Question 1

What species can I hunt with Brian Van Blerk?

Accepted Answer

Brian offers hunts for all dangerous game species including leopard, lion, Cape buffalo, and elephant, as well as a wide range of plains game species. He operates in Zimbabwe and Tanzania.

Question 2

How many years of experience does Brian Van Blerk have?

Accepted Answer

Brian has over 37 years of professional hunting experience. He has been a licensed professional hunter in Zimbabwe since 1995 and in Tanzania since 2001.

Question 3

Why is Brian called "The Catman"?

Accepted Answer

Brian earned the nickname "The Catman" for his extraordinary success with leopard hunting. He has personally harvested over 136 leopards throughout his career, a record that few professional hunters anywhere in Africa can match.

Question 4

Where does Brian Van Blerk hunt?

Accepted Answer

Brian operates in Zimbabwe (primarily the Chirisa Safari Area and Zambezi Valley) and Tanzania. He also conducts plains game safaris in South Africa.

Question 5

How do I book a safari?

Accepted Answer

Contact Brian directly through the enquiry form on this website, via WhatsApp at +263 77 465 9809, or by email. Every safari is tailored to the individual client. Brian will discuss your preferences, species targets, dates, and logistics personally.

Question 6

What is the best time of year to hunt in Zimbabwe?

Accepted Answer

The prime hunting season in Zimbabwe runs from April to October (the dry season). Leopard hunting is typically best from May to September when baiting conditions are optimal. Buffalo and elephant can be hunted throughout the season.

Question 7

What is the best time to hunt in Tanzania?

Accepted Answer

Tanzania's hunting season runs from July to December. The early season (July to September) is ideal for buffalo, lion, and leopard in the drier areas. Later in the season suits certain concessions where water patterns change animal movement.

Question 8

Are trophy fees published on the website?

Accepted Answer

No. At this level of hunting, every safari is bespoke and pricing depends on species, duration, area, and logistics. Contact Brian directly for a personalised quotation.

Question 9

What firearms should I bring on safari?

Accepted Answer

For dangerous game (buffalo, elephant, lion), a minimum of .375 calibre is required by law in Zimbabwe. Brian recommends a quality bolt-action rifle in .375 H&H or .416 Rigby for buffalo and lion, and a larger bore for elephant. His own favourite is a Heym 500 Nitro Express double rifle. Plains game can be hunted with lighter calibres from .270 upwards.

Question 10

How do I import my firearms into Zimbabwe?

Accepted Answer

Firearms import into Zimbabwe requires a temporary import permit, which Brian's team arranges in advance. You will need your firearm serial numbers, calibre details, and ammunition quantities. The process is straightforward when handled by an experienced outfitter.

Question 11

Is leopard hunting legal in Zimbabwe?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Leopard hunting is legal in Zimbabwe under a strictly controlled quota system managed by the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority. Quotas are set based on scientific population assessments, and every leopard hunted must be verified and registered.

Question 12

What is CAMPFIRE and how does it relate to hunting?

Accepted Answer

CAMPFIRE (Communal Areas Management Programme for Indigenous Resources) is Zimbabwe's community-based conservation programme. Rural communities directly benefit from hunting concession fees, employment, and meat distribution. Brian operates within CAMPFIRE areas and is a strong advocate for the programme.

Question 13

How long should my safari be?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your target species. A plains game safari can be as short as 5 days. A leopard hunt typically requires 14 to 21 days for the best chance of success. Buffalo hunts are usually 10 to 14 days. Brian will recommend the ideal duration based on your goals.

Question 14

What is included in the safari cost?

Accepted Answer

Typically, daily rates include professional hunter fees, camp accommodation, meals, drinks, trackers, skinners, laundry, and local transport. Trophy fees, taxidermy, dipping and shipping, charter flights, and gratuities are usually additional. Brian provides a detailed breakdown with every quotation.

Question 15

Do I need a visa to hunt in Zimbabwe?

Accepted Answer

Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Harare or Victoria Falls airports. US, EU, and South African citizens typically receive a single-entry visa at the port of entry. Brian's team can advise on current visa requirements for your nationality.

Question 16

What is camp life like on safari?

Accepted Answer

Camps are comfortable but not extravagant. Expect private tented accommodation with en-suite bathrooms, excellent food prepared by camp chefs, cold drinks, and a campfire every evening. The focus is on the hunting, not luxury resort amenities.

Question 17

Is Brian Van Blerk a member of professional hunting associations?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Brian is a member of the Zimbabwe Professional Hunters and Guides Association (ZPHGA), the Tanzania Hunting Operators Association (TAHOA), the Dallas Safari Club (DSC), and the Tanzania Conservation and Hunting Association (TACHA).

Question 18

Can I combine a hunting safari with a photographic safari or Victoria Falls visit?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Many clients combine their hunt with a visit to Victoria Falls or a photographic safari in one of Zimbabwe's national parks. Brian can help arrange these extensions as part of your overall trip planning.

Question 19

What happens to the meat from hunted animals?

Accepted Answer

All edible meat is distributed to the local community. In CAMPFIRE areas, this is a significant source of protein for rural villages. Nothing is wasted.

Question 20

How physically fit do I need to be?

Accepted Answer

Dangerous game hunting requires walking, sometimes for extended periods in rough terrain and heat. A reasonable level of fitness is important, particularly for buffalo and elephant hunts in the Zambezi Valley. Brian can adjust the hunting style and pace to accommodate clients with physical limitations, but a basic level of mobility is essential for safety.

Question 21

What is a Problem Animal Control (PAC) leopard?

Accepted Answer

PAC leopards are animals that have been killing livestock in farming areas. They are authorized for removal by Zimbabwe Parks. Brian began his career on PAC operations, tracking and dispatching cattle-killing leopards in the lowveld. This experience is a major part of why his leopard skills are exceptional.

Question 22

Can my non-hunting partner join the safari?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Non-hunting companions are welcome in camp and can participate in game drives, birding, and other activities. Observer fees apply.

Frequently Asked Questions