Frequently Asked Questions

Where are you situated?

We are situated in the Limpopo province of South Africa. We are between Lephalale and Thabazimbi about 3 and half hours away from Johannesburg.

How long have you been hunting?

Pieter Fourie, the outfitter has been hunting since a young boy, but got his Professional Hunter Licence in 2003. He enjoyed being a professional hunter for most of his time since then, gaining experience. To take his dream further he became an Outfitter in 2013, so he can bring his passion and experience together to form Full Draw Hunting Safaris.

Do you have any references?

We have several references that you can contact. Please contact our offices for more information and contact details.

What does it mean that you offer exclusivity?

When you book with us, we will ensure you have exclusivity to our excellent service and hunting grounds. If you are hunting alone, honeymoon couple enjoying a romantic getaway or a large group of friends. We will cater to your specific needs.

Is South Africa safe?

Yes! As with traveling to any country, please take normal precautions. But don’t worry, as Full Draw Hunting Safaris will be with you every step of the way! From your arrival through your hunt and excursions all the way to your eventual departure. We strive for the health and safety of all guests in our care!

Which airport do i fly into?

O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.

Where will I be met?

You will be met at O.R. Tambo International Airport in the arrivals lounge by your professional hunter. From the time you land in South Africa until the time that you depart, you are in our care.

Which hotel can you recommend in Johannesburg to overnight?

Afton Safari Lodge in Kempton Park, they are 10 min from the airport. They offer airport transfers. This is recommended if your flight arrives in Johannesburg after 15h30 / 16h00 or if you want to avoid night-time travel to the lodge.

Afton Safari Lodge caters to hunters and you will be surrounded by other hunters where you can share stories and experiences.

How do I get to Full Draw Hunting Safaris?

The owners or one of our representatives will meet you at O.R. Tambo international Airport in Johannesburg. You have the choice of staying in Johannesburg at Afton Safari Lodge for your first night and we will pick you up at Afton Safari Lodge.

How far is Full Draw Hunting Safaris from the Airport?

We are approximately 3 – 3 1/2 hours drive from the airport, depending on traffic.

Are there any excursions I can do while on Safaris?

There are a couple of wonderful excursions that you or an observer can do while hunting with us:

• Pilanesberg national park
• Marekele National Park
• Marekele Predator Park
• Curio Shopping
• Lion and Rhino park
• Lesedi Cultural village
• Sun City
• Elephant back riding and interaction
• Spa facilities in town
• When available there is a massage therapist on site
• Or book a 3 – 5 day Kruger national Park trip to coincide with your hunting trip.
• And much more.

Do you offer photographic safaris?

Yes, we do. Tours in the area of your hunt can be arranged for the hunters and non-hunters and South Africa offers numerous Photographic Safaris in our local game parks. As with your hunting safaris, booking is essential.

What type of accommodations are included at the camp, privacy, electricity, and running water?

You will stay in one of our luxurious lodges which all have running water and electricity. Each room is isolated for privacy. There are different size beds to cater to different needs and each room has an en-suite bathroom. You will either be dinning in our thatched lapa or around a big camp fire under a canopy of stars.

Are the camps comfortable enough to bring my family?

All of the camps we use are very comfortable. Observers are welcome to relax in camp or to experience some of the highlights in each area where your safari is conducted, by booking an excursion.

Is there Wi-Fi available at the lodges?

This depends on the location of your hunt thus the connection can range from excellent to no connection. Inquire with our Office for details on your specific lodge.

Can I drink the water there without getting sick?

We recommend in the cities that you drink only bottled water, but in camp our water is safe to drink from the tap, but we keep an abundance of bottled water at the camp for the use by our clients, as borehole water is not to everyone’s taste.

Do we need to bring anything for Mosquitoes and do you have Malaria?

We are in a Malaria free zone! We have mosquito repellents and mosquito body spray available in each room for your use. In winter months there are also no mosquitoes.

What happens if I need to fill a prescription or see a doctor?

We would recommend that you bring enough of your medication along to last you through your trip. But if you are worried that your medications will not last, please ask your doctor to write you a prescription and it can be filled at our local pharmacies. South Africa has excellent medical care and facilities if the need ever arises for you to see a doctor. Please inquire from your travel agent about medical insurance.

What about special insurance coverage?

Please ask you travel agent about this, as they will be able to assist you.

What kind of personal items should I bring?

