Top 5 Affordable African Plains Game Species

Embarking on a hunting safari in Africa is a dream for many hunters around the world. While the idea may conjure images of expensive big game pursuits, Africa offers a variety of affordable plains game species that make a first-time or budget-conscious safari incredibly accessible. Plains game hunting in Africa provides the excitement, tradition, and adventure of a true African hunt—without the high cost associated with dangerous game species like lion or elephant.

If you're planning a trip and want maximum value and variety, here are the top 5 affordable African plains game species that should be at the top of your list.

1. Warthog (Phacochoerus africanus)

Estimated Trophy Fee: $250–$450

Why it’s Affordable: Warthogs are abundant, resilient, and widely distributed across most southern African countries, making them one of the most budget-friendly species to hunt.

The warthog is often the first animal many African hunters harvest. Despite their low cost, they provide a thrilling hunt. These tough little pigs are incredibly alert and fast on their feet. They favor open savannas and grasslands and often retreat into underground burrows when threatened.

From a trophy standpoint, warthogs offer impressive tusks, coarse manes, and striking facial features that look great on a skull mount or European mount. They're also excellent table fare, making them a practical choice as well.

2. Impala (Aepyceros melampus)

Estimated Trophy Fee: $300–$600

Why it’s Affordable: Impalas are prolific across southern Africa, especially in countries like Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. Their abundance keeps prices low.

Impalas are often referred to as the "whitetail of Africa" due to their numbers and their popularity among first-time hunters. They are medium-sized antelope with graceful bodies, striking reddish-brown coats, and elegant spiral horns (in males).

Though common, impalas are not always easy to hunt. They have sharp senses, are extremely agile, and travel in large groups—meaning there's always another set of eyes watching. They make for a rewarding stalk and are an essential part of any plains game hunting safari in Africa.

3. Blue Wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus)

Estimated Trophy Fee: $700–$1,000

Why it’s Affordable: Despite their larger size and impressive horns, blue wildebeests are still relatively inexpensive compared to other big-bodied antelope.

Known as the “poor man’s buffalo,” the blue wildebeest is a rugged and challenging animal to hunt. These beasts are built for endurance and live in herds across open plains. While not overly difficult to find, taking a trophy wildebeest involves skilled tracking and marksmanship.

From a trophy standpoint, their muscular builds, shaggy manes, and massive horns create an impressive shoulder mount. They are also extremely hardy, often requiring a well-placed shot to bring down cleanly.

Hunting blue wildebeest is not just affordable—it adds a sense of wild adventure that mimics the pursuit of more expensive game like cape buffalo.

4. Blesbok (Damaliscus pygargus phillipsi)

Estimated Trophy Fee: $400–$700

Why it’s Affordable: Blesbok thrive in the open grasslands of South Africa and Namibia, where game farms and conservation efforts have helped their population surge.

The blesbok is a beautifully colored antelope, known for its white facial blaze and chocolate to purplish coat. It is native to southern Africa and often seen grazing in herds in open, flat terrain.

Hunting blesbok typically involves long-range shooting, as they inhabit open plains where stalking can be challenging. This makes them an excellent choice for hunters wanting to test their glassing and marksmanship skills.

Despite their lower cost, blesbok are stunning animals that look fantastic as shoulder mounts or in combination with other plains game on a pedestal display.

5. Springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis)

Estimated Trophy Fee: $300–$600

Why it’s Affordable: Found in huge numbers throughout Namibia and South Africa, springboks are small but abundant, keeping prices reasonable.

The national animal of South Africa, the springbok is a favorite for both rifle and bowhunters. These small antelope are quick, sharp-eyed, and often found in large herds across arid terrain.

What springboks lack in size, they make up for in beauty. Their unique coloration—with a dark stripe separating their white underbelly from a rich caramel back—and their straight, lyre-shaped horns make them highly sought after by collectors.

Additionally, multiple subspecies of springbok (such as the black, copper, and white springbok) allow collectors to pursue a “Springbok Slam,” often at a price still below what one cape buffalo would cost.

Why These Species Make a Great Starter Safari

While hunting Africa may seem expensive at first glance, targeting these top 5 affordable African plains game species allows hunters to experience all the key elements of a traditional safari—diverse landscapes, professional guiding, ethical tracking, and adrenaline-pumping encounters—at a reasonable price point.

With package deals starting from $3,000–$5,000 (including 5–7 days of lodging, meals, guide fees, and trophy fees for 3–5 animals), many outfitters in Namibia and South Africa offer incredible value.

Add-ons like warthog, jackal, or even non-trophy animals make for full hunting days and unforgettable memories. Some packages also include photographic safaris or side trips for family members who don’t hunt.

Tips to Maximize Value on Your Plains Game Safari

Book a package deal: Look for “plains game starter” or “African introductory hunt” packages.

Hunt during the off-peak season: You’ll often find discounts from April to early June or in late August.

Travel in a group: Sharing logistics with hunting buddies or family members reduces per-person costs.

Use your own gear: Renting rifles and buying ammo on-site adds up. Bring your own when possible.

Stay flexible: If you’re willing to hunt non-trophy or management animals, you can save money and help with conservation goals.

Final Thoughts

Africa is rich in both wildlife and opportunities, and you don’t need to be a millionaire to experience the thrill of a real African safari. These top 5 affordable African plains game species—warthog, impala, blue wildebeest, blesbok, and springbok—offer an incredible mix of challenge, beauty, and excitement at a price point accessible to most hunters.

Whether you’re checking the first item off your African hunting bucket list or adding to a growing collection, these animals promise unforgettable memories, valuable field experience, and trophies you’ll be proud to display.

Ready to book your African hunting adventure? Start by looking for reputable outfitters in Namibia or South Africa, ask about affordable plains game packages, and start preparing for the hunt of a lifetime.