TRACKS IN THE AFRICAN SAND Here we were, headed back to Africa once again. Beware if you dare to partake in an African adventure because once you go there, she’s like a hunger that you can’t seem to satisfy. There is something about Africa that gives you a feeling of gratitude to be alive. So far from home, yet it seemed to be like we were going back home. This would be our second trek to African Barefoot Safaris owned and operated by Reon and Elmay van Tonder. This is a family run business with a personal desire to provide the experience of a lifetime for all their clients. Last year was so amazing we had to come back for more. They have become friends, people that you want to spend time with. Once again Elmay worked her magic to arrange every detail so there were no worries. We were on our way. Michele and I flew into Johannesburg where we caught another flight to our first destination in Zimbabwe. Elmay had arranged for us to base our first four days at the distinctive A’Zambezi lodge located on the banks of the Zambezi River. Much more than ample accommodations. The first thing we noticed was the Zimbabwean hospitality. No matter where we went or who we met they always greeted us with refreshingly big smiles followed by “hello” “how are you?” After a good night’s sleep, we were up early to begin a 4 ½ hour horse ride in the vast 140,000 acre Zambezi National Park. These horses were well trained so regardless of the experience a rider might have - this is a must do. As we rode through the bush our guide followed tracks getting us close to giraffe, elephant, waterbuck, impala and warthogs. This is a most interesting way to see the wildlife as they seemed to be at ease, allowing the horse to pass closely. Then there were the giant Baobab trees. These arborescent giants feature enormous trunks and can live to 1200 years old. After the horse ride the afternoon found us at one of the world’s seven wonders – Victoria Falls. It is most difficult for me to describe this stunning aberration. We were in awe as the water plunged 300 plus feet causing the misty spray to rise high into the air. The locals call it Mosi-o-Tunya “the smoke that thunders” due to the roaring noise and spray as the water crashes into the rocks below. Everyone in the world needs come and experience this firsthand. Elmay arranged for us to spend our second day at Chobe National Park in the country of Botswana. On the way we were treated to a rare daylight sighting of a leopard. The morning found us cruising on a large pontoon boat down the mighty Chobe river. The array of animals we saw was amazing. After lunch we switched to a safari vehicle for a ride along the shore that was choked with dense Mopane bush. I watched Michele smile as she absorbed this paradise where we saw hundreds of elephants, hippos, giraffe, letchwe, crocodiles plus numerous other critters and birds. Wow! Day three started at daybreak with another captivating African sunrise then it was off to yet another safari where we hoped to see the rare endangered black rhino. As we whisked along a gravel road a bull elephant suddenly burst out of the dense bush. As our driver swerved to miss the bull he lost control. We careened out of control into the bush as our land cruiser flipped onto its side. Now many of us have had the misfortune to have a deer or other critter jump out in front of us while driving our own car. This was much the same just that the critter was a bit bigger. Luckily Michele escaped unscathed, but I unfortunately broke three ribs. Soon we were loaded onto another safari vehicle where we enjoyed a pleather of animal sightings topped off with breakfast in the bush. That afternoon found us drifting the Zambezi river on a romantic sunset dinner cruise where we were treated to a gorgeous sunset while sipping Amarula which is a cream liquor made from the nuts of the African Marula tree. Hippos grunted as cape buffalo came to drink as the last of the orange light set the sky afire. What a way to spend time with my bride. Life is good. The next day we caught a flight to South Africa, where Reon picked us up from the airport. What a comforting service African Barefoot Safaris has providing transport to our destination. The next day found us at their luxury bush camp. The feeling was beyond comprehension. Each day Elmay and her staff prepared delicious African traditional meals, accentuating each evening with a blazing fire under the stars. Their business ideology is such that when you book time to stay here, they cater only to you. Our smiles told the real story of what we thought of this amazing place. I am a lucky man. After sighting in the crossbow, it was time to get after Cape buffalo. Since I was a young man, I have always dreamed of one day tracking this clever surly beast. Having read countless stories about the one they call “black death” I was about to find out if what they say is true. Since I would be hunting with archery equipment Reon thought it would be prudent to have back-up so Michele and I would be backed up by three professional hunters (PH) consisting of Reon, Deon and