When it comes to hunting in South Africa, plains game hunting often gets overshadowed by the glamour of the Big Five, but for many of us here at home (and abroad), it’s the smarter, more accessible, and deeply satisfying option. With the help of an expert outfitter like Shakawe Safaris, you’ll discover why plains game hunts in the South African bushveld offer so much more than a run‑of‑the‑mill trophy chase.

1. Great variety, softer challenge
   From the get‑go, plains game hunting gives you access to a wide array of species, antelopes with elegant horns, striped zebras and hefty wildebeest, all set in the dramatic rocks and savannah of Limpopo. At Shakawe Safaris their plains game offer is clearly listed for the Waterberg region near Thabazimbi: “Does not matter if you are a first‑time hunter or an experienced hunter, a plains game hunt will always test your hunting skills.”

This diversity means that whether you’re a rookie hunter from Johannesburg or a hardened tracker, you’ll face a challenge that’s just the right size, not the near‑impossible risks of big dangerous game, but still thrilling, memorable and personally rewarding.

2. More accessible and better value
   Big dangerous game hunts often come with massive logistics, heavy costs and risk. Plains game hunts allow you to experience Africa, the bush, the thrill and the trophy without breaking the bank. For example, general plains game hunting in South Africa is described as “a fulfilling plains game hunting safari … a cost considerably more accessible than the average elk hunt.”

With Shakawe Safaris, you’re dealing with a privately‑owned family‑run outfit in the Waterberg area, on around 12 000 acres (5 000 ha + extra hunting concessions) that host 50 species in a variety of habitats. That means you’re in a quality area, not some fly‑in, remote, untested zone, but somewhere with track record, good terrain and a personable team.

3. Fantastic scenery and a genuine South African bush experience
   The South African bush isn’t all dusty plains and hot sun, especially in the Waterberg and Limpopo terrain. With ridges, valleys, rocky outcrops and game that has acclimatised to varied habitats, plains game hunting here is scenic, atmospheric and immersive. According to Shakawe, their terrain “consists of a variety of different landscapes, each landscape with its own habitat and biodiversity.”

You’re not just going out to tick off a species, you’re walking through that unforgettable South African bushveld, hearing the birds, smelling the earth after rain, watching kudu fade into rock‑outcrop shadows, and celebrating your success around the fire with fellow hunters.

4. Ethical, sustainable hunting with a personal touch
   Every serious outing should include both ethics and sustainability, and plains game hunting with Shakawe offers that. They emphasise conservation, habitat maintenance and small‑group personalised service: “Meeting you as a client, and leaving as friends.” (Shakawe Safaris)

This is not mass‑tourism safari‑hunting, it’s a hands‑on, tailored experience. For both first‑timers and seasoned hunters, that personal touch makes a big difference.

5. A stepping stone to bigger hunts, or a goal in itself
   Perhaps you’re new to hunting in Africa and want a memorable, manageable first experience. A plains game hunt sets you up nicely, less risk, less cost, still huge reward. Or maybe you’re experienced and you simply appreciate the elegance of plains game trophies, the strategy of stalks and the satisfaction of an excellent shot without all the fuss of the “dangerous six.”

Shakawe’s site underscores that: “Does not matter if you are a first‑time hunter or an experienced hunter, a plains game hunt will always test your hunting skills.”

6. Convenient logistics and good infrastructure
   Hunting in South Africa benefits from relatively developed infrastructure compared to many places in Africa. With lodges, roads, professional hunters (PHs) and support services. Shakawe is near Thabazimbi and Vaalwater, so you’re within reach of Johannesburg and major travel hubs.

For many South Africans or international hunters flying into South Africa, that means less time wasted on travel and more time in the field.

7. What to look for in a good plains game hunt (and how Shakawe ticks the boxes)

• Species variety: A wide list means you can aim for quality rather than quantity. Shakawe offers 50 different species in their concession. (Shakawe Safaris)
• Habitat quality: Mixed terrain gives challenge and reward. Shakawe’s “variety of different landscapes” is a strong plus.
• Tailored service: Especially important if you’re new.
• Ethical practices: Responsible hunting is key.
• Comfortable camp and lodge: While you’re out hunting, you still want some creature comforts.
• Accessibility from major airports: Less travel time = more hunting time.

8. Tips if you’re heading out on a plains game hunt with Shakawe

• Choose your species list carefully. Plains game means antelope and similar species: think kudu, impala, wildebeest, zebra, blesbuck etc.
• Ask about the terrain and your physical demands: Did you want walking stalks, vehicle drives, blinds?
• Confirm what’s included in the package: days hunting, number of species, trophy fees, flights/transfers, accommodation.
• Consider the timing (season) for game behaviour: weather, vegetation, activity all influence success.
• Bring appropriate gear for the South African bush: good boots, weather layers, sun protection, and a rifle/calibre appropriate for the game.
• Respect the local customs, the bush, the guides, and appreciate that you’re also supporting conservation when done correctly.

9. In summary
   If you’re wondering why plains game hunting is so great in South Africa, the answer is: you get variety, challenge, beauty, and value, all embedded in one of the world’s premier safari‑hunting destinations. With a reputable outfit like Shakawe Safaris offering plains game packages, you can confidently plan a memorable expedition that brings home both trophies and stories to savour. Whether you’re a first‑timer or a seasoned hunter, the plains game option deserves serious consideration.