South African Family Hunts – Our Budget Friendly Deals

Experience Unforgettable South African Family Hunts with Bowker Safaris

Bowker Safaris offers exceptional South African family hunt deals designed for hunters of all ages and experience levels. Based in the spectacular Eastern Cape, our family hunting packages in South Africa combine thrilling plains game hunting with unforgettable safari adventures.

South Africa is a leading destination for hunting, attracting thousands of hunters each year due to its diverse wildlife and well-regulated practices.

Whether you’re seeking a budget family hunting safari in South Africa or an exclusive family hunt package tailored to your needs, we provide expertly guided hunts, comfortable accommodations, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.

Bowker Safaris caters to family groups, with safari lodges that provide comfort and amenities for both hunters and non-hunting family members. Modern family-friendly safaris include accommodations, educational experiences, and opportunities for non-hunting participants.

From kudu and impala to warthog and springbok, Bowker Safaris ensures every member of the family experiences the best of South Africa’s wildlife, scenery, and hospitality.

South Africa’s diverse landscapes and such a wide variety of hunting opportunities make it an ideal destination for the whole family, including those interested in non hunting activities.

Introduction to Hunting in South Africa

South Africa stands out as one of the top destinations for an African hunting safari, offering hunters an incredible variety of game species and some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the continent. The country’s diverse terrain— ranging from vast open grasslands and rolling savannahs to rugged mountain ranges and dense bushveld — provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable hunting adventure.

With over 40 species of plains game, including iconic African animals such as kudu, impala, warthog, blesbok, and eland, South Africa caters to hunters of all interests and experience levels. The South African hunting industry is globally respected for its professionalism, exceptional service standards, and strong commitment to ethical hunting practices.

Whether you’re a seasoned hunter seeking your next big trophy or a first-time safari enthusiast planning your inaugural African hunt, South Africa promises an extraordinary experience filled with rich culture, stunning scenery, and the thrill of the chase.

Importantly, hunting in South Africa is strictly regulated by provincial and national authorities to ensure sustainability, conservation, and the long-term protection of wildlife populations. By choosing a responsible outfitterlike Bowker Safaris, hunters actively support ethical hunting, wildlife management, and the preservation of natural habitats.

How it works

At Bowker Safaris, we specialise in South African family hunt deals and family hunting packages South Africa that deliver exceptional value and unforgettable memories.

All our South Africa family hunt packages include 6 or 9 trophy animals over 8 full hunting days excluding arrival and departure days as standard, providing the perfect balance of adventure, variety, and quality trophy opportunities.

Hunters choose a fixed-price package that already includes the day fee, comfortable accommodation, hearty meals, and daily laundry—so there are no hidden costs. The price you see is the price you pay, with only travel and taxidermy excluded. We focus on species that occur in significant numbers within our hunting areas, ensuring a 100% success rate for our clients.

Our hunting grounds in the Eastern Cape are home to abundant indigenous game, offering a truly authentic, free-range Cape Kudu and Impala trophy hunting experience alongside many other plains game species.

Bowker Safaris offer hunters tailored experiences with expert guidance from a professional hunter, ensuring a successful hunting experience for every client.

Hunters are always welcome to add additional trophies when the opportunity presents itself, with extra animals charged according to our standard trophy price list. You’ll find our full trophy list below for easy reference. Observer fees for non-hunters are $150 per day, making it easy for friends or family to join the adventure.

A variety of non hunting activities are available for companions, such as game drives and cultural site visits, making the safari enjoyable for everyone.

For the first-time African hunter, our cheap family hunting packages South Africa and discount family hunt South Africa options remain the most cost-effective way to experience the thrill of a family hunting safari South Africa. Please note: our hunting packages and daily rate hunts do not include airfare, hotel stopovers, or taxidermy costs. All prices are in USD.

What Is Included in Our African Hunt Packages

When you book with Bowker Safaris, every detail of your South African family hunt deal is taken care of so you can focus entirely on the adventure. Our family hunting packages South Africa include:

1. Bowker Safaris Licensed Outfitter present at all times
2. All our family hunts are in the Eastern Cape
3. Daily rates and trophy fees for the trophies included in your chosen package
4. Eight full days of hunting and nine nights in a luxury 4-star lodge
5. A Licensed Hunting Guide from Bowker Safaris. Your safari will be guided by a professional hunter, ensuring safety, expert tracking, and a successful hunting experience.
6. Skilled skinners, trackers, and trained dogs for recovery of wounded animals
7. Airport transfers – pick-up and drop-off at Port Elizabeth Airport
8. Comfortable 4×4 hunting vehicles and fuel for the entire safari
9. Use of high-end rifles, premium scopes, and quality ammunition 
10. Accommodation, meals, drinks, and daily laundry service
11. Field preparation of trophies and delivery to a taxidermist
12. All applicable taxes, hunting permits, and hunting licenses
13. Observer rates for non-hunters at just $150 per day

Every Africa hunting package is designed to give you a seamless and stress-free experience, with no hidden costs beyond airfare, hotel stopovers, and taxidermy.