Redge. These fellas emulate the true meaning of “professional hunters.” A comfortable feeling enveloped my being knowing that if things got ugly they would be there to protect us. Reon got word about a problem buffalo with an attitude that has been causing trouble. The locals were afraid that he was going to harm one of the many unarmed natives that lived in the area. Another hunter had rifle hunted this buffalo the previous seven days without getting a chance, and here we were with archery equipment trying to outwit this crafty old fella. Midday we found his giant track in the African sand. The hunt was on. Our PH’s were expert trackers following the spoor though the dense thorn bush. Several times we closed in for a shot, but this wary old boy was having none of that. Suddenly there he was, 2000 pounds of muscle and horn coming at us. Somehow instinct took over as we stood our ground, I managed to arrow the cantankerous bovid. When it was over I approached him, my legs feeling like rubber. I put my hand on his horns as tears ran down my cheeks. Until you experience this yourself no amount of words can describe the experience. African Barefoot Safaris had made my dream come true. The next day, after another spectacular sunrise and a hearty breakfast, Michele and I found ourselves in a hide where we were treated to a steady array of African animals that included Kudu, Sable, Blue Wildebeest and Warthogs. I watched Michele as she gleefully maneuvered the camera to capture images. I quietly smiled as I could see that she was thoroughly enjoying herself. Mid-afternoon I spied a large Nyala bull coming our way. I whispered to Michele that if I got a chance, I was going to try to take him. A good shot and this beautiful antelope was mine. The evening was topped off with what our African friends call sundowners. A bottle of wine and an arousing sunset completed the day. After another delectable dinner and some time by the fire with our friends it was time to drift off to our private chalet. Our last couple days we spent in hides and tracking animals. I managed to bag a Baboon, but it was the steady flow of animals, and spending time with my amazing wife in the bushveld of Africa that promised that we would be back once again. You owe it to yourself to spend time with African Barefoot Safaris. I promise you they will inspirit you with a lifetime of memories. Thank you Reon and Elmay. Contact Mike vande Ven on maximumstretch@yahoo.com
Mike vande Ven: Cross Bow hunting for Buffalo and picture hunting at Victoria Falls
Epic African hunting experience What a fantastic group of hunters. It was truly a great honor and extreme fun to host you guys. Ryan and his son Clay joined by cousin Codi Oberholtzer and friend Tim Ewing, made quite the hunting group. What an epic adventure for all. The hunt started out in the Highveld where the conditions wasn't easy. The animals in the Highveld was very alert and with such windy conditions the shots was long and far. But these hunters was able to harvest all the animals they were going for. After hunting Blackwildebeest, White Blesbuck and Sable we moved up to the Bushveld. We had so many great moments, jokes and encounters it like making a lifetime of memories in a single hunt. Thanks for sharing some first, like Codi to Africa, hunting a Lion with a Bow and shooting 8 different species in one day. We must commend you on the spectacular trophy quality you were able to take home, including that magnificent Nyala, Gemsbuck, Bushbuck not to mention that Kudu. I am still not over the size of the Eland! These hunter made the most of every moment on this hunt! We enjoyed the time in the bush and also around the campfire. We would love to meet the ladies who can keep up with you. We know we will see you again! Happy hunting until then. Thank you for choosing African Barefoot Safaris as your host to hunting Africa. It was Epic! email rylaur@cciwireless.ca
Clay Leismeister
Bill Barker has been to Africa. In your wildest dreams you would not have expected these great african animals to be taken by one hunter in one trip, with a bow! Congratulations on each and every animal you harvested. Great patience, great shot placement, great trophies. I don't know many hunters who can add Steenbuck, 2 duiker and a mountain reedbuck to their list. This was an exceptional trip. We are very proud and delighted that we could have been part of this. Well done. I am so looking forward to hosting you 2018. We would like to thank you for supporting the blue Bag initiative from SCI. Thanks for helping Abraham Kriel orphanage with all your gifts, toys and so many much needed things. Thanks for my #hand knitted scarf. Your not only a great hunter but has a heart of gold. Bill Barker Bow & Arrow
Bill Barker and hunting buddy Glen Henderson: Alberta Canada
