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CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC Hunting Information
Hunting Central African Republic
Hunters around the world have discovered what European big game hunters have long known: that Central African Republic, also known as C.A.R., is a legendary hunting destination. Central African Republic is to West and Central Africa what Tanzania and Zimbabwe are to East Africa. Over the years, Central African Republic has seen a number of political upheavals however hunting has continued on. Today, the presence of the French army provides this former French colony stability and peace.
The diversity of game in C.A.R. is remarkable, 208 species of mammals are present, and among them are 23 species of antelope. This diversity, and high population densities, makes the Central African Republic one of the most interesting destinations of big game hunting in Africa. But among all these species present in Central African Republic, three of them are particularly well known. They are the Giant or Lord Derby Eland (Taurotragus Derbianus) named by the Africans "the ghost antelope", the Bongo (Tragelaphus Eurycerus Eurycerus) and the Greater Kudu of Western Africa (Tragelaphus Strepsiceros).
The largest trophies of Lord Derby Eland existing to date have been harvested in Central African Republic, and the hunting of the largest antelope in Africa is an unpredictable adventure, which demands patience and tenacity. Bongo has also greatly contributed to the reputation of the Central African Republic, and hunting of this magnificent antelope in the deep forests or in natural places where salt is found is also an opportunity for an unforgettable experience. The Greater Kudu of Western Africa, one of the most beautiful trophies of Africa, is hunted in the north of the Central African Republic, in extremely remote areas, wild and semi-desert. More than any other hunting, the Western Greater Kudu offers hunters nostalgia of the great safaris of the past.
Hunting in Central African Republic also offers the possibility of many other trophies such as Central African Savannah Buffalo (Syncerus Caffer Aequinoctialis), Western Roan Antelope (Hippotragus Equinus), Western Sitatunga (Tragelaphus Spekei), Defassa Waterbuck (Kobus Ellipsiprymnus Defassa), Buffon's Kob (Kobus Kob), Bohor Reedbuck (Redunca Redunca), Harnessed Bushbuck (Traglaphus Sciptus), Giant Forest Hog (Hylochoerus Meinertzhageni), six species of Duiker, including the very elusive Yellow-Backed Duiker (Cephalophus Silvicultor), Warthog (Phacochoerus Aethiopicus), Red River Hog (Potamochoerus Porcus). As for hunting big cats, Lion and Leopard are found on almost all of the hunting territories. Lions are hunted only by tracking, not with bait as in East Africa. Elephant hunting has been banned in Central African Republic since 1989.
The hunting areas are found in the central, eastern and northern part of the country. As in all of West and Central Africa, hunting areas are quite large in C.A.R. and are open territories, not fenced. Given the size of the country and hunting areas, ranging from 250.000 to 3.700.000 acres, the habitat is quite varied. Most of the Central African Republic consists of Sudano-Guinean savannas (dry and green savanna), broken up by areas of dense forest, but it also includes a Sahelo-Sudanes zone in the north and an equatorial forest zone in the south.
Given the long distances and impractical nature of road travel, hunting areas can only be reached by plane. Charter flights from the capital, Bangui (pronounced bong-ee) average 2 to 3 hours. Hunting concessions are rented and managed by hunting outfitters who are usually French professional hunters and members of the A.C.P. (Association des Chasseurs Professionnels - Association of Professional Hunters).
Hunting in Central African Republic is done by tracking on foot, sometimes directly from the camp, but more often by driving 4x4 from the camps, then tracking on foot once in the bush. In the Center and East part, the terrain is quite flat therefore hunting is not very physically demanding, but in the Northern part of C.A.R., where Greater Kudu hunting takes place can sometimes be physically demanding due to the climate and rugged terrain.
In Central African Republic the hunting camps are permanent. The bungalows are comfortable and have air conditioning. The French style cuisine is excellent with plenty to eat.
Finding a Hunting Outfitter in Central African Republic
The single most important thing you need to do to ensure that you are booking with a good hunting outfitter is check their references. The outfitter should provide you with more than a few references, especially clients who have hunted with them within the last year and you should call many of them.
Click here to check out our Central African Republic Hunting Reports, a section where you can find or post more detailed Hunting Reports. Or visit our forums where you can interact with other hunters and industry professionals, post questions or read what others are discussing about hunting in Central African Republic by clicking here.
We are all empowered by learning from each other and we encourage you to make educated decisions based upon honest information and real experience.
Central African Republic Hunting Areas Map and Satellite Imagery
Click here for Central African Republic hunting areas map, country and satellite imagery maps.
Climate in Central African Republic
The climate is tropical, with abundant rainfall of about 178 cm (70 in) annually in the south, decreasing to about 86 cm (30 in) in the extreme northeast. There is one rainy season (December March) and one long, hot, dry season (April驪弛vember). Floods are common. Temperatures at Bangui have an average minimum and maximum range from 21DC (70DF) to 34DC (93DF).
Weather Underground provides a very detailed look at current weather conditions, weather forecasts, a history and almanac for predicting average weather conditions during the time while you will be traveling in that part of the world. Click here for Central African Republic's climate and temperature forecast.
Central African Republic Hunting Season & When Hunting is Allowed
- Hunting Season - January 1st to July 31st
- Trophy hunting may take place within the hours of daylight during the hunting season, no hunting is allowed at night and no hunting is allowed with artificial light.