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Our South Africa Family Safari Hunt Deals

Father Son / Daughter & Husband and Wife Packages

Slams and cull hunting

Alternative to All-Inclusive Packages – Daily Rates & Trophy Fees

In addition to our all-inclusive hunting packages, we also offer the flexibility of day-rate hunting combined with individual trophy fees. This option allows hunters to build their own safari experience according to personal preferences.

It is ideal for those looking to customize their hunting trips to match their specific interests and needs. South Africa also offers various non-hunting activities, such as wine tours and scenic drives for family members not hunting.

• Hunt Duration: All safaris are eight days long.
• Daily Rate: $350 per hunter, per day (excluding arrival and departure days).
• Observer Rate: $150 per person, per day (excluding arrival and departure days).

Please note:

• Airfare, overnight hotel stays, and taxidermy costs are not included.
• All prices are quoted in US dollars.

Full details of our trophy fees are provided in the tables below.

Planning Your Hunt

Planning your hunting safari in South Africa starts with preparation. The prime hunting season typically runs from March to October, when cooler, drier weather creates ideal conditions, and game is more active.

Choosing the right hunting area and outfitter is crucial. Look for reputable operators who offer a variety of customizable hunting packages, exclusive access to prime hunting concessions, and highly experienced professional hunters to guide you.

Before traveling, ensure you have all the necessary documentation, including a valid passport, a South African hunting license, and any special permits required for your chosen game species.

To make the most of your safari, discuss your goals and preferences with your outfitter ahead of time. Whether you’re planning a family hunting trip, a plains game safari, or a big game adventure, tailoring your experience ensures a smooth, enjoyable, and unforgettable South African hunting safari.

Hunting Areas and Regions

South Africa’s vast and diverse landscape is home to several renowned hunting regions, each offering a unique safari experience and an exceptional variety of game species. Among these, the Eastern Cape stands out as one of the most popular destinations for both local and international hunters.

Known for its dramatic terrain — from dense coastal forests to expansive open plains — the Eastern Cape offers an unmatched hunting experience. This region is especially celebrated for its trophy-quality game, including Cape buffalo, nyala, bushbuck, and an extensive selection of plains game species. With its malaria-free environment and well-managed hunting concessions, the Eastern Cape is a family-friendly hunting hotspot and a top choice for first-time and seasoned hunters alike.

Many South African hunting areas operate under strict quotas and management plans to maintain balanced wildlife populations

Hunting Rifles, Optics & Suppressors for use with Bowker Safaris

At Bowker Safaris, we provide rifles and ammunition free of charge for all our hunting safaris. Hunters are welcome to use their own rifles, but for those who prefer to travel light or avoid firearm import permits, our fully equipped selection of rifles with premium optics and suppressors is available at no extra cost. Each rifle is meticulously maintained and paired with the right caliber ammunition to ensure accuracy, reliability, and confidence in the field.

The .270 Win Musgrave Model 80 and .300 Win Mag rifles are especially well-suited for long range hunting, allowing hunters to take accurate shots at greater distances.

Note – Turn horizontally on mobile to read.

Caliber	Rifle Model	Scope / Optic	Suppressor	Recommended Use
.243 Win	Ruger M77 Mk II	Leupold VX-3 4.5–14 × 44	Artic Suppressor	Small plains game (springbok, blesbok, reedbuck)
.270 Win	Remington 700	Leica 6.5–26 × 50 ELR	Custom Suppressor	Medium plains game (kudu, impala, hartebeest)
.270 Win	Musgrave Model 80	Swarovski 6–24 × 50	Custom Suppressor	Medium plains game, longer range shots
.300 Win Mag	Ruger M77 Mk II	Arken EP5 5–25 × 56	Custom Suppressor	Large plains game (eland, wildebeest, kudu)
.300 Win Mag	Howa 1500	Swarovski 6–24 × 50	Artic Suppressor	Large plains game & lighter dangerous game
.338 Win Mag	Mauser Safari Grade	Zeiss 1–6	—	Tougher game: eland, sable, roan, leopard
.375 H&H	Winchester Pre-64	Kahles 3–9 × 44	—	Dangerous game: buffalo, lion, plains game versatility
.375 H&H	CZ	Swarovski 3–9 × 44	—	Dangerous game (buffalo, hippo, plains game versatility)
.458 Win Mag	Whitworth	Trijicon Red Dot	—	Close-range dangerous game (buffalo, elephant, hippo)
.458 Win Mag	Winchester Safari Grade	Open Sights	—	Backup rifle for dangerous game (elephant, buffalo)

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Bow Hunting in the Eastern Cape

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 actively track and approach game across the diverse terrain of the Eastern Cape.