Glenn Hendersen and Bill Barker are both experienced bowhunters, with various animals under the belt. These two hunting buddies set out to come and hunt Africa. Bill has been to Africa before but this was a first timer for Glenn. Glenn was able to harvest a stunning Nyala Bull, Bluewildebeest and 2 great warthog boars. He however was still looking for the elusive grey ghost of the bushveld. African Barefoot Safaris has a 100% success rate on bow hunting a kudu bull. But boy did Glenn make us sweat. He shot this great trophy on the very last day of the hunt, just before departing for the airport. It was such and interested two weeks with you guys and we are looking forward to 2018. Cant wait to host you again. We would also like to thank you once more on behalf of Abraham Kriel orphanage for your generosity in bringing over all those needed things. Thanks for supporting the SCI blue Bag initiative Equipment: Bow and arrow
Glenn Henderson: Alberta Canada
Dan and Roger has been friends for many years. After meeting them both I know why. Great hunters, great enthusiasm and great people. Dan thank you so much for being our very first "Stick" hunter. What a great sportsman you are. Congratulations on your fantastic hunt. We would love spending time with you and the misses. She also seem like a very nice lady and we would love to show her Africa too. Equipment: Longbow
Dan Shaw: USA
When changing your mind is the right thing to do. Roger was booked and ready to go to Africa when he noticed African Barefoot Safaris special on Bowsite. Even though he paid deposit to a different outfit he decided to change and booked his trip with us. Roger did fantastic with his bow taking down the flying arrow package and more. We enjoyed the evenings around the camp fire with stories from hunts and special times in the past. These two guys were easy to hunt with and fantastic to get to know them. Thanks for your efforts in building South Africa by giving the local children stationary and toys! Thanks for spending 10 days with African Barefoot Safaris and our family. We hope that we get to meet your family soon and are looking forward to hosting them for an all out African adventure. Email: roger@bltanklines.com Equipment: Bow hunt only Next hunt: Family hunting trip with elephant rides and curio shopping!
Roger Johnson: USA
Our family Hunting trip to South Africa! Winter time there so 70 s in the day and low 40s at night and very little vegetation. What an amazing unique opportunity to hunt on a different continent! This is a hunter's dream come true and I would easily take the opportunity again. We felt safe in Africa the entire trip. We used crossbows for all the kills except one. On the bow hunt only property the animals are less jumpy and can be watched from the trucks. The African country side is is beautiful! All the is being ate by locals and even the guts! Dry out the stomach and they eat it just like that! We tried some traditional food and had game including my favourite Kudu and Eland. Also had Sable, Gemsbuck, Bushbuck and Impala. Any questions about this trip just ask Written by Anna Schwartz: 4 Animals with 4 shots! Well done girl Name: Bob Laura Anna Alex and Ryan Schwarts Email: rjschwartz2@yahoo.com Equipment: Cross Bow Taken: 2 Kudu, Redhartebeest, Zebra, Eland, Warthog, Gemsbuck, Waterbuck, 2 Bushbuck, 2 Impala, 2 Blesbuck,2 Bluewildebeest and Baboon.
Schwartz Family: Wisconsin
Brendan ended a working contract with a 5 Bow hunt and ended hunting a Warthog, Impala and Kudu. Hi Just wanted to take a second to write you thanking you for everything you guys did this past week in making one of the most memorable and life changing experiences I have had which will forever be burned into my brain. I could tell from the inviting email responses back from you that African Barefoot Safaris was my place to be for my first African hunt and I was not wrong! With most outfitters really caring about the money they will be receiving, you guys had a different approach which was to take care of the gust and make them feel welcomed - which you did and more! From the delicious food to the comfortable lodge in a beautiful setting to the cosy beds and everything in between, this is hands down something everyone should experience at least once in their life - hunting or not. Thank you for letting me be a part of your family for a week. I cant wait to be back there making more memories! Till next time: Your newest family member from Los Angeles Name: Brendan Kling Email: brendankling@mac.com Equipment: Bow hunt only! To do list: Blesbuck, Waterbuck, Wildebeest and Zebra
Brendan Kling: Las Angeles
So much more than what I expected. I just had the most amazing experience I could have ever imagined. I went to South Africa! I am truly blessed to have had this opportunity. From the hunting to the cultural experience in Lesedi, this trip was filled with awesome adventures. I am so glad I got so spend it with such an awesome group. For those who have ever thought about going to Afirca...stop thinking and just go! It s a trip of a lifetime and you wont have any regrets. Thanks you to all those who helped make this trip a possibility and supported me in going. I hope you all enjoy my pictures as much as I enjoy the memories Name: Rachael Byrd Phone: +1 605 214 2013 Equipment: Hoyt bow To do list: I must come and show my dad how awsome a hunt in Africa is!