Still camera, video camera, battery chargers, tripod, sunglasses, binoculars, flashlight and batteries, 220 to 110 Voltage converter and adapter, good reading material, knife, diary and pen, Medical Prescriptions and Allergy Medication (if needed), Insect Repellent, sunscreen lotion (min SPF 20), Lip Balm (with sunscreen), Personal Toiletries, Hat/cap, Warm Jacket and gloves, 4 pairs of clothing (We have daily laundry services available), face mask, Camp Shoes, Walking boots (already walked in),

What kind of converter plug do I need?

South African electricity supply is 220/230 volts AC 50 HZ. Most plugs are 15 amp 3-prong or 5 amp 2-prong, with round pins. Please bring the relevant adapter plugs as purchasing in some locations we hunt is not possible. You can find converters and adapters at any electronics store.

What currency must I bring with?

The South African Rand (ZAR) is used all over South Africa. You can exchange money at the airport or in town. Most Shops, Hotels and restaurants accept Visa and Master Card. You can settle your account with us in US$ or Euro cash or via Bank Transfer (EFT) or via Credit Card.

Do you accept Credit Card?

Yes, we do except credit card. Please note that a 3% additional charge will be added to the bill to use this facility.

 

Do you offer both bow and rifle hunting safaris?

Yes, some of the concessions in which we hunt are completely dedicated to bow hunting with blinds and hides set up in good vantage points. Other concessions are solely dedicated to rifle hunting.

When is the hunting season for plains game?

The season is all year round however December and January are not recommended due to the hotter climate and breeding season of animals.

What is the best time of year to hunt?

The prime time to hunt with the bow is from June to end August during dark moon. As it is usually our drier months and visibility is better due to the leaves that have fallen and animals are more likely to be seen around the watering hole.

For Rifle hunting it is very much the same months, but don’t forget April and May when the rut is in full swing, is also good months to consider.

What is the difference between 1 on 1 Hunter and 2 on 1 Hunter?

A 1 on 1 hunter has a dedicated service to his own professional hunter, hunting vehicle and driver/tracker.

A 2 on 1 hunter share a professional hunter, a hunting vehicle and driver/tracker. This is especially for two friends or couple that would like to save on costs and enjoy their hunt together.

What is an Observer?

An Observer is a companion that joins you on your hunting trip that will not be hunting.

Can an observer hunt?

Yes, an observer can shoot one of your trophies included in your package or another trophy on the price-list at the price-list cost, on the condition that for the day or days that he/she hunts they will be charged a hunting daily rate. If the hunter decides to shoot the same trophy, time permitting, that trophy will count as an additional trophy and will be charged accordingly.

Can my children hunt with me?

Yes! We are a family-based operation and love children of any age. Just remember that when traveling with your child to and in South Africa that you will need their original birth certificate to enter the country.

I am a beginner hunter; will you be able to assist me on my first trip to Africa?

Yes, all beginner hunters are welcome or those coming to Africa for the first time. We will be with you every step of the way. We will conduct your hunt at your speed and take you through every step at your pace.

I am an experienced hunter; and have hunted most of the species, what can you offer me?

What a wonderful accomplishment. Is there a trophy that eludes you? Would you like to hunt the smaller antelope? Please contact us and we will build a package to your specific need.

How experienced are your professional hunters?

All of our Professional Hunters have at least ten years of hunting experience and are licensed for plains game hunting. They are all passionate and knowledgeable guides

What are Trophy Fees?

Trophy fees are the cost for the animals that you shoot. There are different fees for each individual animal. These fees are also payable in the unlikely event that you wound an animal and do not recover it. We will do everything in our power to try to track a wounded animal, but if we can’t find it we have to charge you the trophy fee for its loss. Our trophy fees can be found at our price-list page.

When is a trophy wounded?

When in the unlikely event, a shot is taken and the animal reacts in a way that indicates that the bullet/arrow has hit it, but it seems that it did not hit the vitals properly or it drew blood, skin, hair or body fluids. The Professional hunter will look for any indication of blood, hair, skin or any other fluids. This will be shown to you, and the professional hunter and tracker will do everything in their power to recover the trophy or give you a second shot at the trophy.

What happens if I don’t shoot some of the animals in my package?

Although it is highly unlikely, but as we know in hunting nothing is guaranteed, there is a refund. When there is an animal that eludes us and no opportunity is presented to you, we will refund you 50% of the listed trophy price. Note: That when you are repeatedly given a shot at a mature representative of the trophy and you either repeatedly miss or you refuse to shoot the animal (that is shown to you by the Professional Hunter), due to a certain size limitation you have, the trophy will not be refunded.

What if I would like to take trophies of minimum lengths on a package?

On the packages we guarantee mature animals, regardless of size restraints. All your animals might make SCI or Rowland award, and you will not be charged extra if they do, unless the package has size restrictions clearly stated and is voided by yourself while out hunting and your PH informs you that it is over the restriction.

