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    Crocodile Hunts

    Crocodile Hunts

    Browse Crocodile Hunts in Africa

    Crocodile Hunts in Africa

    Hunting Crocodiles is an exciting, adrenaline-filled, dangerous game hunting adventure that ticks all the boxes when it comes to danger, excitement, and respect for one of nature’s most powerful apex predators. 

    It requires sharp instincts, careful planning, and absolute vigilance, as Crocodiles are highly intelligent, fast, and perfectly adapted to their watery habitats, giving them a great advantage over the hunter.

    The thrill of stalking these predators offers an unparalleled challenge that tests both a hunter's endurance and skill. When the final shot is taken and a trophy Crocodile is harvested, the feeling of accomplishment creates an unforgettable African safari trip that embodies the spirit of big game hunting on the Dark Continent.

    These powerful predators are often found basking in the sun, near bodies of water, including swamps, marshes, rivers, and lakes. Although they prefer fresh water habitats, they can also be found in river basins, lagoons, and wetlands across the African continent.

    Four species of Crocodiles call Africa home, namely the Nile Crocodile, the West African Crocodile, the Slender-snouted Crocodile, and the Dwarf Crocodile. Only the first two species are actively hunted as trophies.

    The Nile Crocodile is found in eastern, southern, and central Africa, including South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Botswana, Namibia, Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, the Central African Republic, Chad, amongst others. The West African Crocodile is found in West and Central Africa, including Ghana, Gabon, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, Senegal, Ivory Coast, and Uganda. 

    A CITES permit is required for a Crocodile hunt, with many countries having additional permits or regulations that need to be considered.

    Crocodile hunts are usually conducted on a minimum of a 5-day dangerous game hunting safari and are often part of a Crocodile-Hippo package, as they two members of Africa’s Dangerous 7 share the same habitat.

    Available African Crocodile Hunts

    Where to go on a Crocodile Hunt

    Popular countries where you can enjoy a Nile crocodile hunting safari include South Africa, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Tanzania, Namibia, and Botswana, while the West African Crocodile is often hunted in Uganda, Gabon, Cameroon, the Republic of Congo, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

    South Africa is home to some spectacular Crocodile hunting locations, with the Limpopo, North West, and Mpumalanga provinces being prime Crocodile hunting regions. Lake Kariba in both Zambia and Zimbabwe is renowned for its exceptional trophies, while Lake Cahora Bassa in Mozambique also produces good-quality Crocodile trophies. Botswana’s famous Okavango Delta is a great choice for a Nile Crocodile safari, while Namibia’s freshwater systems also play host to this apex predator and ensure some unforgettable dangerous game hunting adventures.

    When to Hunt Crocodile

    A Crocodile hunt is best conducted early morning or late afternoon when the Crocodile is more likely to be basking at the water’s edge, allowing the hunter more visibility and accessibility. But don’t be surprised if this apex predator quickly and quietly slips into the water without a moment’s hesitation; they are extremely sensitive to vibrations so an undetected walk-and-stalk to get within range is quite challenging.

    The best time to the year to hunt Crocodiles is during the dry season (May to October), when the water levels are lower, these reptiles are more concentrated within the bodies of water, and the hunter has more chance of a successful dangerous game hunting adventure.

    Crocodile hunting in Africa is an art and requires intense skill to hit that specific sweet spot when it comes to shot placement. The best shot placement on a crocodile, whether in or out of the water, focuses on two main target areas: the brain and the neck/spinal column. At times a hunter will be aiming at the brain, an area the size of a golf ball, requiring great marksmanship and concentration, but a shot here will kill the Crocodile instantly. However, there is the risk that this reptile will move and thrash, with the potential of sliding into the water if on a water bank.

    A shot on the neck or spinal column just behind the remains the preferred shot of many hunters and anchors the animal more effectively. This shot placement option allows a larger target area and less movement afterwards. Follow up shots remain crucial.

    Why go Crocodile Hunting

    One of Africa’s Dangerous 7, the Crocodile is a highly valued dangerous game hunting trophy in hunting circles. A Crocodile hunt showcases a hunter’s expert marksmanship, courage, patience, and overall skillset in harvesting one of Africa’s most dangerous apex predators.

    Traditionally, Crocodile hunting in Africa has been ongoing for centuries. Firstly, they were hunted for their skins and meat, while nowadays trophy hunters seek them out as a sought-after and unusual trophy to add to their collections. There is nothing quite like facing this cold-blooded killing machine while sitting in a rickety Mokoro in the middle of a river, knowing that you must place the first shot accurately, or risk losing your prized trophy forever as it sinks or slides away into the water depths.

    Safari Inclusions on a Crocodile Hunt

    A standard Crocodile hunt will include the basic service offerings such as accommodation, meals, drinks, professional hunter, camp staff, trackers, on-territory transport, and field preparation of the Elephant trophy. 

    Exclusions and optional extras when Crocodile hunting in Africa:

    • Transfers from your arrival point into the country, to the hunting concession and return (road or private air charter) 
    • The Crocodile trophy fee is often shown separately as it is refundable if the hunt is not successful
    • Dip and pack of the trophy
    • Taxidermy and international shipping options

    Tips when Crocodile Hunting

    • Ensure that you are physically and mentally prepared for the Crocodile hunt
    • The best time of the day to undertake a Crocodile hunt is early morning or late afternoon, when these cold-blooded reptiles are more active.
    • While the walk-and-stalk method is often used when hunting Crocodiles, they are highly sensitive to vibrations and can disappear into the water with a moment's notice. For this reason, blinds and the ambush method are often used when Crocodile hunting.
    • Wear camouflage clothing and use spotting scopes, binoculars, and laser range finders that will assist you to stay hidden while accurately spotting Crocodile trophies from a distance
    • Always hunt with an experienced PH and listen to their instructions carefully
    • Prioritize safety, carrying field first aid kits and equipment
    • Be patient during your Crocodile hunt and don't rush to harvest the first Crocodile you see, you will have more than one opportunity  
    • Learn about the local legal and ethical considerations and regulations linked to Crocodile hunts in your destination of choice
    • Crocodile hunts require a CITES permit, and in some countries, additional regulations and permits apply

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    Whether it’s finding crocodile hunts, stalking, or walking and stalking at dawn, we’re here to deliver the experience of a lifetime with integrity and precision.

    ✉️ Contact us today to speak with an expert and plan your tailored crocodile adventure.

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