luggage all right there and a great relief after nearly 24 hours of flight from Minneapolis, Houston, Atlanta, Johannesburg, and Port Elizabeth.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Hunting in Africa
How is hunting in Africa conducted?
Hunting in Africa is conducted “Safari Style,” where hunters drive around in search of plains game. When sighted, hunters stalk on foot.
Alternatively, hunting is from an elevated vantage point, and game is spotted in the thick brush and then stalked. Hunting with a Bow is conducted from hides overlooking watering points.
What is the terrain like?
We hunt across four unique biospheres, offering varied game and hunting conditions.
Thick Valley Bushveld
Riverine Bush
Plains and Savanna
Mountainous Areas
What shall I pack?
Please pack light; we do daily washing and ironing. Here is a list.
Two pairs of hiking boots
Three hunting shirts (earth color)
Two long hunting pants
One warm jacket
One raincoat
One pullover
Casual outfit for the camp
Loafers
Sleepwear
Cap or sun hat
What are the best colors for hunting clothes in South Africa?
Bringing lightweight, neutral-colored clothing is advised for warm days, along with layering for cooler mornings and evenings.
Bright colors should be avoided. Earth colors, including khaki, brown, and camouflage, are all fine. Olive green is considered the best color by many South African professional hunters.
What does a typical hunting day look like?
Up at dawn for a cup of coffee and a light snack. Set off for our hunting area to target the species.
Generally, we target brush-dwelling animals, such as spiral-horned species, in the very early mornings and late evenings, when they come out to graze.
We would target Plains Game animals during the day, as they are easier to find.
Return for a big brunch around 11h30. Sometimes we will takea packed lunch and be gone for the whole day.
Out again in the afternoon for more hunting. Dinner around a fire, discussing the day, and making plans for the next day’s hunting in Africa.
The camp staff takes great pride in preparing authentic and delicious meals for guests, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
What is the weather like?
The four seasons in South Africa are;
Summer – December through February
Fall – March through May
Winter – June through August
Spring – September through November
During the winter months, expect temperatures around 65°F – 75°F. In the fall and spring, temperatures range between 70°F and 80°F. Summer months are hot at around 80°F – 95°F.
Rain mostly falls in the summer months as thunder showers.
When is the best time for hunting in South Africa?
March through October is the best time to hunt. The weather is cooler during this period.
What sort of food can I expect while on my hunting safari?
The food will be very similar to that served in the United States. Also, you can request any dishes within reason.
What beverages can I expect around the dinner table?
Local wines and beers are of excellent quality. And similar to that of the United States. We will enquire as to your preferred evening beverages.
Should I have my taxidermy done in South Africa or the United States?
Taxidermy costs will be considerably cheaper in South Africa. In addition, South African taxidermists specialize in African trophies.
Who will ensure the taxidermy is done according to my specifications?
We will be responsible. We will enquire about the type of mount you require and ensure the skinner’s cape accordingly. In addition, we will arrange a pick up by our taxidermist.
