Big Game Hunting

The African Big Five—elephant, lion, buffalo, leopard, and rhino—are renowned for the adrenaline rush they provide, making Big Five safaris unforgettable experiences. At no stage during these hunts can you afford to let your guard down, until the animal is down.

Each of the Big Five has distinctive habits and temperaments that require the guidance of an experienced professional hunter. Knowledge of their behavior is crucial for protecting the hunter from these dangerous animals in their natural habitat and ensuring success.

Of the African Big Five, the Cape buffalo arguably have earned the most notorious reputation. These stocky animals refuse to give up, garnering immense respect from hunters. Older bulls, often referred to as "dagga boys," are known for rolling in the mud, resulting in their bodies being covered in sun-dried mud.

Seeing lions in zoos, pictures, and hunting videos doesn't do them justice. As the saying goes, hunters experience fear three times when hunting these majestic cats: when they first see the track, when they hear the roar, and when they come face-to-face with the lion.

A large lion can weigh over 500 pounds. With its immense strength, claws, and teeth, it truly earns its title as the king of the jungle. During the day, lions may lie around, appear docile  and move away when approached, but at night, they have absolutely no fear at all.

The leopard is considered the best stealth hunter in Africa, with exceptional camouflage that allows it to blend seamlessly with its surroundings. Despite its size, it is incredibly powerful and can hoist prey weighing up to 250 pounds high into trees. This behavior helps leopards protect their kills from hyenas and other predators.

In South Africa, leopards have become elusive due to years of harassment from livestock farmers. Not all have mastered the skills required to successfully hunt these formidable cats. At Trophy Trackers Africa, we have achieved an amazingly high success rate, ensuring you are awarded the best possibility of taking a leopard.

Leopards prefer rocky terrain and lush river or stream vegetation.