If you would like to take a trophy of a minimum length, we can custom build a package for you which will cost a little bit extra, as we will have to scout around more for animals of your size requirements.

Can I add additional animals to my package and what would be their cost?

Yes, there is a couple of ways you can customize your hunt.

If you want to specifically add a certain trophy to an existing package, please add an additional day for each trophy you would like, to ensure there is amble time to hunt all the animals in your package

Remember, during your hunt you may encounter many different trophies that is not on your package. It will be your choice if you take this trophy and the trophy fee that is on the price-list will be added to your safari balance at the end of your safari.

If the package does not have the animals of your choice or length of stay, please contact us for a build-you-own-package quote.

What if I am interested in hunting animals that are not included in any of the packages?

We have many hunters that have hunted Africa before and have many of the trophies already listed in the packages.

Let us know what trophies you would like and we will quote you with the suggested timeline for these trophies, and give you discount on the listed trophy price where possible.

Other hunters, would like to hunt a certain length of time and hunt what crosses their paths and just enjoy the hunt. We work out a custom quote to suit their needs.

Can my wife and kids or other companions on my safari go along with me during my actual hunts?

Yes, what better way to enjoy your safari with the person that you brought along. They will be able to share in the memories as they happen. Please note that if they would like to walk and stalk with you, they will have to be as quiet as possible and to ensure their safety listen to the Professional Hunter’s instructions at all times. The Professional Hunter also reserves the right to ask the observer to stay with the vehicle if he feels that your best chance to get your trophy is being alone for that specific stalk.

With Dangerous game, as the name suggests these animals are dangerous and split-second decisions are called for. Unarmed or unskilled individuals are not allowed with the hunter during his walks and stalks, for the safety of all involved.

Does the hunt start the day I arrive?

No, your first day is on us! Due to the length of your flight and the drive to get to camp, we want to give you the chance to unwind and unpack at your leisure. We also shoot in rifles and bows to make sure that all your equipment is ready to go for the next day when the hunting starts. Your Professional hunter also uses this time to get you familiar with trophies you are going to shoot, safety procedures and answer any questions you may have.

If all goes smoothly and light permits, you are given the option of going out for an afternoon game drive, but you will be charged a half day hunting daily rate if you shoot a trophy.

Can I bring the meat back?

Unfortunately, you will not be able to take the meat back or send it to friend in South Africa, but you will enjoy some of the meat of your trophies during your stay. The meat is also the property of Full Draw Hunting Safaris.

What happens to the meat of my trophies?

Your trophies will be enjoyed in camp either by you or the staff. We also donate some of the carcasses to the local community. Some of the carcasses is sold to restaurants and shops to be enjoyed by the South African people.

How do I Pay for the balance of my safari?

You can do an EFT (Bank Transfer) into our accounts or you can settle your bill with cash. We also have credit card facilities available, but 3% levy is charged when you use this service.

How long does it take to get my skulls, hides and horns back?

It usually takes anything from 1 year to 1 and half years for the completion of your order. We recommend Bulls Eye Taxidermist or Highveld Taxidermy.

Who do I pay for the dipping, packing and shipping?

For all dipping, shipping and completion of your trophies you pay your taxidermist

What is included in the Daily rate?

• Accommodations, including linen and towels
• All Meals which includes breakfast, light lunch, 3 course dinner, as well as snacks
• Local beverages, including soft drinks, house wine, local beer and local hard liquor. All alcohol in moderation.
• Daily Laundry, ironing and maid service
• Transportation to and from O.R. Tambo (Johannesburg) International Airport
• Licensed Professional Hunter, Trackers and Skinners
• All permits and hunting licenses, excluding CITIES
• Field Preparation of Trophies (skinning, caping and salting)
• All transportation to and from hunting areas utilizing a 4×4 safari vehicle
• Delivery of trophies to our local taxidermist.

What is not included in the Daily Rates?

• Airplane tickets
• Personal items
• Insurance
• Side trips
• Taxidermy work
• Accommodations before and after the hunt
• Gratuity
• Specialty wines, specialty beers or liquors, requested by you.

 

Why do I need to sign an indemnity form/hunting contract before starting my hunt?

This is a legal requirement of our Insurance Company compiled under legal guidelines for both parties involved. No person may hunt or go on Safari under our supervision without signing the Indemnity Form.

What is the size of your hunting concession where the hunt would occur?

We have various hunting concessions that range from 600 ha to 10000 ha. All hunting concessions are fully stocked with various game.

