General Information

Elandsbosch Safaris understands that booking an African Safari is a big decision and that anyone thinking about it has a few questions. We will be there for you all the way, from the moment you start planning till the day your trophies are on your wall in your home.

Below is some information that will be helpful:

BOOKING A SAFARI
Once you decide on a safari, a deposit will be required to hold your dates. The amount will depend upon the duration of your safari, but generally 50% of the daily rate is required.

BOOKING AIRLINE TICKETS FOR YOUR SAFARI
Once dates are set and a deposit is received, you can then book airline tickets. If traveling with firearms, we recommend using a travel agent whom we can recommend specializing in firearm transport. If you are a US citizen, you will only need a valid passport. If you are not a US citizen, a visa may be required.

IMPORTATION OF HUNTING RIFLES
A temporary import permit from the South African police service is required to bring your rifle into South Africa. Your travel agent will assist with this application or, failing that, we can assist you with the necessary paperwork. We will issue a letter of invitation that will be required as part of your application process. With the proper paperwork you will then be able to enter with your firearm legally.

ARRIVAL AT THE AIRPORT
Gerhardus Steenekamp or a representative of Elandsbosch Safaris will personally meet you at the airport and collect your firearm if necessary. All transfer fees to and from the lodge are covered under your daily rate beginning with the day of arrival and finishing with the day of departure.

HEALTH PRECAUTIONS
No shots are needed to enter South Africa. Our hunting areas are malaria free. Malaria medication may be recommended if you are travelling to the Kruger National Park or on some of our other photo excursions outside the country. Consult your physician for their recommendations before leaving.

HUNTING AREAS
Most of our hunting takes place in two major areas. The Limpopo Province, referred to as the North, and the Natal province. These two areas are totally different from one another in topography and vegetation. Different animals occur in these two different areas.

WEATHER AND TEMPERATURES
South Africa, being in the southern hemisphere has reversed seasons from North America. North American summer is our winter. Generally, early mornings during safari season are crisp and cool, but warm as the day progresses. Mid-day and afternoons are typically sunny and begin to cool toward dark. It is advised that you dress in layers each day as riding in a safari vehicle can be much cooler than stalking through the bush.

Below is an indication of the temperatures you may expect.

March and April
50-80 °F – Limpopo (North)
45-75 °F – Free State (South)
May and June
40-70 °F – Limpopo (North)
35-70 °F – Free State (South)
July and August
35-70 °F – Limpopo (North)
35-70 °F – Free State (South)
September and October
50-80 °F – Limpopo (North)
50-75 °F – Free State (South)

WHAT TO WEAR
Laundry is done daily, therefore three or four sets of hunting clothes will do: khaki, camo or neutral colours. A range of temperatures may be experienced in one day so dressing in layers is advisable.

PAYMENT AFTER THE SAFARI
After the safari, your balance can be paid in US dollars or via a wire transfer. Details for this transfer will be provided upon your departure and payment is required within two weeks of returning home.

PURCHASING OF GIFTS OR SOUVENIRS
Purchasing gifts or souvenirs – Elandsbosch Safaris has a souvenir shop on site where you can buy a range of items to take home as mementos or gifts.

YOUR TROPHIES
Included in your daily rate is the field preparation of your trophies for either shipment home or mounting here. Field preparation involves the skinning and salting of your trophies and is a top priority for us, as we know that the finished product on your wall is your most lasting memory of your trip. Field preparation does not include the actual dip and pack services of a taxidermist here if your trophies are to be mounted by your home taxidermist. Neither does field preparation include any additional taxidermy services performed in South Africa. We work with professional expediters and clearing agents and will put you in touch with each and assist you in the entire process of getting your trophies home.

TIPPING
Tipping is entirely at the discretion of our guests and a reflection of your appreciation for our services. As there are many different individuals involved in the safari experience, from professional hunters to trackers, skinners, and lodge staff, we generally recommend approximately 10% of your total safari to be distributed in consultation with Elandsbosch Safaris. We can make recommendations on proportional tips should you decide on a gratuity.