The varied terrain of the Eastern Cape provides both challenge and excitement for bow hunters, enhancing the authenticity and difficulty of each hunt.

• Skill & Patience Required: Walk-and-stalk bow hunting demands patience, sharp awareness, and precise shot placement. Opportunities often come at longer ranges, with shots extending out to 80 yards.
• For the Experienced Bow Hunter: Because of the physical challenge and the shooting distances involved, this style of hunting is best suited to seasoned bow hunters who are confident in their skills. It’s not recommended for beginners.
• Immersive Connection to the Hunt: Successfully stalking and harvesting game with a bow provides an unmatched sense of accomplishment and a deeper connection to the land and wildlife.

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Daily Hunting Rate

We charge a daily fee of $700 per hunter. Guests then select animals of their choice from the trophy price list provided above. This gives hunters the flexibility to build their own safari experience according to their personal preferences and goals.

Types of Bow Hunting

Bow hunting in South Africa combines two main styles: walk-and-stalk and hide/blind hunting.

• Walk-and-Stalk:
  This is the most challenging and traditional method. Hunters track game on foot, using wind direction, terrain, and cover to get within ethical bow range. It requires patience, fitness, and sharp shooting skills.
• Hide/Blind Hunting:
  Because many African animals are incredibly wary and shot distances can be long, outfitters often construct permanent or temporary hides (blinds) near waterholes, salt licks, or feeding points. These hides are carefully positioned downwind, camouflaged, and often sunken or elevated for the best concealment.This method increases the chances of close-range opportunities — sometimes as close as 15 to 25 yards. It is particularly useful for species like kudu, impala, warthog, nyala, and bushbuck, which naturally visit water points daily.

We do not have blinds – all our bow hunting is walk and stalk.

Bow Travel Made Easy

Bringing your bow to South Africa is straightforward:

• No special permits or import paperwork are required.
• Simply travel with your bow as regular checked baggage.
• This hassle-free process allows you to focus entirely on your hunt from the moment you arrive.

Bow hunting in the Eastern Cape is a true test of skill and determination — ideal for hunters seeking a challenging, authentic African hunting adventure.

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Bow Hunting Kit Recommendations

Clothing & Camouflage

• Full camouflage set – lightweight, durable camo suitable for African bushveld.
• Layered clothing – mornings and evenings can be cold, while midday gets hot; wear moisture-wicking base layers.
• Face mask or camo face paint – essential for breaking up facial outlines when stalking.
• Gloves – thin, camo gloves that allow for easy release while concealing hand movement.

Footwear

• Lightweight, quiet hunting boots – soft-soled to minimize noise and allow for close stalks.
• Well-worn and broken-in – to prevent blisters during long tracking days.
• Optional: Lightweight gaiters to reduce burrs, seeds, and ticks.
• Archery Gear
• Compound or traditional bow – tuned for African game species (50–70 lbs recommended for plains game; heavier for dangerous game).
• Arrows – high-quality carbon or aluminum, with strong broadheads (2- or 3-blade fixed for penetration).
• Quiver – secure and quiet when moving through brush.
• Release aid (if using compound bow).

Optics & Accessories

• Rangefinder – compact and accurate, preferably with angle compensation.
• Binoculars (8x or 10x) – essential for glassing game at distance.
• Spare batteries – for rangefinder and other electronic accessories.

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Wing Shooting in South Africa

South Africa offers some of the most diverse and exciting wing shooting opportunities in the world. With more than a dozen huntable bird species, hunters can experience everything from high-volume pigeon shooting to traditional driven hunts for francolin and guineafowl.

South Africa is also renowned for its abundance of wild game, making it a top destination for both bird and plains game hunters

Wing shooting is typically best during the winter months (May–August) when game birds are concentrated, and conditions are ideal.

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Upland Bird Shooting

Driven Hunts (May – August)

• Method: Beaters or dogs flush birds toward waiting guns.
• Species: Guineafowl, Francolin (Spurfowl), Swainson’s Francolin.
• Appeal: Fast-flying birds, strong social tradition, similar to European shoots.

Walk-Up Shooting (April – September)

• Method: Hunters walk in line with trained dogs, flushing birds from cover.
• Species: Francolin, Quail, Guineafowl.
• Appeal: Interactive, active, and rewarding for hunters who enjoy working with dogs.