Rachael Byrd: South Dekota
What??? I only started shooting my bow literally a month before going to Africa. As always I was very exited and wanted to make the most of the trip. Rassie (PH) and I spend the first few days in the blind. We saw many different animals some great trophies too. My first shot was at a rabbit and my broadhead made sparks as it blow off the nearest rocks. I nearly thought this was going to be a start of a bush fire. But luckily not. I fell in love with the elevated blind and spend 90% of my hunting time in this blind. I was able to hunt a waterbuck female with my friend and boss Burce Cull. What a beautiful animal. It was so nice to see some special African jewellery pieces showcased at the lodge one evening. I am now a proud owner of a tanzanite ring! I truly enjoyed the elephant ride. Once again had no idea what to expect. They were so big! Rachael and I went first and ended up on Micky the biggest Elephant of them all. After having a great shopping spree in Vaalwaters curio shop we went off to Pilanesburg National Reserve. It was fantastic. The rooms, food, game drives, view. Everything was awesome. We saw the lion and lioness in the tall grass and even spend our last night dining in a great open bush lapa. After the 2 days there, we finished our African experience by visiting Lesedi Cultural village. What an amazing experience seeing them dance in their traditional outfits and how they lived in their traditional huts. I don't think I could have asked for anything more. Next time I will be more prepared for the hunting and bring back a zebra for sure! Thanks for Reon and Elmay as well as Bruce Cull and the rest of our group for making this so exiting and eventful. I will forever have the greatest memories of my 2 weeks in Africa. Name: Brittaney Salonen Phone: +1 605 661 6256 Equipment: All my equipment was brand new. Hoyt of course To do list: I would love to come back prepaired well enough to take a zebra and Kudu
Brittaney Salonen
Bruce Cull, Elliot Nysven, Gabby Keiser, Scott Keiser joined more friends and family on this great hunt. Written by Gabby Keiser Africa was a true blessing and I can not thank those who made it happen enough! In the two weeks that we were these, we made memories that will last a life time. Nothing was better than going on a hunting trip, with the people that you love, and enjoying such a great experience at the same time. I didn't get my Gemsbuck I went for , but shot 3 beautiful animals and enjoyed every bit of it, so that's all that matters, I cant wait to return next Summer! Name: Bruce Cull Email: bcull@nfaause.com Phone: +1 605 661 0877 Equipment: Hoyt Alpha Max, beamen hunter arrows To do list: To return to Africa a much as possible and hunt over and over again
Bruce Cull: South Dekota
Paul and Lisa African Adventure Take 2 When Paul and Lisa visited Africa for the first time in 2013 we had some unusual experiences - first time to Africa - first time hunting in Africa - 20 year wedding vows renewal - engagement. So to top such a great first African visit was a challenge. BUT I am glad to say that WE DID. Not only did Paul have an exceptional hunt taking two of the biggest warthog bores I have ever seen. He also added impala waterbuck blue wildebeest and gemsbuck to his list of successful hunts. Lisa spend the first week in the blind with Paul and they sow many animals. Some of the best pictures I must say! We did a jewellery party at the lodge and scored some fantastic original African pieces. The last couple of days, the ladies and I went to town. We visited the Curio shop in the biggest city in Limpopo Polokwane and also did a rural area tour. We went to ride the elephants in Vaalwater one of the smaller towns and shopped some more. Pilanesburg national nature reserve was up next. Here we were able to see a Rhino with her calve, monkeys, warthogs, elephants, crocodiles and hippos not to mention the giraffes and all the rest. Our second last night in Africa was spend in a luxury Casino and Hotel on the border of Johannesburg/Pretoria. For our last day we visited the Cradle of human kind, were we saw many interesting million year old remains. Our last night was at Lesedi cultural village. Great! We spend some time in traditional African huts, enjoyed a group of African dancers performing different styles around the camp fire and ended with a traditional African Dinner. It was a jam-packed hunt and ended with an exiting side tour. Written by Elmay van Tonder If you have any questions being a non hunter you can contact Lisa Mercier
