When it comes to African cat hunts, the options are truly impressive. From the elusive leopard to the powerful African lion, the choices are abundant. However, there is something truly special about targeting the fastest land animal in the world – the cheetah. Not only are they highly sought-after trophies, but the thrill of the hunt and the bragging rights that come with it are unmatched. With Namibia being the only place where cheetah hunting is allowed, and with limited quotas available, it’s a unique opportunity that not everyone gets to experience. The challenge and the reward of cheetah hunting in Namibia make it a top choice for hunting enthusiasts worldwide.
The cheetah, a native of Southern and Eastern Africa, is a highly mobile predator that poses a challenging hunting target due to its constant movement.
Cheetahs, despite not being water-independent, can survive without water for 4-10 days by extracting the necessary moisture from their prey.
Typically, cheetahs hunt during the early morning or late afternoon, utilizing elevated points like hills, mountains, or rocks to spot their prey.
After stalking their target, cheetahs give chase and can reach speeds of up to 70 miles per hour in pursuit. Rather than biting their prey to death, cheetahs suffocate their victims by cutting off their air supply.
Due to their preference for fresh meat, baiting cheetahs proves to be a challenging task, reducing the success rate of this hunting method.
Interestingly, cheetahs are not only predators but also prey to other animals like lions, leopards, and hyenas.
Male cheetahs typically weigh between 84-143 pounds, with males being slightly heavier than females.
The cheetah’s tail plays a crucial role in helping it maintain balance while running at high speeds.
With its tawny to creamy white fur adorned with evenly spaced, solid black spots, the cheetah is a striking large cat.
Why Hunt Cheetah in Namibia?
Namibia is the ultimate choice for a safari hunting trip for several reasons. Firstly, it is a safe and easily accessible destination with excellent infrastructure. The country gained independence in 1990 and has since maintained political stability. The safari hunting industry in Namibia is well-defined, with strict rules and regulations ensuring a top-notch experience. African outfitters in Namibia are experts in their field, dedicated to providing unforgettable hunting adventures. The diverse landscapes of Namibia offer a variety of terrains to explore, from lush regions to arid deserts. With a wide range of African game species available, including big game and dangerous game, Namibia is a paradise for hunters. Whether you prefer rifle or bow hunting, Namibia has it all. While it may not be the cheapest option, the value for money on safari hunting packages and experiences in Namibia is unbeatable. You won’t regret choosing Namibia for an unforgettable safari hunting experience!
At the moment of composing this article, Namibia was the sole African location where cheetahs could be lawfully pursued on a hunting safari. Cheetahs have the smallest population among African big cats, with their numbers dwindling due to climate change and habitat loss. However, Namibia has legalized cheetah hunting through strict regulation. Namibia was the only African destination where cheetahs could be legally targeted on a game hunting safari. Cheetahs have the smallest remaining population of any of the African big cats, with these ever-smaller numbers due to climate change and diminishing habitats, but through very steady regulation the country has legalized cheetah hunting in Namibia.
Namibia is home to a diverse population of cheetahs, which can be found in different regions of the country such as the south, central, and northern areas. These magnificent creatures thrive in a range of habitats, from grasslands to mountainous terrain, where they hunt for prey like impala, springbok, and warthogs. It’s important to note that cheetah hunting in Namibia is strictly limited to daylight hours, with no hunting allowed at night.
The Hunt
Namibia offers Cheetah Hunting Safaris from February 1st to the end of November annually. The ideal time for a cheetah hunting safari in Namibia is during the cooler winter months, from May to October. Cheetahs are challenging to hunt due to their speed, agility, and alertness. They prefer making their own kills, making baiting difficult. The walk-and-stalk approach is commonly used for cheetah hunts, but stalking them is exceptionally difficult due to their alertness and the threat of larger predators. Shot placement is crucial when hunting cheetahs, and it is important to ensure a humane and ethical hunt by being confident in your shot before taking it. A broadside shot is the best option when the cheetah presents its side towards you, providing the largest target area.
When hunting cheetahs in Namibia, it is important to consider the caliber of rifle that will provide a clean and humane kill. A 7mm caliber rifle is recommended due to its low recoil and ability to generate enough force for an effective shot. However, any higher caliber rifle with fast bullet speed can also be suitable for hunting cheetahs. Personal preference, comfort, and stability are key factors to consider when choosing the perfect weapon and scope for the hunt. Additionally, using a bow for cheetah hunting in Namibia is allowed but requires expert marksmanship and a bit of luck due to the elusive nature of cheetahs. The cost of a cheetah hunt in Namibia typically ranges from $5,000, with trophy prices varying between $2,500 to $5,000. This is not a budget-friendly hunt, but it is an unforgettable experience worth the investment.
I have my Cheetah Game Hunting Trophy, but how do I best Showcase it?
Unlike other hunts a predator hunt doesn’t come with horns or tusks but usually a full or half mount. A full mount involves a taxidermist using the whole animal to display as your trophy, they usually are placed in an action pose to create a more realistic display. This shows every little detail of the trophy and can be a great statement piece wherever you put it. The only downside is the large amount of space this would take up, cheetah although being the smallest big cats certainly does not mean they are the size of a house cat. A large male cheetah can weigh 140 pounds and is 56 inches long, making them a sizable trophy to have. But if you’re short on space a half mount is the way to go!
How Many Cheetahs are Left in Namibia?
Namibia is home to one-fifth of the World’s cheetah population. The population of cheetahs in Namibia is an estimated 3,500 which is the highest cheetah population in the entire world. Yet unfortunately, many countries, including the United States, have banned the importation of cheetah trophies. This came in 2014 without much study but was said to be the response to the sudden drop in cheetah populations, habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and illegal trafficking. At any moment, the import ban could change. Yet Namibia’s conservation and hunting safari eco-tourism model has continued to grow the highest cheetah population in the world.
Regardless, the experience and adventure are worth their weight in gold.
Add a cheetah hunt to your bucket list and click below to check out available hunts!