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Waterfowl Shooting (May – July)

• Methods:
  • Pass-Shooting: Positioning on flight paths between roosting and feeding areas.
  • Decoying: Using decoys and calls on dams, pans, and rivers.
• Species: Egyptian Geese, Spur-Wing Geese, Yellow-Billed Ducks, Red-Billed Teal, White-Faced Whistling Ducks, Cape Shoveler.
• Appeal: Spur-Wing Geese are among the largest geese in the world, offering a true trophy experience.

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High-Volume Pigeon & Dove Shooting (March – May & July – September)

• Method: Shooting over sunflower or maize fields where flocks feed.
• Species: Rock Pigeon, Red-Eyed Dove, Laughing Dove, Cape Turtle Dove.
• Appeal: Known as the “Argentina of Africa” for volume — 500 to 1,000 shots in a single day is not unusual. Rock pigeons are especially fast and challenging.

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Sandgrouse Shooting (June – August)

• Method: Early morning and evening flights to waterholes in arid regions.
• Species: Namaqua and Double-Banded Sandgrouse.
• Appeal: Unique to Africa — birds fly in at high speed in tight flocks, offering incredibly testing shooting.

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Guinea Fowl “Beating Days” (May – August)

• Method: A full line of beaters drives guineafowl over guns in traditional farm-style hunts.
• Appeal: A truly African experience, often part of local farming traditions.

Wing Shooting Seasons in South Africa

Type of Shoots	Main Species	Best Months	Notes
Driven Upland Hunts	Guineafowl, Francolin (Spurfowl), Quail	May – August(Winter)	Best when crops are off the fields and birds are concentrated.
Walk-Up Shooting	Francolin, Guineafowl, Quail	April – September	Great with dogs; extended season across cooler months.
Waterfowl Shooting	Spur-Wing Goose, Egyptian Goose, Ducks, Teal	May – July	Peak waterfowl season in dams, pans, and rivers.
High-Volume Pigeon/Dove	Rock Pigeon, Red-Eyed Dove, Laughing Dove	March – May & July – September	Rock pigeons provide extremely challenging, high-volume shooting.
Sandgrouse Shooting	Namaqua & Double-Banded Sandgrouse	June – August	Morning and evening flights to waterholes in arid areas.
Guineafowl Beating Days	Guineafowl	May – August	Traditional farm hunts with beaters; strong social element.

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Bird Hunting Add-Ons

Eastern Cape – Geese Hunt

Waterfowl Shooting – Spur-Wing Goose, Egyptian Goose, Ducks, Teal

• Season: March – end of September
• Location: Eastern Cape (approx. 1.5 hours from Thornkloof with Gerrie van Rooyen)
• Price: $500 per person per day
• Includes:
  • Shotguns (provided by the bird outfitter, 6 semi automatic Berettas)
  • Packed lunch
• Excludes:
  • Ammunition ($30 per box of 25 shells)
• Accommodation: Guests still stay at Thornkloof

First Time Hunters and Beginners

South Africa is one of the best destinations for first-time hunters and beginners, thanks to its well-established hunting industry, world-class outfitters, and the expertise of highly qualified professional hunters. Many operators, including Bowker Safaris, offer specialized hunting packages designed specifically for novice hunters, providing a safe, supportive, and educational environment.

These guided safaris include hands-on training in essential hunting techniques, firearm safety, tracking skills, and ethical hunting practices, ensuring that new hunters feel confident and prepared before heading into the field.

For those seeking a different challenge, bowhunting safaris are also available, offering a unique and thrilling way to experience the African wilderness. With access to a wide variety of game species and the guidance of experienced professionals, South Africa makes it easy for beginners to enjoy a successful, safe, and unforgettable hunting adventure.

Conservation and Community

Hunting safaris in South Africa play a vital role in wildlife conservation and the support of rural communities. Through sustainable hunting practices, championed by reputable outfitters like Bowker Safaris, hunters help maintain balanced game populations and protect natural habitats.

Revenue generated from responsible hunting directly funds anti-poaching initiatives, habitat restoration programs, and local community development projects, including education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. This makes hunting an integral part of South Africa’s broader conservation strategy.

By choosing a responsible hunting safari, hunters contribute directly to the preservation of Africa’s incredible wildlifeand the well-being of rural communities. Participating in a South African hunting safari not only delivers the thrill of the hunt but also helps ensure that future generations can experience the beauty, diversity, and richness of Africa’s natural heritage.

Both free-range and high-fence hunting contribute positively to the conservation of South Africa’s rich wildlife