Paul Mercier: Boise Idaho
Erick Scott and Nicki Scott (got engaged at leopard blind in 2013) ARE BACK! Erick and Nicki came back to hunt Africa again. Joined by their good friends Paul and Lisa Mercier and also by Ericks two girls Sarah and Alli. Written by non hunter Alli Scott I came to Africa with my Dad, Step M I had a wonderful time. Elmay let me tag along with her since I dont hunt. I did everything from exercise classes in the local town Marken, to helping Elmay run errands, to making muffins playing with Lane and JJ, assisting with the recovery, photos, and pic up of animals shot and many other great truly local experiences. We also did a few day trips, we visited Mokopane a developing rural town about an hour away, and also Polokwane the largest town in the Northen province. We enriched our tour by visiting Cradle of Humankind and Lesedi (cultural village) with various curio shops on the way in the Gauteng province. Pilanesberg nature reserve is in the North West province and we were fortunate to even work in a day there!. My personal favourite was an elephant ride through the bush. I couldn't have imagined a better trip. It was truly life changing! I cant thank the whole Barefoot Team enough. I cant wait to go back.
Erick , Nicki, Sarah and Alli Scott: Westconsen
Hank new he wanted this hunt and starting to bid on it as soon as the auctioneer opened the first bid. Hank won the bid for a 7 day Hunt for a Bow hunter an observer. During April the weather is still a large challenge to Bow hunter, but there was lots of action at the blinds with a large variety of animals coming and going. Darrell got to take some great photos of more than 10 species and Hank had to hold himself back not to shoot the Kudu or Gemsbuck. Next trip then their number is up. Name: Hank Harry Email: tharry@telus.net Phone: 1 250 423 1598 Equipment: Bow Hoyt Carbon Spider To do list: Great Kudu bull, Waterbuck, Gemsbuck in 2017
Hank Harry: Fernie Canada
Darrell joined Hank (in-laws) as an observer for his very first African Experience and ended with Bow hunting a Blue Wildebeest himself. First time in Africa I was in AWE! From the day we met Reon and past clients, we knew we were going on an adventure. All the videos and stories turned into reality that night we got there when we were greeted by giraffes, red hartebeest and kudu. Everyday started with great anticipation of what we would see or what may happen. With the hospitality, accommodation's meals scenic views and variety of wildlife each day was different. As an observer on the trip and this being the first time ever doing anything like this, I was in total awe the whole time we were there. I was more than happy to be just be there and observe but was very grateful to be able to take a nice blue wildebeest. Many thanks once again to Reon, Elmay, Sammy and Kim for making this trip one to remember for a very long time. I have high hopes of returning to do it all over again. Name: Darrell Southgate Email: mardar@telus.net Phone: 1 250 946 7036 Equipment: Canon camera...Bow APA Other: Darrell joined his friend Hank as an observer but turned out hunting too
Darrell Southgate: Fernie Canada
Hunting Africa for the very first time What a fantastic hunt to kick off the 2015 hunting season. Greg did a great job taking 5 animals with only 4 bullets and one arrow. His story in his own words to follow soon. Name: Greg Tiegen Email: gregtiegen@shaw.ca Phone: 403 562 8554 Equipment: Rifle .300 Winchester win Mag 165gr Federals (Rented from Reon) Next Trip: Would like to return with his son in 2017
Greg Tiegen: Alberta Cananda