- There is no regulation controlling the number of days of a hunting safaris, if a minimum, it is set it is by the hunting outfitter.
- A maximum of one trophy per species may be harvested, per hunting client per hunting permit with the exception of two or three Central African Savannah Buffalo depending on length of hunt and Baboon.
- Primary species such as Eland, Bongo, Kudu, Sitatunga, Lion, Leopard and Giant Forest Hog controls the minimum number of days for a hunting safari. Hunting outfitters will impose their own guidelines as to the minimum number of days required to hunt certain species or combination of species.
- All animals are subject to quota availability.
- Baiting is not permitted, professional hunters will sometimes make use of calls for certain species such as Lion.
- Hunting with dog(s) is permitted.
- Hunting of female, young and/or immature animals is prohibited.
- Hunting from a vehicle is not permitted, though the vehicle can be used to reach the area from where hunting on foot can begin.
- Shooting an animal from a vehicle is not permitted.
- Bowhunting is permitted.
Central African Republic defines two categories of land where hunting is permitted; hunting concessions and Zones Cynegetiques Villageoise (Village Wildlfe Areas).
You will find information about the bird hunting season in Central African Republic near the bottom of this page.
Species to Hunt in Central African Republic
The Central African Republic offers a good selection of species for trophy hunting, including the three most revered spiral horned antelopes, the Lord Derby Eland or Giant Eland, the Bongo and the Wetsren Greater Kudu. C.A.R. also offers two varieties of Buffalo, the Central African Savannah Buffalo and Dwarf/Forest Buffalo, a wide variety of Duikers in addition to many other species.
Click here to visit AfricaHunting.com complete list of species available to hunt in Central African Republic.
Shot Placement Guide for the Perfect Shot
Click here to visit our shot placement guide, the most comprehensive shot placement guide of African game online.
Bowhunting in Central African Republic
Bowhunting in Central African Republic started during 1984 and the government of C.A.R. does not have any restrictions on species hunted with a bow. This country offers tremendous opportunities for bow hunters however few operators have the experience to conduct bowhunting safaris, so careful selection of the hunting outfitter is very important.
The Central African Republic does not have an additional bow qualification for professional hunters.
Importation of Bows & Arrows into Central African Republic
It is legal for hunters to import bows for bowhunting purposes into Central African Republic and no import permit is required.
Minimum Equipment Requirements for Bowhunting in Central African Republic
Large Game
Central African Republic does not have any minimum equipment requirements for bowhunting so common sense will apply or here below find the requirements for South Africa.
Big Game
Bow Kinetic Energy 80 ft/lbs
Arrow Weight 700 grain
(Elephant, Rhino, Hippo, Buffalo)
Medium Game
Bow Kinetic Energy 70 ft/lbs
Arrow Weight 550 grain
(Kudu, Eland, Oryx / Gemsbok, Hartebeest, Wildebeest, Zebra, Giraffe, Sable Antelope, Roan Antelope, Waterbuck, Tsessebe, etc.)
Small Game
Bow Kinetic Energy 40 ft/lbs
Arrow Weight 400 grain
(Warthog, Nyala, Springbok, Impala, Blesbok, Duiker, Steenbok, Ostrich, Caracal, Black-Backed Jackal, Game Birds, etc.)
Minimum Equipment Requirements for Rifle Hunting in Central African Republic
- The minimum equipment requirement for rifle hunting in Central African Republic is .375 caliber for dangerous game or big game hunting.
- Central African Republic does not require a minimum energy (Eo - muzzle velocity) for calibers used.
Traveling with Firearms & Ammunition
Traveling to Africa usually requires taking at least a couple of different airlines as well as departing from several countries whose laws and regulations are constantly changing. And they all have their own rules, regulations and laws for which it is your responsibility to be aware and in compliance with all of them. For this reason you should read the Africa Hunting article on Laws & Regulations for Hunters Traveling with Weapons by clicking here.
Permits & Importation of Firearms & Ammunition into Central African Republic
The following section contains the basic information you will need to know, for more detailed information you should read Africa Hunting article on Importation or Transiting Procedures Through Countries with Weapons by clicking here, especially if you are transiting through or traveling to another country.
- Temporary importation of firearms and ammunition into Central African Republic is NOT free of charge, please check with your outfitter as to the current charges. The process is usually quick and easy.
- Your hunting outfitter will send you a form to fill out and return to them so they can arrange for your firearms and ammunition temporary import/export permits months prior to your arrival as required by the government of Central African Republic. This permit will be based upon the firearm information you provide to your outfitter so it is very important that you carefully consider which firearms you will be bringing with you, as once you have submitted the form you will not be able to change your mind. It is very important that all weapons serial numbers be exactly the same when you arrive as what was issued on your import/export permit. Last minute changes of mind cause more problems regarding gun permits than any other reason. Exact number of ammunition is also important.
- There is a limit of three firearms per hunter that may be imported into Central African Republic for trophy hunting purposes.
- No indication as to the number of rounds of ammunition that may be imported per hunting rifle, however you may encounter restrictions from the airline(s) you are traveling on or country you are departing from or other countries you may be visiting or transiting through. For more information on this topic, read the Africa Hunting article, Laws & Regulations for Hunters Traveling with Weapons by clicking here.
- Only ammunition for the specific caliber(s) you are bringing may be imported.
