Bow hunting African lions with the best lion hunters in Africa

Trophy bow hunting African lions in South Africa: A challenging pursuit

Bow hunting African lions in South Africa remains legal, however, the export of lion trophies to some countries has become increasingly problematic. For those seeking a truly challenging and rewarding hunting experience, bow hunting lions in South Africa offers a unique opportunity.

The demands of bow hunting African lions

Hunting lions with a bow and arrow requires a combination of skill, patience, and a deep understanding of lion behavior. The walk-and-stalk approach, a standard practice for lion hunting safaris in South Africa, demands physical endurance, stealth, and the ability to judge distance and wind conditions accurately. Judge and confirm the distance to your target and release the arrow – a possible charge is imminent and can negatively affect the safety of the group. You must take your shot without hesitation.

Accommodating hunters of all abilities

While the walk-and-stalk lion hunting method is the norm, we are nevertheless committed to providing hunting experiences tailored to individual abilities. For hunters with mobility limitations, we can offer alternative hunting strategies to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Trophy bow hunting African lions: A demanding pursuit

Approaching a growling lion with a bow in hand is undoubtedly a daunting prospect. While it’s not for everyone, those who have experienced the thrill of bow hunting lions can attest to its unique appeal.

Essential considerations for bow hunting lions

Draw weight: A powerful bow with a high draw weight is essential for penetrating a lion’s vitals and ensuring a clean kill.
Shot placement: Aim for vital organs, such as the heart or lungs, for a quick and humane dispatch.
Safety first: Always prioritize your safety and follow the guidance of your professional hunter.

The role of the Professional Hunter

Your professional hunter will be your guide and safety expert throughout the lion hunt. However, in the event of a dangerous situation, such as a lion charge, he will need need to intervene to protect your safety. As a result, the professional hunter will take the necessary action to neutralize the threat, and the lion will be considered your trophy.

A note of caution

While such situations are rare, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks involved in lion hunting. Always follow your professional hunter’s instructions and prioritize safety above all else.

Good luck on your lion hunting adventure!

Hunters on this page usually want to know more about hunting white lions

Bow hunting African lion prices South Africa

Lion bow hunting prices South Africa for the 2024 African bow hunting season is as follows:

Category 1 lion price	$ 8 800
Category 2 lion price	$ 9 800
Category 3 lion price	$ 10 800
Category 4 lion price	$ 13 500
Category 5 lion price	Price on application

Price Range

The price range for African lion bow hunting safaris in South Africa can vary significantly depending on several factors:

Outfitter: Different outfitters may charge varying rates.
Location: Hunting in certain regions might be more or less expensive.
Package: The specific package you choose, including accommodations, meals, and additional services, will influence the overall cost.
Lion category: The trophy quality or age of the lion you’re aiming for can also affect the price.

Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $10,000 to $25,000 or more for a lion bow hunting safari in South Africa.

Elevate your bow hunting African lion experience:

Luxurious accommodations:

Enjoy comfortable lodging with daily housekeeping and laundry services.
Upgrade to a five-star luxury lodge for an unparalleled experience.

Expert guidance:

Benefit from the expertise of our dedicated Professional Hunter (PH), boasting a minimum of 5 years of full-time professional guiding experience.
Our qualified dangerous game PHs have a minimum of 10 years of specialized experience in dangerous game bow hunting.

All-Inclusive permits and licenses:

All necessary permits and licenses are included in your package, ensuring a hassle-free hunting experience.

Gourmet dining and refreshments:

Indulge in daily breakfast, brunch, and dinner, featuring delectable local cuisine.
Enjoy a variety of beverages, including soft drinks, bottled water, local beer, wine, and spirits.
For specific preferences, we can arrange a stop at a local liquor store.

Seamless transportation:

Benefit from convenient land transportation throughout your hunt.
Your package includes round-trip airport transfers from Johannesburg International Airport.

Trophy hunting and beyond:

All trophy fees for the specified animals are included.
Should you wish to hunt additional animals, we can accommodate your requests.

Authentic African hunting experience:

Our carefully selected hunting concessions feature challenging terrain with thorny Acacia trees.
This natural environment offers a truly authentic African hunting experience.

