Lion Trophy Hunting – Complete Guide to African Lion Hunts

Lion trophy hunting remains one of the most iconic and highly regulated dangerous-game hunts in Africa. Hunters travel from around the world for the opportunity to take a mature, wild, free-range African lion—an unforgettable experience requiring patience, expert tracking, and true safari skill. Tanzania is especially known for producing some of the largest East African lions on the continent.

For outfitters, hunt prices, and booking support, visit: Tanzania hunting safari

What Is Lion Trophy Hunting?

Lion trophy hunting is the selective hunting of mature male lions that have passed their reproductive prime. Regulated trophy hunting plays an important role in:

Conservation funding
Anti-poaching operations
Habitat protection
Community support around hunting concessions

Only old, non-prime males are legally hunted, ensuring sustainability and population health.

Where Can You Legally Hunt Lions in Africa?

Only a few African countries allow regulated lion trophy hunting.

Countries Where Lion Trophy Hunting Is Legal (2025/2026):

Tanzania
Zimbabwe
Mozambique
South Africa (mostly private ranch lions—NOT wild, fair-chase)
Namibia (limited, highly regulated areas)

Tanzania is the premier destination for truly wild, free-range lion hunts.

Lion Trophy Hunting in Tanzania

Tanzania is known worldwide for its huge, wild lion populations and vast, unfenced concessions.

Why Tanzania Is #1 for Lion Trophy Hunting

Large, healthy lion populations
Massive wilderness blocks (Rungwa, Selous, Moyowosi)
Low hunting pressure
Experienced Professional Hunters
Proven track record of mature trophy lions

Typical hunts last 18–21 days and involve baiting, tracking, and patient pursuit.

To explore lion hunting packages and pricing, visit: Tanzania hunting safari

How Lion Trophy Hunting Works

1. Scouting & Baiting

Professional hunters locate areas with strong lion activity and place baits—often buffalo or zebra.

2. Trail Camera Monitoring

To identify mature males, outfitters use trail cameras or direct observations.

3. Tracking

Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for tracking older lions.

4. Blind Setup

A shooting blind is positioned based on the lion’s behavior.

5. Ethical Selectivity

Only old mane-darkened males with worn teeth and established age signs are taken.

What Does a Lion Trophy Hunt Cost?

Prices vary by country and concession quality.

Tanzania (Premium Wild Lions): $70,000 – $100,000+

This includes:

18–21 hunting days
Concession fees
PH + tracking team
Premium tented camp

Zimbabwe & Mozambique: $35,000 – $55,000

More accessible but not as premium as Tanzania.

South Africa (captive / non-wild): $10,000 – $25,000

Not considered true fair-chase lion hunting.

Best Areas for Lion Trophy Hunting in Tanzania

1. Rungwa Game Reserve

Famous for:

Large maned lions
Classic East African wilderness
High success rates

2. Selous Game Reserve

Massive ecosystem with excellent lion densities.

3. Moyowosi–Kigosi

Known for heavy-bodied lions in huge remote blocks.

4. Masailand

Unique lions and stunning landscapes.

Best Time of Year for Lion Hunts

August – November is the peak hunting period.

Dry-season conditions:

Increase visibility
Concentrate prey species
Make lion movement easier to predict

How Many Countries in Africa Allow Trophy Hunting Lions?

Currently, five African countries allow regulated lion trophy hunting:

Tanzania
Zimbabwe
Mozambique
Namibia
South Africa

However, the highest quality wild lion hunts occur in Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.

What Makes a Trophy Lion?

A mature trophy lion typically has:

Dark, full mane
Worn, aged teeth
Thick neck and chest
Heavy skull
Mature facial scarring

Age is more important than mane color, though Tanzania lions often have impressive manes.

Lion Trophy Hunting Methods

✔ Baiting

Traditional and most reliable method.

✔ Tracking on Foot

Used when sign is strong.

✔ Calling

Occasionally used to bring territorial males.

What’s Included in a Lion Trophy Hunt?

Most lion packages include:

1×1 Professional Hunter
Tracking team (skinners, porters, driver)
Baiting services
All meals & luxury tented camp
Field preparation of the trophy
Concession and license fees

What’s Not Included?

Trophy fee (varies by country)
Dip & pack
Export documentation
Charter flights (sometimes required)
Gratuities
Rifle import fee

Why Lion Trophy Hunting Supports Conservation

Legal regulated hunting:

Funds anti-poaching
Protects millions of acres of habitat
Supports rural communities
Ensures older non-breeding males are selectively removed

Countries like Tanzania depend heavily on this revenue to maintain their huge protected areas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is lion trophy hunting ethical?

Yes—when conducted legally, targeting old males past breeding age ensures sustainability.

2. How long is a lion hunt?

Most hunts require 18–21 days.

3. How old are the lions hunted?

Typically 6–10+ years old, often well past breeding age.

4. Is lion hunting dangerous?

Yes—lions are one of the most dangerous animals to hunt, requiring expert PH guidance.

Book a Lion Trophy Hunting Safari in Tanzania

For lion hunts, full safari packages, and premium concession access, visit: Tanzania hunting safari