- No automatic, semi-automatic firearms are allowed.
- No weapons which fall under military categories.
- Handguns are allowed for hunting purposes. A special permit which the safari operator must apply for well prior to the start of the hunt can be requested. This special handgun permit comes at a cost.
Need help traveling to or through South Africa with your guns?
South Africa is the number one hunting destination in Africa and most safari hunters will at least transit through South Africa even if they are not staying in the country to hunt. That's why the services of riflepermits.com are so valuable. They can help you navigate the stressful and cumbersome process of transiting or importing your guns into South Africa making it easy and less time consuming.
riflepermits.com work hand in hand-in-hand with the South African Police Services (SAPS) to provide import/export or in-transit permits for your firearms before you even arrive in South Africa. They will hand deliver your pre-authorized permit to you on arrival and also guide you through the procedure at the SAPS Permit Office making it as hassle free as possible.
They also have rifle storage facilities for those who just want to do a bit of traveling or sight seeing in South Africa as well. They can help make your hunting safari a great experience from start to finish!
For more information visit their website!
Henry Durrheim
riflepermits.com - QUICK & EASY arrival with your firearm in South Africa! We'll meet you and escort you through it...
henry@riflepermits.com
www.riflepermits.com
Central African Republic Professional Hunters Association
There is no Professional Hunters Association in Central African Republic.
Association of Bid Game Professional Hunters (AGGC - Association des Guides de Grande Chasse)
Many professional hunters in the former French colonies in Africa are French nationals and members of the Association des Guides de Grande Chasse. Click here to visit ACP web site for more information.
Association of Professional Hunters in France (ACP - Association des Chasseurs Professionnels)
Click here to visit ACP web site for more information.
Central African Republic Hunting Permits & Licenses
The wildlife authorities and the government of Central African Republic allocates quotas by species to each hunting block or hunting territory on an individual basis.
Your hunting license and permit will be applied for and obtained by your hunting outfitter well prior to your arrival, please check with your outfitter as to the current charges or if the cost of this paperwork is already included in the price of your hunt.
The following is required regarding permits for trophy hunting in Central African Republic:
- A maximum of one trophy per species may be harvested, per hunting client per hunting license, with the exception of Buffalo and Baboon.
- Clients are only permitted to hunt animals for which a permit is issued.
- All animals are subject to quota availability.
- Permits must be issued prior to the hunt commencing.
- A separate permit must be issued for each individual hunting client.
- Trophy fee for killing or wounding of female, young and/or immature animals is double the standard trophy fee for that species.
- Clients are expected to abide by all Wildlife Hunting Regulations in Central African Republic.
CITIES Permits & U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
The importation of some individual sport hunted trophies requires a CITES permit (i.e. African Elephant, White Rhinoceros and Leopard to name a few), you will need to submit an application to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service if you are planning to import any of the species on their list. You can download the CITIES permit application forms by clicking here. CITES stands for Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, visit their web site at www.cites.org.
Shipping & Importing Your Hunting Trophies Back
I highly recommend that when it come to the intricacies of importing your hunting trophies do yourself a favor and hire experts to facilitate the process. Allan Zarach from TROPHY SHIPPERS (www.trophyshippers.com) offers an incredible service at a great price.
TROPHY SHIPPERS is a family owned company and have been in business since 1981. They are a customs brokerage and freight forwarding company that is dedicated to helping hunters quickly and efficiently get their hunting trophies home. They know what your hunting trophies mean to you, because they are a family of hunters themselves. If you have trophies that you need brought back to the United States or are planning a trip to Africa to hunt or anywhere in the world, let TROPHY SHIPPERS handle all of the paperwork, clearances, and shipments for you!
They truly provide an invaluable full service for managing an increasingly more detailed and complex process for the importation of your trophies from start to finish. If you would like to contact them, TROPHY SHIPPERS can be reached at Cell/WhatsApp +1 (847) 927-0101 / Office +1 (630) 595-7300, or via their website www.trophyshippers.com, click here.
The Safari Planning Guide
Click here to visit the Africa Hunting Safari Planning Guide, or click the direct links below to visit the individual articles in this section with many useful resources to help you plan and prepare for your African hunting safari:
- Hunting Safari Preparation Timeline
- Safari Planning Resource Guide
- Why You Should Always Use A Hunting Travel Agent!
- Travel, Medical & Evacuation Insurance
- Why You Should Use A Hunting Trophy Shipping & Importation Specialist!
- What You Need to Know About Packing
- Clothing & Footwear List
- Personal Items & Toiletries List
- Hunting Gear List for Rifle Hunters
- Hunting Gear List for Bow Hunters
- Travel Documents & Money
- Tipping Guide
Camouflage
Camouflage clothing is illegal in Central African Republic and may not be worn for any reason.
How to Get There
A majority of international hunting clients will fly from their country of origin into Central African Republic on a major international airline via Paris which offers direct flights to Bangui M'poko International Airport in Bangui.
Travel Agent Specializing in Hunting Clientele
You may wish to consider using a travel agent that specializes in hunting worldwide or in Africa as they may be familiar with these routes and used to working with these airlines. Specialty travel agents can often get better deals than you can find on major websites or through regular travel agents. I highly recommend TRAVEL EXPRESS, hunting travel specialists, they are the company that I personally use. Jennifer Ginn can help you, she is very knowledgeable and a hunter herself. She can assist you with all aspects of your hunting travel planning from airfare, lodging and car rentals to entry visa's, firearm permits, etc... Click here to visit TRAVEL EXPRESS website www.TravelExpressAgency.com.
