African Lion Hunt Cost – Prices, Packages & Trophy Fees in Tanzania
The ultimate guide to understanding the real cost of hunting lions in Africa . If you’re researching African lion hunt cost, you’ve come to the right place. Tanzania remains the premier destination for ethical, fair-chase lion hunting, offering some of the continent’s best trophy males, most authentic wilderness areas, and highest success rates.
At Tanzania Hunting Safari, we offer transparent pricing, premium big-cat safari packages, and access to Tanzania’s top lion concessions.
How Much Does an African Lion Hunt Cost?
The cost of an African lion hunt varies depending on the country, concession quality, days in the field, and trophy availability.
For 2025, the average African lion hunt cost in Tanzania is:
⭐ $65,000 – $95,000+ (21-Day Lion Safari)
This includes the safari package but excludes trophy fees, which vary depending on the region.
African Lion Hunt Cost Breakdown (Tanzania)
Below is a transparent cost breakdown so you know exactly what to expect.
1. Lion Safari Package (Required)
21-Day Lion Trophy Hunt
Cost: $65,000 – $95,000
This covers:
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1×1 Professional Hunter
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Trackers, skinners & full camp staff
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Luxury tented or lodge safari camp
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Meals, drinks & laundry
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Hunting vehicle & fuel
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Hunting license & government fees
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Conservation area use
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Baiting materials & labor
2. Lion Trophy Fee
Trophy Fee Range: $8,000 – $15,000
(Varies by concession and season)
3. Additional Required Costs
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Rifle import permit | $350 |
| Trophy handling (dipping/packing) | $500–$1,200 |
| Observer fee (optional) | $350–$450/day |
| Concession/Block fee | Varies by area |
Total African Lion Hunt Cost in Tanzania
When all costs are added, the true cost of hunting a lion in Africa (Tanzania) usually ranges between:
➡️ $75,000 – $110,000+ total
Hunters choosing premium concessions, larger safari durations, or combination hunts (lion + leopard + buffalo) may spend more.
Tanzania vs. Other Countries – Lion Hunt Cost Comparison
| Country | Lion Type | Total Cost | Wild or Captive? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tanzania | Wild, mature males | $75k–$110k+ | 100% Wild |
| Namibia | Non-dangerous game lions (special permits) | $30k–$50k | Mostly fenced |
| Zimbabwe | Wild lions | $45k–$75k | Partially wild/fenced |
| South Africa | Canned/captive-bred lions | $10k–$25k | Captive (not wild) |
Tanzania is the most expensive, but also offers the only true fair-chase lion hunting left in Africa, making it the gold standard.
Why Tanzania Offers the Best African Lion Hunting
1. Wild, Free-Range Lions
No canned hunting. No fences. No captive-bred lions.
2. Mature Trophy Males
Strict rules allow only 6+ year old males, ensuring sustainability.
3. Huge Wilderness Areas
Massive hunting concessions in:
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Rungwa
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Nyerere (Selous Reserve)
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Masailand
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Moyowosi
4. High Success Rates
Top areas see 65%–85% success depending on season and hunter skill.
5. Legendary PH Expertise
Tanzania’s Professional Hunters are among the most experienced big-cat specialists in the world.
What Your African Lion Hunt Includes
A full lion safari includes everything needed:
✔ Fair-chase hunting
✔ Experienced PH & support team
✔ All baiting & tracking
✔ Comfortable safari lodging
✔ Daily laundry & full catering
✔ Trophy preparation
Everything except trophy fees and export preparation is typically included.
How Lion Hunting Works – Step by Step
1. Pre-hunt briefing
Firearm check, hunt strategy, concession overview.
2. Tracking & scouting
Following spoor, listening for roars, locating active males.
3. Baiting process
Zebra, buffalo, or wildebeest quarters placed in strategic locations.
4. Blind setup
Blinds are constructed 40–80 meters from bait trees.
5. Final shot opportunity
Lions often revisit bait at dawn or dusk.
Your PH ensures a safe, ethical shot.
Best Time to Hunt Lions in Tanzania
Peak months are:
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August
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September
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October
These months offer:
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Dry conditions
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High visibility
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More predator movement
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Excellent success rates
Rifle Recommendations for Lion Hunting
Lion hunting requires controlled power and reliable accuracy.
Best calibers:
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.375 H&H
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.416 Rigby
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.458 Lott
Bullet type:
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Soft-point expanding bullets (300–400 grain)
Why Book With Tanzania Hunting Safari
Booking your hunt with Tanzania Hunting Safari gives you:
⭐ Access to the best lion concessions in Tanzania
⭐ 100% ethical, legal, wild-lion hunts
⭐ Premium tented/lodge camps
⭐ Decades of big-cat hunting experience
⭐ Smooth logistics, rifle permits & trophy export
⭐ Custom lion, leopard & buffalo combination safaris
Tanzania is unmatched when it comes to true wild lion hunting — and our team delivers exceptional success rates.
Book Your African Lion Hunt Today
If you’re ready to experience a genuine African lion hunt, Tanzania offers the most authentic and rewarding big-cat hunting safari in the world.