Travel Information for Your Safari Adventure

Planning your hunting safari with Horns African Safaris is an exciting step toward an unforgettable African experience. To help you prepare, we’ve compiled essential travel tips, frequently asked questions, and helpful advice to ensure a smooth, enjoyable trip from start to finish.

Getting Here

International Travel: Most guests fly into O.R. Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg), which is South Africa’s primary hub for international arrivals. We recommend booking a direct flight with major airlines servicing Johannesburg from the U.S., Europe, or other parts of the world.

Domestic Transfers: Once you arrive in Johannesburg, we will arrange a private transfer or domestic flight to the hunting area, depending on your preference and the safari package. All transportation will be coordinated to ensure comfort and punctuality.

Airport Meet & Greet: A member of our team will personally welcome you upon arrival and assist with customs, firearm clearance, and baggage collection.

Passports, Visas & Travel Insurance

Passport Requirements: All visitors must have a valid passport with at least two blank pages and six months of validity beyond your travel dates.

Visa Requirements: Citizens from the U.S., Canada, UK, and most EU countries do not require a visa for stays under 90 days. However, we recommend checking with your local South African embassy before traveling.

Travel Insurance: We highly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel and medical insurance, including trip cancellation and emergency evacuation coverage. Make sure your insurance covers hunting-related activities.

Health & Safety

Vaccinations: No mandatory vaccinations are required for most areas. However, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus vaccinations are recommended. If you’re traveling from or through a yellow fever country, proof of Yellow Fever vaccination may be required.

Malaria: Our hunting areas are low-risk or malaria-free, but if you’re traveling through high-risk zones, consult your doctor regarding preventative medication.

Our concessions are all within reasonable distance of medical facilities and/or pharmacies with over-the-counter medication. Please note that some of our concessions are based in malaria zones. We recommend that clients take malaria medication as prescribed by a physician.

Climate & Seasons

Temperatures can range between 5°C (41°F) in the early morning to 28°C (82°F) at midday depending on the month.
South Africa has a largely temperate climate, though its vast size and varied topography lead to regional differences. The country’s seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere.

Overview of Climate by Season

  • Summer (December–February): Hot, sunny weather across most of the country. Rainfall occurs mainly as short, heavy afternoon thunderstorms, especially in January. Coastal areas like Cape Town are hot and dry.
  • Autumn (March–May): Cooler temperatures, less humidity, and reduced rainfall. Excellent for hiking and outdoor activities.
  • Winter (June–August): Mild, sunny days and cold nights, especially inland. Dry in most regions, but the Western Cape has its rainy season.
  • Spring (September–November): Warmer temperatures and blooming wildflowers, especially along the west coast. Excellent for game viewing.

Climate by Region

Johannesburg and the Highveld (Gauteng, Limpopo, North West, and Free State)

  • Type: Subtropical highland climate.
  • Summer (Wet Season): Hot days reaching the high 30s°C (80s°F), often followed by afternoon thunderstorms.
  • Winter (Dry Season): Sunny and dry with cold nights; frost possible.
  • Best for Wildlife: Kruger National Park is best visited in winter when vegetation is sparse and animals gather at waterholes.

Cape Town and the Western Cape

  • Type: Mediterranean climate with wet winters and dry summers.
  • Summer (Dry Season): Hot and dry, with temperatures in the high 20s°C (high 70s°F). Strong southeasterly winds (“Cape Doctor”) may occur.
  • Winter (Wet Season): Mild, with temperatures in the mid-to-high teens°C (50s–60s°F) and frequent rainfall.

Durban and KwaZulu-Natal

  • Type: Humid subtropical climate.
  • Summer (Wet Season): Hot and humid, with generous rainfall. Average high in February is around 28°C (82°F).
  • Winter (Mild Season): Warm and dry with pleasant temperatures.
  • Coastal Temperature: The warm Agulhas Current keeps the ocean suitable for swimming year-round.

Climate-Related Travel Tips

  • Pack in layers – temperatures change dramatically between day and night.
  • Stay hydrated – always wear sunscreen and drink plenty of water.
  • Check malaria risk – some safari areas are low-risk malaria zones during the wet summer months (October–April). Consult your doctor before traveling.

Terms of Business

  • Daily rates start upon the client’s arrival at the airport of collection and end on the agreed termination date of the safari.
  • A 50% deposit (or agreed amount) confirms the safari booking. The balance is payable at commencement and must be settled before the last day.
  • Deposits are non-refundable but may be carried forward or transferred to another client. The same rates and agreement will be honoured.
  • Clients are advised to obtain trip cancellation insurance.
  • Payments are accepted via cash, electronic bank transfers, or PayPal. Please make bank arrangements beforehand to ensure smooth final payment.
  • Prices are subject to change without prior notice.
  • Tipping your PH, trackers, and staff is customary and appreciated.

Connectivity

Our lodges offer Wi-Fi connectivity. Cell reception varies, but local SIM cards can be purchased at the airport for better signal coverage if needed.

Trophies & Export

Once your hunt is complete, we work with Something Africa Taxidermist (link to Debby’s website) to ensure your trophies are professionally prepared and legally shipped to your home country.

  • We assist with field preparation, permits, and documentation.
  • Inform your PH of your trophy preferences immediately after skinning, as some cuts cannot be reversed.
  • You may choose between dipping & packing or full taxidermy services in South Africa.
  • Once trophies are delivered to the taxidermist, they will contact you to arrange the next steps.

Final Tips

  • Keep copies of all important documents.
  • Familiarize yourself with your firearm and gear before travel.
  • Notify us of any dietary restrictions or medical conditions in advance.
  • Most importantly, bring your sense of adventure!

Have Questions?

Our team is here to assist you every step of the way. Contact us any time for personalized travel advice and preparations.