International Airport in Central African Republic
- City: Bangui - capital of Central African Republic
Bangui M'poko International Airport
Airport Code BGF
Located 4 miles (7 km) northwest of the city of Bangui
Major Airlines Flying into Central African Republic
Air France
www.airfrance.us
South African Airways
www.flysaa.com
Travel Information
Click here to view the Africa Hunting travel information section, or the direct links below, with many useful articles and resources to help you plan your travel for your African hunting safari, including:
- Importation or Transiting Procedures Through Countries with Weapons
- Laws & Regulations for Hunters Traveling with Weapons
- Airports & Airlines
- Value Added Tax (VAT) Refunds
- Embassies & Consulates
Visa & Travel Documents
All foreigners must be in possession of a passport that will remain valid for at least six months after the intended date of departure from Central African Republic as well as a round trip airline ticket.
To find out if you need to apply for a Visa in advance, a great resource with free information is Travel Document System (TDS) at www.traveldocs.com. If you are in need of a visa, Travel Document System is nationally recognized as a leading authority in the field of international Travel Documents. Travelers are quite often not sure of the specific requirements or documentation required to enter into a foreign country. TDS helps international travelers easily understand what is specifically required of them in order to gain passage into another country and provides visa services for U.S. citizens to most countries for which an entry visa is required www.traveldocs.com.
Traveler's Health & ImmunizationsA valid yellow fever inoculation certificate or International Health Certificate including yellow fever proof of vaccination is required upon arrival from all countries to enter Central African Republic.
CDC recommends that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. Find a travel medicine clinic near you by clicking here. If you have a medical condition, you should also share your travel plans with any doctors you are currently seeing for other medical reasons.
Recommended Vaccinations Include:
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Typhoid
- Meningococcal Meningitis
- Rabies
- Tuberculosis
- Routine vaccination if you are not up-to-date including Influenza, Polio, MMR (measles/mumps/rubella) and DPT (diphtheria/pertussis/tetanus)
Malaria prophylactics medication is highly recommended and should be considered as mandatory, however we suggest that you visit the Center for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) for their recommendations for travel in Central African Republic as mosquitoes in this country are resistant to some antimalarial drugs.
The CDC is most credible online resource for up to date health information. Click here to visit the section dedicated to Traveler's Health specific to Central African Republic. Information about vaccinations, diseases, prevention, tips and much more can be found here.
Malaria Map of Central African Republic
Click here to enlarge Central African Republic malaria map.
Malaria Maps of Africa
Click here for Africa malaria maps, distribution model, endemic / epidemic risk areas, duration of malaria transmission season and duration of malaria transmission season.
Emergency Evacuation and Field Rescue Membership
No matter if it's your first or fifth time hunting in Africa, unavoidable accidents do happen. Whether a medical or security emergency, an evacuation from a remote part of Central African Republic could cost well over $100,000. I strongly recommend that anyone traveling to Central African Republic purchase a membership with Global Rescue, the only crisis response company that provides hunters with medical and security evacuation and consultation services anywhere in the world, even the most remote areas. Their deployable teams of paramedics and special operations veterans, backed by on-staff physicians and the specialists at Johns Hopkins Medicine, will get to you wherever you are, by any means necessary, and evacuate you all the way to your home country hospital of choice.
Member benefits include:
- 24hr medical advisory services from critical care paramedics and in-house physicians
- Specialists at Johns Hopkins Medicine available in real-time
- Field Rescue from the point of illness or injury
- Evacuation back to the member's home hospital of choice
- Global network of medical Centers Of Excellence
- Deployable medical and security teams
- Evacuation services provided up to $500,000
Memberships start at $119
If you would like to purchase a membership or have additional questions, Global Rescue can be reached anytime at +1 (617) 459-4200, or via www.globalrescue.com, click here.
Travel Advisory from The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs
What you should know before you go. You may obtain international travel information by country, warnings for travelers about crime and public announcements about travel abroad in addition to so much other valuable information http://travel.state.gov.
Embassies & Consulates
Central African Republic Embassy in the USA
No website at this time
Diplomatic Representation in USA
Chancery: 1618 22nd Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
Telephone: (202) 483-7800 / 7801
Fax: (202) 332-9893
Click here for a complete searchable database of all embassies and consulates from every country in the world including Central African Republic.
Bird Hunting Season in Central African Republic
No information at this time.
Tourism in Central African Republic
The Central African Republic has no Official Government Tourism web site place to explore what options are available for travel outside of your hunting safari. Your hunting safari outfitter may also offer short excursions up to extensive touring through their company as well.
General Information about Central African Republic
- Central African Republic (Republique Centrafricaine)
- Population 4,200,000
- Capital City Bangui (600,000)
- Languages French (official), Sangho and numerous tribal dialects
- Official Currency Central African CFA Franc (XAF). Denominations in 10,000, 5,000, 2,000, 1,000 and 500 Central African CFA Franc bank notes. To view images of these banknotes, click here.
