How Much Does It Cost to Hunt an Elephant? Complete Price Guide
If you’re wondering how much does it cost to hunt an elephant, this detailed guide breaks down everything you need to know—trophy fees, daily rates, concession fees, government requirements, safari packages, and the African countries where elephant hunting is legal. Elephant hunting is one of the most regulated and premium big-game hunts in Africa, with a cost that varies widely depending on the country and concession quality.
To explore professional outfitters and book premium dangerous-game hunts, visit: Tanzania hunting safari
How Much Does It Cost to Hunt an Elephant in Africa?
The average cost to hunt an elephant ranges from $20,000 to $80,000+, depending on location, trophy size, permit availability, and the number of hunting days required.
| Country | Cost Range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tanzania | $45,000 – $70,000+ | Premium elephant destinations, very limited quotas |
| Zimbabwe | $25,000 – $45,000 | Higher quota availability but rising fees |
| Namibia | $35,000 – $60,000 | Regulated, stable populations |
| Mozambique | $25,000 – $40,000 | Good tusk quality in some concessions |
Tanzania remains one of the most exclusive and high-quality elephant hunting countries due to its massive wilderness ecosystems and mature bulls.
Elephant Trophy Fees
Elephant trophy fees are separate from daily rates and are paid to the government or concession.
Typical trophy fee range:
$10,000 – $20,000+
Tanzania tends to be on the higher end due to restricted quotas and premium elephant genetics.
Hunt Duration: How Many Days Are Required?
Elephant hunts require more days than most safari packages.
| Hunt Type | Days Required |
|---|---|
| Elephant Bull Hunt | 14–21 days |
| Elephant & Buffalo Combo | 18–21 days |
| Full Big Game Safari | 21–28 days |
More days mean higher daily rates, but also dramatically better chances of taking a mature elephant bull.
Breakdown of Elephant Hunt Costs
1. Daily Rates
Daily rates cover your PH, hunting truck, support team, camp, and ground operations.
Typical daily rate range:
$1,200 – $2,500 per day
(Higher for Tanzania and premium concessions.)
2. Government Fees
This includes:
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Hunting license
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Conservation fees
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Concession fees
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Rifle import permit (usually $250 per rifle)
Expect:
$1,500 – $5,000 total
3. Trophy Fee
Paid only when an elephant is successfully taken (or wounded).
$10,000 – $20,000+
4. Other Costs
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Trophy dip & pack: $1,200 – $2,000
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Charter flights (if required): $2,500 – $6,000
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Observer fee: $350 – $450 per day
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Tips/gratuities
Total All-Inclusive Cost to Hunt an Elephant
Depending on country and outfitter:
Low End: $20,000–$30,000
Average Range: $35,000–$50,000
High-End (Tanzania & premium areas): $60,000–$80,000+
Tanzania is known for producing some of Africa’s heaviest ivory and biggest-bodied bulls, which increases pricing.
Elephant Hunting in Tanzania
Tanzania remains one of the world’s most elite elephant destinations.
Why Hunt Elephant in Tanzania?
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Massive wilderness blocks (Selous, Rungwa, Moyowosi, Masailand)
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Excellent tusk quality
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Low hunting pressure
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Professional hunters with decades of experience
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True free-range hunting
Typical Tanzania elephant hunts cost:
$45,000 – $70,000+, depending on concession and trophy expectations.
For more details and available professional outfitters, visit: Tanzania hunting safari
What Determines the Cost of an Elephant Hunt?
1. Country & Concession Quality
Tanzania and Namibia are premium; Mozambique and Zimbabwe offer more budget-friendly options.
2. Trophy Size / Elephant Age
Older bulls with heavy ivory command higher trophy fees.
3. Days Required
Longer hunts = higher daily rate total.
4. Quota Availability
Low-quota areas raise prices significantly.
5. Type of Safari Camp
Luxury tented camps cost more than standard bush camps.
Elephant Hunting Methods
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Tracking on Foot: Traditional and most effective
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Waterhole Ambush (seasonal)
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Following old bulls (“dagga boy” style)
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Combination hunts with buffalo or lion
Most hunts consist of long tracking days guided by experienced PHs and trackers.
Best Time of Year to Hunt Elephant
July to November
Dry season offers:
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More visibility
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Easier tracking
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Optimal water-source movement
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is elephant hunting legal?
Yes—only in countries with regulated quotas and healthy elephant populations.
2. Can you export ivory?
Depends on your home country’s import regulations. Many countries restrict ivory import.
3. What caliber is required?
Most countries require .375 H&H or larger.
4. How old are elephants taken in hunts?
Typically mature bulls 35–55+ years old.
Request Elephant Hunting Prices
For custom quotes, package details, and available hunting blocks, visit: Tanzania hunting safari