Jim was able to harvest two zebra, impala, waterbuck, Kudu a few babboons and a bluewildebeest. All with his bow. His wife Shelly was in the blind with him for most of these hunts. Shelly also enjoyed her #th birthday while on safari and was treated to a half day spa. She also did a big 5 game drive with Jim and a Bushveld sightseeing tour and curio shopping. Thanks to the both of you for allowing African Barefoot Safari to share such a great milestone in your lives with us. Looking forward to seeing you again. Jim and Shelly Stephens Email: crloghomes@yahoo.com 217-273-4169 Equipment: Elite Energy 35 Muzzy 3 blades Next Trip: As soon as my house is build, I can lock it an come visit Africa again
Jim and Shelly Stephens: Illinois
Rodger brought his son Tyler for an exiting rifle hunt in the Bushveld. We planned a hunt with African Barefoot Safaris late 2013 for a May 21st to June 3rd 2014 hunt. It was going to be the first time in Africa for both my father and I. It quickly turned into preparation mode. We started with gun choice, ammo choice, equipment choice, and physical conditioning. Once we hit the African soil we knew we it wouldn’t be our last trip. It started with seeing Reon and Rassie at the airport to greet us. One was built like a rugby player (Reon) and the other looked like he wasn’t old enough to drive (Rassie). After the first day we knew they were tough guys, and willing to do whatever it took to get us our trophies. Our trip was everything we could imagine and more. It was truly a hunt, and you got out of it what you put in. The early morning strolls through the Bushveld provided us with seeing more game in the first 2 hrs. than we have seen in a lifetime here in Central IL. The Bushveld is tough country and will definitely make you work for opportunities to harvest an animal. Reon and Rassie can see things that we can’t due to the years and time they have put into hunting and stalking. There were several times I heard ”Kudu Bull” and him pointing, but all I saw was trees, followed by the nod of my head. All in all it was a great hunt, along with their willingness to give you every opportunity to get your trophies. I was fortunate enough to get everything I planned on (Kudu, Gemsbok, Warthog, Impala, Blesbok) with plenty of opportunities for other species. I celebrated my 37th birthday in Africa, and was given a nice BBQ of Kudu, Gemsbok and Impala along with a birthday cake and candles, which shows how well they treat you. Accommodations were excellent along with the food and an after hunt libation of Amarula or African beer. My most enjoyable hunt was the Gemsbok and Kudu as it was a long difficult stalk. Reon stated, “the bush will provide” and he was right. Please feel free to contact me if you are thinking about a hunt or have any questions regarding a hunt with African Barefoot Safaris. Tyler Coventry Equipment: Remington 700 30-06 Contact: 217 972 9192 Email: tyco530@gmail.com Next Hunt: 2017 for my 40th Rodger Coventry Equipment: Custom Build 338-06 Contact: 217 454 4370 Email: roco01@aol.com Best thing: Adding Africa to my bucket list
Rodger and Tyler Coventry: USA Illinois
Mike and Christelle - Living it large in Africa If we had to use one word to describe our South African trip it would be awesome. I went on this trip with my boyfriend, not really knowing anything about the animals. Mike on the other hand was well prepared and definitely know what he wanted! We quickly came to realize that Reon would do everything he could to help Mike get his trophies and ensure that our trip was the best possible for both of us. his hard worked paid of since we got 11 different species. We stayed at the main lodge with comfortable rooms and an impressive sunrise view over the valley. Everything kept spotless and in good order. The food was delicious! I enjoyed the atmosphere in the lodge with Elmay the children and Dixi their dog joining us. It felt like staying with family. Each day started with delicious breakfast, then out to the blind with our lunch packs and a phone. And a great expectation of whats to come. The blinds are strategically placed over the property, some pitblind and some high up. never knowing what animal will come in next..I loved it! Often we saw the guinea fowl and warthogs followed by die big game we were there to hunt. We had to be super quite and patient. Bow hunting