Big Game Hunting in Tanzania – Ultimate Guide
Big game hunting in Tanzania is considered the finest dangerous-game experience in Africa. With enormous wilderness concessions, legendary lion and leopard populations, and massive Cape buffalo herds, Tanzania remains the crown jewel of East African safaris. Hunters seeking true fair-chase adventure, premium trophies, and classic East African safari style choose Tanzania year after year.
For outfitters, packages, and bookings, visit: Tanzania hunting safari
Why Tanzania Is Africa’s Premier Big Game Hunting Destination
Tanzania offers:
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Over 200,000+ km² of wild hunting concessions
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Exceptional lion, leopard, and buffalo populations
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Free-range, non-fenced hunting
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Highly experienced Professional Hunters (PHs)
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Low hunting pressure with limited quotas
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Classic tented safari camps and remote wilderness zones
From the massive Rungwa blocks to legendary Selous and Masailand, Tanzania delivers unmatched big-game opportunities.
Top Big Game Species to Hunt in Tanzania
1. Cape Buffalo
Tanzania is known for:
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Huge buffalo herds
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Big-bodied, old “dagga boys”
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Exceptional success rates
A 7–10 day buffalo hunt is one of the most popular dangerous-game packages.
2. Lion
Tanzania offers some of Africa’s most successful lion hunting:
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Iconic East African lions
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Remote, low-pressure concessions
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Expert PHs specializing in lion baiting and tracking
Lion hunts typically require 18–21 days.
3. Leopard
Tanzania’s rugged terrain produces large, mature leopards:
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High-density areas in Rungwa, Moyowosi, and Selous
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Professional baiting and blind setup
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Excellent trophy quality
Leopard hunts are usually 12–14 days.
4. Sable & Roan Antelope
Tanzania holds one of Africa’s healthiest sable populations:
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Western Tanzania is a sable hotspot
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Large-bodied, heavy-horned bulls
5. Plains Game (Masailand & Southern Tanzania)
Includes:
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Eland
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Greater & Lesser Kudu
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Waterbuck
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Zebra
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Wildebeest
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Hartebeest
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Impala
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Gazelle
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Warthog
Masailand species are especially unique and sought-after.
Where to Hunt Big Game in Tanzania
1. Selous Game Reserve
Known for:
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Buffalo
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Lion
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Leopard
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Crocodile
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Plains game
One of Africa’s last untouched wilderness ecosystems.
2. Rungwa Game Reserve
Excellent for:
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Leopard
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Buffalo
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Lion
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Sable
Rungwa is famous for its rugged terrain and trophy quality.
3. Masailand
Home to:
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Greater Kudu
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Lesser Kudu
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Grant’s & Thompson’s Gazelle
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Fringe-eared Oryx
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Eland
Masailand offers unique species not found elsewhere in Tanzania.
4. Moyowosi & Kigosi
Known for:
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Massive lion
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Exceptional buffalo
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Sable
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Roan
Remote, pristine, and wildlife-rich.
Hunting Seasons in Tanzania
July 1 – December 31 each year.
Best months for big game:
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July–August: Ideal for leopard
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August–October: Peak buffalo & lion
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September–November: Hot, dry, and perfect for dangerous game
Big Game Hunting Packages in Tanzania (2025/2026)
| Hunt Type | Duration | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Buffalo Hunt | 7–10 days | $15,000 – $22,000 |
| Leopard Hunt | 12–14 days | $27,000 – $38,000 |
| Lion Hunt | 18–21 days | $70,000 – $100,000 |
| Full Bag Safari | 21+ days | $90,000 – $150,000+ |
| Plains Game Safari | 7–10 days | $7,500 – $12,000 |
Trophy fees are separate and depend on the concession.
What’s Included in Big Game Hunting Safaris
Most outfitters include:
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1×1 or 2×1 Professional Hunter
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Hunting vehicle
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Trackers & skinners
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Accommodation (luxury tented bush camp)
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All meals & drinks
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Laundry service
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Trophy field preparation
What’s Excluded
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Trophy fees
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Firearm import fees ($250 per rifle)
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Charter flights (remote concessions)
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Observer fees
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Dip & Pack
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Gratuities
What Makes Big Game Hunting in Tanzania Different?
✔ Huge concessions—no fences
✔ Old, mature trophies
✔ Classic safari traditions
✔ Limited quotas increase trophy quality
✔ Professional hunters with decades of experience
Tanzania represents hunting as it was 50 years ago—raw, wild, and authentic.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Tanzania good for dangerous game hunting?
Yes—Tanzania is one of the top destinations for lion, leopard, and buffalo.
2. How many days do I need to hunt big game?
Lion: 18–21 days
Leopard: 12–14 days
Buffalo: 7–10 days
3. Are hunts fair-chase?
Yes—Tanzania hunts are 100% free-range and non-fenced.
4. When should I book?
At least 6–12 months ahead, especially for lion and leopard blocks.
Book Your Big Game Hunting in Tanzania
For package details, availability, and custom quotes, visit: Tanzania hunting safari