Will someone from your team be with us during our whole safaris?

Yes, from the day you arrive, while you are hunting, on excursions and up until your departure you will be with you.

Can I hunt from the vehicle?

Only medically unfit or disabled hunters are legally allowed to shoot from the vehicle and a medical certificate stating this is required.

Are the hunting high fenced or free range?

98% of hunting areas in South Africa are high fenced. The concessions we hunt on are big thus we ensure fair chase hunting at all times.

 

Do I need to do anything special for shipping my bow?

You will need a very sturdy bow case that is impact resistant. The stronger, the better. Remember it must withstand the abuse of the airline workers.

Is it difficult to get my bow into South Africa?

Unlike rifles, bows are not regulated coming into South Africa. You will collect your bow at the over sized luggage and proceed through Customs.

How is bow hunting conducted?

Bow hunting is conducted at strategic places from ground or pit blinds. We have after many years of experience, converted most elevated-blinds to pit blinds or ground blinds. These blinds are much more successful and most scents and noises are eliminated. The blinds are spacious and dark on the inside. Your best success for bow hunting will always be from the permanent blinds. We also offer tree stand hunting from game trails or mineral licks in the bush away from water holes. Spot-and-stalk is also an option, and our area offers great opportunities for this method of hunting even though it is less successful than blind hunting

What type of bow set up should I bring?

For plains game hunting, you should bring your normal big game set up you would use for whitetail or any other type of deer. You don’t need to buy a special 80 lb bow set up just to shoot plains game. We have archers who use compound, recurve and longbows, as well as crossbows. The most important aspect of your hunt will be that you are very familiar with and extremely proficient shooting the bow you bring along. Buying a brand-new bow just before you start your safari is not recommended.

What Broadhead do you recommend?

Again, whatever you use on whitetail or other type of deer successfully should work just fine in Africa. For good blood trails you need the 3 or 4 bladed heads and for good penetration (low poundage shooters) the cut on impact 2 bladed broadheads. Make sure the broadhead you pick are sharp and that the blades are strong! The less cutting diameter you have, the better penetration you will get. You are allowed to use mechanical broadheads, but be sure you have had good success with the mechanical you bring to Africa, as we have had several mechanical broadheads that malfunctioned and clients lost their trophies! The Rage mechanical and NAP are highly recommended. Low pound shooters should not use mechanical broadheads.

What is the minimum recommendations for Bow Hunting in South Africa?

Species	Min Draw Weight (lbs)	Min. Kinetic Energy (ft/lbs)	Min. Total Arrow Weight (gr.)
Small Game (Category 1): Game birds, small carnivores, hares, hyraxes, rabbits and pygmy antelope	40	30	300
Medium Game (Category 2): Reedbuck, Impala, Blesbuck, Warthog, Bushpig, Springbuck, and Nyala	50	50	400
Large Game (Category 3): Wildebeests, Kudu, Gemsbok, Zebra, Waterbuck, Sable and Hartebeests	60	60	500
Dangerous Game (Category 4): Cape Buffalo (need special permit)	80	80	750
(Category 5): Giraffe (need special permit)	90	90	750

Hippo, elephant, crocodile and both rhinos are not allowed to be hunted with the bow according to Nature Conservation Limpopo.

Other things to consider:

In the case of Category 1 -3 animals, if you want to use mechanical broadheads add an additional 5% kinetic energy

Broadheads must have at least two cutting edges

Minimum arrow length is 50 cm (about 20 inches)

Information from Government Gazette 11 December 2009

How do I work out my Kinetic energy of my bow?

To work out you will have to know your Arrow speed and Arrow weight.

You don’t have your arrow speed or a machine to measure, don’t worry you can work it out, if you know your bows IBO (International Bowhunting Organization) speed rating.

All IBO tests are set to a specific standard

• Draw weight: 70 lbs
• Draw length: 30”
• Arrow Weight of 350 gr.

As you change your bow in any of these facets, so will the arrow speed.

Check out http://bestcompoundbowsource.com/whats-bows-real-speed/ for more information.

Do I need lighted pins?

Yes, especially for shooting early mornings or late afternoons from the pit blinds as they are quite dark on the inside

What type of shooting practice should I do to get ready for my safari?

Shooting on level ground, from tree stands and from inside pop up blinds would all be very good practice. You need to be very proficient from 40 yards and closer. Most shots do take place under 20 yards from blinds, but you may get longer shots from tree stands, spot and stalk or even a second shot on a wounded animal further away from the blind, so practice and be very proficient.

Do your guides understand bowhunting?

