A Guide to Trophy Hunting in Namibia: Everything You Need to Know

Are you planning a trophy hunting trip in Namibia? Before you go, it’s important to know the regulations and requirements to ensure a safe and legal hunt. The Namibian Trophy Hunting season opens from February 1 to November 30 each year, and clients must book with registered Namibian operators and hunting professionals.

Namibia has three classifications of hunting professionals, including hunting guides, master hunting guides, and professional hunters. They must comply with all the Ministry of Environment & Tourism’s trophy-hunting regulations. Trophy hunting is allowed only on properties where permission has been granted by the landowner, and properties where bow hunting is practiced must be registered additionally with MEFT for bow hunting.

Requirements

Permits are required for trophy hunting, and a separate permit must be issued for each individual hunting client. An extra, special permit is required for large cats such as leopard, cheetah, and lion. The Namibia Tourism Board (NTB) registers all trophy-hunting operators, and it is important to know that hunting with dogs is not permitted.

If you plan to import firearms, you must refer to the Namibian Professional Hunting Association (NAPHA) website for the required minimum muzzle velocities for firearms for various game species. Only ammunition for the specific caliber may be imported, and a maximum of 100 rounds of ammunition may be imported per hunting rifle. It is legal to import bows for bow-hunting purposes without an import permit.

Namibia offers an unforgettable trophy hunting experience for those who enjoy hunting. However, it is important to follow the rules and regulations set by the Ministry of Environment & Tourism to ensure a legal and safe hunt. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your next hunting trip to Namibia and enjoy the experience of a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions about Namibian Trophy Hunting

When is the Namibian Trophy Hunting season and who can I hunt with?

The season runs from February 1 to November 30 of each year, and clients should ensure that they are booked with a registered Namibian operator and hunting professional.

What are the classifications of hunting professionals in Namibia?

There are three classifications: Hunting guides, Master hunting guides, and Professional hunters.

What are the specialist qualifications for hunting professionals in Namibia?

The two specialist qualifications are Big Game Professional Hunters and Bow Hunting Professional Hunters.

What are the regulations that hunting professionals should comply with in Namibia?

Hunting professionals should comply with all the Ministry of Environment & Tourism’s (MEFT’s) trophy-hunting regulations.

What are the permitted hunting hours for trophy hunting in Namibia?

Trophy hunting may be practiced from half an hour before sunrise until half an hour after sunset.

Can I hunt anywhere in Namibia?

Trophy hunting may take place only on properties where permission has been granted by the landowner.

Do I need a special permit to hunt with a bow in Namibia?

Properties where bow hunting is practiced must be registered additionally with MEFT for bow hunting, but no special permit is required to import bows.

What are the requirements for obtaining permits for trophy hunting in Namibia?

Permits must be issued prior to the hunt commencing, and a separate permit must be issued for each individual hunting client. An extra, special permit is required for large cats, and a maximum of two trophies per species may be harvested, per hunting client, per permit.

Are there any restrictions on importing firearms for hunting in Namibia?

Refer to the Namibian Professional Hunting Association (NAPHA) website for the required minimum muzzle velocities for firearms for various game species. A maximum of one hundred (100) rounds of ammunition may be imported per hunting rifle, and only ammunition for the specific caliber may be imported.

Can I hunt with a black powder rifle in Namibia?

Yes, it is legal to hunt with black powder rifles in Namibia, but it is illegal to transport black powder and percussion caps. These can be purchased in Namibia, and you should inquire with your trophy-hunting operator.