is a challenge. We changed things up and rifled hunted too, out to nearby properties on the back of the pick up looking for next trophy. After great great supper and tasty desserts in the evening we spend time round the camp fire exchanging hunting stories of the day. Not just hunting we visited the nearby town, a little zoo, big game- gamedrive and also took an elephant ride. The elephants were so gentle despite their size! Great walk in their natural habitat seeing al sorts a game, including Zebra. The most impressive moment was seeing mike hunt down his crocodile. Close to the Botswana border we camped in a thatched roof lodge waiting for the sun to warm up for the crocodiles to come out of the water. Exiting. We walked very silently to the pond. On the edge, there was a huge fat crocodile warming itself in the mud. So impressive! I stayed back with my Ph and filmed Mike and his Ph as they moved to a better shooting angle. BANG! One shot in the heart. BANG! one in the lungs. We had our crocodile! How exiting! Am am very proud of Mike and his 12 foot trophy. Mikes most impressive hunt was hunting the elusive Redheartebeest. Right at the end of the day towards sunset, Reon spotted them. They started stalking, being in the open and very visible Reon used the shooting sticks to resemble Gemsbuck horns and Mikes followed close behind him. It worked well as the Impalas lest them pass by close enough to get a short at 80 yards. Mike made a great heart shot and will certainly remember that stalk forever! Most difficult was tracking our Zebra for so long in the Bush. Mike shot the stallion at 150 yards, but a bit to far back. Like many right hand shooter do..he pulled right... So we embarked on a tracking adventure! We tracked for 6km and about 3 hours with our PH and the tracker nicknamed impala. The tracking was amazing at one point we lost blood and for 45minutes he kept following faint tracks in the sand. A wild choose chaise, I thought. But there is was 200 yards away. Mike made the perfect neck shot, and the stallion was down. What a relieve to have found such a beautiful animal. This hunt turned into a sort of quest and we will both remember if for the rest of our lives. Mike & Christelle Email: mikefshepherd@gmail.com Equipment: Cross Bow and Rifle Contact: 780 404 5722 Next Hunt: 2015- See you soon Africa for Lion & Buffalo
Mike Shepherd & Girlfriend Christelle: Canada
(Married couple was part of a larger hunting party with experienced hunters, novice hunters bow and rifle hunters and observers) Our African Experience This was the trip of a lifetime, I have always dreamed of hunting in Africa, Reon, Elmay and our PH’s made our experience one we will never forget. They worked very hard to ensure that we had the trip that we were dreaming of. I successfully hunted more animals than I originally had on my wish list, all thanks to Reon’s resourcefulness. The accommodation and food were excellent; Salamina and staff provided us with excellent meals. Tracker Sammy could find tracks that I couldn’t even see. As I spent my days enjoying the hunt, my wife enjoyed taking photographs and touring with Elmay. Evenings spent by the fire enjoying sun downers were very relaxing and an awesome way to end a great day of hunting. Even as we were leaving to journey home we were already planning our next trip back to Africa. A big Thank you to Reon and Elmay for memories that will last for a lifetime, or until we journey back to make new ones. Brad and Faye Ewing Email: ewing1@telus.net Next hunt: 2015 to get a big Buffalo Contact: 780 834 6848 Equipment: Cross Bow and Rifle
Brad and Faye Ewing: From Alberta Canada
(Lance the true batchelor joined the Canadian hunting party and did rifle hunting) Lance the loose one. My hunt with African Barefoot Safaris was a life long dream and Reon and the Staff was great! Everything from the hunting and the evenings st the lodge was awesome, tons of laughs and awesome shooting. I highly recommend it!!!! Be prepared for the most fun ever Lance Oriold Email: lancelot72@hotmail.ca Equipment: Rifle hunting in the Bushveld Contact: 403 308 5936 Next trip: 2015 with my dad and friend. Cant wait!!!