- Electricity, the Central African Republic standard is 220/240 volts, thwo-pin 15 amp outlets. Most lodges/camps have generator(s) to power the electricity through rechargeable batteries therefore it is recommended to bring a small power inverter that plugs into a cigarette lighter to invert 12V DC Power to 110V AC for recharging in the hunting vehicle. Generator(s) in most camps are only run during the morning and evening hours and sometimes can be run at other times by special request. Be sure to check with your hunting outfitter in Central African Republic what they are using. Click here for more info.
- Country Dialing Code 236
Click here for more information about Central African Republic from the CIA World Factbook which supplies a multitude of facts about Central African Republic.
Official Government Web Site Of The Central African Republic - Republique Centrafricaine
www.rca-gouv.org
CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC Hunting Information
Hunters around the world have discovered what European big game hunters have long known: that Central African Republic, also known as C.A.R., is a legendary hunting destination. Central African Republic is to West and Central Africa what Tanzania and Zimbabwe are to East Africa. Over the years, Central African Republic has seen a number of political upheavals however hunting has continued on. Today, the presence of the French army provides this former French colony stability and peace.
The diversity of game in C.A.R. is remarkable, 208 species of mammals are present, and among them are 23 species of antelope. This diversity, and high population densities, makes the Central African Republic one of the most interesting destinations of big game hunting in Africa. But among all these species present in Central African Republic, three of them are particularly well known. They are the Giant or Lord Derby Eland (Taurotragus Derbianus) named by the Africans "the ghost antelope", the Bongo (Tragelaphus Eurycerus Eurycerus) and the Greater Kudu of Western Africa (Tragelaphus Strepsiceros).
The largest trophies of Lord Derby Eland existing to date have been harvested in Central African Republic, and the hunting of the largest antelope in Africa is an unpredictable adventure, which demands patience and tenacity. Bongo has also greatly contributed to the reputation of the Central African Republic, and hunting of this magnificent antelope in the deep forests or in natural places where salt is found is also an opportunity for an unforgettable experience. The Greater Kudu of Western Africa, one of the most beautiful trophies of Africa, is hunted in the north of the Central African Republic, in extremely remote areas, wild and semi-desert. More than any other hunting, the Western Greater Kudu offers hunters nostalgia of the great safaris of the past.
Hunting in Central African Republic also offers the possibility of many other trophies such as Central African Savannah Buffalo (Syncerus Caffer Aequinoctialis), Western Roan Antelope (Hippotragus Equinus), Western Sitatunga (Tragelaphus Spekei), Defassa Waterbuck (Kobus Ellipsiprymnus Defassa), Buffon's Kob (Kobus Kob), Bohor Reedbuck (Redunca Redunca), Harnessed Bushbuck (Traglaphus Sciptus), Giant Forest Hog (Hylochoerus Meinertzhageni), six species of Duiker, including the very elusive Yellow-Backed Duiker (Cephalophus Silvicultor), Warthog (Phacochoerus Aethiopicus), Red River Hog (Potamochoerus Porcus). As for hunting big cats, Lion and Leopard are found on almost all of the hunting territories. Lions are hunted only by tracking, not with bait as in East Africa. Elephant hunting has been banned in Central African Republic since 1989.
The hunting areas are found in the central, eastern and northern part of the country. As in all of West and Central Africa, hunting areas are quite large in C.A.R. and are open territories, not fenced. Given the size of the country and hunting areas, ranging from 250.000 to 3.700.000 acres, the habitat is quite varied. Most of the Central African Republic consists of Sudano-Guinean savannas (dry and green savanna), broken up by areas of dense forest, but it also includes a Sahelo-Sudanes zone in the north and an equatorial forest zone in the south.
Given the long distances and impractical nature of road travel, hunting areas can only be reached by plane. Charter flights from the capital, Bangui (pronounced bong-ee) average 2 to 3 hours. Hunting concessions are rented and managed by hunting outfitters who are usually French professional hunters and members of the A.C.P. (Association des Chasseurs Professionnels - Association of Professional Hunters).
Hunting in Central African Republic is done by tracking on foot, sometimes directly from the camp, but more often by driving 4x4 from the camps, then tracking on foot once in the bush. In the Center and East part, the terrain is quite flat therefore hunting is not very physically demanding, but in the Northern part of C.A.R., where Greater Kudu hunting takes place can sometimes be physically demanding due to the climate and rugged terrain.
In Central African Republic the hunting camps are permanent. The bungalows are comfortable and have air conditioning. The French style cuisine is excellent with plenty to eat.
The single most important thing you need to do to ensure that you are booking with a good hunting outfitter is check their references. The outfitter should provide you with more than a few references, especially clients who have hunted with them within the last year and you should call many of them.
Click here to check out our Central African Republic Hunting Reports, a section where you can find or post more detailed Hunting Reports. Or visit our forums where you can interact with other hunters and industry professionals, post questions or read what others are discussing about hunting in Central African Republic by clicking here.
We are all empowered by learning from each other and we encourage you to make educated decisions based upon honest information and real experience.
Central African Republic Hunting Areas Map and Satellite Imagery
Click here for Central African Republic hunting areas map, country and satellite imagery maps.
The climate is tropical, with abundant rainfall of about 178 cm (70 in) annually in the south, decreasing to about 86 cm (30 in) in the extreme northeast. There is one rainy season (December March) and one long, hot, dry season (April驪弛vember). Floods are common. Temperatures at Bangui have an average minimum and maximum range from 21DC (70DF) to 34DC (93DF).
