Discover the thrill of the highveld as you step into the vast, golden grasslands of the Free State. We designed this package specifically for those who wish to master the art of the long-range pursuit amidst the wide-open horizons of central South Africa. It is an honest introduction to some of the continent's most iconic vistas, offering you a high-action sporting experience where every stalk across the open plains becomes a lasting memory of your first African hunting safari.
This beginner-friendly package includes a focused selection of classic Free State plains game, ideal for first-time African hunters. Expect open country hunting, careful fieldcraft, and a practical itinerary designed to maximize hunting time while keeping the experience straightforward and great value. If an animal is not taken or wounded, you will be credited 90% of the list price on your final bill.
Explore a streamlined itinerary focused on high-action stalking across the expansive, golden Free State grasslands.
Upon landing at OR Tambo, we are there to greet you and begin the scenic drive toward the Free State. This transition from the city to the quiet, open plains sets the stage for your safari. You will settle into your lodge and enjoy a light, welcoming lunch.
The afternoon is dedicated to rifle preparation and ensuring your equipment is sighted perfectly for the open terrain. Once comfortable, we head out for a brief introductory drive. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the vast horizons and the unique light of the central South African plateau.
These days focus on the art of the long-range stalk across rolling grasslands and rocky hills. You will learn to use the sparse cover to your advantage while tracking iconic species like Springbok. The challenge here is visibility, requiring patience and steady glassing to find the perfect trophy.
Midday breaks are spent back at the lodge for a traditional brunch and a rest during the peak heat. As the sun begins to dip, we return to the field for the late-afternoon hunt. Each evening concludes with a sumptuous meal and storytelling around a crackling fire under the stars.
The final day begins with a final early morning hunt, offering one last opportunity to experience the unique terrain of the Free State at dawn. Following the hunt, we transition to the necessary administrative tasks; all required paperwork is finalized in the Free State before departing the hunting area to ensure a smooth transfer of trophies and documentation.
After the logistics are settled, guests will enjoy a hearty farewell meal to conclude the experience. Once refreshed, we begin the return journey to OR Tambo International Airport, timed perfectly to ensure a relaxed arrival for your scheduled flight.
Below are answers to common questions about hunting areas, camps, and what to expect on a typical day. If you need help planning travel days, rifle logistics, or observer activities, our team can tailor the schedule to your arrival time and preferences.
The Free State is defined by vast, open grasslands and rolling hills with minimal cover. Your hunt here requires "spot-and-stalk" tactics, often involving long-range observation. To ensure you remain accurate at distances ranging from 150 to 250 yards, you can utilize the rifles of your Professional Hunter, with ammunition replacement being the only cost involved for you.
While hunting is available year-round, you will find that the winter months from May to August offer the best visibility as the grass is shorter. You should be prepared for cold mornings on the high-altitude plateau, but the dry air and clear skies provide you with excellent conditions for glassing the vast, golden Free State horizons for herds.
Yes, our 4x4 vehicles are always available to assist you if you have physical limitations. We prioritize ethical hunting and will tailor our approach to ensure you have a comfortable and successful experience. This ensures that you can fully enjoy the thrill of the pursuit across the central South African plateau, regardless of your personal level of mobility.
You will begin your mornings early, glassing from high vantage points to spot herds across the grasslands. Much of your day involves methodical stalks using the terrain for cover. After a midday break at the lodge, you return to the plains for the late-afternoon session, taking full advantage of the spectacular golden hour light for your pursuit.
Observers are invited to join every stalk to witness the action across the open plains personally. For those seeking off-site adventures, the nearby artistic village of Clarens is perfect for boutique shopping and art galleries. Additional options include scenic pony trekking in the highlands or visiting local sanctuaries to see lions and other African predators in a safe environment.
You are welcome to take additional trophies beyond those in your package as opportunities arise. This is subject to the availability of specific species quotas and required permits. Any extra trophies will be charged according to our current list prices.
