The Kruger hunts, you'll recall, were allowed as a result of a successful land claim dating back to the apartheid era, filed by a local community that used to live in the far northern corner of the park. The community members were awarded the right to exploit the natural resources of the area in a manner consistent with the goals of a national park, but they were not allowed to live there or conduct any kind of farming activities. Among the allowed activities was a carefully controlled amount of hunting.
Wayne Wagner, who personally conducted the elephant hunts last year, says he has not ruled out the possibility that a huge bruiser of a jumbo will be taken on one of these hunts despite increasing evidence that this part of Kruger is not commonly frequented by big bulls. He says this year promises to be much dryer than last year, which means water points will be fewer and farther between. He believes clients will be able to look over many more bulls as a result.
Actually, the buffalo hunts here may produce better trophies than the elephant hunts. That was certainly the case last year, with both buffalo hitting the ground well into the 40-inch range. To inquire about openings, costs, etc., contact Wayne Wagner Safaris.
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