Africa : Africa: Economy Hasn’t Dented Interest In African Hunts
on 2009/2/2 18:02:23 (0 reads)

Surprisingly the dip in the worldwide economy has had only a marginal impact on safari bookings in Africa.

"I couldn't wait to get to America with all the talk about the economy," said Mark Haldane, owner of Bird Hunters Africa, Game Hunters Africa and Zambeze Delta Safaris.

During the African off-season, Haldane is touring the American hunting convention circuit and visiting with clients. He recently displayed at the Dallas Safari Club convention and then spent last weekend with clients in Tyler.

Talking with other outfitters, Haldane said it appears the higher-dollar trips are not being affected as much as others.

"It looks like the South African market has taken a hit. From the people I have talked to it has taken a 25 to 30 percent hit. In Mozambique and Botswana (two countries Haldane hunts) it is barely noticeable," he said.

Often a starting spot for new hunters to Africa, a safari in South Africa averages about about $8,000. In other nations, including Tanzania and Namibia, the price is more than tripled at about $30,000 for a week to 10-day hunt depending on the species taken.

Cecil Corringham, owner of Life-Form Taxidermy in South Africa, one of the largest taxidermists companies in the world with 80 employees, said his business hasn't slowed either. However, Corringham, who came to Tyler with Haldane, said he is working on last season's mounts and not- able to gauge the near-future.

Haldane said no matter the economy hunters need to be educated when booking a safari.

"If you are going to South Africa make sure your outfitter is a member of the Professional Hunters Association. It is a very strong association with strict guidelines," he explained.

As a back-up, he also suggests checking references by talking to others who have hunted with the outfitter and by subscribing to a publication called the Hunting Report, which includes reviews of the various guides.

In countries without strong hunter associations Haldane said it is imperative that hunters talk to other hunters for references.

Along with getting the appropriate shots and learning about the game they are going to hunt, hunters also need to learn how to negotiate customs and other procedures in the countries they will be visiting. This is especially the case for hunters who will be carrying their own rifles and will need to clear security checks at police stations. Haldane said there are services that can help and are worth the money.

When hunting Africa for the first time, Haldane recommends hunters start with plains game and build up to the big animals such as a cape buffalo. However, the buffalo have become a sought-after species by hunters and many want to start there.

Noting changing times, Haldane added that one out of every three safaris today has a woman hunter in the party.

http://www.tylerpaper.com/article/20090125/SPORTS02/901250303