Hunting rifle/s are freely imported into South Africa on a temporary permit valid for the duration of the hunt. Temporary firearms import permits (application form SAP 520) are available on arrival in Johannesburg International Airport from the fire arms desk of the South African Police Service. The following may be required to issue the permit:
Please ensure that your firearms arrive on the same flight as you because only the registered owner can claim the firearms. Please do not pay for any service regarding the handling of a firearm or issuing of a temporary import permit at any port of entry into South Africa. This is a free service provided by the South African Police Service.
We seriously recommend each hunter uses a scope-sighted rifle/s he or she is most comfortable with. Popular all-round calibers are the 30.06 or 7mm Remington. The smallest calibre allowed is the .243 Winchester or equivalent. It is recommended that well-constructed soft nosed bullets from a reputable manufacturer be used.
For dangerous game such as Buffalo and Rhino the minimum caliber is .375 H+H Magnum using well-constructed soft nose bullets. Hunt Africa reserves the right to approve rifles and/or ammunition when dangerous game is hunted.
Suitable rifle/s and ammunition can be made available by arrangement at a minimal fee, for travelers who wish to hunt at short notice, during a business or holiday trip.
Automatic rifles or shotguns are not allowed in South Africa and semi-automatic rifles or shotguns will only be allowed under very special circumstances and with special permission obtained beforehand.
With respect to ammunition you plan to take along please note it should generally be limited to a maximum of 11 pounds or 5 kilograms or 200 rounds and must be packed in some shock absorbent material. Please check your airline’s specific requirements (We suggest leaving it in its original box and wrapping it in bubble plastic or a towel or sweater and placing it in the middle of your checked luggage). You will be required to declare the ammunition upon international departure at the airport together with your hunting rifle/s, so please allow enough time before departure.
No permit is required for a hunting bow but it will be checked with your rifle/s and collected together with you rifle/s at the South African Police Services fire arms control office.