By choosing our bow hunting African lion package, you’re not just booking a hunt; you’re investing in an unforgettable adventure.

Follow this link to the Price List page

Essential bow hunting equipment to bow hunt African lions

Essential equipment

Ensure you’re equipped for a successful lion bow hunting adventure in South Africa. This guide outlines the key considerations for selecting the right equipment, including kinetic energy, arrows, shot distance, broadheads, and draw weight. The following aspects all adhere to the South African bow hunting regulations, as set out in the: NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT: BIODIVERISTY ACT, 2004 (ACT NO. 10 OF 2004)

Kinetic Energy (KE) for bow hunting African lions:

The minimum kinetic energy (KE) required to bow hunt lions is 60 ft / lb

Arrows for hunting lions:

Arrow velocity of 245 fps is required
A minimum arrow weight of 450 grains (gr) is needed

Expected shot distance:

Average expected bow shot distance on African lions are seldom further than 30 to 35 yards. Mostly the distance is closer due to the shrub and vegetation.

Broad heads:

A fixed blade 2-blade broad head
Fixed 3-blade broad head, or
Mechanical broad head
We make the call on the trophy lion. Your job is to concentrate on accurate shot placement.
Minimum broad head weight is 125 gr.

Draw weight:

The draw weight for bow hunting African lions in South Africa is any increment greater than minimum draw mass. Any draw weight equal to or greater than 80 lb is prescribed for bow hunting lions.

Sights and release aids: personalizing your setup

The choice of bow type, sights, and release aids for bow hunting lions is highly personal and depends on your individual preferences and shooting style. Consequently, a trigger release can work well for one archer, whereas a thumb release is more suitable for another hunter.

Experiment with different options to find the combination that feels most comfortable and allows you to shoot accurate consistently. Consider factors such as:

Bow type: Compound, recurve, or longbow?
Sight type: Pin sights, scope sights, or hybrid options?
Release aid: Trigger release, thumb release, index finger release, or handheld release?

The best equipment is the equipment that works best for you. Take the time to test various options and find the setup that enhances your performance and enjoyment of bow hunting.

Have a look at the other dangerous game hunting opportunities

Bow hunting African lions shot placement

Considerations for shot placement when bow hunting African lions

When bow hunting lions, accurate shot placement is crucial for a clean kill and ethical hunting. Here are some key considerations:

Vital organs: The most effective shot placement is typically aimed at the vital organs, including the heart and lungs. These areas are located in the chest cavity, just behind the front legs. Typically if you have a broadside shot, aim where the mane ends and the body starts.
Avoidance of bone: While a bone shot will eventually kill a lion, it may cause unnecessary suffering. Aim for soft tissue areas to ensure a quick and humane kill.
Ethical hunting: Always prioritize ethical hunting practices. Avoid taking shots that are unlikely to result in a clean kill, and be prepared to assist tracking a wounded lion if necessary.
Angle: The angle of the shot can significantly impact the effectiveness of your aim. A quartering-away shot, often provides a better angle for a clean kill if the angle is not too acute.
Distance: The distance to the target will influence the point of impact. Practice shooting at various distances to ensure accuracy.

African lions are powerful and extremely dangerous animals at close quarters. Approach with caution, maintain a safe distance, and follow the guidance of your professional hunter.

Tips for a successful lion shot:

Patience: Wait for the right shot opportunity. Rushing a shot can lead to mistakes.
Accuracy: Focus on aiming precisely at the vitals.
Ethical hunting: Prioritize a clean kill to minimize suffering.
Practice: Regular practice will improve your shooting skills and increase your chances of a successful hunt.
Hazards in the flight path: Make sure there are no obvious branches, twigs or any other obstructions in the flight path of the arrow.
Note the size of the heart; however, it makes so much more sense to place the arrow accordingly in a much larger target area.

African lion bow hunting safaris Terms and Conditions:

Deposit and booking:

A deposit of $1,000 per hunter is required to secure your desired hunting dates. Cancellations longer than six (6) months of your scheduled departure date will receive a 50% refund. For cancellations within six (6) months of your scheduled departure date will receive no refund. Should the hunting dates be moved for any reason, we will honor the full deposit in accordance with the revised dates.
Our standard hunting contract outlining the full terms and conditions must be signed and returned with the deposit.

