Great info above. For your first trip over it is best to rely on the experts to guide you through the rifle permitting process. Also, limit the number of airline connections especially between the US and Africa. This will make your life much easier and a lot less stressful.
To the point of tipping - this is always a very sticky subject. Some PH's get pretty agro about tipping and expect you to do so. Here are a few points to consider:
1. The average hunting staff member makes between $120 to $140 USD a month.
2. The apprentice PH and/or master hunter makes about $460 USD a month.
3. Few if any European hunters tip. So American hunters are their bread and butter or more to the point - ATM.
4. Paying staff in USD makes it difficult to impossible to convert to Rand. (Zimbabwe is the exception here)
5. Many outfitters keep the tips and pay out at the end of the year. This is largely due to the fact that staff tends to run off after they get a fist full of bucks. (And some outfitters simply keep all the staff tips.)
6. Most of the time, things like watches, cheap cell phones, air time, clothing, binos, knives, etc makes for better staff tips.
7. For PHs cameras, ammo, scopes, binos, etc makes a good thank you. If you know your PH, you can always enquire if there is anything they may need before you leave. They are always looking for something. In 30 years of hunting in Africa I've taken reamers, reloading dies, scopes, cameras, boots, you name it, over for gifts.
8. Remember, above all else, tipping is NOT mandatory and never feel pressured to do so. You will not be treated any differently during your hunt. However, some PHs will remember your lack of appreciation if you hunt with them again. But if you find an exceptional staff member, a gift is always welcome.
And just a word of caution on transiting Tambo - Baggage theft is still an issue so use a non-zippered hard-sided suitcase. Do not dress up in your brand new hunting ensemble. Sport shirt or t-shirt and jeans are preferable. In other words, don't look like a clueless American tourist as you will attract the wrong kind of attention. And if anyone offers to help you, offer directions, get a taxi, or carry your bags just consider your stuff gone.
And learn a little Afrikaans - Fúkoff should be the first word you learn as you will use it often.
Last edited by STRSWilson; 07/06/22.