The guides are knowledgeable about bowhunting and we love bowhunting. We also have knowledgeable people who can if necessary, service your bows in the local area

Do I have to bring an extra bow in case something happens to my bow?

If you feel you need the security of an additional bow, it is recommended but it is not necessary if you don’t own an extra bow to buy an additional bow.

How far can one expect shot opportunities from blinds?

Anything between 10 yards to 40 yards.

Do you offer spot and stalk opportunities for bowhunters?

Yes, we can accommodate the spot and stalk bowhunter, but you must realize that it takes a lot of more work to come in range and longer distance shots will be needed. So, if you feel that you would like to spot and stalk, please ensure that you are proficient at 60 yards.

 

 

Do you only accommodate bow hunters?

No, we cater for rifle hunters as well. The bow hunters have their own hunting areas apart from the rifle areas.

Do you allow rifle hunts on your archery areas?

Certain bow hunting concession owners do allow rifle hunting depending on the time of year, but will not allow hunting near the hides. We also have very good rifle hunting concessions.

Can I hire a rifle?

Yes, we have various calibers available that you can hire and that will cater to your needs. Please inquire from our offices to the costs.

Can I bring my own rifle and what is required?

Yes, you can bring your own rifle with a temporary firearm import and export permit.  What a great way to do a safari, then with a rifle you are familiar with. You will have to fill in a SAPS 520 form either prior to your arrival or on arrival. We would suggest to get a pre-approved permit as you walk in hand over your paperwork and walk out. No long queues. Please contact Afton Safari Lodge to assist you in this info@aftonsafarilodge.com

What is the minimum hunting requirement for Rifles and Handguns?

Species	Min Rifle Caliber
Furred game up to and including the size of rock hyrax and feathered game	.22 or 5.56 mm rimfire rifle
Furred Game up to and including the size of a springbok	.22 or 5.56 center fire rifle
Furred Game larger than Springbuck, up to including eland, but excluding dangerous game or giraffe and ostrich	.270 or 7 mm rifle
Giraffe, Dangerous game and pachyderms, provided the bullet is full metal jacket (solid) or monolithic solid construction	.375 H&H Magnum or larger

 

Handgun Barrel length
100 mm for – Center fire single action revolver Center fire double action revolver Rimfire single action revolver Rimfire double action revolver	See below table for min. caliber
150 mm center fire single action break neck pistol	Furred Game and Feathered game including Ostrich
150 mm rimfire single action break neck pistol	Furred Game up to and including the size of a rock hyrax, and feathered game
150 mm center fire bolt action pistol	Furred Game and Feathered game including Ostrich
150 mm rimfire bolt action pistol	Furred Game up to and including the size of a rock hyrax, and feathered game
150 mm Center fire falling block pistol	Furred Game and Feathered game including Ostrich
150 mm rimfire falling block pistol	Furred Game up to and including the size of a rock hyrax, and feathered game
125 mm for – Center fire semi-automatic pistol Rimfire semi-automatic pistol	See list below

 

Type of handgun	Species
Rimfire single or double action revolver	Furred game up to the size of rock hyrax and feathered game
Center fire single or double action revolver of less than .357 Magnum	Furred game larger than a rock hyrax, up to and including the size of grey duiker.
Center fire single or double action revolver of .357 magnum or larger caliber	Furred Game larger than grey duiker and Ostrich
Rimfire semi-automatic pistol	Furred game up to and including the size of a rock hyrax and feathered game
Center fire semi-automatic pistol smaller than .357 magnum or 357 Sig	Furred game larger than a rock hyrax, up to and including the size of grey duiker.
Center fire semi-automatic pistol larger than .357 magnum or 357 Sig	Furred Game larger than grey duiker and Ostrich

 Can I bring my muzzleloader?

Yes, you can bring your muzzleloader. Unfortunately, you will not be allowed to bring the percussion caps/primers and black powder into South Africa. That we will have to purchase here for you. You will also not allowed to take any of the powder, percussion caps or primers back with you.

How would you recommend I transport my Rifle?

Remember that your rifle and scope will have to survive the abuse of the airlines. A strong sturdy case with strong locks is highly recommended.

Can I bring my own ammunition?

Yes, you are allowed to bring 200 rounds per caliber per gun per person into South Africa. When booking your flight please find out from your airline what is the specific packing requirements for ammunition on their flight.

What range should my scope be sighted in for and what distances will my shooting be at?

We recommend you sight in your rifle at 100 yards as the average shots you will be taking will be between 80 and 125 yards. When taking longer shots, please ensure that you are comfortable with the shot, as tracking wounded animals will take up valuable time, that could have been spent hunting.