Wounded game:

A wounded animal is defined as any animal that requires tracking or further pursuit after an arrow is released. Wounded animals are bought and paid for.
Due to the proximity of the lions on these hunts, we have retrieved all lions hunted with a bow and arrow.

Observers:

Non-hunting companions (observers) are welcome to join the hunt at a daily rate of $180 per person for the duration of the hunt.
Observers must adhere to camp rules and safety guidelines.

No-Kill policy:

In the event of a no-kill hunt, a daily rate of $450 will apply for the hunter(s) for a three- day period or a five-day period respectively.
This fee covers the costs of outfitting, guiding, and accommodations.

Additional information:

Hunters must be physically fit and able to withstand the rigors of an African safari.
Hunters not so mobile anymore: we hunt up to your abilities and cater for your needs.
All hunting activities must be conducted in accordance with South African hunting laws and regulations.

Excluded from the African lion bow hunt

The following is excluded from your lion bow hunting adventure deal:

you are welcome to hunt any additional available animal that crosses your sights at the trophy list price rate.
Gratuities – these are not mandatory but are always most welcome when rewarding the staff for service above and beyond.
Any charter flights – you are welcome to pay charter flight companies direct
Any and all taxidermy-related expenses
Shipping – all shipping is additional to the hunt
Please make use of travel insurance and emergency medical evacuation. Although we have a 100% incident free record, we prefer you to have medical and evacuation insurance.

Bow hunting African lion hunt duration:

The duration of the lion hunting safaris are three (3) days for a 1X1 hunt, and 5 days for a 2X1 hunt respectively. Travel time must be allowed at the front- and back-end of the hunt.

This is how we calculate your hunting days: if you arrive in time for us to depart to and arrive at our bow hunting location during daylight, the following day will be your first hunting day.

If you arrive too late in the day to arrive at the hunting property in daylight, we will start the journey until we stop at a guest house on the way to the hunting property. The cost for this is an additional $ 150 per person that includes dinner, bed and breakfast.

If you arrive at night, we will spend the first night at a local guest house and depart early the nest morning. The additional cost for this is $ 150 per person that includes dinner, bed and breakfast. The following morning upon arrival at your hunting concession is the start of your first hunting day.

Maximize your hunting adventure with post-hunt side trips

After the thrill of your all-inclusive kudu bow hunting safari, why not extend your stay and explore the breathtaking beauty and cultural richness of southern Africa? We can tailor a personalized side trip to suit your interests and preferences.

Here are some popular options:

Cultural Origins:
Discover the vibrant traditions of local native people on a guided cultural safari. Participate in traditional dances, learn about ancient customs, and gain a deeper understanding of South African heritage.
Sun, Sand, and Serenity:
Relax and unwind at the luxurious Sun City resort, a world-class destination offering world-class casinos, water parks, and Gary Player designed golf courses. For wildlife enthusiasts, explore the nearby Pilanesberg National Park on a guided photo safari.
Kruger National Park:
Experience the ultimate African wildlife adventure with an extended visit of at least three days and two nights to Kruger National Park or one of the exclusive private lodges bordering the park. Witness herds of elephants, lions, and rhinos in their natural habitat. A truly South African wildlife adventure on the porch of one of the biggest Big 5 homes in the country.
Cape Town Exploration:
Discover the stunning city of Cape Town, renowned for its iconic Table Mountain, vibrant waterfront, and historical significance. Take a guided tour of Robben Island, the former prison of Nelson Mandela, and indulge in a wine tasting experience at one of the region’s world-famous wineries.
Victoria Falls and beyond:
Start your thrilling adventure to Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Explore the surrounding area, including the Chobe Elephant Park in Botswana, and enjoy guided fishing trips for tiger fish or overnight houseboat safaris.

Ready to plan your post-hunt adventure? Contact us today for a customized itinerary and obligation-free quote. Let us help you create unforgettable memories in South Africa.