Weather Underground provides a very detailed look at current weather conditions, weather forecasts, a history and almanac for predicting average weather conditions during the time while you will be traveling in that part of the world. Click here for Central African Republic's climate and temperature forecast.
- Hunting Season - January 1st to July 31st
- Trophy hunting may take place within the hours of daylight during the hunting season, no hunting is allowed at night and no hunting is allowed with artificial light.
- There is no regulation controlling the number of days of a hunting safaris, if a minimum, it is set it is by the hunting outfitter.
- A maximum of one trophy per species may be harvested, per hunting client per hunting permit with the exception of two or three Central African Savannah Buffalo depending on length of hunt and Baboon.
- Primary species such as Eland, Bongo, Kudu, Sitatunga, Lion, Leopard and Giant Forest Hog controls the minimum number of days for a hunting safari. Hunting outfitters will impose their own guidelines as to the minimum number of days required to hunt certain species or combination of species.
- All animals are subject to quota availability.
- Baiting is not permitted, professional hunters will sometimes make use of calls for certain species such as Lion.
- Hunting with dog(s) is permitted.
- Hunting of female, young and/or immature animals is prohibited.
- Hunting from a vehicle is not permitted, though the vehicle can be used to reach the area from where hunting on foot can begin.
- Shooting an animal from a vehicle is not permitted.
- Bowhunting is permitted.
Central African Republic defines two categories of land where hunting is permitted; hunting concessions and Zones Cynegetiques Villageoise (Village Wildlfe Areas).
You will find information about the bird hunting season in Central African Republic near the bottom of this page.
The Central African Republic offers a good selection of species for trophy hunting, including the three most revered spiral horned antelopes, the Lord Derby Eland or Giant Eland, the Bongo and the Wetsren Greater Kudu. C.A.R. also offers two varieties of Buffalo, the Central African Savannah Buffalo and Dwarf/Forest Buffalo, a wide variety of Duikers in addition to many other species.
Click here to visit AfricaHunting.com complete list of species available to hunt in Central African Republic.
Shot Placement Guide for the Perfect Shot
Click here to visit our shot placement guide, the most comprehensive shot placement guide of African game online.
Bowhunting in Central African Republic started during 1984 and the government of C.A.R. does not have any restrictions on species hunted with a bow. This country offers tremendous opportunities for bow hunters however few operators have the experience to conduct bowhunting safaris, so careful selection of the hunting outfitter is very important.
The Central African Republic does not have an additional bow qualification for professional hunters.
It is legal for hunters to import bows for bowhunting purposes into Central African Republic and no import permit is required.
Large Game
Central African Republic does not have any minimum equipment requirements for bowhunting so common sense will apply or here below find the requirements for South Africa.
Big Game
Bow Kinetic Energy 80 ft/lbs
Arrow Weight 700 grain
(Elephant, Rhino, Hippo, Buffalo)
Medium Game
Bow Kinetic Energy 70 ft/lbs
Arrow Weight 550 grain
(Kudu, Eland, Oryx / Gemsbok, Hartebeest, Wildebeest, Zebra, Giraffe, Sable Antelope, Roan Antelope, Waterbuck, Tsessebe, etc.)
Small Game
Bow Kinetic Energy 40 ft/lbs
Arrow Weight 400 grain
(Warthog, Nyala, Springbok, Impala, Blesbok, Duiker, Steenbok, Ostrich, Caracal, Black-Backed Jackal, Game Birds, etc.)
- The minimum equipment requirement for rifle hunting in Central African Republic is .375 caliber for dangerous game or big game hunting.
- Central African Republic does not require a minimum energy (Eo - muzzle velocity) for calibers used.
Traveling to Africa usually requires taking at least a couple of different airlines as well as departing from several countries whose laws and regulations are constantly changing. And they all have their own rules, regulations and laws for which it is your responsibility to be aware and in compliance with all of them. For this reason you should read the Africa Hunting article on Laws & Regulations for Hunters Traveling with Weapons by clicking here.
The following section contains the basic information you will need to know, for more detailed information you should read Africa Hunting article on Importation or Transiting Procedures Through Countries with Weapons by clicking here, especially if you are transiting through or traveling to another country.
- Temporary importation of firearms and ammunition into Central African Republic is NOT free of charge, please check with your outfitter as to the current charges. The process is usually quick and easy.
- Your hunting outfitter will send you a form to fill out and return to them so they can arrange for your firearms and ammunition temporary import/export permits months prior to your arrival as required by the government of Central African Republic. This permit will be based upon the firearm information you provide to your outfitter so it is very important that you carefully consider which firearms you will be bringing with you, as once you have submitted the form you will not be able to change your mind. It is very important that all weapons serial numbers be exactly the same when you arrive as what was issued on your import/export permit. Last minute changes of mind cause more problems regarding gun permits than any other reason. Exact number of ammunition is also important.
- There is a limit of three firearms per hunter that may be imported into Central African Republic for trophy hunting purposes.
- No indication as to the number of rounds of ammunition that may be imported per hunting rifle, however you may encounter restrictions from the airline(s) you are traveling on or country you are departing from or other countries you may be visiting or transiting through. For more information on this topic, read the Africa Hunting article, Laws & Regulations for Hunters Traveling with Weapons by clicking here.
