Bongo hunting
3 hunting trips from 2 outfitters starting from $36,600
Where to hunt Bongo
Bongos are one of Africa’s rarest huntable antelopes and closely related to the Kudu, Nyala, Bushbuck and swamp dwelling Sitatunga. They are found in the rainforests of Western and Central Africa. Hunting records split the species into two groups: 1) The Western or Lowland Bongo may be hunted in Cameroon, Central African Republic and the Republic of Congo and 2) The Eastern or Mountain Bongo found in the forested mountains of Kenya may not be hunted.
Price distribution
This physically demanding hunt only attracts a select few. Usually these hunts are combined with a few other specialist species, like Sitatunga, Dwarf Buffalo and a number of Forest Duikers. In Cameroon numerous outfitters offer 10-16 day safaris. The daily rates for these safaris range between $2,000-3,000 per day with trophy running between $3,300 and $ 5,400. If you are a serious hunter we recommend the longer 16 day safaris as just getting to this destination is expensive and you do not want to return home empty handed.
When to hunt Bongo?
The best time to hunt Bongo is the driest time of the year, although the forest is always hot and humid. Hunting conditions are always uncomfortable and normally these great trophies are only hunted by hardened dedicated hunters prepared to endure the heat and humidity. The official hunting season in Cameroon starts on the 1 March and finishes on the 30 June. No matter what time of the year expect to get wet and muddy.
Hunting methods
Three different methods are used to hunt Bongo. First, many outfitters employ the services of the local Pygmy trackers who will find the tracks of a large bull and then set off through the forest. This sounds like a relatively easy hunt but it is quite tough to keep up with the Pygmies on the jungle floor. Secondly, in some places a high blind or “machan” is built over a salt lick often near water. Bongo are drawn to salt, like bees to sugar water. In some instances they may even be hunted at night with the use of an artificial light. Lastly, dogs may also be used to track and chase Bongo. Often hunters need to make a quick shot as a Bongo flashes past you. Hunters must ensure they only shoot a male as both sexes have horns and although not illegal to hunt a female, your trophy fee price will be double.
Why hunt Bongo?
Probably the toughest antelope hunt in Africa in the most trying of conditions. This epic hunt will top all your other African hunting experiences simply because this is the toughest and most challenging hunts of them all. Your inner strength will be tested to the full and if your hunt is successful it will be a story to repeat over and over again. Bongos make both great life size mounts if you have the space to exhibit this huge animal in your trophy room. Most dedicated hunters go for a shoulder mount.
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