Lance Oriold: Cananda
(This Father and son team rocked, rifle hunting in the bushveld. They joined a larger hunting group) Hunting Africa with my Dad. I have always had this wild dream of going to Africa and never really thought that i was going to see the dark continent. I watch a lot of hunting shows about Africa, but none of them compared to the experiences and great memories I had shared with African Barefoot Safaris. Everyday was action packed with lots of exotic game, laughting, great food, and lots of killing. I had a great time determining wich was better, the day hunting or getting back to the lodge exchanging hunting stories. Or getting to know people we had never met before this safari. We never thought that this safaris would tern out so well. All together we shot 15 animals with 1 shot each and no misses. We made our Ph's job a lot easier. It was such a thrill everyday but it could have been another week longer. I can't wait to go back in 3 years and spend more time with my dad on another African Barefoot Hunting Safari. If you have ever wanted to take a couple weeks off and have an amazing hunting trip, then African Barefoot Safaris has you covered. Save up your money its absolutely worth every penny!! Written by Clay Leismeister Ryan and Clay Leismeister Email: rylavr@ccwireless.ca Equipment: Rifle hunting in the Bushveld Contact: 403 634 4188 Next trip: 2016. "Save up Clay lets get you a big croc too"
Ryan and Clay Leismeister: Cananda
Group of 4 hunter, bow, rifle, crossbow, highveld, bushveld various plains game and a Lion hunt. What a blast!
Tim Ewing
Richard Kayser just finished his very first hunt with African Barefoot Safaris. He is a very accomplished hunter that have hunted both buffalo and elephant before. This was his first trip to South Africa to take down some of our greatest trophies. He landed on 9th of April and the weather just started clearing up after some late season rainfall. We hunted up in Limpopo province. Bushveld country! Saturday morning we woke up in hunting camp with the sound of African birds, the sunrise bright and the energy that only African hunters will understand. First on the list was the grey ghost. The greater Kudu did not give us much time for photos but we got on his tract. With some skill full tracking we were able to stalk up to about 100 yards from this great mature bull. Richard took one shot and it was in the bag. Driving around later that same day we fist noticed the smell of the Waterbuck and just about the same time got a glimps of him. Richard made a great shot and took him down two. We had to track and stalk the gemsbuck for about 3 days. This was worth the time and effort and now have a stunning Gemsbuck trophy also in the bag! What a trip and what an experience! Name: Richard Kayser Phone: 208 250 2532 Email: lrkayser@cableone.net Equipment: Rifle hunter Chapuis Frensh made side by side double rifle 9,3 X 74 R Norma Oryx 285 gr soft point Trips to Africa: 2 Next trip: 2011 / 2012 Dream hunt: Sable Greatest hunt with African Barefoot Safaris: My Kudubull in2010 Hunting Area: Yes - Bushveld, Lowveld Steenbokpan area Limpopo province Trophies hunted: Caracal,Kudu,Waterbuck and Gemsbuck To do list: SABLE,triple slam Blesbucks and I think a big old blueneck Eland Bull!!!
Richard Kayser: ( One on one Rifle hunt-Bushveld)
I love every moment in the Bush, whether it is behind my scope of my 375 H&H or with my Bow Tech hiding in the bushes. My love for hunting is not a new thing, I have been hunting since I was 7 years old. I don’t really think hunting "meerkats" counts but for me the thrill of the chase was addictive. My greatest hunt ever was the 55" Kudu with my bow. We went out early the morning stalking the great majestic gray ghost. Round 10 that morning we (me and Chuckie) found him in some thick bush. The wind was perfect and the females behind us kept his interest. We waited as he came closer and closer. We knew if we made a sound or even the smallest of moves the hunt was over. I waited till he was on 40 yards and pulled back. I waited at full draw in overwhelming anticipation until he was on 30 yards. I took the shot and then breathed which felt like the first time since the hunt started. WHAT A RUSH WHAT A TROPHY My hunting dreams is long and divers but mostly long for the day I get to hunt the African Buffalo- The Black death. I also would love to take up the challenge to hunt the tiny 10 without exception with my bow. Phone: +27 11 27 82 414 7597 Equipment: Bow Hunter - Rifle hunter, Bow Tech Airborne 101, 75 pound with 450 gr arrows Trips to Africa: 3 Next trip: 2010 Dream hunt: Buffalo, Tiny ten with my bow Greatest hunt: 55" kudu W&S Hunting Area: Yes - Bushveld, Lowveld Not Yet - Highveld, Zululand Trophies hunted: Kudu, Warthog, Blesbuck, Springbuck, Redhartbeest, Jackal To do list: Buffalo, Gemsbuck, blackwildebeest Zebra
Reon van Tonder