- Only ammunition for the specific caliber(s) you are bringing may be imported.
- No automatic, semi-automatic firearms are allowed.
- No weapons which fall under military categories.
- Handguns are allowed for hunting purposes. A special permit which the safari operator must apply for well prior to the start of the hunt can be requested. This special handgun permit comes at a cost.
Need help traveling to or through South Africa with your guns?
South Africa is the number one hunting destination in Africa and most safari hunters will at least transit through South Africa even if they are not staying in the country to hunt. That's why the services of riflepermits.com are so valuable. They can help you navigate the stressful and cumbersome process of transiting or importing your guns into South Africa making it easy and less time consuming.
riflepermits.com work hand in hand-in-hand with the South African Police Services (SAPS) to provide import/export or in-transit permits for your firearms before you even arrive in South Africa. They will hand deliver your pre-authorized permit to you on arrival and also guide you through the procedure at the SAPS Permit Office making it as hassle free as possible.
They also have rifle storage facilities for those who just want to do a bit of traveling or sight seeing in South Africa as well. They can help make your hunting safari a great experience from start to finish!
For more information visit their website!
Henry Durrheim
riflepermits.com - QUICK & EASY arrival with your firearm in South Africa! We'll meet you and escort you through it...
henry@riflepermits.com
www.riflepermits.com
There is no Professional Hunters Association in Central African Republic.
Association of Bid Game Professional Hunters (AGGC - Association des Guides de Grande Chasse)
Many professional hunters in the former French colonies in Africa are French nationals and members of the Association des Guides de Grande Chasse. Click here to visit ACP web site for more information.
Association of Professional Hunters in France (ACP - Association des Chasseurs Professionnels)
Click here to visit ACP web site for more information.
The wildlife authorities and the government of Central African Republic allocates quotas by species to each hunting block or hunting territory on an individual basis.
Your hunting license and permit will be applied for and obtained by your hunting outfitter well prior to your arrival, please check with your outfitter as to the current charges or if the cost of this paperwork is already included in the price of your hunt.
The following is required regarding permits for trophy hunting in Central African Republic:
- A maximum of one trophy per species may be harvested, per hunting client per hunting license, with the exception of Buffalo and Baboon.
- Clients are only permitted to hunt animals for which a permit is issued.
- All animals are subject to quota availability.
- Permits must be issued prior to the hunt commencing.
- A separate permit must be issued for each individual hunting client.
- Trophy fee for killing or wounding of female, young and/or immature animals is double the standard trophy fee for that species.
- Clients are expected to abide by all Wildlife Hunting Regulations in Central African Republic.
CITIES Permits & U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
The importation of some individual sport hunted trophies requires a CITES permit (i.e. African Elephant, White Rhinoceros and Leopard to name a few), you will need to submit an application to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service if you are planning to import any of the species on their list. You can download the CITIES permit application forms by clicking here. CITES stands for Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, visit their web site at www.cites.org.
Shipping & Importing Your Hunting Trophies Back
I highly recommend that when it come to the intricacies of importing your hunting trophies do yourself a favor and hire experts to facilitate the process. Allan Zarach from TROPHY SHIPPERS (www.trophyshippers.com) offers an incredible service at a great price.
TROPHY SHIPPERS is a family owned company and have been in business since 1981. They are a customs brokerage and freight forwarding company that is dedicated to helping hunters quickly and efficiently get their hunting trophies home. They know what your hunting trophies mean to you, because they are a family of hunters themselves. If you have trophies that you need brought back to the United States or are planning a trip to Africa to hunt or anywhere in the world, let TROPHY SHIPPERS handle all of the paperwork, clearances, and shipments for you!
They truly provide an invaluable full service for managing an increasingly more detailed and complex process for the importation of your trophies from start to finish. If you would like to contact them, TROPHY SHIPPERS can be reached at Cell/WhatsApp +1 (847) 927-0101 / Office +1 (630) 595-7300, or via their website www.trophyshippers.com, click here.
Click here to visit the Africa Hunting Safari Planning Guide, or click the direct links below to visit the individual articles in this section with many useful resources to help you plan and prepare for your African hunting safari:
- Hunting Safari Preparation Timeline
- Safari Planning Resource Guide
- Why You Should Always Use A Hunting Travel Agent!
- Travel, Medical & Evacuation Insurance
- Why You Should Use A Hunting Trophy Shipping & Importation Specialist!
- What You Need to Know About Packing
- Clothing & Footwear List
- Personal Items & Toiletries List
- Hunting Gear List for Rifle Hunters
- Hunting Gear List for Bow Hunters
- Travel Documents & Money
- Tipping Guide
Camouflage clothing is illegal in Central African Republic and may not be worn for any reason.
A majority of international hunting clients will fly from their country of origin into Central African Republic on a major international airline via Paris which offers direct flights to Bangui M'poko International Airport in Bangui.
Travel Agent Specializing in Hunting Clientele
You may wish to consider using a travel agent that specializes in hunting worldwide or in Africa as they may be familiar with these routes and used to working with these airlines. Specialty travel agents can often get better deals than you can find on major websites or through regular travel agents. I highly recommend TRAVEL EXPRESS, hunting travel specialists, they are the company that I personally use. Jennifer Ginn can help you, she is very knowledgeable and a hunter herself. She can assist you with all aspects of your hunting travel planning from airfare, lodging and car rentals to entry visa's, firearm permits, etc... Click here to visit TRAVEL EXPRESS website www.TravelExpressAgency.com.
- City: Bangui - capital of Central African Republic
Bangui M'poko International Airport
Airport Code BGF
Located 4 miles (7 km) northwest of the city of Bangui
Air France
www.airfrance.us
South African Airways
www.flysaa.com
Click here to view the Africa Hunting travel information section, or the direct links below, with many useful articles and resources to help you plan your travel for your African hunting safari, including:
- Importation or Transiting Procedures Through Countries with Weapons
- Laws & Regulations for Hunters Traveling with Weapons
- Airports & Airlines
- Value Added Tax (VAT) Refunds
- Embassies & Consulates
All foreigners must be in possession of a passport that will remain valid for at least six months after the intended date of departure from Central African Republic as well as a round trip airline ticket.
To find out if you need to apply for a Visa in advance, a great resource with free information is Travel Document System (TDS) at www.traveldocs.com. If you are in need of a visa, Travel Document System is nationally recognized as a leading authority in the field of international Travel Documents. Travelers are quite often not sure of the specific requirements or documentation required to enter into a foreign country. TDS helps international travelers easily understand what is specifically required of them in order to gain passage into another country and provides visa services for U.S. citizens to most countries for which an entry visa is required www.traveldocs.com.
CDC recommends that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. Find a travel medicine clinic near you by clicking here. If you have a medical condition, you should also share your travel plans with any doctors you are currently seeing for other medical reasons.
Recommended Vaccinations Include:
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Typhoid
- Meningococcal Meningitis
- Rabies
- Tuberculosis
- Routine vaccination if you are not up-to-date including Influenza, Polio, MMR (measles/mumps/rubella) and DPT (diphtheria/pertussis/tetanus)
Malaria prophylactics medication is highly recommended and should be considered as mandatory, however we suggest that you visit the Center for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) for their recommendations for travel in Central African Republic as mosquitoes in this country are resistant to some antimalarial drugs.
The CDC is most credible online resource for up to date health information. Click here to visit the section dedicated to Traveler's Health specific to Central African Republic. Information about vaccinations, diseases, prevention, tips and much more can be found here.
Malaria Map of Central African Republic
Click here to enlarge Central African Republic malaria map.
Malaria Maps of Africa
Click here for Africa malaria maps, distribution model, endemic / epidemic risk areas, duration of malaria transmission season and duration of malaria transmission season.
Emergency Evacuation and Field Rescue Membership
No matter if it's your first or fifth time hunting in Africa, unavoidable accidents do happen. Whether a medical or security emergency, an evacuation from a remote part of Central African Republic could cost well over $100,000. I strongly recommend that anyone traveling to Central African Republic purchase a membership with Global Rescue, the only crisis response company that provides hunters with medical and security evacuation and consultation services anywhere in the world, even the most remote areas. Their deployable teams of paramedics and special operations veterans, backed by on-staff physicians and the specialists at Johns Hopkins Medicine, will get to you wherever you are, by any means necessary, and evacuate you all the way to your home country hospital of choice.
Member benefits include:
- 24hr medical advisory services from critical care paramedics and in-house physicians
- Specialists at Johns Hopkins Medicine available in real-time
- Field Rescue from the point of illness or injury
- Evacuation back to the member's home hospital of choice
- Global network of medical Centers Of Excellence
- Deployable medical and security teams
- Evacuation services provided up to $500,000
Memberships start at $119
If you would like to purchase a membership or have additional questions, Global Rescue can be reached anytime at +1 (617) 459-4200, or via www.globalrescue.com, click here.
Travel Advisory from The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs
What you should know before you go. You may obtain international travel information by country, warnings for travelers about crime and public announcements about travel abroad in addition to so much other valuable information http://travel.state.gov.
Central African Republic Embassy in the USA
No website at this time
Diplomatic Representation in USA
Chancery: 1618 22nd Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
Telephone: (202) 483-7800 / 7801
Fax: (202) 332-9893
Click here for a complete searchable database of all embassies and consulates from every country in the world including Central African Republic.
No information at this time.
The Central African Republic has no Official Government Tourism web site place to explore what options are available for travel outside of your hunting safari. Your hunting safari outfitter may also offer short excursions up to extensive touring through their company as well.
- Central African Republic (Republique Centrafricaine)
- Population 4,200,000
- Capital City Bangui (600,000)
- Languages French (official), Sangho and numerous tribal dialects
- Official Currency Central African CFA Franc (XAF). Denominations in 10,000, 5,000, 2,000, 1,000 and 500 Central African CFA Franc bank notes. To view images of these banknotes, click here.
- Electricity, the Central African Republic standard is 220/240 volts, thwo-pin 15 amp outlets. Most lodges/camps have generator(s) to power the electricity through rechargeable batteries therefore it is recommended to bring a small power inverter that plugs into a cigarette lighter to invert 12V DC Power to 110V AC for recharging in the hunting vehicle. Generator(s) in most camps are only run during the morning and evening hours and sometimes can be run at other times by special request. Be sure to check with your hunting outfitter in Central African Republic what they are using. Click here for more info.
- Country Dialing Code 236
Click here for more information about Central African Republic from the CIA World Factbook which supplies a multitude of facts about Central African Republic.
www.rca-gouv.org
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